Why is that, when I watch these movies, the phrase "pretentious crap" always comes to mind? And why is it that these folks can build a city, weapons, ships, and oh-my-god-those-are-so-cool APUs but they can't knit themselves new sweaters now and then?

As a straight action flick, it's pretty good. The effects, the stunts, and the visuals are all great and I loved the APUs (better than the similar ones in Aliens). I might have even liked the story if they'd left the Oracle out. I swear they just tossed her in now and then to confuse me.

Watch it for the action and don't bother trying to figure out the story.

I really wanted to like it. I wanted it to be as innovative and interesting and exciting as the first, and I really wanted it to make up for the second. Instead, I got a Sentinel attack scene which was impressive but way too long, some small yet asinine plot additions, and a nothing ending. The Neo/Smith final battle was really amazing, but overall I was disappointed.