[Evisse the Blue]

Well - finally! I can add my two cents here. I actually saw it about 5 days ago, and I saw it twice so far, so I can say with a fair degree of certainty that it not only is the best of the trilogy, but one of the best movies I have ever seen, and will see from now on.<P>Even if I wasn't a fan, even if I hadn't read the books, heck, even if I hadn't seen the first two films, I still would have enjoyed ROTK: esthetically speaking, it's nearly flawless! It is a wonderful experience, visually, emotionally and intellectually. Wow, so many big words. Let me explain why I said 'nearly' flawless: I am a fierce enemy of what is generally known as 'cheese': and the movie had its share of cheese. (the Aragorn - Arwen kiss springs to mind). But, what can you do, this is hollywood, heh, and which hollywood movie doesn't do cheese?? Granted, X Files the Movie was absolutely cheeseless and 100% intellectually stimulating, but don't worry, I'm not trying to prove a point here. <P>Ok, so I loved the movie not necessarily as a Tolkien fan, but as a regular person who appreciates beauty. Even if in my former capacity I was devastated by the changes in Denethor's character, by the distorsion of the Gollum-Sam-Frodo relationship, by the omission of very important scenes and lines - I could still appreciate how even those things fit in to create a memorable movie. All in all, it was an amazing visual journey.<P>As far as movies go, ROTK is as good as it gets. If you are looking for pure perfection, read the books.<P>My favourite scene is not from the books: it is the scene with Pippin singing, Denethor gulping his food and Faramir and his men riding to Osgiliath. I'd like to see any movie top that scene, I'd like to see any even try! Another scene which really made me scream out loud 'perfection!' was the Frodo at Mt Doom scene, when he claims the Ring. Lots have discussed it before, so I won't insist. Also,the Eowyn vs the Witchking confrontation was very well done, keeping true to the book, though without some of the original dialogue. I wish Merry's part was more significant, though.<BR>The Grey Havens scene was moving and well-acted. The entire movie was well-acted, but I have to mention Aragorn let me down just a little, but maybe because I had too high expectations. The ending I loved - although when reading the books I was faintly dissapointed by the 'well, I'm back' unspectacular ending - in the movie it played very sweet and appropriate. <P>Despite the praises, I have to mention a scene which I absolutely hate: Gandalf hitting Pippin with the staff after he pledges allegiance to Denethor. Whatever happened to 'generous deed must not be checked by cold council'?? Well, I guess it's too much to ask... <BR>Oh, and not that I hate it or anything, but Shelob gave me the creeps! I generally laugh at horror movies but this precious CGI character had me shivering with terror and disgust from head to toe. I even had a nightmare about it, for Pete (Jackson's! )sake. <P>The score was also beautiful. 'Into the West' is a really haunting song, although my favourite is still 'May it be'. <P>Wheew, ok. I'm glad I got this off my chest. If you don't have the patience to read all through this, it can be summed up thus: <B>10+</B> and congratulations to the cast and crew, especially PJ. They are a talented bunch!<p>[ 10:58 AM January 09, 2004: Message edited by: Evisse the Blue ]