Unbelievable, Awesome and I've run out of Adjectives

Rating: 10/10 (17 December 2003)

Rating: 10/10

I saw the first show this morning. I took the day off work and took my mother, as we have done each of the past two years. She introduced me to the books at a young age and for that, this ritual is the least I could do. I am sad this was the last time.
First of all, I'd like to say that although I had some very small issues with a few things,Spoiler:(absence of Saruman, no confrontation between the witch king and Gandalf at the breaking of the gate - especially with Mr. Jackson's fondness of the grandiose) if this isn't the best movie I've ever seen, it sure was the greatest movie-going experience of my life. After the first few minutes settling back into the story - I was taken back to Middle-Earth one last time, to see how this great adventure finally ends. I actually remember saying to myself at one point, "If only our world was as wondrous, as beautifully haunting and as soul-stirring as Peter Jackson's vision."
Actually this movie is more like a gift than a vision. If Peter Jackson had personally delivered the prints to my door it would not have been a more intimate transaction. I laughed, I winced, I cried, my jaw dropped in absolute shock and wonder. I felt my body go lifeless at times and my muscles clench as if I was in battle. I lived this movie, more than I watched it.
I am very familiar with the subject matter as written, and this movie is probably as true to this standard as humanly possible - My God, do you remember the doubt we all had just over two years ago? Spoiler:
For those who question the prolonged ending(s), I see your point, I really do, but now after seeing it once - how could I, who cherishes the end of the book as much as I do, ever ask for the last scenes to be edited out?
I see from other reviewers that although universally regarded as a good film, (at least) it did not illicit as viceral a reaction from some as in my experience. A shame, and I feel only empathy.
I would love to go through more specifics, but for now I feel exhausted and emotionally drained. I'd say I'm in need of some sleep, but friends, I'm afraid no dream tonight can compare to the one I saw today.