Overall Solid

Rating: 8/10 (16 January 2015)

I read these books as a kid, many times. I expected to have my heart broken a few times during the movie. And I did - there were a few additions that I found baffling, and a few things left out that I think should have been there. But overall the movie held together, and captured some of the magic that the book did once upon a time for me.
I do take umbrage with the fact that they turned it into 3 movies. I find this a bit silly. Maybe, maybe 2 movies, maybe. But they not only turned it into 3, but then added material to make it 3 really damn long movies? Bizarre move. And it would be one thing if they just added material from the Silmarillion, but they start making up characters and events... I don't know. Just let the source material do its job, executives.
Anyway, that aside, it's good. Obviously by the money it's making and the fan base, it will do fine, and hasn't disappointed anyone too terribly. Recommend.