Excellent Film...Few Errors

Rating: 10/10 (18 December 2003)

I made time to view The Return of the King opening night. I must say I was intrigued from the opening to the ending of the movie. I wanted to know who lived, died, etc. I must say that, though I had few complaints, I call this the best movie of the year.
My complaints are few. Firstly, I find Gollum's background concerning the ring unecessary. I would have preferred if it was in another film, perhaps upon his first meeting Frodo and Sam. Another complaint is a common one...the lack of Christopher Lee. He was the only missing element in the movie. He basically dissappeared.
As far as battle scenes go, my favorite in all three movies is still Helms Deep. It is foreboding and ominous and unsure. The beginning of total war. The battles in the Return of the King are wonderful indeed, but they are more direct. They feel swift and some ideas were used. Also, the appearance of the ghost/spirit things made it feel unreal. I didn't enjoy how they came across with their eerie glow.
Now that the complaints are through, the movie was overall marvy! I especially loved the many conflicts [particularly Gollum vs. Sam] and character developements [Merry and Pippin]. I loved the major role Merry and Pippin played. They really came across as true heroes who were willing to pay for any ills done. Also, I thoroughly enjoyed Eowyn. She really came through as a woman of honor in the end, not one dragged down by men, as Arwen seemed to be.
One more thing...Frodo was evil. I lost all empathy for him. Sam was being nice! Darn that Gollum and his mind games.
Overall, I would give this movie a 9 out of 10. One of the best of our time.