I understand the need for comic relief, although I could well do without any. Gimli, however, was solely defined by it in this movie. His character did not expand beyond a single line or scene which was not ridiculous or even pathetic. Most of it was below the level of standard slapstick, and therefore not at all suited for the story and world described. But that is old news, Tolkien knew that over 50 years ago.
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