Rating: 
Summary: brilliant film of the literary classic with great dvd extras
Review: I've been a Tolkien devotee for nearly 25 years and have needlessly raised my hopes over several attempts at bringing his masterwork to the screen, but Peter Jackson has done justice to what many agree may be the best literary work of the 20th century. This initial dvd offering features two discs -- one for the film itself (as released in theaters) and another for special features. ( A four-dvd edition will be released in November 2002.)The film is a remarkable and faithful adaptation of the first volume of Tolkien's trilogy. Jackson masterfully carries this literary masterpiece into the 21st century with breathtaking sets, gorgeous costumes, sumptuous music, gloriously eye-popping special effects, and a touching attention to detail that evokes history-laden cultures. One does miss Tom Bombadil, and wonder why screenwriters decided to make Frodo ignorant of Bilbo's imminent departure from the Shire for example, but mostly one can understand the cinematic justification for changes that were made and just bathe in this beautiful film -- whether or not you are a devotee of JRR. If you are hesitant to see this film for fear of being disappointed -- race out and get it now. You will NOT be disappointed. From the introductory voiceover to a beautifully realized Hobbiton, the opening is mesmerizing and the film just keeps getting better, in some ways revealing Tolkien's rich and complex world even more clearly than the books. The characters are well-realized and the cast is exquisite. You can tell that the people who worked on this adaptation cared about the books even more than they cared about the bottom dollar, and I hope the awards start rolling in for Jackson, his right-hand man Richard Taylor and their talented cast and crew. The special features include: three documentary features -- "Welcome to Middle Earth" (a publisher's in-store feature, 17 minutes), "Quest for the Ring" (originally aired on Fox TV, 22 minutes), and "A Passage to Middle Earth" (originally seen on the Sci Fi Channel, 40 minutes); fifteen featurettes about the cultures and locations depicted in the film; two teasers, a trailer and six tv spots; a preview of the extended dvd edition due out November 12, 2002; a preview of Entertainment Arts' video game, "The Two Towers"; an 11-minute behind-the-scenes preview of the film, "The Two Towers"; and an Enya video. There is also a coupon and rebate booklet for such varied items as sword replicas, jewelry, posters, etc. "Welcome to Middle Earth" features a charming introduction to Robert Unwyn who, as a boy, originally reviewed The Hobbit for his publisher father and, fortunately for us all, gave the manuscript a thumbs-up with the comment "should appeal to all children between the ages of 5 and 9". Years later, as a publisher himself, he received the manuscript for The Lord of the Rings (originally presented as a single volume) and wrote to his father for advice, telling him that he thought the book was wonderful but would probably lose a thousand pounds; his father replied "IF you believe this to be a work of genius, THEN you may lose the thousand pounds" -- and off they went! This 17-minute feature also shows Tolkien's Oxford hall and home, describes two Houghton-Mifflin companion volumes and is really a wonderful treat for fans. The three features include interviews with Peter Jackson, WETA Workshop's Richard Taylor, artists Alan Lee and John Howe, and actors Elijah Wood, Ian McKellen, Billy Boyd, Cate Blanchett, Viggo Mortensen, Orlando Bloom, Liv Tyler and Sean Astin. The preview promises that "The Two Towers" will be amazing and one gets the impression that this team, as the fellowship members go their separate ways and new characters are introduced (including Gollum!), truly understand the story they are bringing to life, and will dazzle us all again soon. There is something to be said for waiting until November and getting the four-dvd special edition, which will include 30 extra minutes of film (particularly in Hobbiton and concerning Gimli's enchantment with Galadriel). But for those of you who cannot wait -- this two-dvd set is highly recommended.
Rating:
Summary: Peter Jackson's superlative original theatrical release.
Review: Before I begin, most people aren't considering buying this DVD. They think it's release is only a gimmick to make more cash before releasing the 4-disc Special Edition (complete with 30 minutes of deleted footage) set in November. Well, they're probably correct, but any serious fan wants every edition. (P.S. get the widescreen version.) This DVD is the version that Mr. Jackson and the editing team chose to release in theaters, so I believe it's essential to my collection. My review: The Fellowship of the Ring is overflowing with energy forged deep within the mind of Peter Jackson. Expertly crafted, he creates image after image of remarkable, unforgettable scenes, perfectly melding state of the art special effects with timeless literature. The entire cast is exemplary. Elijah Wood as Frodo, the courageous yet troubled hobbit, is a perfect choice, especially given the fact that he gives the best performance of his career. He matures gracefully on screen becoming hope for all who must conquer adversity or survive persecution. I'm a huge fan of film scores and this soundtrack instantly became one of my top five favorites. Howard Shore blows you completely away with an adventurous flowing rythym and enchants you with melodeous overtones. Absolutely exquisite. The last ten minutes of music, footage in the film sweep you off of your feet and place you gently within the courageous heart of Frodo Baggins. The Fellowship of the Ring is in class of it's own.
Rating:
Summary: This movie is great
Review: This version of the Lord of the Rings is unbelievable! The special effects are supurb, exactly like they are described in the book. The really boring parts of the book are omitted, leaving an action-packed movie at every scene. Thought the DVD is good, I was disapointed to learn that a few important scenes were left off of this version, but are in the extended director's cut version. If you have the extra money and patience to wait, I recommend getting that version so you can experience the full effect of the Lord of the Rings saga.
Rating:
Summary: Christopher Lee Not important enough???
Review: I thought the film very good and I enjoyed it very much. My problem is with the bonus material. All the stuff about the location is fine and a lot of attention was given to the actors -all except CHRISTOPHER LEE! I feel that he had been slighted and not given his proper share of credit for being in this film, not even a mention from the director about how fortunate he was to have this man as part of his production. Mr. Lee deserves better than this, it's like he was shoved into the background and of no real importance to this film - WRONG!!! He was not given his just due for this film.
Rating:
Summary: WOW!!!
Review: I just picked up the "Fellowship of the Ring" 2-Disc Widescreen DVD set and I can't recall a single DVD that has looked or sounded better on my home theater system. This is truly a reference DVD if I ever saw one! As far as the movie is concerned, I'll simply say that the movie is gorgeous in its cinematography. The care that was taken to create Tolkien's "Middle Earth" universe are to my eyes extremely successful. The mostly excellent performances are occassionally marred by a stupid line, or un-necessary comic relief from one of the Hobbits. But don't let that distract you. If you're looking for THE movie to show off your new home theater system, use "The Fellowship of the Ring" and tell your neighbors to take cover!
Rating:
Summary: Best Picture of 2001....period
Review: Roeper of Ebert & Roeper gave Lord of the Rings thumbs down, saying it's too long and found the plot silly. Ebert liked it but only gave it 3 because it didn't have elven songs from the book plus he claimed he was upset that the Hobbits weren't the heroes like in the books and needed people to protect them. I think he needs to read them again. Because Frodo Baggins isn't exactly Connan the Barbarian, he's a defenceless hobbit. In the books they need Aragorn, Gandalf, Gimli, Boromir and Legalos just as much as they do in the movie. The Hobbits become braver and mnore comfident in themselves as the trilogy moves on. They basically come to realize that Gandalf, Agagorn and others won't always be there for them but not right away. Although the movie is missing some characters, like Tom Bombadil for example it's still a very extremely well accurate version of the book. Peter Jackson could of totally hacked the story to pieces like Simon Wells did with the Time Machine but he stays true to the books and gives the fans what they want. All the characters such as Aragorn, Gandalf, Frodo, Sam, Legolas, Borormir, Gimli and others are extremely well played by each actor and make you believe they are really them. Sean Bean who usually plays villains gets to shine for once as a heroe as Boromir and does a really good job, probably should of been nominated alongside Ian Mckellen. I sort of just shrugged off Elijah Woods performance as Frodo the first time I saw it but now there's no doubt in my mind that he should of been nominatd. He goes from a cheerful and worryless hobbit to a troubled and frightened Hobbit remarkably well. His expressions of worry and panic are just fantasic. Viggo Mortenson shines as well as Aragorn, he has the character just right. Well anyway this is a long movie but if you could sit through Apocolyse Now Redux or The Godfather then you certainly could sit through an excellent adventure film with Hobbits, Orcs, Elves, Cave Trolls and Wizards. Some people say it just ends and says "we'll see you next Christmas" and it sort of does but at it least doesn't say "see ya in another 3 years" like StarWars does. Plus at least it delivers in entertainment before it just ends, I still can't see how anyone could not like it just because of that. It's the start of a trilogy so either way the first film is gonna end before giving you all of the story in one film. If it gave you all stories at once you'd have a 9 hour film then you'd really have a reason to complain about the length. To add to my review this extended edition is even better and if you didn't think the original version is enough like the book then this is definetely for you. Yes it's longer but it's surprisingy a lot better than the original version.
Rating: 
Summary: want options- buy all five formats
Review: I like widescreen versions. My family prefers standard.
My some people in my family prefer Spanish. Where are the subtitles? On a VHS version, constantly on the screen, and standard format at that. So far I would have to buy:
1. Standard DVD
2. Widescreen DVD
3. Standard VHS with subtitles
4. Standard VHS without subtitles
5. Widescreen VHS- just to round out the pack Who cares about a two dvd set. If you can't get what you really want! I want a two DVD set- widescreen/standard option, subtitle option I'll buy that or keep my money for something better. There are hundreds of other great choices.
Rating:
Summary: Excellent adaptation of the book
Review: This movie offers breathtaking scenery, imaginative characters and excellent acting in the the retelling of Tolkien's masterpiece. The journey to the land of Mordor is undertaken by a representative of each of the races in Middle Earth who put aside their differences so that they may pursue a common goal. The allegories are numerous and there are lessons to be learned in the imagery so richly portrayed by Tolkien. To reproduce the Lord of the Rings books on film must have been a daunting task and the results are spectacular, to say the least. Bring on Part 2!
Rating:
Summary: Takes Your Breath Away
Review: Now here is film making at it's absolute best. This film is a masterpiece to the core. I won't bother to repeat the storyline here as I'm sure most of the 1500+ reviews on here already have. But the film is amazing. The special effects, cinematography and location shoots are enough to blow your mind right there. Then add in the storyline, acting, script and the dvd presentation to boot and you've got many great saturday nights. I did not see this film in the theaters, but I will tell you that the dvd is outrageous. The menus and extras are outstanding and the film's color and picture are one of the best I've ever seen on a dvd. Let me say, that I never read any of the books, and I was still enthralled by this film. So don't think just cause you didn't read the books you wouldn't like the film. It takes your breath away. Buy it today!
Rating:
Summary: Brilliant & Breathtaking! A Masterpiece!
Review: Books into movies... An age-old controversy. Everyone has their opinion(s): "The director won't do the book justice."; "Details will be overlooked, and/or changed."; "The spirit of the author will be overshadowed by the glamour of Hollywood.", etc., etc. All are sound arguments, and all, unfortunately, have been proven true throughout the past 100 years. I've seen some of my favorite books tortured on the big screen, and others brought to life in a way I never expected and was left spellbound. I have been disappointed by the former and pleased by the latter, and sometimes vice-versa. I am, however, one of those who have not read the trilogy and was thus "untainted" by Tolkien's tale of Hobbits when I first viewed the movie. I was thus able to go without expectations and let Peter Jackson weave his (Tolkien's) tale before me. And even if I had read the books, from what those around me (who did read the books) tell me, the movie was almost 100% faithful to the book, down to the most minute details. Captivated from the very beginning, I became quite enchanted with the Shire, the Hobbits, and of course, Frodo. I instantly liked Bilbo and Gandalf, and immediately despised Sauron. The 9 Wraiths, the Orcs, and the Golems were just what I would've pictured these gruesome creatures to look like. And they are even more vile when given the chance to freeze-frame the picture to see just how Jackson brought across the costuming to convey such evil. Once the fellowship was formed, the rest of the "party" soon became a concern of mine. There were bits of comedy where needed, and several moments of heart-pounding excitement where necessary. "Unseen" Sauron scared me to death; never wanting to ever wear a ring. And you could actually feel the characters' struggles against the ring's "calling". Character is vital to any picture, and Jackson did a marvelous job here. Although often the Hobbits seemed to be overshadowed by their taller counterparts (no pun intended), Frodo's choices, Bilbo's regrets and desires, and even Sam's stalwart friendship were strongly felt. Regretfully, the only human character I felt compassion for was Gandalf. His end(?) brought much sniffling. Perhaps my feelings for the other "humans" will change in the 2nd and 3rd installments. Perhaps because I was not "encumbered" by having read the book and not knowing how the events would unfold and what would happen to the characters, I was able to take in the story and its players and not look for the liberties Jackson may have taken. That is not to say that the movie was without my own reservations. The movie was, in my opinion, a tad long. At one point I wanted to scream "Die already!" regarding one of the death scenes. Would it never end? And did the river journey, and Gandalf's escape, have to be so elaborate? But again, not having read the book(s), maybe I can't fault Jackson. After all, this was his interpretation of Tolkien's work, not mine. Some of the character and locale names were difficult to understand and thus keep straight. Keeping-up was a challenge. (I am overwhelming pleased for the closed-captioning on the DVD.) With exceptions to Frodo and Gandalf, I found myself equating the character on the screen with the actor's name and not their character's name. These are, in the end, minor trivialities, at least for me. I didn't grow up with these books, and they are not a part of a world countless many have cherished so dearly. I may not be able to quote the book or state, "That happened at night in the book, not during the day!", or "That person didn't do that!", but I can say that whenever a book adaptation is undertaken some liberties will be taken. And even if there were (and I'm sure there were), this final result was indeed a finely crafted work any Tolkien "lover" should be proud of. And if you disagree, just think: The end result could've been a heck of a lot worse... Jackson has a tremendous vision for imagery, character, and direction. The actors, from Sir Ian McKellan, to Elijah Wood, to Cate Blanchett, and right on down the line, couldn't have been more hand-picked, and the most optimal of choices for their respective roles. Everything about this movie says first-rate, devotion, detailed, and endearing. It's a shame Jackson was overlooked for Best Director. He can easily be compared to Spielberg, Lucas, Hitchcock, and others for their inate ability to tell a story and draw us in like nobody else and make us care(!) about the story and it's characters. I look forward to multiple viewings of part 1, and wait with great anticipation for parts 2 & 3. In the meantime, I will most definitely niche out time to become better acquainted with Tolkien's printed world. I doubt I'll be disappointed. And neither will you.
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