However, I had read a number of overwhelming reviews, and my expectations were sky-high. I was somewhat distracted by the fact that I knew the story backwards and forwards. I _really_ admired the book because I have a feel for the 30 years of work developing the legends that support the story and how it is the definitive piece of work in this area. Since I am a sped redder, I tend to re-read the LOTR every year or two, so I know it fairly well. So, there were no surprises at all, which made it harder to appreciate the plot and the character development. Indeed, during most of the movie, I was comparing my vision with the directors. I think his was good, but the differences were distracting at time.
Having said that, I still think it was a great movie. I will probably go see it again after Christmas, when the crouds are lower. I read the book a long time ago and didn't really like it, wasn't into fantasy then. Now I am re-reading it; I'm just past weathertop. So everything up to that is very fresh. That said: I liked the points that were different. The chases were unexpected and got my heart racing. At the rate I'm going I'll finish the first book by May...when the dvd comes out I can match what I've read and what I see. But on culture someone said that Tolkein (sp?) left gaping plot holes which were filled in at the end of this movie. Of course some parts were given short cover or no explination, but that didn't bother me at all. Visually the movie is stuning. I didn't like Gladiator, but the movie was so FULL. This one is the same way...except that it is a little dark. Kevin T.
