The Matrix takes the Sci-Fi genre and presents a thought provoking theme, is the world real. Could we actually be in a simulation? Even though this is the main idea of the The Matrix it delves into other themes that are well executed.

The plot of The Matrix is about a man called Neo who finds out the world around him his a simulation. It is a story of perseverance, overcoming challenges and discovering the truth about oneself. It does fall into some cliches of both the Sci-Fi and Adventure genre, which can make it feel predictable at times. The way the overall plot and the main idea of a matrix are handled well and the idea does not seem far-fetched or too unrealistic. The characters have good arcs and have good motivations for the most part. Neo is a cliched character but the way Keanu Reeves portrays him and how he grows as a character is great. The side characters such as Morpheus and Trinity are good side characters who have great characterisation. The antagonists the who are robots, called Agents are interesting and can be interpreted in many ways. Overall the characters and plot are well handled, although cliche at times.

This movie has great action scenes and special effects. The action scenes are well choreographed and there are a variety of these action sequences as well. There are gunfights, fist fights, a training sequence and a shooting helicopter sequence. The special effects add to these sequences which also created the slow motion effects The Matrix is known for. The pacing is also slightly off, as it starts off very slow and then continues to be fast paced for the rest of the film. The cinematography is fine, but doesn't innovate in any way. Most of the production in The Matrix is well done with some exceptions.

The Matrix is a classic Sci-Fi film and reinvents the cliches of the genre while also falling into those cliches. Other than the few flaws I had with this film, I thought it was great and is a must watch.