A true spectacle with an emotional depth.

Rating: 10/10 (19 December 2003)

The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King is a spectacle in every sense of the word. Its climatic battles, with much going on, will at times make your jaw drop in awe.
In the first hour or so, I really was beginning to wonder what the praise for this movie was all about. But as soon as the battle at the Pelennor Fields really began to kick in, I was then falling in love with this movie. I have not read the books, but I think that makes for a benefit in a way. I could not judge it against Tolkien's work, so it allowed me to enjoy it more.
Sean Astin deserves an Oscar for his performance. His dedication to Frodo and his mission as the brave Sam is heart-breaking. On the slopes of Mount Doom is where his stunning performance really shines. He is one of the reasons The Return of the King has an emotional side.
The emotional depth of this movie is quite stunning. The ending of the movie, when the ring is finally destroyed, swept me away. The music kicks in in full force, thanks to Howard Shore, and the hobbits become heroes as Sauron and his dominion are destroyed. All is at peace, and it is a beautiful thing to see.
This movie has it all: climatic battles, excellent performances, and an emotional depth. It is the best movie of the year, and concludes the Lord of the Rings trilogy with a bang. This trilogy might just be the best trilogy ever made, largely due to this final part. It makes me wonder whether I'll be seeing something put to film as entertaining and enthralling as this in the rest of my lifetime. Thank you Tolkien. Thank you Peter Jackson.
Rating: 10/10 (excellent)