The Matrix is one of the few films that you'll find in almost anyones movie library. This is no surprise however, because the Matrix is a step above many sci-fi movies like it. The plot does not falter at any point during the film and the acting is superb. The shootouts are exhilarating and the special effects were ground-breaking. I'd recommend the Matrix to everyone. Action fans will be satisfied by the violence and people looking for something more than just action will also be pleased by the ideas and questions that the Matrix raises. Parents should know that even though the Matrix is rated R, it is on the softer side of the R rating. There are lots of guns and shootouts (although mostly bloodless), a passionate kiss, and a couple of s**ts and damns.
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The Matrix
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Is it age appropriate?
About our ratings(Flash is loading. If this text does not disappear you need to install the latest flash version)
Not age appropriate for kids under 13, age appropriate for kids over 15; suggested age 14. -
Is it any good?
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Common Sense says
Intense, but many teens will be able to handle it.
updated 03.04.09
Why We Rated This 
for Ages 14–15
What to watch out for
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Violence :
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Sex :
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What Parents Need to Know
About The Matrix
Parents need to know that although this movie is rated R for violence (some pretty gross, including an icky bug that enters the hero's body through his belly button) and language, most teens 14 and up who are begging to see it should be able to handle it without a problem.
Read our full review by Nell Minow
Families Can Talk About
- Families can talk about the relationship between humans and machines, and why Smith says that the first Matrix program, creating the perception of a utopia-like society, was unacceptable to the humans. Their attempt to keep the humans compliant through happiness did not work, so they had to try again with the past "reality" of a stress-filled world. There are also issues of destiny versus free will and loyalty versus self-interest. Parents should think about raising the issue of violence in movies, and the impact it has on viewers, especially impressionable or disaffected ones, as well.
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Our Members Say
See all 54 member reviews
Most Recent Reviews
Lives in CaliforniaI rate this title on for age 10 and give itClassic Sci-Fi is a step above the average movie
- Lives in MissouriI rate this title on for age 11 and give it
Sucha classic!
This movie is a classic! You can never beat a gun filled acton movie with a little bit of blood. Amazing story line, throgh out all 3 and i think this is the best!
- Lives in CaliforniaI rate this title iffy for age 11 and give itMy concerns are:
- Excessive violence
The R rating is wrong!
Should NOT have been rated R. If your kid has seen The Dark Knight, than they should be able to see this movie. The violence is VERY fake.
- Lives in FloridaI rate this title on for age 10 and give itMy concerns are:
- Excessive violence
- Inappropriate language
NOT THAT BAD!
There is tons of violence and cursing but I can handle it!
- Lives in ConnecticutI rate this title on for age 13 and give itMy concerns are:
- Excessive violence
How on earth did this ret rated R?
In new zealand this got rated M (just like PG13). That is what it needs. The volince is not that strong. I think it is just silly for usa to rate it R. It is mostly teens liking and loving this movie.
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