Truly mindblowing

Rating: 10/10 (5 January 2002)

Having never read the Lord of the Rings trilogy, I wasn't quite sure what to expect with this film. I had avoided all the hype, refused to read any reviews by the so called "experts" (who often get it wrong, in my book) ... and waited until the day came to see it.
At three hours long, it is quite heavy going, but from the start to the finish, it is truly a fantastic film. From the fight scenes - which must have been a nightmare to direct, but looked so good; to the emotional stuff with regards to Gandalf, and the amazing strength of the friendship between the Hobbitts (which was excellently done - had me teary several times); to the brilliant computer graphics - often difficult to tell what was real and what isn't; the strong storyline; the superb acting - everyone involved deserves huge credit for the realism they brought to the role; the brilliant characters - so easy to identify with, and everyone will have a favourite for whatever reason; and some of the simply breathtaking scenic/landscape shots - it really is, as Ron from Harry Potter would put it, "bloody brilliant."
I really couldn't find fault with this film. It is one of the best I have seen in my lifetime; miss it at your peril ! It is one of those films that will be talked about for a long time to come.
To all those who wonder whether Harry Potter or LOTR is the best film this Winter... well, the fact is that the two films are completely different. Both have good points - but it's impossible to compare them. Just enjoy !
At the end of it, you have to remind yourself that it isn't real. It is that easy to get completely immersed in the story. It's almost a let down that it isn't real !
Admittedly - it is not for everyone. So people don't like lengthy films, no matter how good they are. Or some miss crucial bits and then are baffled by the plot. Or maybe they just don't like using their imagination a bit. Because you do need to use your imagination... some bits do defy belief - but that is all part of the magic !
Gets a very big thumbs up from me ! Go see - if you have an open-mind, and appreciate the effort that's gone into the film, you will enjoy it. Make sure that you don't drink much, and go to the toilet before hand - because you cannot miss a second ! My only complaint would be how uncomfortable the seats in the cinema were... and how long we have to wait for the next instalment !