Don't Hit Me, Please!

Rating: Null/10 (23 December 2003)

Okay, here's the deal. I know all you rabid fans out there hate anyone who dare criticizes these movies, but, honestly, didn't anybody else find the third installment a bit slow? I mean, I actually looked at my watch a few times, which I didn't do during the first two episodes.
While the first two movies (but especially the second one) were truly awe-inspiring, I found myself getting real frustrated with the last one. For example, I counted at least three endings before we finally reached the real one. The battle scenes were good but seemed a little too clunky to me. I thought some panoramic views were needed. Now, the battle at Helm's Deep was absolutely incredible, but this one was, frankly, kind of boring. I missed an identifiable "bad guy", like Christopher Lee. I know about that silly firey eyeball-thing, but it was just too much, and it's destruction was a bit of a let down. And for goodness sakes, Mr. Frodo needs to grow some...nerve. I got so tired of his near-faints and blank stares and sudden recoveries! Sometimes these little Hobbits can climb like the dickens, and other times it seems as though they can barely move. I hate to say this, but I was secretly hoping Frodo was going to jump off the ledge into the lava with ring! At least his (and my) agony would have been mercifully over!
But, I have to say, with the exception of Master and Commander, this movie will be the best of the year. Perhaps one too many trips to the well, though.
Great spider, I have to say.