Whenever there's a sequel to a big hit pic like The Matrix, the first big question to ask is does this new outing tell us anything new? So here's what I learned from Matrix Deux:

1. All rebel alliances are prone to dull tactical debates and tedious ideological arguments (the Judean People's Front Syndrome).

2. You can never have too many female plugs on your body.

3. Barefoot mud dancin' will never go out of style.

4. One Agent Smith is coolly menacing; a hundred is hysterical.

5. Pigeons require their own programming.

6. "You do not know someone until you fight them."

7. People in the Matrix can have orgasms . . .from chocolate!

8. The Bruce Lee "come hither" finger move will always be hip.

9. We all make choices in life - or maybe we don't because it's all predestined - or maybe we do because free will exists as a programming anomaly - or maybe it doesn't.

10. Mindless, physics-defying spectacular fx are all you need for a movie.