I'll probably see this 10 times in the theaters

Rating: Null/10 (19 December 2002)

Personally, I loved this movie. It's better than 'Fellowship', in my opinion. Also, note that I say "movie", not "book." There's no way that any movie based on a book can be an exact facsimile of said book. It just doesn't happen. Book and film are two entirely different mediums; they can't be done in the same way. I personally welcome the changes; I'm always intrigued by new perspectives. And this is Peter Jackson's take on the tale, not Tolkien's. He knew this was not going to be an easy task to take on, and I think he's doing an amazing job.
There were many things I loved about this movie. First, the landscapes are incredible, they are more vivid in this film than they ever were in my mind. I probably missed a few things in the film because I was too busy being in awe of the scenery. It simply enhances the film.
But more than anything, I enjoyed the characters. Gollum is a great character, he is torn between his lust for the ring and a desire to do good. Who cares how realistic the CGI looks? I sure as hell don't. I don't understand why this is such a big deal. It's the characters that are what's important, not the graphics. Two of my favorite characters have always been Sam and Aragorn. Sam is ever loyal to Frodo, keeping the faith even when Frodo falters. I loved seeing more of him in this movie. And Aragorn, well, he is the epitome if heroism. There were points in the film were I physically applauded his ability to will others on when they had run out of hope. All of the other characters are fantastic as well. Yes, I thought sometimes Gimli functioned solely for comic relief, but the audience laughed, as if thankful for a moment of levity in such a dark movie. And, of course, Legolas is such a complete badass that he steals nearly every fighting sequence he's in.
Finally, the battle of Helm's Deep was incredible. The whole movie seemed to function as a setup for the battle, and I was not disappointed. I won't say anything more, it has to be seen to be appreciated, but a movie has never before made me feel the way I did in those tense moments before all hell broke loose. It's as if I was unable to catch my breath, which I was not able to do until the battle was over. This movie was phenomenal, an absolutely engaging tale of hope, sacrifice, and trust in those closest to you; three things there simply aren't enough of these days. All this movie has done is drive me to read the book once more. 10/10.