Smooth as Butter

Rating: 10/10 (27 December 2002)

As a preface, I waited for a second viewing before making a vote or comment. That being said, I gave the movie a perfect 10 and can only make positive comments about the movie.
First, it is impossible to say that this movie was either better or worse than LOTR/Fellowship of the Rings, because both movies served different purposes. The first movie devoted much of it's time setting up the story, establishing characters, and familiarizing the viewer with the world of Middle Earth. The second movie was able to move the entire story along. The much more "action" nature of the second movie was probably a result of this. In addition, the Two Towers book also has much more action than the first. Therefore, those differences in the movies can be explained.
Second, just like everyone else on the planet, I would concur that the special effects were amazing (although most of my amazement was with the Gollum and character - versus the Helm's Deep battle). The Battle of Pellanor Fields will be incredible!
Third, the acting was the part of the movie that really kept me in the story. Lots of movies have big action and cannot keep your attention. The performances by Viggio Mortenson, Bernard Hill, Brad Dourif, and Elijah Wood were very solid.
Anyway, many people much more eloquent than me have waxed on about this movie. This was a very good time. If the purpose of the middle act of trilogy is to set up the grand finale, this movie was a complete success. However, it was also an entertaining evening in and of itself.