never in my life have I been so blown away!

Rating: 9/10 (28 February 2002)

Back in August when I first saw the trailer for this movie, simply that was enough to get me interested. And I didn't forget about it over that four-month period.
When I went to see LOTR a week following its theatrical release, I wasn't quite sure what to expect. I had never turned a page of Tolkien, but it certainly looked good.
It was.
The movie was outstanding! The compelling plot, first of all, hooked onto me and did not let go. Right from the beginning the movie gets your attention. Cate Blanchett tells you about the history of Sauron's Ring- and not a detail from Tolkien's version was left out. Plus, all throughout the movie the plot doesn't slow down for long. The movie is jam-packed with adventure and action that kept me on the edge of my seat. By the time I left the movie I had a dazed look on my face that eventually transformed into a huge smile. After I got over the shock of the finale, I couldn't stop thinking about it.
The sets were beautiful- everywhere from the Shire to the mines of Moria are wonderfully displayed. And the special effects...wow. I love how the actors and real sets blend so easily with the computer generated elements. The make-up was rather amazing, too.
But the movie's real glow comes from the actors. The movie is brilliantly casted. I especially enjoyed Elijah Wood (Frodo), Ian McKellen (Gandalf) and Viggo Mortensen (Aragorn/Strider). They put on a great performance that stuck in my mind. These people are so talented! I cant wait for their return in "The Two Towers" and "The Return of the King".
The one thing that bugged me just slightly about the film was the every-so-often endless talking scenes. There will be some scenes where the characters will just sit around talking while we wait for something cool to happen. But this happens rarely, so it shouldn't keep anyone from seeing the film.
This film is for everybody- whether you're a fantasy fan or not. Although it's rated PG-13, there is almost NO gore, but it IS scary. This movie is NOT for little kids, especially those eight and under. Even ages 9-11 are a little risky. I was rather surprised to see many six and seven year olds at the theater the second time I saw the movie. I must have seen five or six mothers lead crying children out the door. Let that be a warning to those of you with kids under twelve who want to see the film. But bottom line? This movie is worth seeing over and over again. I, for one, can't wait until it is released on VHS and DVD.