An epic ending to the trilogy!...

Rating: 9/10 (13 October 2012)

The book could very easily have been made into two films; there is such a lot that happens and so many twists in the plot that it might have benefited if that were the case. But we're not here to speculate I guess; although it does depart from the book in many respects, I did find that most of the important bases were covered. A film which has some tremendous scenes of epic battles but also some very tender and thought-provoking moments as well. For me the most powerful scene was where Denethor has sent his son, Faramir, to his doom and is eating a meal while Pippin sings a haunting ballad. The intercutting of the images of battle with Denethor and Pippin safe in Minas Tirith and the haunting melody over the top makes for a scene that has stayed with me since I first saw it back in 2003. I did find it did tend to drag a bit towards the end, but other than that a very fine film that is a fitting end to a great trilogy.
SteelMonster's verdict: HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
My score: 9.4/10
You can find an expanded version of this review on my blog: Thoughts of a SteelMonster.