WAS WORTH NOT GETTING TO SLEEP TO SEE...

Rating: 10/10 (18 December 2003)

Most times, events which are hyped up never measure up to the expectations (Star Wars Prequels; Godfather III; any of Costner's movies from the last 10 years), but the Return of the King was certainly worth having to go to work on 3 hours sleep to manage the midnight showing I went to on December 16th, 2003. Here are a few reasons the movie is a work of art:
The Acting: 1) Sean Astin was great. Having seen all 3 movies, although Aragorn and Frodo are heroic, this story seems to be Sam's story. I found myself caring more about and for his character than any other.
2) Ian McKellen carried the middle portion of the movie. More than anything else, McKellen's Gandalf brought energy to the screen. As fantastical as the concept of a "Wizard" is, McKellen makes Gandalf a real person doing extraordinary things.
3) Andy Serkis deserves an Oscar for best supporting actor. Period.
The Directing: If David Lean is the benchmark for "old" Hollywood, then Peter Jackson is the new king of the CGI era. He kept the action moving and (other than an ending which lingered on a little) did not disappoint.
The Story: Thank you J.R.R. Tolkien for your imagination and depth.
I strongly urge people to see this movie. I am the proud owner of Fellowship of the Ring and the Two Towers DVD, extended editions. I am eagerly awaiting the third extended edition so that I can - in one day's sitting - see what Jackson's full vision is for this material. In the meantime, please catch this movie on the big screen.