Colin Hamilton (colin262)

The Matrix R

How I wish I could review this without knowledge of the sequels. I had NO idea what to expect when I saw this in 1999. I came out of the cinema elated; I'd never seen such an amazing spectacle of special effects, cerebral complexity and hidden meaning! (of course, I was ignorant of such things as Anime/Manga which had trotten these grounds already!) It is sad to see how it is readily viewed now, since the sequels, Matrix isn't just a special effects bonanza with Reeves acting like a block of wood; it is a cinematic milestone and one of the most stylishly filmed and effectively soundtracked films ever made. Just forget the generic sequels, The Matrix is sci-fi gold.

Spirited Away PG

This film is incredibly well animated and has all the charm, wit and darkness that an animated film should have. Arguably Miyazaki's best work, and made the average western society sit up and take notice.