[Pukin Dog]

I strongly disagree. Matrix box office will depend less on word of mouth than most films, because there are legions of people (myself included) that will likely see the film dozens of times before the third film release in November. The Matrix is more than a movie. To some, it is a pseudo-religion. The first movie never had a very wide audience appeal, but a deep appeal to those who saw a message in it. It isnt for everyone, but I think Reloaded will break almost every box office record between now and the final chapter.

[proust]

The first movie never had a very wide audience appeal,

It made about 374 million worldwide, the budget was 64 million. Not exactly small change.. its breakout appeal was the reason two expensive sequels were made.