Program

The animation in this short is simply stunning. It has very bold angles and shadows to give off a harsh atmosphere. The characters and story were also compelling. We are treated to something like Cypher's choice in The Matrix (1999) but with two new characters.

Two Samurai are tackling a training program. When the digital bad guys are vanquished the man (Duo) tells the woman (Cis) that he wishes to go back to the Matrix and that he should go with her. She disagrees, they clash, one of them loses.

It's a thin premise but saved by nice twist. Ninja Scroll director Yoshiaki Kawajiri brings his usual visual style to the story but it's nothing you haven't seen a hundred times before. The action isn't too exciting and the color schemes are kinda bland.

The Animatrix shorts are mostly good but this one is probably the worst, that's not to say it's terrible, just not that great.

One idea story about Cis and Duo, duelling in a program. Duo wants back into the matrix unknowing what is going on (let's say Cypher in the Matrix), and he wants Cis to come with him (it appears they have some sort of relationship).

Cis refuses which leads to what is supposed to be an ultimate fight, but I found it hardly interesting (huge understatement here) and not really adding anything to the matrix experience.

At the time I saw this I was sure it was going to be the least of the animatrix shorts, now I'm in doubt between this and the equally boring Matriculated.

3/10.

This is the fourth part of 'The Animatrix', a collection of animated short movies that tell us a little more about the world of 'The Matrix'. In this one two characters are in training and one of them wants to go back in the matrix like Cypher wanted to in the movie.

With a different kind of animation, some fine action and a surprise in the end this is another fine short from 'The Animatrix'.

One of my favorites, until the ending. While still highly enjoyable, Program's twist ending really takes it down a notch. Up until then it's a strong short with great action and a great moral dilemma. While I still like the twist I think it really drags down an otherwise solid action short.

2 People fight in a simulation and their confrontation escalates more and more.

I really loved the manga inspired art style here. It really creates an awesome looking short with distinct character designs and movement plus the environment looks good too. The only problem is some dated 3D effects but other than that it looks great.

The action is excellent here and full of tension. The art style also helps it a lot. Sadly the voice acting isn't the best, but it's okay

I really love the moral dilemma the short takes up. The idea of knowing the truth of the Matrix making you more sad and losing faith if the human race can even win. Is it easier to stay in the Matrix and forget about the torments of the real world? Again, interesting dilemma, more or less ruined by the twist. While it's still good, it takes the gravity away from the heart of the short.

Overall a pretty solid short. Good animation and action and a cool story until the end.