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The Matrix: Not for kids
20/05/2003 21:39 - (SA)
Thinus Ferreira , Die Burger
Cape Town - The sequel to one of the world's favourite sci-fi cult classics The Matrix with Keanu Reeves and Lawrence Fishburne will be off limits to children because it's deemed an orgy of sex and violence.
The Matrix: Reloaded, which opens on Wednesday at cinemas around the country, has already sold more tickets than Harry Potter and The Lord of the Rings.
The Film and Publications Board said on Tuesday an age restriction of 13 would apply to the film, which was also marked as containing explicit violence.
"The violence is relentless. There's martial arts combat, the use of weapons, some blood and a long, steamy sex scene," said Jean Westmore for the board.
"The producers, the Wachowski brothers Andy and Larry, were clearly targeting an older audience in the sequel."
"The film is also heavily loaded with philosophical questions about choices and the nature of reality. It's a complicated film, not suitable for children."
The video game Enter the Matrix, also being released in South Africa, also has a 13 age restriction.
The film has been very popular worldwide, with an age restriction of 16 in Germany, 15 in Britain, 12 in the Netherlands and rated in the United States.
NuMetro marketing manager Donna Cooper anticipated no problems arising from the age restriction.
"It's a cult film targeting teenagers and the youth. The excitement is unbelievable and the film should do very well - it enjoys a great cult following."
Ster-Kinekor Cape Town general manager Tanya Chetty said children would not be allowed to see the movie, even if accompanied by adults. "Because of it's classification no tickets of this sci-fi will be sold to children."
She said although there are children who would have liked to see the film, "it should still do well in its target market".
The last film in the trilogy, The Matrix: Revolutions, will be released in November.
- Die Burger
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