Visual Aspects

Rating: 8/10 (12 January 2002)

IN today's world of computer technology, the 100 million easily built the cities, creatures, and effects in Lord of the Rings. But clearly Lord of the Rings stands out, as a film, against the technology-ridden films we are embarrassed with today. Most films are reliant on their computers, and therefore limited by them. The strength of this film, however, is not found on its dependence on computer technology, but on its independence, leading to its most innovative use. Indeed, Lords of the Rings stands out today was being unique because it relies heavily on the (old) tricks of the trade. Camera angles, miniatures, re-shoots, costume design, make-up, and the latest in computer animation all combined made this film to produce a visually stunning experience. I was awed at the beautiful use of color throughout the movie. For the first half-hour, as we are emerged in to the Shire, the greens and yellows of the hills are shot with amazing clarity and realism. As the story line travels darker, so too does the film. Many scenes that could not be created by hand, contained some of the best use of computer technology to date. The scenes seem so real, the depth-perception so well done that I found myself in many of the shots on top of the high tower feeling like I was going to fall, a feeling I do not feel that often. Indeed, I didn't know I was afraid of heights untill I saw this movie. The vision of this movie is surreal and it is extremely well done. A monumental visual achievement.