A beautiful tribute to the work of Tolkien

Rating: 10/10 (1 April 2008)

The spirit of Tolkien's work comes to life in breathtaking detail, and the work of hundreds of people comes forth as something special that still shakes the film industry.
While there are no relatively weak points in the cast, some of the actors stand out. Sir Ian McKellen provides a strong and powerful performance that got him nominated for an Oscar. Danish American Viggo Mortensen also plays his role so impressive, that you fully believe in the character. The score of Howard Shore should also be mentioned. Epic, sad, joyful, beautiful, a better soundtrack could not have been made for this.
It is quite a task to make such a beloved and huge book, into something that has become such a well-made film. Peter Jackson knows what he wants, and knows what works on screen. This shows in scenes that take place in the dark mines of Moria, or the light and optimistic grassy fields of the Shire. To a new audience I recommend seeing the Theatrical Version first. While the Extended Version is essentially better, it's long run time could scare some people away.
However, in the end "The Fellowship of the Ring" is a warm film that even deniers of fantasy movies can enjoy.