The Lord of the Rings: Fellowship of the Ringby Andrew McKeeWith generations of fans and recognition as the major influence of the fantasy genre in the 20th century, J.R.R. Tolkien's fame just continues to grow. Technology has advanced enough that we can go a step beyond the animated attempts of the past, but with all of the hype and the scores of fans, it is easy to see why many were nervous about a live-action film version of Tolkien's famous trilogy. Could such a creation, whose first installment lasts only three hours, possibly live up to expectations? It does! First I'd like to state that I am usually very critical of films. I have seen many films in my life; more than most people. I can be very picky but this film was wonderful. You have to start by understanding that no matter what, editing had to be done. They took away most of the more mundane scenes and only a few of the more important scenes got sacrificed from the book. Some of the fight scenes got beefed up a little and some of the minor events got changed, mainly to enhance Arwen's romance with Aragorn. All of that being the case,
the script was great. Really, all they had to do was keep it close to
the book and the script would have been great. It is a wonderful story
on it's own. For the most part, the cast was perfect. I know that some
Tolkien fans might have their pre-conceived ideas about the look and
motivation of the characters and that may cloud their appreciation.
That is unfortunate but I think the acting and casting was quite good
overall with maybe only one exception. The special effects were amazing.
They certainly added to the dynamics of the film. I think the director,
Peter Jackson, thought he had to prove the movie in the first intro
scenes and he did. The huge battle scene was just right and blew everyone
away. The music was solid though not amazing. I wish they had had more
of Tolkien's lyrics but what can you do. I could go over the plot but most of you already know it or can go to other reviews for that info. I only hope that the Oscars don't overlook this fantasy film as they have so many others. It certainly deserves something for I felt like I went on a journey with the characters. I laughed and nearly cried during several different points. I was fortunate enough to go with a group, some of whom were not even familiar with the story if you can believe that. They enjoyed it just as much as I did and I think that says a lot. I did explain a bit to one friend that helped clear the story up but he enjoyed it all the same. Now for the gripes I had. They are all very minor but just a few things I noticed. The character Elrond, played by Hugo Weaving, didn't really make a big impression on me. It is a minor part and perhaps I just can't get his Matrix character out of my head but the character and actor seemed weak. The parts they cut with Galadriel looking into everyones eyes and later when Sam was supposed to look in the mirror with Frodo. That coupled with her acceptance and forgiveness of Gimli the Dwarf is an important and short element that displays the racial attitudes of Middle Earth. These at most would have added another minute to the film. The gift giving extended to everyone in the party and not just Frodo. Some of the gifts play an important part in the other books so I hope they at least say Galadriel gave me this even though they didn't show it; Kind of in a Fezzik holocaust cloak way. The only other thing was that for people who were not familiar with the story, they didn't say the names enough. One of my friends remembered Gandalf, Frodo, and Strider and that was all. Very different than if you read the book and see the names a hundred times over. These are the only little things I could come up with if I had to improve on the movie but let me stress this does not detract from the movie at all. I still got lost in it while being well acquainted with the story. To conclude, this is a must see film. The acting, script, and scenery are wonderful. It takes you on an emotional ride that, although ending unfinished (I can't stand waiting a whole year!), you feel great at the end. Go see this film on the big screen while you can and I'll be surprised if you don't see it twice. Posted by Andrew McKee 12/20/2001 |
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