Impressive, daring and ebullient.

Rating: 10/10 (7 February 2002)

To truly appreciate this movie it is, in my sole view, imperative to acquaint oneself with the characters and their adventures through Middle Earth, and that can only be achieved by reading the prequel, "The Hobbit" followed by the "Fellowship of the Ring", to start of with, that is.
I have to admit that my interest for J.R.R. Tolkien's masterpiece came as a result of its cinematographic transposition which, after experiencing, made me return for a second viewing which I enjoyed as much as the first.
The first part of the trilogy is as true to the book as it can possibly get, making this one of the most successful attempts in portraying Tolkien's imagination onto the big screen. Each member of the cast gave an admirable and memorable performance honouring his/her assigned character, and the stunning effects, complemented with breathtaking landscapes, has made this the most fulfilling and satisfying science-fantasy movie for many years to come.
I look forward with great anticipation to, first reading, and then visually experiencing "The Two Towers", the second instalment of the trilogy.
Superb in every respect and no other movie to date comes even close to matching its purity and grandeur.