One of the best films ever made

Rating: 10/10 (10 February 2010)

This is without doubt one of the greatest films ever made. Transferring the gargantuan story of the Lord of the Rings was a task many thought impossible, and it is strange to think that Peter Jackson, until then not known for producing particularly big films, manages so well.
Jackson has an exceptional eye for knowing who would suit a particular role. Based on his appearance, Viggo Mortensen would not be the obvious choice for Aragorn but in the event he is perfect for the part. Elijah Wood is spot on as Frodo as is Sean Astin for Sam. Special mention must go to Ian McKellen as Gandalf and Christopher Lee finally achieved his ambition to be the Lord of the Rings films. Cate Blanchett and Liv Tyler are both suitably ethereal as the elven women.
The sets and propwork are outstanding and if I ever get enough money I am going to build a hobbit hole just like Bilbo's. also particularly striking were the Black Riders.
One small gripe I had, and it's only very minor, was the way some of the names of places were pronounced. Whereas most characters referred to Mordor, pronouncing it as it is spelt, both Gandalf and Elrond seemed to pronounce it Mokodor. Also, Galadriel referred to herself as Galadthriel for some reason. Still, these are only minor matters.
Absolutely brilliant from beginning to end.