Peter Jackson directs this masterpiece perfectly and the cinematography is mind-blowing ****1/2 out of five

Rating: 8/10 (2 January 2002)

People argued that Peter Jackson director of The Frightners, Heavenly Creatures, Braindead etc wasn't the man to bring J.R.R. Tolkein's classic novel to life. Well surley they will admit they were wrong after seeing this incredible masterpiece. The first ten minutes or so after the introduction where everything is jolly and happy is to be blunt quite sick but as soon as the horror kicks in the film becomes absoloute pleasure. The performences are fantastic not the mention the directing. If there is any justice (which I know there isn't) than Peter Jackson should bag the oscar for best director. The cinematography is fabulous aswell. But scrathcing off all technicalities what makes this film truly great is its so unique unlike the likes of tosh like The Mummy Returns you honestly don't know who is genuinley good or bad or who will betray who. This is ultimetley a very dark horror that isn't for childern unless they love truly great adult movies- and I'm sure there are a lot of childern who do. Some childern though will find it far too frightening. A must see.