Not perfect, but as close as it gets!

Rating: 10/10 (24 January 2003)

After seeing this film for the 3rd time, I feel I can now write a clear evaluation of it. I would also like to add that I have read TLOTR about 10 times, starting age 6, so I have a good knowledge of the original story.
I'm fully aware of the need to adapt a story to make it work on the screen, and I was always willing to accept these changes, despite my love of the original story. Like someone said, if I want the original story, I'll read the books again.
However, I become somewhat annoyed when I feel the plot has been changed for no great reason, and and this happened several times in this film. Most notable was the adaptation of Faramir and his decision to take Frodo to Osgiliath. Faramir is meant to display his quality and strength by letting Frodo go, something Boromir could not do. Instead, he shows himself to be as weak as every other man, rather than proving himself.
Another instance is the behavior of the Ents. A sudden desicion to wage war on Orthanc is really out of character of such a race, and that really jarred for me.
Helms Deep was good, but I felt it was overextended at the cost of other elements of the film (i.e. the relationship between Frodo and Sam) I appreciate, however, that this was a change needed to satisfy the mindless punter, and suffer it as such.
The film is still 100/100 for me, but a few little changes and it could have been so much better. I await the Extended Edition with anticipation.