I was late seeing the 'Matrix Reloaded', but it impressed me tremendously. It's got to be one of the best cowboys-and-Indians type flicks I've seen. Can't wait to see the concluding of the trilogy. (And yes: as a former philosophy minor, I did indeed get the deeper import of the films, so you don't have to tell me about it...) If the Matrix films accomplish nothing else, perhaps they may reinforce the trilogy concept begun with LOTR, and spare us future unending strings of sequels to films whose only claim to fame is their box-office success, such as the 'Rambo' and 'Halloween' and 'Rocky' flicks. Like LOTR, the Matrix trilogy explores some intriguing concepts, and actually makes one believe that we're not hopelessly sunk in an antique Roman 'bread-and-circuses' mentality, socially speaking.

Back to the 'Silmarillion': one of the most beguiling of the facets of this book for me is the way Tolkien ascribes motivations and behaviors to the Valar, Maiar, etc., that are understandable in human terms. After all, who among us has not felt the pride, jealousy, greed, lust, etc., that causes the downfall of these supposedly different beings? I suppose it is this ability to identify with the main characters in the book that generates its lasting appeal. I don't know anyone who has read LOTR and gone on to 'Silmarillion' who hasn't become enthralled with the book.