Breathtaking!!!!!!!!!

Rating: 10/10 (14 December 2001)

I have been waiting for this movie since I first read the books 30 years ago; I did not wait in vain. I was fortunate enough to get to see an exhibitor's preview in Memphis, TN last month. It was as if I was transported from the theatre to Middle Earth. I, admittedly, had reservations going in but I came away disappointed/frustrated only by the fact that I was going to have to wait a year for the second installment and two years for the third one. What a magnificent experience! Three glorious hours and I would have willingly and eagerly watched it again immediately! I have loved these books since I first read them and thanks to Peter Jackson I now get to "see" them as well!! Fans of Tolkien and non-fans of Tolkien are most fortunate that someone with his vision and love for the story of Middle Earth made this film. It is a true masterpiece and should immediately vault to the top of all film lists. The acting was superb! The visuals were gorgeous! And the screenplay was perfection! Bravo!! to all concerned with this project! Gandalf, Bilbo, Frodo, Elrond, Legolas, Arwen, Galadriel, Elrond and Aragorn all came to life before my eyes, and I was swept away in an epic story of honor, friendship, love, sacrifice, and heroism!! What a joy! The time flew from the opening introduction - probably the best I have ever experienced- to the final frame - which left me begging for the next film! I never noticed or cared that the film was three hours long. I took no breaks and, indeed, never even considered one. I would not have missed a second of it!! Go see this movie!! Take your family and friends. It is absolutely unnecessary to have read the books as all is explained clearly and wonderfully in this stunning film!! My heartfelt thanks and appreciation to all connected with making The Fellowship of the Ring!