Awe inspring film making

Rating: 10/10 (18 December 2003)

Return of the King is surely one of the most spectacular films yet made. Excellent acting, photography, and effects used in the service of story. This dazzling display of filmaking includes hundreds of real horsemen, thousands of extras, and CGI creatures that are simply spellbinding and easily some of the best anyone has made so far.
The tone of this film is remarkably light and gentle for one that partakes of such dense action sequences at times. It maintains its humanity even in the face of the barbaric hammering and destruction of battle.

Perhaps it's only shortcoming is that the ending drags on a bit, but in the context of a 9.5 hour marathon, the multiple, consecutive endings could be perfect curtain calls for the cast and tender farewells to beloved characters.