A film that works on so many levels

Rating: 10/10 (1 June 2002)

I hope you like this film, because if you don't, there is not a lot of understanding I can offer you. I amazed that some people didn't like it; but I suppose with any work of art this is to be expected. Let me categorise those that didn't like it as being people that simply didn't 'get it' or get drawn into the mood of the film.
Emotional, moving, powerful, and completely respectful of the original works of JRR Tolkien, this film is a masterpiece of adaption. No finer version could realistically be made. And we have two more installments to look forward to. The directing, acting and cinematography are excellent, as are all the production values. This film works on many levels - it is the sort of movie in which something new can be found every time you see it. In every scene there are new things to notice, from detail injected into a particular prop or the exact meaning of character's expression.
You don't need to have read the book; but knowledge of the book gives the movie additional longevity. The number of insider references is vast, and even where you don't notice them to subtle feeling of a real, live world with a real history is inescapable.
For the people who didn't like the movie (there are what, 10 of you?) I can offer no understanding like I said. It sometimes seems that these people get offended by the presence of a plot, or of a story bigger than a single movie. I can't wave a wand and make you like this movie, but I can tell you this- If you don't like this movie, take a good hard look at your own criteria. Is it yours or Hollywood's?
This film makes you realise how good a fresh, well made film can be. Don't waste it.