The Matrix 10th Anniversary Blu-ray review

The Matrix finally gets the high-def solo treatment it desperately deserves.

LIGHT:  

I still have bad memories of the blue blacks of the original DVD transfer, bad memories that have mostly been erased with this beautiful disc. It should be noted that this is the same transfer as the one found in The Ultimate Matrix Collection, and thus blacks are black, visuals are sharp, and the image is very clean with the exception of some compression artifacts, most notable in the film on a static green computer screen or in dark areas. Having missed The Matrix in theaters and loving it on DVD, seeing the film on Blu-ray for the first time is a joyous event. Large intricate set pieces come to life with detail previously lost in standard def, and 1999 CGI stills holds up pretty well in this case.

Shot on 35MM film, The Matrix has a sophisticated cinematic look that has been the envy of DPs ever since its release. The filmmakers have done an excellent job of separating the two realities of the film. The world inside the Matrix is accented with a green hue while the real world is gritty with more realistic flesh tones. This device really gives the viewer a constant and subtle sense of location. In many scenes, especially those in the film’s first act, the light design is contrasty and leans toward noir. Good thing this transfer is up to the task of keeping those blacks truly black.

VIBRATION:  

With a great balance of action surround, scenes of dynamic dialogue, and a pumping soundtrack by industrial standards, The Matrix is still the disc to throw in when you want to show off your system. Here is an example of sound design supporting and even elevating the storytelling and visuals. The deserving recipient of the Academy Awards for Best Sound and Best Sound Editing, you will feel the gunfire, the damage it causes to the environment around you, and the subtlety of a spent casing bouncing on the ground.

---