A superb cinematic treat

Rating: 10/10 (18 December 2003)

The Return of the King is an utterly superb film.
As a reader of books, I love the way the film displays a visual interpretation of such an evocative novel. As a watcher of films, I adore the cinematic spectacle and the luxurious use of stunning images.

The film is a cycle of emotion. It is distinct from the other two films in the trilogy in that its pathos is genuinely moving and as a consequence its humour is relieving and funny. Between these two peaks of emotion there lies fear, ever-present in the desperate and threatening context of the events of the film.
The acting was generally superb and the script likewise. Though flaws and complaints are to be found, they are trivial in the face of such a wonderful piece of cinema. The utter devotion and bravado of all the film-makers who were involved is clear, and it translates into the best film of 2003.