One of the most influential science fiction movies of all time finally arrives on Blu-ray Disc and the transfer to high-definition looks mighty impressive, especially considering the age of this film. Apart from high definition video, the movie also boasts high definition sound that sounds phenomenal through surround sound.

For the uninitiated the movie revolves around Neo (Keanu Reeves) who discovers that mankind has been enslaved by machines in order to provide to use them as batteries to provide them power. He also learns by Morpheus (Lawrence Fishburne) a freedom fighter  that their lives are virtual and Earth is now a ravaged landscape.

Morpheus also believes that Neo is the one who can free humanity from their bondage. Joined by the delightful Carrie-Anne Moss as Trinity, together this motley crew of freedom fighters attempt to usurp the rules of this virtual reality in this amazing science fiction movie. The film also boasts the amazing concept of "bulet-time" which allows our hero to slow down time and perform a variety of outrageous, almost Hong Kong inspired maneuvers.

With agents hunting them down, this was more than just a science fiction with action, rather, the Matrix contained a deep and meaningful philosophy behind its story such as Jesus Christ and references and other Eastern philosophies. The movie also spawned two other sequels, however they were a shallow comparison compared to the original movie as this thinking man's science fiction lead the world of movies on a true revolution.

Where this current version of The Matrix really shines is through the conversation to high definition on Blu-ray, the video quality is quite stunning with vibrant colours, sharp images and amazing special effects. The attention to detail during the entire movie is a pure treat to watch and I must commend Roadshow for making such a flawless transfer.

Even the subtle effects of the movie such as "green" being used in the virtual world still come through, however only the observant will notice these small artistic touches. To compliment the video, the movie supports Dolby True HD 5.1 which sounds phenomenal, especially when bullet time is happening as you can hear all the different bullets through the various channels and satellites. The dialogue is crisp and the soundtrack is perfectly mixed without it sound too overbearing. Dare I say perfect?

Apart from the impressive video and audio quality, this presentation of The Matrix comes as a book with actual information about the movie on these pages plus a variety of special features that will give you a true insight into the movie and beyond. The Picture in Picture commentary is brilliant and creates an almost surreal director-like approach to the behind the scenes.

Special Features:

Take the Red Pills
What is Bullet Time?
Follow the White Rabbit Featurette
"Rock is Dead" Video Clip
The Matirx Trailer
The Matrix Teaser 
TV Spots x8
Behind the Matrix Featurettes
Written Intro by The Wachowski Brothers
Philosopher's Commentary by Dr. Cornel, Ken Wilber
Critics Commentary
Cast & Crew Commentary
Composer Commentary
The Matrix Revisited
The Music Revisited (audio only)
Behind the Matrix - Making the Matrix

Final Thoughts

The classic science fiction movie of the 90's is now on Blu-ray as God... err the architect (bad Matrix reference) intended. Brilliant video and audio quality plus a plethora of special features that will keep you busy for hours upon hours. Highly Recommended!