The fight scenes in The Matrix were revolutionary in their use of “bullet time” – a slow motion technique used to incredible effect in the original movie. It takes more than eye-popping special effects and great choreography, however, to make a good fight scene. A fight scene is ultimately made memorable or forgettable on the story board. The Matrix action sequences were effective not just through the use of great effects, but more importantly, because each scene was necessary to the plot. The sequel, Matrix Reloaded, proves the point by failing to provide substantial connections between the fight scenes resulting in a rather disjointed movie filled with gratuitous action.
The most important element of an action sequence is that it advance the plot or contribute to a character’s development in a significant way. Indeed, in a well crafted film, every scene should have a purpose relating to the story as a whole, and a fight scene is no exception. If movie action doesn’t serve the narrative arc of the story, then the scene is ultimately unsuccessful. (more…)
