The Return of the King

Well, at least Aragorn didn't dither about like he did in the last two movies. Actually, I enjoyed watching this movie. Being so familiar with the story means that every little variation from the book registered with me, and this did take away from the experience. The difference with this film though, compared to the Two Towers is that most of the things that were different could possibly have happened. In the last movie I was disappointed because so much of it not only didn't happen in the book, it wouldn't have happened. As expected, Peter Jackson delivered stunning effects and cinematography. My friend Janice would have liked it better without the wrap up at the end, and I found most things after Frodo and Sam were rescued by the eagles a bit twee and very Hollywood - the end of the book is very different. Still, I would like to see it again before it leaves the cinemas.

Film versions of books are great reminders of how wonderful books are. Even short books that are well translated into film, are so much better than the film. A book can tell you what the characters are thinking, and can go into so much more detail about everything, there are no time limits or technology limits. The greater the book, the longer I want it to be. I think I'll just read the last two Harry Potters again...