The Matrix Film Analysis (Essay Example)

As the 20th century was coming to a close in 1999, everybody assumed an indefinite apocalypse was coming for them. But, as widely believed, directors Lana and Lilly Wachowski took this common fear and transformed it into a cyberpunk dystopia film, making individuals question their reality. The Matrix became so widespread and beloved that it started a franchise with three installments, including The Matrix Reloaded. In a notable scene of this film, relatively known as Morpheus's speech, Morpheus speaks to the people of Zion, implementing his goal to give the people hope. Throughout the progression of this scene, four communication devices emerge to emphasize Morpheus' character as a whole even more. These devices include analogical persuasion, body language, connotative meaning, and identification. The Public Speaking Glossary contains the definitions used to define these terms.

Referring to the Public Speaking Glossary, Identification is a process "in which speakers seek to create a bond with the audience by emphasizing common values, goals, and experiences.". When Morpheus speaks to the people of Zion, he does precisely such, beginning his speech by warning them that armies are rapidly nearing their home. Then he expresses their shared past while reaffirming the struggles they have endured together, "I remember that for 100 years they have sent their armies to destroy us, and after a century of war I remember that which matters most... We are still here!". Not only does Morpheus' statement help establish Zion's faith in him, but it also reveals his relation to them. 

Similar to identification, Analogical persuasion also helps further Morpheus' relationship to Zion, as it's a "perspective on a subject by relating it to something about which the audience has strong positive or negative feelings.". While speaking, it is prominent that certain words that Morpheus says elicit a reaction in the people. For instance, when Morpheus states, "the machines have gathered an army, and as I speak, that army is drawing nearer to our home.", the crowd can be seen whispering amongst each other, displaying negative facial expressions. It's important to mention this because the subject of machines is vaguely traumatizing for some members of Zion. However, as soon as Morpheus reminds them of how despite the centuries of gory battles with the machines, Zion still exists, motivating them, as they're now willing to sacrifice anything to defeat the approaching army.

In continuation to the usage of particular words afflicting the people of Zion, the term for such would be Connotative meaning. According to the Public Speaking Glossary, Connotative meaning is "the emotional, subjective, personal meaning that certain words can evoke in listeners.". Using the same example from earlier, when Morpheus announces the word "machines.'', the crowd presents negative emotions, whereas when he mentions that ''we are still here!" the people applaud, demonstrating their joy in their ongoing existence despite the several wars they've endured. These words and sentences have an eminent impact of emotional and personal significance for Zion, which is why Morpheus keeps repeating, "I remember.". As a result, Zion's trust in Morpheus increases as he is one of them, sharing the same memories, though he does not desire their trust. In all actuality, he holds a dedication to the encouragement of his people.

While the scene of Morpheus giving his speech plays out, it is impossible not to notice his explicit body language. Body Language is a communication device used from "facial expressions, eye contact, movements, and gestures.". It is evident that while speaking about a horrifying topic, Morpheus contains a confident, fearless tone and presence. Such is possible due to not only his dedication but also his stance. Science has proven that having good posture is healthy for your back, as it also allows you to come off as more confident, hence why this is a good skill for presenting a speech. Amidst his posture, Morpheus portrays his tone also because of his gesture at the peroration. Morpheus is shown at that point, raising both of his fists in the air, which symbolizes unity and power. This exhibits his actual character, explaining why Morpheus makes an effort in his speech when he could have cared less. 

In this glimpse of The Matrix Reloaded, the audience not only sees Morpheus's aspirations with hope to defeat the machines but his will to fill the people of Zion with encouragement. As explained earlier, Morpheus actively engages by using four communication devices to portray what he desires. Not only does this decipher Morpheus's character, but it also shows his status on the people of Zion and this upcoming battle.