WHEN the first Matrix movie was released on an unsuspecting public in 1999, its fusion of powerful action and densely-layered storytelling electrified audiences and spawned countless commercials, music videos and movies.

Not only that, the filmmakers created a provocative action film that ponders the essence of reality and identity.

The Wachowski brothers had always envisioned the sprawling saga they unleashed in The Matrix as a trilogy, and the success of that film allowed the writer-directors to tunnel deeper into a mythology that they had only begun to reveal.

They approached the production of the trilogy's second and third instalments, The Matrix Reloaded and The Matrix Revolutions, as a single film that would be presented in two parts.

"What Larry and Andrew (Wachowski) are trying to achieve in their storytelling, the physical action they present, the elements of new cinema and technology they have invented to create images, is unparalleled," says Keanu Reeves, who returns as Neo, the computer hacker who assumes his destiny through his search for truth in The Matrix. "The Wachowskis are incredibly well-versed in everything from philosophy to mythology to comic books, and the themes running through these films reflect their perception of the timeless questions that have driven man's quest for knowledge and understanding," says Joel Silver, producer of the Matrix trilogy.

"They've created an epic story, told it in a visionary way that revolutionised entertainment, and created a thinking person's action picture. You can enjoy the films on a purely visceral level, and if you want to go deeper, there are some very profound ideas to consider."

In The Matrix Reloaded, Neo continues the shocking journey he began when he chose the red pill in The Matrix. Having made the decision to believe in himself and accept his role as the One, Neo assumes greater command of his extraordinary powers.

But being the One brings unexpected responsibilities, not only toward fulfilling what Morpheus believes to be Neo's destiny to end the War with the Machines but in living up to the expectations of those whose lives depend on the choices he has made.

As the rebels brace themselves to protect Zion, the last enclave of humanity, from extinction by the Machine Army boring down on them, Neo finds himself searching for a course of action.

"The second film is really a personal quest for Neo," says Reeves. "He's going through a process of trying to come to terms with what he's been asked to do. He's on a further quest for the truth, and this means he has to fight harder than before and confront visions of the future."

Meanwhile, having completed his lifelong mission to find the One, Morpheus finds himself driven to defiance by his convictions. "In the first film, Morpheus is a teacher," comments Laurence Fishburne. "In Reloaded, he becomes more of a spiritual leader. His belief in Neo and the Oracle's Prophecy is absolute, and he brings great strength and passion to his increasingly important role in the fight to save Zion. But the truths he encounters along his path put his faith to the test."

May 22, 2003 13:00