The first part of what will be considered a classic trilogy!

Rating: 10/10 (21 December 2001)

I have been following the filming of this version since its announcement. Being something of a purist about Tolkien's work my initial impression was that of abject terror.
"They will ruin it! Everyone will come to hate the books due to some souless adaptation! The film industry has no care for the work itself or the tale of friendship, and courage overcoming all evil that is at its core!"
However as I followed the online Q&As with Peter Jackson, whose earlier works I was familiar with, that began to change slightly. As production continued I gained even more respect for the project.
I am happy to say my initial impression was absolutely incorrect.
If you have ever wondered where all of the truly passionate films have gone, the films that were a labor of love, see this film. If you have ever wondered if a film can convincingly portray true feeling, courage, friendship, suffering, and redemption, see this film. If you thought that a live action version of LOTR was impossible, see this film. If you think that an adaptation of the book would corrupt the story or weaken its message, see this film. If you know you'll hate any film that is not identical to the books I challenge you to see this film.
I cannot in fact think of any reason not to see this film!
This is the kind of quality film that people want to see every time the lights go down in the theatre!
The rest of Hollywood should sit up and take notice...