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If one watches Casablanca hoping to see Star Wars, disappointment in Casablanca‘s lack of wookiees does not make it a bad film. I’ve heard and read considerable negative reactions to the two Matrix sequels, the latest of which came out a few days ago. I suspect those who wanted to see a rehash of the original were puzzled by the thought-provoking philosophical exposition of the themes running through all three films.

I absolutely loved The Matrix. It is not only among my favorite science fiction films, it is one of my favorite films, period. The second and third Matrix movies, in reality one long film, are nearly as good, albeit very different films from the original. Best of all, the directors don’t beat you over the head with anything; rather they pour out a lot of philosophy and plot, and are subtle with everything. But it all makes sense, and it all comes together into a coherent whole, which is remarkable considering the vast amount of detail and information that was poured into the film.

What I think makes Matrix Reloaded and Revolutions amazing, and possibly unique, is that for all the fantastic action and amazing visual effects, it is the only science fiction movie I’ve seen that deals with such staples of the genre as super-human strength, flying people, and knowing one’s future, in which everything is grounded in reality. Nothing in that film is illogical or impossible. Like all sci-fi films, it has its central conceit– in this case, that one can upload one’s mind into a computer. From that point on, it plays more like Franz Capra than George Lucas. Nearly every single moment, line, and action is necessary to further the plot, and every last aspect ties together in a logically impeccable manner. It requires intelligence, patience, and very deep thought on the part of the audience, but rewards them with a staggering and masterful work of logic.

I’d recommend that anyone who likes being made to think watch the two Matrix sequels. Even if you aren’t into such things, they are still worth seeing, for, to be honest, there is a lot of well-crafted action going on there too. Even if you can’t stand “thinking” movies, there should be enough to hold your interest.

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A while back I made an Amazon Listmania! list of films I feel should be on DVD but are not. I happened across it tonight, and I noticed that only Parker Posey’s Party Girl had made the big jump to DVD. The rest are still, sadly, only available in the VHS format. Here is the link to the list, in case you’d like to see it. You can read my witty comments about each movie.

Wasn’t that fun? Now that you’re back, let’s talk about DVDs for a moment. Why is it that when I go to shop for DVDs, I can find walls of crappy “cult” films, like that of our friend Dr. Zombie Butcher who capped off the list, but a dearth of quality classics? I understand it takes time to go through the process of bringing an older film out on DVD, but come on. Someone is taking the time to transfer all those horrible cult films. I refuse to believe they sell well. Quick show of hands: who here in blog-land buys such DVDs? See, I told you. Nary a paw was lifted.

To make matters worse, half the time a fine older film is released, it is taken out of print soon thereafter. I’ve spent many a pretty penny on eBay of late in an attempt to collect what few of their classic horror films Universal Studios deigned to release on DVD. Even so, I’m missing a handful. Ghost of Frankenstein, anyone? Doesn’t the fact that it routinely auctions for $60 to $100 give a not-so-subtle hint to the powers that be that there is in fact a demand for it, and similar films?

Today’s Question: What currently VHS-only film would you like to see released on DVD?

I want Mothra.