Worth the wait

Rating: 10/10 (19 August 2002)

Rumours had been flying about for years about a live action version of Lord of the Rings, and being a fan of Jacksons films and Tolkein's books I was almost drooling with anticipation when the first details were released. I'm happy to say the first film in the trilogy totally surpassed my high expectations, and like so many people I know that saw the film I'm almost counting the days till the Two Towers is released. Everything about this film oozes class. The pacing (nessecarily altering parts of the book) is spot on, and for a three hour film to grip you for its entire length is a glowing testament to all involved. The only critisisms I've consistently heard are the occasionally dodgy use of extras to show the size difference between hobbits and men (fair comment I'm afraid) and the downbeat end to the film. To those of you that agree with the second point my advice is to stay well clear of the Two Towers when its released if Peter Jackson again finishes at the end of the book. Downbeat? You ain't seen nothing yet!! But standing on its own, there is so much to recommend about the Fellowship, from the designs and breathtaking scenery, to the wonderful performances and Jacksons masterful direction - this man seems to improve twofold with every film he makes, and many of his American colleagues could learn a lot about narrative from him.