The eagles have landed.

Rating: Null/10 (23 December 2003)

This is a superb conclusion to an outstanding trilogy, adapted from what had to have been one of the most difficult-to-adapt literary sources, J.R.R. Tolkien's beloved "Lord of the Rings."
Though viewer expectation makes it nearly impossible to live up to the revered written word, Peter Jackson has somehow pulled it off, transforming a beloved classic into a cinematic masterwork that can be appreciated by both die-hard
Tolkien fans and newcomers alike. With "Return of the King," Jackson
demonstrates his mastery of not only large scale spectacle and visual effects, but of compelling drama and human emotion -- as George Lucas once did in
another century, in a galaxy far, far away.
Fortunately, what he and Spielberg have apparently forgotten, Jackson seems
to have pumping through his veins. "Return of the King" is not only one of the best films of the year, but a high point in the fantasy/adventure genre, and a great tribute to both Tokien and the legions of loyal fans who carry on his
legacy.