Stunning visual effects and cinematography aid in creating a sensational interpretation of the epic novel.

Rating: 9/10 (21 December 2001)

This movie is one of the best interpretations of a great novel to the big screen that I have ever seen. This is not an easy feat, being that we are talking about a science fiction/fantasy novel with characters such as hobbits, elves, dwarves, wizards, orcs, etc. But the use of special effects is (nearly) flawlessly applied in the director, Peter Jackson's, interpretation of the different races depicted in Tolkien's epic novels. Along with the stunning New Zealand landscape, which lends its own unique visual appeal, Jackson has created visual effects so astounding and so appealing that one is quickly drawn into the story, yet I did not feel overwhelmed. The screenplay does an excellent job of methodically telling the story of Frodo Baggins and the dilemma into which he is suddenly and mysteriously thrown. The movie left me with a feeling of satisfaction and a sense that I had been thoroughly entertained, but also with an intense desire to see those next two episodes which we know will be coming out in the next two years. In other words, the movie did what it was supposed to do, and did it splendidly! Now, I think it's time I go pull those books off my dusty bookshelf and.....