The start to one of the Greatest Trilogies of All Time

Rating: 9/10 (25 December 2012)

The First Part of Peter Jackson's Magnum Opus is visually enthralling and breathtakingly beautiful. It takes great ambition to take one of the most sold books of all time (deemed impossible to be filmed), and adapt it into a movie people won't hate. Jackson's adaptation and vision takes Tolkien's classic literary work to a whole new level. The places and characters come to life with such vivid colors; the casting is exceptional. Whether you've read or haven't read the books, you're bound to fall in love with the movie. It is sheer perfection.
It's starts with the narration of prologue (history of the power rings and the one ring to rule them all). The narration is charmingly done by Cate Blanchett (as Galadriel, the Elven Queen). Then it moves to Hobbiton, and the journey begins. All the characters are admirably portrayed; every character has its uniqueness, which makes them stand out and seem quite interesting. Ejijah Wood is perfect as Frodo Baggins. My favourite would be Gandalf (by Ian McKellen); who could forget the stunning scene where, just before falling, he says, "Fly, you fools!".
The captivating background score and alluring special effects just add to the beauty and feel of the film. The cinematography is spectacular; it's difficult to believe all the places in the movie were shot in the same country (New Zealand). I should also mention, the costume and make-up are top notch too.
Now, about the novel-to-movie changes. I know a few fans maybe upset with the few changes made in the story. Frankly, I didn't have any problem with them. These are acceptable changes, and it's Peter Jackson's vision.