Rating: 
Summary: Didn't read the books first? You'll be awed anyways
Review: If you haven't read Tolkien and are unconvinced, here's my confession. Somehow, despite lovingly reading all the Chronicles of Narnia by the age of 11 (written by close Tolkien friend and fellow 'Inkling' C.S.Lewis), repeatedly patronizing an Ann Arbor store called "Middle Earth", and having "Misty Mountain Hop" as partial soundtrack to my life, I had never read Tolkien. My first experience was with the dreadful and convoluted 1970s animated film "LOTR", and it turned me off the books.I've since learned that Tolkien actually hoped that children would wait before reading "Lord of the Rings", having written "The Hobbit" for kids, but believing that adults would better savor his epic. We now live in a different "visual" time, saturated with "Maxim" magazine, video games, and shallow reality TV like "Newlyweds" and "Average Joe," showing that poor judgment is alive and well in America. If Tolkien were alive today, seeing how much more sophisticated the average child is, and the spiritual emptiness of so much entertainment ... perhaps he want them to have the benefit of his books, and his ideas, at an earlier age. In essence, when you consider how the film industry has splintered, seemingly into "art-house Oscar fare" (released in November) and "lowest common denominator" pictures, Peter Jackson, Fran Walsh, Phillipa Bowens and their many collaborators should be commended for making not one but three films that are about "Something" - a stunning undertaking filled with ideas and ideals, visually gorgeous with great performances. After seeing "Two Towers," I began to read Tolkien. While his epic's essence and very language can't be fully translated to the silver screen, these films come close. If "Babylon 5", heavily influenced by LOTR, forever challenged the conventions and reset the bar for science fiction television, these films have challenged not just fantasy films, but modern cinema itself...its recent lack of originality, spirit and vibrancy. You can bet Jackson has lit a fire in scores of would-be filmmakers. While "Fellowship of the Ring" sets up the quest, and "The Two Towers" deepens the journey into an ever-widening war, "Return of the King" is about friendship, love, loyalty and compassion.
Much, much more historical and "weighty" than "Star Wars," and much more optimistic and uplifting than your typical historical film or Arthurian legend ("Excalibur", "Braveheart"), there is something for everyone here. Some people will be deeply touched by Frodo's journey in this last film, and how it transforms his sense of self and outlook, aging him subtly but permanently. And critics and media stories have focused on Gollum, and Andy Sedaris' performance. As I watched it, though, it was Sean Astin's "Sam" that was my anchor in Middle Earth. Astin supposedly gained weight, after he was told by an agent he would lose the part otherwise - and there have been comparisons to Dr. Watson and other "sidekicks", as if he is another burden to Frodo, on top of the ring. On the "Two Towers" CD, Phillipa Boyens talks about the relationship between British officers and their 'valets' and how that might have influenced Tolkien - then reiterated that Sam is Frodo's equal, or at least Frodo sees him as so. In fact, while the "heroes" - and cinematic sex symbols - Frodo, Aragon, Legolas, Boromir and Faromir - are to some or full degree *chosen* or inheritors of this quest - Sam solely participates out of friendship and protectiveness for Frodo. There's something beautiful in that, so rarely seen in the movies, which completely dwarfs Sam's "dumpiness" factor. (A movie about friendship, particularly between men, is often categorized as "homoerotic" - even Rick's comment to Renault in "Casablanca" comes in for this goofiness - unfair to friendship, unfair to gays, who deserve more than tepid representation in the movies). Meanwhile, Orlando Bloom is a beautiful young man, but Legolas seems to be a character to whom heroism and grace comes easily, making him much less interesting as a *film* character. This quest is not so easy for the humans, much less the hobbits. Sam's platonic dedication to Frodo is echoed in Eowyn's love for her father, her wish to save him emanating from a pure place in her heart, which we know is not automatically rewarded in reality, even in Middle Earth. Pippen's character blossoms, given the chance for redemption and bravery. Watching the battle scenes from further away, when we see the Hobbits' and Eowyn's diminutive statures, I kept thinking what a thrill this must be for pre-teens watching - seeing that someone small, young or lacking in experience can still make a difference, still do something great. (That's half the appeal of Harry Potter in a nutshell - although some critics claim Rowling's another Inkling in waiting, too!) It is the theme of sacrifice, for a loved one or for love and life itself, that elevates this movie. It's a feel-good movie that makes you think and brings tears to your eyes, without a single false note. Having it released during the holiday season, a time to reflect on spirituality and loved ones, makes it an even greater gift from the filmmakers. Cheers!
Rating:
Summary: "I'm glad you're with me. Here, at the end of all things."
Review: It's finally here, after so much waiting - the conclusion to the screen adaptation of J. R. R. Tolkien's "Lord of the Rings", and boy was it worth the wait. In the final installment, "The Return of the King," the buildup and suspence of the two previous movies finally reaches its climax, and explodes across the screen. At three hours and twenty minutes that race by like a marathon, that once more create a delicate balancing act between the epic and the intimate, director Peter Jackson and his cast and crew save the best for last as the characters we all know and love go up against the final great hurdle in their attempt to save Middle-Earth. With the wizard Saruman and his army of Uruk-Hai defeated, the divided Fellowship members and their allies now turn their attention once more toward their greatest threat: Sauron the Dark Lord and his seemingly endless armies swarming westward toward the White City of Men: Minas Tirith. This is the city that Gandalf and Pippen travel to in order to bring tidings of hope to its gradually fading Stewart, the Lord Denethor and his last surviving son Faramir, who goes so far as to lead a suicide mission to the outlying city of Osgiliath in a heart-breaking attempt to win his father's approval. Meanwhile Aragorn prepares for his own challenge: to brave the Paths of the Dead armed with the reforged shards of Narsil and force the ghostly army that lies beneath the Dwimmerberg Mountain to come to Gondor's aid, along with the elf Legolas and the dwarf Gimli. Yet on his mind always is the elf Arwen, who must finally her decision concerning her immortality, and whether to defy her father Lord Elrond in loosing it so that she may stay with Aragorn. It is left to King Theoden and his nephew Eomer to muster Rohan to ride to Gondor, though both are just a tad too preoccupied to keep an eye on Lady Eowyn and Merry, who are none to pleased at the news they are to be left behind... And against this collosal backdrop of armies and battles is the lonely figures of Frodo, Samwise and Gollum, continuing their quest to trek into the very heart of Mordor, and destroy the Dark Lord's ruling Ring in the fire of the volcanic Mount Doom. Their journey is made all the more difficult by the treacherous Gollum, in his lust for the Ring and his hatred of Sam, who begins to convince Frodo that "the fat hobbit" may not be as faithful as he appears. And all the while, he leads them closer and closer to "her" - the terror of Cirith Ungol, the evil Shelob. Watching "Return of the King" is undoubtably an incredibly exhausting experience - wave after wave of diasters and triumphs pour over the audience, whether it be an army of orcs over-running Minas Tirith, the arrival of the Rohans on the Pelennor Fields, the terrifying flight of the Nazgul on their winged steeds, or the final devastating climax of Frodo within the blasting heat of Mount Doom. The pace never stops for a second, and it takes a very strong personality not to get even a little teary during some of emotional scenes.<...like the "Fellowship" and "Two Towers", there will be an extended edition of the DVD that includes the whopping hour and five minutes of footage that was cut from the theatrical release. Yet ultimately, the movie pays homage to what was closet to Tolkien's heart, the achievements and heroic nature of four small hobbits (one loyal gardener in particular finally gets to shine) and the universal themes of sacrifice, betrayal, loyalty and unconditional love. Whether one is satisfied or not, "The Return of the King" is without a doubt the must-see movie of the year, that is sure to be recognised throughout time as a milestone in cinematic history for its beauty, scale, intensity, and the achievement of the impossible: a successful adaptation of the most beloved book of the century.
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Summary: The Epic Ends... And A Masterpiece Is Complete
Review: Wow. I wish that I could find a better word to start off this review, but after searching my brain, I am unfortunately left with only "wow". I'm not saying that this movie isn't worthy of wow, rather, it deserves so much more. Peter Jackson's genius is finally, after two years of production, and three years wait for viewers, brought full circle (get it?). This final chapter tells the story of the last fight for Middle-Earth; the people of Gondor and Rohan must unite in order to save their lands from evil, and leading them is Gandalf the wizard, Legolas the elf, Gimli the dwarf, Théoden the king of Rohan, and Aragorn, the man who is the heir of the king of Gondor. However, Lord Sauron of Mordor has assembled an army so great that not even all the soldiers in the world could hope to achieve victory. And there is another problem. Ever since Isildur (Aragorn's ancestor) was killed some millenia ago, the land of Gondor has been in the hands of the stewards, who are the caretakers of the throne. The current steward Denethor, who is the father of Boromir and Faramir, has gone mad, and has lost all ability to defend his nation. While all of this is going on, Frodo, Sam, and Gollum, who is now plotting against the other two, are moving ever closer to Mt. Doom. Now they have no choice but to carry on, for if they die, the ring will be right within Sauron's grasp. If the ring is returned to him, it will be the end of Middle-Earth.
There are very few words that can do a movie like this justice. It's scope is grand, it's story is timeless, and it's cast and crew couldn't have been better. The special effects are also amazing; Gollum looks even better than he did in The Two Towers, which is saying a lot. Speaking of Gollum, I was a little worried that they weren't going to elaborate on how he became the thing he is today, but fortunately, the opening sequence tells his story.
I guess the only thing that I am a little upset about is that we don't get any closure on Saruman. We don't see what happened to him, so we have to assume that he has died. Oh well, this was a 3 1/2 hour movie; I guess that he will be in the extended edition.
This final chapter is definitely the best of the three, but you must realize that these films are not supposed to be individual, rather they are one movie broken into three parts. With that mindset I must say that, without a doubt, The Lord of the Rings is one of the best movies ever made, or that ever will be made.
Rating:
Summary: BEST MOVIE EVER
Review: first i'd like to say that A customer from NYC, NY is an idiot. the Urak-Hai were raised by Sauromon, the ugly Ork was the general of the army, obviously, and the army of the dead were men killed during the last Great War and weren't allowed peace until their oathes were fulfilled. all of this was explained during the movies and if you didn't get it, you weren't paying attention. as for the movie, it was the best movie i've even seen, and i usually see evey movie while its in the theaters. the landscapes were absolutely amazing, especially Minas Tirith. i've never seen such amazing landscapes in all of my life in any movie ever made. the battle seens were also stunning. there was a part where Riders of Rohan flank the army of Mordor, and i coulnd't lift my jaw off the floor during the whole battle. there are also some parts with Gollum that are funny. btw, they explain in the beginning how Gollum got the ring in the first place, before Bilbo Baggins. i highly recommned this movie to anybody. this is the best of the trilogy and this is the only movie i'd ever give 5 stars too. thanks for your time.
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Summary: Hail to the King Baby.
Review: The splendor of our time has arrived. Not since the reign of the Star Wars original Trilogy has there been such a passionate embrace of a trilogy of movies such as what we have seen over the last 3 years when it comes to Lord Of The Rings. In some ways this passion has really just begun. However the story of our heroes Frodo, Sam, Arragon and the others does indeed come to a close with "Return Of The King". The legacy of these movies will however forever have an impact on our culture as one of the greatest movie achievements of our time. It is for the 21st Century what Star Wars was for the 20th Century. You know the story. There is ring of power created by the evil Sauron to control Middle Earth. Sauron defeated as we saw in the first movie "Fellowship of The Ring". The ring is found again and there is a quest to destroy this ring or the world of Middle Earth will seek to exist. Hence our heroes of hope and picking up where we left off with them Frodo, Sam and thier guide Gollum (Smeagol) continue on their dangerous journey to the cracks of Mt Doom to destroy the ring. Will they make it? Will Arragon accept his path and become the King that he was destined to be and lead his people against the forces of Sauron that threaten all of Middle Earth? Well you have to see "Return of The King" yourself to find that one out. This is not so much a review as much as it is praise to Peter Jackson for bringing this marvel of an epic story by J.R.R. Tolkien of good vs. evil to the screen. In these times we live in this is a refreshing reminder that no matter how bad things can get one must always have hope that in the hearts of men there lays truth and within that truth lays good. The epic saga of The Lord of The Rings really does capture this theme very well and in the final chapter there is no question that your emotions are going to be aroused unlike they have with any other movie. Expect the unexpected. Remember it is ok to cry, to laugh to cheer. These are all qualities that each of us shares. This is what this was meant for. It will have you talking. It will inspire you. It will take you to a place unlike any other, and most important it has brought people together to appreciate the concept and message behind the story. Praise to Peter Jackson the wonderful cast and crew for bringing this treasure to life for all of us to marvel in and to take something with us that very few movies tend to provide in today's lackluster Hollywood vibe
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Summary: Lord of the Rings: A Return to the Screen
Review: All great films have something in common, characteristics that are evident with each viewing. They are beautifully moving. They are empathetic and tender, and terrifically entertaining--exuding a delightful energy that seems to spread throughout your entire body when watching them. You are inevitably charmed by a great film's complexities, enamored of its giddy humor, and never fail to cry nearly every time you watch it--hoping in some remote fashion that the ending, perhaps this time, will shift just a bit. These are the hallmarks of a great cinematic experience, and they are completely embodied in a remarkable piece of filmmaking..."Lord of the Rings: Return of the King."
People have spoken of the grandeur of "King," of its sprawling scope and intoxicating scenic beauty. The "Lord of the Rings" trilogy is one of those experiences that, when passing a room where it is playing, a person is made to pause and take note--much in the same way as one would pause in front of a beautiful painting in a museum. The intimate close-ups and large sweeping vistas leave you breathless before hearing the first word of dialogue. You do not have to like Tolkien to acknowledge the sheer splendor and aesthetic value of these films.
It is the human element, however, that drives "King" to its paramount perfection. Elijah Wood (who is strangely rarely spoken of as the keystone of these films) is the perfect Frodo: Cherubic and strong, and consummately overwhelmed by the task given him. His haunting blue eyes reflect the innocent naiveté of the Hobbit clan--within his steal-blue gaze you can almost see his old life in the Shire, the sunny dales and sprawling green pastures, a bittersweet recollection of a former life. Reflected also is the stricken reality of his present situation...the horror of foresight, knowing he may never return from his quest. As for his role in "Return of the Kings," Elijah Wood's performance cuts like a sharpened blade, stealthy and determined and wholly unaware of its own strength. Important also is the fact that young Frodo is essential growing into an adult, under the harshest and most unforgiving of circumstances. Wood conveys this beautiful, often with no more than a stricken, soulful glance in Sam's direction. His most riveting moments, however, are often by himself, silently tortured by the burden of bearing the One Ring. Watching this movie you can hardly wait for his next appearance, even with the knowledge that with every scene we become closer and closer to the certainty of his suffering.
The Hobbits as a whole have an innocent, androgynous beauty...they are entirely believable as these brave little beings of substance, joy, and love for the simplicity of life. Samwise, as Frodo's loyal companion, steals nearly every scene--his sincerity and strength is the backbone of their relationship, and perhaps, of the film entirely. He is heroic in every pure since of the word, his obligations demand nothing less. Sam is solid and unwavering in his devotion, and he more often than not tends to lead Frodo instead of following him. Without Sam's unwavering sensibility and purity of spirit, the fate of Middle Earth would have never turned favor. Sean Astin does a wonderful job here, his Sam is well-timed, sensitive and moving. If it were left up to me, a Supporting Actor Oscar would be in order here. His Sam fills the screen with an assuredness that is rarely scene on film.
Billy Boyd and Dominic Monaghan are not to be overlooked. Their exuberant performances are filled with clarity and nuance. The characters of Merry and Pippin play off each other's strengths and weaknesses, each a perfect compliment to the other. What makes all of these performances work, however, is that the actors themselves are as close as they are. Making the Trilogy was such an intimate experience for the cast-the true friendships behind the characters shine through and are undeniable compliments to the script.
Viggo Mortenson as Aragorn is simply breathtaking; it's hard to believe he was an "accidental" choice as this remarkable character. Aragorn is the consummate leader, someone who is not arrogant or flamboyant, someone with humility and true heart. Aragorn is strong and full of purpose, loyal and fearless.
The same strong performances by the other actors that typified the last two installments are present in this film as well. There is no one scene I can choose as a favorite. The fight with Shelob is so stoked in adrenaline it leaves you breathless and shaking. Billy Boyd has many fine scenes, one most notably in the presence of Denethor as he sings a poignant Hobbit folk song interspersed with scenes of Boromir rushing the enemy, a most certain suicide mission. Every scene with Gandolf is a delight; Ian McKellen exudes a perfect balance between wisdom and companionship. The sequence on Mount Doom is both breathtaking and heartbreaking...the screen belongs to Astin and Wood as we are reluctantly drawn into their realms: "I am glad I'm with you Sam," Frodo says, "Here at the end of all things."
There is too much to love about this movie to talk about in one review. This film is poetry and music, war and redemption. It is literally a return to the time of great filmmaking...a return to the silver screen of Hollywood's heyday. It is the strongest of those classic films that purport the worthiness of the smaller person in all of us. I suggest, obviously, that you see it. Then see it again and again. With each viewing you'll find something new to delight in, something else to appreciate when you least expect it. "Return of the King" represents humanity at its best: the triumph of love and camaraderie in troubled times. "All people for the greater good" seems to be the central theme of this dazzling tale. Lose yourself in this wonderful film, and take a little bit of its love with you each time you watch it.
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Summary: Long-Awaited "Return" is King
Review: Seeing as the first two parts of the "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy were some of the most critically acclaimed, visually spectacular, and highest-grossing movie events in film history, the last and final part, "The Return of the King" certainly had high expectations to live up to. But, after a long year of waiting, the conclusion to the journey of Frodo and Sam meets and goes beyond all boundaries to create a truly remarkable cinematic experience. Directly after the lights begin to dim, we as the audience find ourselves already emmersed in the story of men, wizards, elves, and of course, hobbits. Much like "The Two Towers", the original fellowship of nine has split up, each involved in their own plotlines, and each with their own missions to fufill. Aragorn, on a tumultous road to the throne of Gondor, rides with Legolas, Gimli, and Gandalf, as they defend the last city of men, Minas Tirith. Merry and Pippin are in Rohan with the newly introduced characters Theodin and Eowyn, while, in the most important plotline, Frodo, Sam, and Golem continue their treacherous journey to Mordor to destroy the One Ring. While there are many to follow, each plot brings a new kind of excitement and suspense to the big picture, keeping the audience completely enthralled on the edge of their seats. Aside from the plots, the acting and special effects are what makes this an amazing movie. As far as acting is concerned, "Return of the King" is the most emotionally charged part of the Lord of the Rings saga; all of the performances are solid, with each actor completely absorbing their character and the events taking place around them. One of the best, in my opinion, is the raw, complex and heroic portrayal of bumbling hobbit Samwise Gamgee (played by Sean Astin), but Elijah Wood (as the ring bearer Frodo Baggins), Ian McKellan (as Gandalf), Billy Boyd and Dominic Monaghan (Pippin and Merry, respectively), and Viggo Mortensen (as Aragorn) all provide a strong and talented ensemble. Another high point is the performance by Andy Serkis, as the hobbit Smeagol and later as the cave dwelling creature Gollum (personally, my favorite), as he delivers an almost flawless portrayal of a pathetic, and dark character, easily corrupted by the power of The Ring. As I said before, this film deserves much praise for their special effects, which to say the least, are breathtaking. From their huge battles, to the insides of Mordor and Rivendell, to the overall beauty of Middle Earth itself, "Return of the King" is a feast for the eyes, and it breaks all boundaries of modern fantasy filmmaking. Director Peter Jackson should recieve an Oscar, or at least a nomination for his brilliance in creative views, layouts, and his skill in creating these movies. Overall, "Return of the King" is one of, if not the best film of 2003, and with its talented cast and visually stunning sets and CGI effects, it will satisfy any "Lord of the Rings" fanatic, or anyone wanting to spend three hours completely absorbed in a compelling and breathtaking story.
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Summary: The King of All Movies
Review: The Best Film Ever Made. You must see it in the theatre! I'll write more later, but this is all you need to know.
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Summary: Everything we ever hoped for, well worth the wait.
Review: It took me two days to get tickets, but I watched the long versions of "The Fellowship of the Ring" and "The Two Towers" before I went to the theater. The film is everything we could have hoped for, an epic triology that stands among movies the way the novels stand among books. Christmas is anti-climatic this year...
Rating:
Summary: Amazing. Stunning. Jaw-dropping!
Review: Peter Jackson saved the best for last. Return of the King is a masterpiece of filmwork. Tolkien created this amazing work of art decades ago, and Jackson had made it his own. Three and a half hours never went by so quickly before. What you get is the perfect combination of storytelling and special effects with acting so spot-on that you will be compelled to both laugh and cry. Sam and Frodo continue their quest to reach Mt. Doom to destroy the One Ring. The weight of that burden grows heavier with each step close to Mordo. They are guided by the creature Gollum, who has plans of his own for the ring. Elijah Wood, Sean Astin, and Andy Serkis are all particularly amazing in their roles, but it's Astin who really shines. His performance is worthy of and Oscar nomination. Meanwhile, Aragorn still struggles with his own would-be destiny as the heir to the throne of Gondor. The action that takes place in Minas Tirth and Pelennor fields is mind-boggling. If you thought Helm's Deep was good, you haven't seen anything yet. We catch a glimpse of Smeagol as he once was. We see exactly what the ring did to him, and from this we feel a sad sympathy for him as we experience his torment. Much has been said about both the length of the movie and the omission of Saruman. I'll address them both. At 3 1/2 hours, it is epic, but truly this movie could have easily been four hours. The story is so large in scope that it would be a crime to try to cram all of the information needed to complete the tale in less time. Everything is finalized as it should be, and the end is more than satisfying. Saruman's omission seems jarring in theory, but Jackson's point is well taken. The story has to move on, and wrapping up Saruman's tale would have slowed the movie too much. He will reappear in the extended edition DVD, and then we can judge whether that part of the film should have been kept intact. A word about the missing "Scouring of the Shire." I actually enjoyed this part of the book very much, but for this movie it would have been very anti-climactic. I didn't miss it, but Tolkien purists will debate this one for years. Odds and ends
Shelob is incredibly realistic and frightening. The scenes with her are very tense and well crafted. Jackson did well to place her into the third film rather than the end of Two Towers. The Witchking of Angmar and the Fell Beast are incredible in their wickedness. The Paths of the Dead was placed into the film rather well, given that it really isn't written about at great length in the book. Return of the King is given even more power by the resurgent role of Gandalf played by Ian McKellan. He was underused in Two Towers and his beefier role here is for the better. This trilogy is one for the ages. Given the legendary status that the books already carried, Peter Jackson had a lot to prove to the purists while making the movies enjoyable for the casual fan. He succeeds in both arenas. He has become one of the foremost directors of our time, and I think his Oscar is due this time around.
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