What a movie!

Rating: 10/10 (23 December 2001)

What I found very interesting, is that the images and the characters have stuck with me for 2 days since I saw it. I now find myself wondering what day I can 'sneak' off to see it again with Xmas so close. My wife didn't care for it, as a matter of fact she loathed the book.

Sure there were deviations from the books, and liberties taken here or there. The essence of what Tolkien was trying to say was, which is most important.
Visually it was stunning, I cannot recall anything like it in other films. The huge scope and sprawling world was right there on screen, for me to immerse myself. Whilst the FX were great, there were some moments of obvious CG which looked 'out of place' in this magnificent production. Always things you can do better next time.
NB: To the nitpickers mentioning that the action scenes felt rushed and blurred, I thought it emphasised the chaotic and manic nature of hand-to-hand battles. When was the last time you fought someone and stood absolutely still?
Finally, the film will not be everyones cup of tea, but it was mine just the way I like it. But what a ride.
See it and make your own mind up.
Many happy returns.