The Matrix Revolutions (2003)

The Matrix Revolutions (2003) abandoned the philosophical depth of its predecessor for bloated CGI warfare and a hollow ending, shattering fan goodwill. Grossing $427 million worldwide against a $150 million budget, its box office grew only 2% from Reloaded's $742 million—a stagnation that outpaces #7's decline but still disappointed Warner Bros. Critics rated it 34% on Rotten Tomatoes, 14 points below the original's 88%. The overlong final battle, costing 40% of the budget, failed to deliver emotional resonance, leaving the trilogy as a diminished legacy.