-Story-
Of course, the story here is a classic. Of the trilogy I must admit I've only read this, the first of the books. I just found it confusing remembering who was who; it was just too many names and places. On film though I find that "The Fellowship of the Ring" really came alive. The characters are believable and passionate. The themes and motivations are clear. And the dialogue is crisp, well fleshed out. Honestly the story is fantastic and the only fault I can find with it is the rather abrupt ending.
5/5
-Look-
Visually this film is stunning. The setting is fantastic. I really believe that New Zealand is Middle Earth completely. Even when I can tell a matte painting begins and reality ends, I'm more often than not so engrossed by the story and blown away by the beauty of the artwork that I just suspend my disbelief. The art direction on a whole is fantastic, the lighting is appropriate albeit somewhat dark at times, and the costumes were great. I loved the whole look of this film. Can't wait for the next one.
4/5
-Acting/Direction-
The high calibre of the actors really shines through here. Sir Ian McKellan stands out as the perfect Gandalf. We can see the strength of his character through him. It would have been a simple thing for the wizards to come off as weak but Sir Ian really did a fantastic job. A few months ago, I had the pleasure of watching him work when I did a month or so stint on 'X-Men 2' and I've really got to say that his professionalism and possibly his sheer stage presence just blew me away. I was and am constantly impressed with his work.
Of course Elijah Wood was excellent as always; but I was epecially impressed with Viggo Mortenson's Aragon. You can read so much in his eyes, and in his body language. I found it easy to believe in his character fully.
Peter Jackson has brought this fantastic ensemble together with a deft touch. The performances are amazing, the setting is perfect, the story is great; but the life comes from him. I must say I wasn't overly familiar with his work before this, but I have no doubt now that he was the perfect man to bring this incredible story to life and do the book the justice it deserves.
4.5/5
-Overall-
Fantastic film; see it at all costs. More than once.
