A masterpiece of modern film-making

Rating: 10/10 (2 March 2008)

Peter Jackson's first installment of 'The Lord of the Rings' franchise is, put softly, is one of the best fantasy film adaptations ever made. It took nearly 6 years to bring the pages of Tolkien's magnum opus on the screen. Stunning, exhilarating, eye-popping and ethereal, Fellowship of the Rings is a near perfect adaptation of first novel in The Lord of the Rings series.
All three Lord of the Rings films are one of those films which have got everything right - script, acting, cinematography, costumes, sets, music and so on. It is one of the rare films which will keep you engaged till the very last shot - you cannot take your eyes off of the screen.
First of all, Director Peter Jackson should be congratulated for his grand achievement. His direction is crystal clear, focused - with a passion to showcase something epic, something masterful. After that, screenwriters Fran Walsh (PJ's wife) and Philippa Boyens should be praised for their bold and faithful adaptation. It takes huge courage to write a screenplay so detailed, with 125+ million dollars on stake. And they never disappointed.
Fellowship of the Ring features some great acting talent as well, to put shortly, English veterans like Ian McKellen, American talents like Viggo Mortensen, Elijah Wood and Sean Astin. Andy Serkis makes a tiny, but very interesting appearance as Gollum - which as you all know, is the star of The Two Towers and the Return of the King.
Cinematographer Andrew Lesnie's cinematography is mystical and grand - use of steadicams and fast moving swift war and action shots are extremely impressive and visually arresting. Grant Major's production design is marvelous and lush - very faithful to John Howe's illustrations, proving the necessary atmosphere to the film. Star of all the crew is in fact, Howard Shore, whose mysterious, epic and sweeping score buzzes you even after the film is over.
The Lord of the Rings - The Fellowship of the Ring is a film which should not be missed at any chance - it is an experience - to visit the wonderful land of Middle-Earth, to meet some amazing characters, to get to know about an awesome story. If you see the first one, no way you are not seeing the other two as well, so see it when you have 10-12 hours free. And note it down, you won't be disappointed. 10/10 (perfect)