Filmmaking and Storytelling at its Finest

Rating: Null/10 (18 December 2003)

All great classic films have something in common, no matter how many times you see them. They are beautifully moving. They are empathetic and tender, and terrifically entertaining--exuding a delightful energy that seems to spread throughout your entire body when watching them. You are inevitably charmed by a great film's complexities, enamored of its giddy humor, and never fail to cry nearly every time you watch it--hoping in some remote fashion that the ending, perhaps this time, will shift just a bit. These are the hallmarks of a great cinematic experience, and they are completely embodied in a remarkable piece of filmmaking...Lord of the Rings: Return of the King.
Many people have spoken of the grandeur of "King," of its sprawling scope and intoxicating scenic beauty. The "Lord of the Rings" trilogy is one of those experiences that, passing a room where it is playing, a person is made to pause and take note--much in the same way as one would pause in front of a beautiful painting in a museum. The close-ups, the wide-angle frames and large sweeping vistas leave you breathless before hearing the first word of dialogue. You do not have to like Tolkien to acknowledge the sheer splendor and aesthetic value of these films.
It is the human element, however, that drives "Kings" to its paramount perfection. Elijah Wood (who is strangely rarely spoken of as the keystone of these films, as he most certainly is) is the perfect Frodo: Cherubic and strong, and consummately overwhelmed by the task given him. His haunting blue eyes reflect the careful naiveté of the Hobbit clan--within his steal-blue gaze you can almost see his old life in the Shire, the sunny dales and sprawling green pastures. Reflected also is the stricken reality of his present situation...the horror of foresight, knowing he may never return from his quest. As for his role in "Return of the Kings," Elijah Wood's performance cuts like a sharpened blade, stealthy and determined and wholly unaware of its own strength. Watching this movie you can hardly wait for his next appearance, even with the knowledge that with every scene we become closer and closer to the certainty of his suffering.
The Hobbits as a whole have an innocent, androgynous beauty...they are entirely believable as these brave little beings of substance, joy, and love for the simplicity of life. Samwise, as Frodo's loyal companion, steals nearly every scene...his sincerity and strength is the backbone of their relationship, and perhaps, of the film entirely. He is solid and unwavering in his devotion, and more than following Frodo, he more often than not tends to lead him on their quest. Without Sam's unwavering sensibility and purity of spirit, the fate of Middle Earth would have never been turned. Sean Astin does a wonderful job here, his Sam is well-timed, sensitive and moving. If it were left up to me, a Supporting Actor Oscar nomination would be in order here.
Billy Boyd and Dominic Monaghan are not to be overlooked. Their exuberant performances are wrought with clarity and nuance. These characters of Merry and Pippin play off each other's strengths and weaknesses, each a perfect compliment to the other. What makes all of these performances work, however, is that the actors themselves are as close as they are. Making the Trilogy was such an intimate experience, the true relationships behind the characters shine through and are undeniable compliments to the script.
Viggo Mortenson as Aragorn is simply breathtaking...It's hard to believe he was an "accidental" choice as this remarkable character. Aragorn is the consummate leader, a leader that would be, sadly, right at home in a fantasy world yet scarce in reality--someone who is not arrogant or flamboyant, someone with humility and true heart. Aragorn is strong and full of purpose...he is unafraid, and the characters in this lovely story respond to him.
The same strong performances by the other actors that typified the last two are present in this film as well, and one or two scenes I cannot choose as a favorite. The fight with Shelob is filled with such adrenaline that just when you think you can't stand another moment, the action kicks into overdrive and leaves you breathless and shaking. Billy Boyd has many fine scenes, one most notably in the throne room of Denethor as he sings a poignant Hobbit folk song interspersed with scenes of Denethor's son rushing the enemy, a most certain suicide mission. Every scene with Gandolf is a delight, the perfect balance between knowledge and equality. The sequence on Mount Doom is both breathtaking and heartbreaking...the screen belongs to Astin and Wood as we are reluctantly drawn into their terrifying resignation. "I am glad I'm with you Sam," Frodo says, "Here at the end of all things."
There is too much to love about this movie to talk about in one review. This film is poetry and music, war and redemption. It is literally a return to the time of great filmmaking...a return to the silver screen of Hollywood's heyday. It is the strongest of those classic films that purport the worthiness of the smaller person in all of us...do not discount that them. I suggest, obviously, that you see it. Then see it again and again. With each viewing you'll find something new to delight in, something else to appreciate when you least expect it. "Return of the King" examines the very best of humanity: the triumph of love and camaraderie in troubled times, and that uniting in a common goal breeds respect, as well as results. "All people for the greater good" seems to be the central theme of this dazzling tale. I encourage you to lose yourself in this wonderful film, and take a little bit of its love with you each time you watch it.