Awe inspiring

Rating: 10/10 (22 September 2003)

I just bought the DVD of this movie - I will also buy the extended version, but I couldn't wait. I have just watched the first hald so far, but I have to say that seeing it again in the kind of detail a DVD allows just confirmed for me what an incredible, awe-inspiring achievement this trilogy is.
There is not a scene that passes during which I do not marvel at the vision and the detail that went into the scripting, sets and props in this film. The world of the Riders of Rohan is particularly impressive with the horse-head details on Eomer's helmet and the hilt of Theoden's sword. The fantastic detail of Gimli's metalwork and the faded glory of Aragorn's clothes. The grass growing on the thatch of the halls of Rohan's capital. To see the hall of the Riddermark built in that fantastic location takes my breath away. Even the minor parts like the costumes of the Southron warriors who almost catch Frodo and Sam outside the devilish Black Gate of Mordor are beautifully designed and fit in with the incredible cultural world that Jackson's designers have created. Just look at the weave of the elvish cloaks. Will we ever see another film so beautifully concieved and so adeptly executed?
I just wish the votes went up to 11.