An Epic Masterpiece Continues

Rating: Null/10 (19 December 2002)

....and our story continues. Part two of Jackson's incredible 9 hour epic gives us more of the genius he displayed in part one.

The most compelling member of the cast is certainly Gollum, as played by Andy Serkis and rendered into reality using amazing computer graphics. Gollum's mutiple personality disorder makes him a much more pitiful creature than he ever seemed in Tolkien's books. This is an incredible achievement on the part of both Jackson and Serkis. I never felt sorry for the creature in the book, but everyone I talked to who saw the movie felt sorry for him. You can see how devastated he is by his evil side, but his addiction to the Ring is so difficult to fight.
The terrific battle scene at Helm's Deep and the sacking of Isengard by the Ents left me in awe. Great eye candy. However, there was an emotional tinge to the entire ordeal, as portrayed by the women and small children huddling in fear in the Keep at Helm's Deep as the orcs battle their way into the stronghold.
Overall, both thrilling and emotionally involving from beginning to end. Highly recommended.