Utterly Fantastic

Rating: 10/10 (18 February 2004)

Sadly, this isn't the film I was expecting. The end was waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay too choopy and cut up to be very coherent. If Jackson and Crew had to cut stuff, it should've been earlier in the film and saved the last battle in total. Especially the Mouth of Sauron. Not seeing him was a major disappointment.
Acting: The best female role of the entire series is Eowyn. There is no contest between her and the other female roles. Viggo does a spectacular job as Aragorn once again. The biggest surprise is Pippin. Besides having a great voice, he can act. Denethor was amazing. Faramir truely showed his quality. Etc etc etc...
Music: By far the best music out of the entire series. Howard Shore is one helluva composer.
Plot: Just like the book, minus a few things. The addition of Shelob to the film, instead of at the end of The Two Towers was great. Very haunting and freaky. (Stupid crowds always jumped...and screamed...and gasped...) Minus a few qualms with the battle at the Black Gate, this is great. Top notch.
SFX: The best of the entire series. 'Nuff said.
Directing: Peter Jackson, you are a god among insects.

Overall: 9.8 out of 10. If the film had the Mouth of Sauron and an ending battle that didn't seem so chopped up, it would've been perfect.