It was brillant.

Rating: Null/10 (19 February 2002)

It was brilliant. I was overwhelmed. "...And in the darkness bind them" in the opening of the movie still gave me chills the third time seeing it in the theatre. The actors were perfectly cast, bringing to life the personalities of all the characters in the book exactly how I had imagined they would be. The sets were absolutely stunning (especially Rivendell and Lothlorien); the scenery (the beautiful New Zealand countryside) was breathtaking. From the armies of orcs, Gollum and the Balrog, to the details of hobbit feet and elf ears, the effects and costume and makeup were amazing. The film retained the integrity of the book and stayed true to the characters and the events. I couldn't believe they fit so much into only three hours, yet I was left wanting more. Now I wait patiently for The Two Towers...