The Matrix Reloaded Sequels generally tend to disappoint, regardless of whether or not they comprise a planned trilogy.  Exceptions do occur, of course, which gave me hope that the sequel to one of the greatest Sci-fi pictures in the last 20 years might just be exceptional.  Upon first viewing, I was gravely disappointed. However, upon further examination I am left with the distinct impression that a great story exists within the framework of what to less discerning eyes is nothing but an empty shell. The problem with the Matrix Reloaded is that it struggles with an identity crisis.  In trying to appeal to both the intellectual crowd and the action buff, the Wachowski brothers fused the profound with the mundane, resulting in something that neither crowd could really relate to.  It worked seemlessly in the original Matrix, but here the delicate balancing act topples under the sheer weight of its own self-importance. Some fight scenes, such as Seraph's challenge, the Burly Brawl,  and Neo's battle with the Merovingian's body-guards, are just plain unnecessary.  Admittedly the Burly Brawl was a stunning accomplishment in CGI and choreography, but why must a fight scene of such complexity lack the slightest hint of danger or urgency?   The action scenes were overblown, pointless excersizes in futility.  Little was accomplished because little was at stake.  Neo, as the One, was never really at risk. . and those that were, Trinity, Morpheus, and the last human city Zion. . .never seemed to matter much.  Indeed, I had no emotional attachment to any of the characters within this film, save for the Keymaker. . and he was a program!  What does it say when the fate of humanity is at stake, and you're more concerned with the welfare of a computer program within the very system of control that's threatening the existence of mankind?   The saving grace of the Matrix Reloaded is in finding out just how deep the rabbit hole goes.  The scene with the Architect works undeniably well, and gives significance to almost everything that preceded it.  Steeped in heavy Gnostic themes, the film is right up a philosophy majors' alley.  Deciphering all of the theologies that the Matrix trilogy touches upon is a great deal of fun if you have the time, the patience, and the proclivity to do so.  But for the vast majority of people, that isn't the case. . which results in having to judge this film exclusively on its value as a piece of entertainment.  And as such, it's a noble failure.  The story is simply too obtuse for your common audience, and the action scenes lack the emotional core that's necessary in establishing a modicrum of interest. Rating:  B-