FOTR: Film as art :)

Rating: 9/10 (2 January 2011)

I am amazed that people found this film boring, but then I loved the books. There are moments in the film that were jaw-dropping for me, as if what I'd imagined were brought to life! The Shire is exactly as I'd seen it in my mind's eye.
As with any book-to-film adaptations there are things out of place or that are simply wrong. For example: Some of the characters are miscast - Frodo should be much older and Aragorn should be grim and careworn. The ageism and looksism in film would not allow a true portrayal.
The story is changed in key places. Particularly the ending which does not fully reflect the end of the book.
There are other issues but I don't see that any of this detracts from the fact that this is a superb film. Even the altered end has a purpose, it creates a stronger conclusion so that the film is more self contained.
It is a work of art. The filming is truly spectacular and many of the scenes would make great paintings. The acting is mostly excellent and the story, borrowed from great classical works and mythology, has spawned thousands of imitations (including Star Wars). What could be better than that. My advice is watch it and read the books, enjoy them as linked but free-standing works of art :)