The Complete Matrix Trilogy (The Matrix/ The Matrix Reloaded/ The Matrix Revolutions) [HD DVD] Reviews

• Amazing Quality.

  
  By AQ24AUYTOL1EZ on 2007-05-29
  I've had this set for a couple days now and have watched all three films. The picture quality is outstanding and the sound is too (though I thought the SD soundtrack was amazing too, not a discriminating ear). There are so many things I never really noticed in the original SD DVD releases. For instance in the second film when Morpheus is giving his speach at Zion. In the HD version you can see him spitting when he talks. I saw a parody of this scene at the MTV movie awards that year and didn't get it. I guess you had to of seen it at the theater.
  Some other things is the skin imperfections some of the actors have. I don't care about that sort of thing, but thought it was really cool to see people the way they really are. Also, I think HD and BR are going to change the way makup is applied for films. You can definately see some lipstick and blush on the male actors in a couple scenes. To make a long review shorter, buy the Matrix in High Definition. Even if you have BR it's a matter of time before it's released there too. Pick it up! Don't let this become a format issue, review the quality of the movie. It's a big enough market for mulitple formats these days.
  
  PS. This cheaper set comes with a free download of the Animatrix. So unless you want 10 hours of extras go with this cheaper set. Me, all I care about are the movies. I have the Lord of the Rings collectors sets and have never placed a bonus disc in my DVD player. Not the case for everyone.
  
  

• What HD-DVD was designed for!!!!

  
  By AODDKGNNV7AG2 on 2007-06-14
  As the high definition wars wage on the argument goes back and forth as to the future of HD-DVD and Blu-Ray (watch everyone's jaw drop when a third format comes out of left field and ends up winning). For those of us who are fortunate to have HD-DVD players, the faithful day that we get a really great movie that was MADE for HD has come. The Matrix Trilogy is a great storyline that comes equipped with killer special effects and beautiful scenery. In the HD-DVD installment, the picture is so precise and crisp that I spent half the time I was watching it trying to take in background items I was never able to see on the DVD version.
  
  The sound is incredible and with uncompressed Dolby, the opening explosion scene of Matrix: Reloaded had my non-tech buddies giving an impressed "wow". The encoding has almost no flaws (on the discs I recieved they all played all the way through without stalling once) and the occassional grain found in 1st generation HD-DVD and Blu-Ray is non-existent on this boxed set.
  
  Xbox 360 owners even get a free standard definition download of Animatrix, making this set definitely worth the price.
  
  If you own HD-DVD, it's because of movies like these. Purchasing this boxed set should be a no-brainer (although I would avoid the ultimate collection on HD as only the movies are in HD, just like this boxed set).
  
  NOTE TO XBOX 360 OWNERS: Make sure to get your system online and download the spring 07 update for your system (if you haven't already; you'll now have a "Marketplace" blade if you have) as well as the HD-DVD update patch that should download automatically once you play a newer HD-DVD (the Matrix definitely qualifies).
  
  

• Get it again

  
  By A7V9TTK6BLJ6Q on 2007-06-12
  If you own an HD DVD player its safe to assume that your into sharp images and clear powerful sounds. I own the original standard box set and like many, went ahead bought the HD version anyway. Well worth it.
  
  The visual is incredible but for me the real difference is in the sound. Powerfull and crystal clear. I cant get enough of Trinity jumping out the building being chased by the Agent. Glass breaking and bullets flying are the perfect sound effects when listening to quality HD sound.
  
  My opinion; HD is the better format right now. Blu-ray may have the most movies but HD has the better product.
  
  

• Simply Amazing!

  
  By A1HGMA4Z8V1LI1 on 2007-06-25
  I assume you've already seen the Matrix, and probably love it, and this is the hands-down best version of the trilogy ever released. The quality is simply amazing, even a better remaster than some other HD-DVDs like Serenity. The colors are way more vibrant and the detail is incredible. During the famous lobby action scene I swear you can see every single scrap of tile, speck of dust and individual bullet. You will see details in the background you never knew were there. This is the Matrix at its finest.
  
  As a test to the quality, I had the original widescreen DVD and this new HD-DVD playing back-to-back on my Samsung 32" LCD. Quickly switching back and forth between formats I could not believe the difference. In comparison, it made the original DVD look like a bootleg VHS copy. I kid you not. Some scenes on HD-DVD look so real its like you are staring out the window. If you don't yet have an HD-DVD player, this is a great first set to pick up with the player and a great movie to show off to friends how good HD-DVD really is.
  
  As a note, I bought this version over the "Ultimate" collection for a few reasons. One being that the Animatrix on the Ultimate edition (along with all the other bonus content) is only in 480p. Since I already own the original Animatrix DVD, theres not much point. The Complete Trilogy still includes a decent amount of bonus features and you can get a free download of the Animatrix if you have an Xbox360. Also, the Complete version has nice looking disc art, while the Ultimate version has blank looking 2-sided discs. If you are the kind of fan that actually wants to watch 12-hours of behind the scenes footage, get the Ultimate. But if you are like me and just want to see the movies in HD then this version is just fine.
  
  

• WOW!!!

  
  By ASHJUMJI0JHUY on 2007-05-24
  This is the hd dvd set to own. The matrix was made for HD dvd.
  
  
• Phenomenal
  By A24IFHG32HYIVB on 2007-05-25
  I ordered my copy as soon as it was available to pre-order. Amazon shipped it May 22, 2007 and I received it May 24, 2007 with free shipping. This Box Set did not disappoint. The picture is absolutely phenomenal and the audio is even better. The Complete Matrix Trilogy on HD DVD is worth every penny.
  
  
• Excellent Box Set!
  By A2PCXIO34CBDIY on 2007-05-28
  When the Matrix was originally released on standard DVD, it was the movie that most people used to showcase their home theater set-up. It's only fitting that The Matrix once again helps usher in the new standard for the nex-gen format. For anyone that has been hesitant to jump into the new DVD format, this box set will make you a new convert. The films look and sound spectacular and are each loaded with extra content from the original release. A MUST have collection.
  
  
• Made for HD!
  By AIXYLCK9HK2B0 on 2007-06-11
  All I can say is that this movie was made for HD. Once you take a look at the Matrix in HD...you'll see what I mean. The picture and sound is incredible! movies like this is what HD is all about. I have no doubt that HD will win over Blu Ray because of quality titles like this. Once the price of HD movies come down(and they will...the average price on amazon is around 19.00...not too bad)it will be only a matter of time before standard DVD's will be a thing of the past...especially since HDTV's are now taking over the market.
  
  
• Nice
  By A2AQUM1JCLROI6 on 2008-01-29
  Good collection and amazing pq, but I dislike WB for what they did to HD DVD.
  
  I'll never buy another Warner Brothers DVD/HD DVD.
  
  
  
• THE MATRIX AS IT WAS MEANT TO BE SEEN
  By A2U1Z6UGBC5OR7 on 2007-06-27
  First let me say I know there are alot of people out there who think only the first movie in this trilogy is any good. I somewhat agree with that statement. True the sequels were not as good as whole movies as the first. But they are full of scenes that rule,and with the power of a DVD remote I become the ultimate film editor. Ill skip boring sequences and just get right to good stuff. Sometimes in reloaded I forget Zion even exists cause I skip right thru it. The picture quality is amazing on all 3 movies and I use it for demo material to show off my system all the time. I highly recommend this purchase.
  
  
• If only they'd release more cool movies like this on HD DVD
  By A2HWR6NV6VTW2U on 2007-07-04
  If you loved the original trilogy get ready to fall in love all over again with the HD trilogy! Wicked picture and awesome sound! What more can I say besides "BUY IT!" You wont be dissapointed. ps. I bought mine off of e-bay for for $52(brand new)thats including shipping, so you might wanna check there first.
  
  
• Matrix Trilogy Is HD DVD At Its Best
  By A2ABICZRPED3KS on 2007-07-15
  Is HD DVD is amazing. This is simply a must have hd dvd. Truly amazing.
  
  
• Outstanding Trilogy
  By A32RDQQ47DSMYD on 2007-11-18
  I know of friends who only saw the first Matrix movie and that is a shame, as all three parts of the trilogy belong together as the journey of Neo and the change that happens to him along the way. It is a fantastic job that has been done in keeping the quality at the top without descending into making B-grade follow up movies as is often the case with sequels.
  
  It is a movie that can be seen on many levels. Some will see it just as a great action movie which it is, but there is so much more to this film. It is a fantastic depiction of the journey of the spiritual seeker and the difficulties that he encounters within himself as he starts pushing against the prison of his own mind and the multitude of programs that operates and which keep us small.
  
  It also neatly depicts the way humans are kept as 'food for the moon' in Gurdjieff's words or simply food for ultra terrestrials. In the film this is depicted as humans, being little less than cultivated biological batteries for the machines. A scary thought that we humans might not be at the top of the feeding chain.
  
  All three parts are worth watching more than once, as you will undoubtedly see new things each time. Things that start making sense only after some time of reflection and reading. In this regard I can recommend reading the book by Ouspensky called "In Search of the Miraculous", and the book by Laura Knight-Jadczyk called "The Secret History of the World".
  
  
  
• Take the red pill while you can, don't swallow the blu pill with this one!
  By A265FQN4HWDKNN on 2008-02-29
  This is the movie that makes owning an HD DVD player still worth it. If you don't have one, it is still worth buying one just to own this movie on HD DVD. Of course, in a short amount of time, this movie will be transferred to Blu-ray - however, it most likely won't have the same kind of IN MOVIE EXPERIENCES that HD DVD does. Also, when it comes out on Blu-ray, they'll probably charge a lot more!
  
  Take the red pill now while you still can and see how deep this rabbit hole goes!
  
  
• Be Ready for Phenominal Sound!
  By ABHA72EYWEKZC on 2007-05-29
  Sound of HD DVD just amazing,
  Get your home theater ready to Experience crystal beyond HD clarity home theater mix of "The Complete Matrix Trilogy"
  
  This is also something very new and exiting Matrix Style Music that you can experience with your HD DVD player and Home theater system:
  SPATIAL DYNAMICS - Music Experience in 3-Dimensional Sound Reality TM, DTS ES 5.1 and 6.1 Extended Surround Music Disc
  SOLARIS - Music Experience in 3-Dimensional Sound Reality TM, DTS ES 5.1 and 6.1 Extended Surround Music Disc
  SIXTH SENSE - Music Experience in 3-Dimensional Sound Reality TM, DTS ES 5.1 and 6.1 Extended Surround Music Disc
  SPACE or DREAM of LIFE Music experience in 3-Dimensional Sound Reality TM, DTS 5.1 Music Disc.
  
  For information how to setup your home theater system see my comment below:
  
  
  
• The Definitive Matrix HD Set
  By A33S5RQZ2QVK6G on 2007-06-15
  The Complete Matrix Trilogy is absolutely incredible and you get a free copy of The Animatrix if you have the Xbox 360 HD DVD player with Xbox Live access! This set already includes over 25 hours of extras and I feel there is no need to waste the extra cash on the Ultimate Matrix Collection unless you do not have The Animatrix and Xbox Live. Also you get to watch 'Enter The Matrix' (over 1 hr long) which are all the live action scenes from the videogame that shows what Narobi & Ghost were doing while Neo was battling his way thru The Matrix.
  
  The picture quality of this HD DVD set is flawless and the first film (though 4 years older) blends in perectly with the final two Films. I know the Wachowski brothers are proud of this release! The In Movie Experience (picture in picture extras)is perfect and the Dolby TrueHD is astounding! Do yourself a favor and make this (along with Planet Earth -HD DVD) your first boxed set purchases on HD DVD. I was never that interested in Matrix Reloaded but now that the HD DVD picture has kept me glued to the screen, I've learned to appreciate the film and have watched it numerous times.
  
  With your purchase, you can rest assured that Warner Brothers, with HD DVD, has delivered! You're going to absolutely love the picture quality and enjoy the sound when Neo takes on over 100+ Agent Smiths! Lastly you get a ton of commentaries from not only the actors, but philosphers such as Cornell West, and even critics that critized the film! The Complete Matrix Trilogy has tons of replay value from In Movie Experience to extras. If you own an HD DVD player buying this set is a must! It truly is the Look and Sound of PERFECT! Thank You Warner Bros.!!!
  
  
• The Complete Matrix Trilogy (HD DVD) Review by Justin Sluss
  By A2MDLOEVS5KUAW on 2007-06-21
  The Movies Themselves are the science fiction cult classics written, directed by The Wachowski Brothers and primarily star Keanu Reeves as "Neo", Laurence Fishburne as "Morpheus", Carrie-Anne Moss as "Trinity" and Hugo Weaving as "Agent Smith." If you're one of the of the few people who have never seen these films then you're in for "one hell of a high definition treat!" These films include some of the best action sequences and CG special effects since Star Wars. Don't get mad at me if you're a fanboy for that statement, I'm just saying that these flicks really have set the benchmark for this type of action in Hollywood. It's been copied time and time again but no one can do anything as incredible as these trilogy of films did in theatrical release. This is THE BEST HD DVD RELEASE YET, hands down.
  
  
  
  Video Quality on this release is VC-1 encoded on three 30gb Dual-Layered HD DVD's, one disc for each film obviously. As stated above these films are by far probably some of the best films ever for action sequences and CG special effects. So this release obviously held high expectations from everyone to be an amazing video transfer not only on the first film but all three. Well they didn't let us down, this is some of the best "eye candy" in high definition available. The video transfer on the first film ( "The Matrix" ) isn't quiet as good as the second two films in the trilogy video-wise at points but it is definitely a transfer I would have rated at least a 4 1/2 if I reviewed the films seperately. This is kind of disappointing in a way but you have to realize that film probably wasn't shot on the same type of cameras and such. Because the second two films were shot planned back to back they really hold the same video quality feel. I'm not complaining though, don't get me wrong. This is a great release in terms of video quality!
  
  
  
  Audio Quality on this release is in Dolby TrueHD 5.1 (which is by far the best choice and really going to blow you away) and Dolby Digital Plus 5.1 @ 640kbps. These films aren't just known for being eye candy, so that being said I'd just like to state for the record "These are the best 5.1 surround mixes I have ever heard in my entire life." And I'm not just saying that to give this release even 5's for everything. You'll have to hear it to believe it obviously but take my word, it's nothing short of AMAZING!
  
  
  
  Bonus Materials are by far the real highlight on this release and nothing short of breakthrough. The "In-Movie Experience" is included on all three films and are all the best "In-Movie Experience" features that Warner Brothers has yet to offer on HD DVD. The Wachowski Brothers have a written commentary (which is the same on each disc) but there's also 2 different commentaries by Philosophers and Film Critics across all three films as well. If you read the written commentary first by The Wachowski Brothers you'll understand why the 2 commentaries mentioned above are there. Also The first film features 2 more commentaries than the sequels, one that even includes some of the cast and crew. The special features go all the way to as far back as the "Enter the Matrix" video game and it's exclusive cut-scenes. Music videos for songs featured on the film's soundtrack, For instance Marilyn Manson's "Rock is Dead" and another music video by P.O.D. are there too. There's tons of "making of" documentaries on each film to keep you busy for at least a week. Then you've got the music from The Matrix in "Matrix Reloaded." This release is the cheaper version of the trilogy and I can honestly tell you that this version packs a lot of punch for the price tag. Now I'm sure that more expensive "Ultimate Matrix Collection" offers more bonus materials on it's extra HD DVD but you choose whatever version you want, you're going to be extremely satisfied either way.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  -- Review written by Justin Sluss of HighDefDiscNews.com
  
  
• Mind Blowing!
  By A1VZ0KKKBX84HR on 2007-07-13
  INSANE VIDEO AND SOUND. THIS IS THE PERFECT EXAMPLE OF WHAT HD DVD CAN DO!
  I LOVE MY HD DVD!!!!
  
  
• Loved the HD DVD version
  By A3GNZWDYXGKKSZ on 2007-08-20
  If you love the matrix and you want a something flashy, loud and cool to show off ur new HD DVD this is a no brainer!
  
  
• Not demo quality
  By A24CY2G8W4IFRN on 2007-11-20
  I'm not going to review the films but rather give my opinions on the technical aspects of this set. I have to say that I was somewhat underwhelmed. Perhaps this comes from the fact that the original Matrix was the standard for testing your presentation back in the earliest days of DVD. It was THE best dvd out there. Because of this, I thought that this would be the same for the newest generation of movie playing technology. While the films look good, they don't look great. There is little to no compression "noise", artifcacts are nonexistant, and edges look good. What you get is a very clean picture. However, it's not as sharp as it could be. Perhaps this is a result of creative decisions by Wachowski's, or it's a byproduct of the coloring and filmstock used. Either way, what you're left with is a relatively softer picture than what I at least had expected. While I love the movies, the video quality of this set just doesn't knock my socks off like some other HD-DVDs and Blu-ray discs do. TrueHD sound works well if you're able to play it. Otherwise it's the standard 5.1 which, while uncompressed, is still pretty much the same as the standard dvd set. If you like the films and want the best possible presentation of them, then this set (or the ultimate one) is for you. If you want something to show off your equipment, you might want to look elsewhere first.
  
  
• Pure HD Splendor
  By A1XWQ13VJDOQ7C on 2008-02-29
  I have to agree with the general consensus, High Definition was made for movies like The Matrix Trilogy. Or is that the other way around? Either way, The Matrix Trilogy looks absolutely stunning in 1080p/1080i High Definition.
  
  I remember when the first Matrix came out on DVD, we all thought the picture quality and audio quality were the best thing we had ever seen. And it was, at the time. Now, the Matrix returns, this time in HD, and it once again takes the cake as the best picture and audio quality ever seen.
  
  I cannot help but laugh when people tell me that "there is no difference between standard definition and high definition"; all I want to do is show them The Matrix Trilogy HD side by side with its standard counterpart and watch their mouth hit the floor. Seriously, watching this trilogy in HD breathes new life into it, and movies in general. There is a HUGE difference between 480p/480i (standard definition) and 1080p/1080i (High Definition).
  
  You can see every imperfection on every actor, their pimples, their pores, their scars. And its all beautiful. Details, details, details. You can clearly see the detail on virtually every object in the foreground of each shot, each scene. Colors are vibrant and clear; the whole picture has ten times the clarity of its standard definition counterpart. The picture is so clear that you can make out every piece of fabric that comprises the actors clothing; to me THAT is amazing.
  
  For a particularly amazing scene, check out the Lobby shootout segment in the first Matrix film. Then compare it to the regular DVD version. You WILL see a huge difference.
  
  All three films are pristine and clean from any artifacting, dirt and any other blemishes. There is a slight film grain pervading each film, but nothing that wasn't originally present in the source material, and it is never intrusive or distracting.
  
  The audio is so crisp and booming, bringing the film to life. If you have a surround sound setup it is even better. From the high intensity explosions to the pulse pounding music is so clear and pristine that it clearly beats that of any movie theater quality. The audio is presented in Dolby 5.1 and Dolby 5.1 TrueHD. Both are spectacular.
  
  These kinds of details may not be a huge deal to the average joe, but to someone who really enjoys movies it makes all the difference in the world. Before I witnessed HD with my own eyes I too thought that it didn't really matter how blurry and bland the movie looked. But now, after I have tasted the divine, I cannot go back. Standard def movies look plain and muddy. Yeah, I'm spoiled now, but I don't care. High Definition is the way to go.
  
  So, we all know the story of the Matrix Trilogy, and most of us can agree that the first Matrix is undoubtedly the best, while the 2nd and 3rd iterations are slightly inferior products in the storyline department. Yet, all three are equally amazing in my mind, and this HD trilogy easily ranks as one of my all time favorite films ever.
  
  There are extras, mostly ports from the DVD version of the Matrix films, but there is also something called "In Movie Experience" that brings you even deeper into the world of the Matrix and the mind of the infamous Wachowski Brothers.
  
  HD-DVD adopters truly lucked out with this fine trilogy, something Blu-Ray owners are literally begging for.
  Its sad that HD-DVD is dead now, what with Toshiba giving up in the format war. Blu-Ray fans need not fret though, The Matrix Trilogy will soon become Blu; its only a matter of time. For all of the HD-DVD die-hards and early adopters, I implore you, pick up The Complete Matrix Trilogy on HD-DVD. You will be very happy and pleased with this purchase. The picture is amazingly stunning, the audio is better than the movie theater, and the total experience will blow you away.
  
  HD-DVD owners, do yourself a favor and grab this item while you can. This is definitely demo material.
  
  
• The green tint is annoying
  By A3JQ58CZBV3FOZ on 2008-03-20
  While the film benefits greatly from the high-definition video, the green tint annoys me constantly. True, the film makers intended to have green as the dominant color, but it should not have come at the cost of natural skin tone. I wish the technicians had dialed down the hue.
  
  
• Best HD movies yet, period
  By AYQ7E9P8GXJFE on 2007-06-12
  Just got my box set today and popped in part 1 on my A-2. It was glorious to see the matrix in HD. You wonder if they knew when they made this movie, that Hi def was lurking around the corner. It's magnificent, can it get any clearer any more real? I thought pirates on Blu was great, this just takes the cake.
  
  
• Fantastic
  By AVQR0JWEX8SZA on 2007-06-28
  Excellent - works on UK Xbox 360 - picture quality is amazing , commentary is good and it make 2 and 3 actually worth watching again!
  
  
• Great movies at a great deal
  By A3EJRBPUFFECQP on 2007-07-21
  This is a great price for this collection. We shopped around and this was the best deal.
  
  
• Good Trilogy
  By AJURWHGY4Y4TC on 2007-07-31
  The first movie didnt have the HD QUALITY i thought it would, but the 2nd and 3rd DO NOT LET DOWN!!!
  
  i like the first and second one but the 3rd one, while not bad, is alright. i guess it does its job in ending the trilogy.
  
  great demo material to show off your HD telivsion and Player...
  
  again, THANX AMAZON!!
  
  
• the matrix on HD
  By A1WW0DN8XN49GQ on 2007-11-10
  Exellent PQ and AQ, I love this movies in HD looks even better than the fisrt time I saw them on DVD, I highly recomend it for showing off your plasma tv and your HD dvd. Amazon best price and delivery time.
  
  
• The first two by far the best and relevant to understanding our true existance
  By A16B53946ZH33L on 2007-11-27
  There is no excuse for anyone to have not watched this movie. But how many people who watch it really understand that it is gives a superb analogy to understanding our current reality.
  
  We live in a world of illusion, distraction, economic slavedom and material indulgence. Breaking free from these culturally programmed distractions will enable you to break free from the real Matrix that we inhabit.
  
  Still think the Matrix is fantasy??? To really explore the reality of our 'matrix' try reading the book by Ouspensky called "In Search of the Miraculous", and the book by Laura Knight-Jadczyk called "The Secret History of the World".
  
  It's your choice, get swallowed up in the illusion of job titles, pensions, media propagated fear, control and consumption or start living your own truly free life!!!!
  
  
• Must have for any HD-DVD owner
  By A2QB4F1510HPL8 on 2008-05-01
  So obviously the Metrix Trilogoy is one of the better movie franchises in sci-fi genre ever created. In HD it is a whole new expierience! I have never seen such clarity. Sometimes HD movies just don't seem like such a huge improvement but with this boxset you will see it, it's shoved in your face :) The Matrix - lobby-shoot-out is jaw dropping. The freeway chase from Reloaded... you won't believe how close Trinity comes to some of those cars on her Ducati! Revolutions... well that is the 3rd and in my opinion worst movie. The assult on Zion will blow your mind apart with all of the detail you can now see. Passing on this set would be a mistake.
  
  
• Matrix in HD. Nuff said.
  By A4VQJ7FU3AOHC on 2007-06-26
  There really isn't much to say about this box set. You get all three Matrix movies in full high-definition, as well as three separate In-Movie Experience tracks along with all the same great supplements that came with the DVD version. At $65 it's a little pricey, but this is as cheap as it gets and fans of the Matrix won't be disappointed.
  
  Video quality: 4.5
  Audio quality: 5.0
  Special features: 4.5 (get the Ultimate collection for the most content)
  Overall value: 4.5
  
  

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