Breathtaking and epic

Rating: Null/10 (26 January 2002)

This is the film that for many people (including myself) will have filled the gap that George Lucas' first episode in the popular Star Wars saga had created. Why I don't think Episode I is bad or even mediocre, it hasn't captivated me as much as the original trilogy or this incredible film. The Fellowship of the Ring is classic moviemaking. It's Star Wars for the fantasy-genre. I've seen this film for the second time yesterday on the silver screen and was again in complete awe, even moreso. Only Titanic had done this to me back in 1998. Everything is just inspired, from the set decoration to the costumes, from the sound design to the visual effects, from a point of storytelling to the performances. For me, this is the movie of 2001 and if George Lucas doesn't deliver his goods this year, he'd better watch out for the next two installments. I cannot think of a bad word to say about this film: it has everything you could wish for: a fantastic story, characters you care for, delicious set-pieces and landscapes, brutal fight sequences, haunting and memorable music, wonderful sound design and brilliant cinematography (those sweeping cameramoves in the land of Isengard are just incredible). Let's not forget the actors who share their torment and internal battles with us, the public; and the crew for giving us such a riveting piece of art, even in these sad and dark times. I for one cannot wait to see the rest of the trilogy. Can I book my seat in the theatre for the following years. No? Thought not... Anyway, see this flick and get ready to be amazed!