jrichards2-1

I love this film. It's an exciting and well-thought-out adaption of the book. I particularly like the fight between the wizards; I always wondered exactly how Saruman managed to keep Gandalf in his tower.

The person I don't like so much is Frodo. That might sound nasty because Elijah Wood was perfectly good, and it's a much harder role to play than the tough orc-hacking characters. Have you ever heard those tapes they made of The Lord of the Rings back in the 80's? Ian Holm, who is Bilbo in the films, did the voice of Frodo. He's my favourite actor of all time; he was absolutely brilliant, and really did the disturbed side of Frodo in a more subtle and more convincing way.

I also liked the Aragorn on the tapes better - Robert Stevens, now deceased, I believe. There was a darker edge to him than in the film. Aragorn in the film is also a bit too nice-looking in the role, though I suppose that was the best way to popularise his character. Vigo's acting made up for it, anyway.

This film is an absolute load of rubbish! OK, fine, maybe I just feel that way because, as a woman, I am unable to appreciate Welsh's charms to the same extent as others might. I don't mean to be a kill joy, but really...

Alright, maybe the special effects were good for their time, but they're laughable now. That wouldn't make a difference if the plot were sensible, but it's not. Perhaps there is something compelling about a dumb caveman who has to over-come giant lizards, ridiculously proportioned dinosaurs and killer turtles on a desperate quest for survival, but it just doesn't cut with me. That's not to say that others aren't allowed to enjoy it, though. I'm just in a bad mood and want to rant about something. Sorry.