The Matrix is a tale with a central thesis- we can become masters of our own destiny. This thesis has meaning because it is TESTED- clearly, The Matrix and its controls try hard to stop Neo from becoming master of his own destiny. But in overcoming them, the suggested theme is “proved” true. And to see such a thesis proved is quite a crowd pleaser, wouldn’t you say?
That, in a nutshell, is the strength of this movie: its cyberpunk setting is an unusual place to find such a well-delivered affirmative story (Cyberpunk is usually dark and depressing).
The antagonism is primarily in the form of DOUBT, DECEPTION and CONTROL. A strength for the film is that while life and limb are certainly threatened, internal doubt is made just as lethal as bullets. Cypher provides social conflict as well, making the conflict many-layered.
The embodiment of the conflict is Agent Smith – he is a force of physical destruction, but he is effective as he also represents the tyranny of authority and oppressing ideas. He is a symbol AND an opponent, making him a worthy antagonist.
The conflict is driven by Neo’s desire – to become master of his own destiny. Other than that, he is a simple character. This would be a weakness, except that his goal is so broadly empathetic that he easily serves as an everyman. His role as a skilled hacker is downplayed, his age isn’t made too clear, so that he could appeal to a broad audience.
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