The Two Towers: A Good Film, just not Tolkien

Rating: Null/10 (30 December 2002)

As I sat in the theatre, watching the Two Towers, I was remarkably disappointed. Characters I've cherished all through my life were sacrificed at the altar of special effects and added story. Frodo, a noble and wise character, is painted as a hapless hobbit on a doomed journey. Elijah Wood fails in his portrayal by relying almost soley on his always wet eyes. But what really bothers me is the lack of dialog that was provided by Tolkien.
In the book, Faramir is a stark contrast to brother Boromir. Faramir harkens back to the kings of old with a noble streak nearly as immense as that of Aragorn. He states that even if he found Isildur's Bane on the side of the road, he would not take it....and then discovers that he must live up to those words. In the book, Faramir releases Frodo to continue his journey, though it pains him to do so. Not because he wants the Ring, but because the journey is perilous and he would spare his friend the sorrow. But in the movie, Faramir is painted as a lesser version of Boromir, a man who takes Frodo and Sam by force away from their path and only later realizes that they must be released.
Add to that, Jackson has decided that a love triangle must exist. Arwen's role in Two Towers is increased and Eowyn, a noble warrior in her own right, is turned into a woman who pines after Aragorn.
There is so much in the books that clearly cannot be translated to the screen as there is simply not enough time. I am forced to wonder why so many elements were added. Was the original source not interesting enough?

As I sat in the movie theatre, watching the story I've read countless times since I was 11, I remember being shocked and appalled that I had no idea what was going to happen next. The movie had strayed so far from the book as to have created an entirely new tale. Gimli became Comic Relief, and the growing friendship between the Elf and the Dwarf was barely demonstrated. Jackson completely reversed the outcome of Entmoot.
Things I liked: Gollum. Andy did an absolutely amazing job with that character. The cleansing of Isengard was also quite spectacular.
It's a good film. The effects are amazing and New Zealand is beautiful. The artistry and direction was good.
But this isn't the Two Towers that I've read before. Simply put, it is not Tolkien's story.