Could Not Be Better

Rating: 10/10 (20 December 2001)

This amazing adaptation of the J.R.R.Tolkien classic takes some liberties with the original -- but only those necessary to make a great book into a great film.
Every facet of the production -- casting, costumes, sets, SFX, acting, directing -- is top-notch, and all go to service the story.
Every place that the recent Harry Potter movie falls down, the Lord of the Rings: Fellowship of the Ring soars. (And it has all of Potter's good points as well -- save slavish adherence to book details that don't work in film.)
Last year, Gladiator got the best picture nod.
This film is better than that in every aspect. It got a Golden Globe nomination as best picture and director this morning, and I'll be stunned if it doesn't get the Oscar nods in those categories, too.
It ranks as one of the best fantasy films ever, and the best sword & sorcery movie of all time.
Run, do _not_ walk, to see this film.
And then line up to see it again. I know I did.