The Lord Of The Rings: The Fellowship Of The Ring (2001) Dir: Peter Jackson
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I was almost hesitant to sit down and review this trilogy, because I wasn't sure I could do the film's justice. Peter Jackson's trilogy of films are considered by many to be the greatest cinematic trilogy ever made. I don't think there ever could be a better adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien's legendary novels.
This first film is perhaps a little overshadowed by the two sequels, but I actually have a lot of sentimental love for it - more so than the other two. It was the film I watched most as a child, certainly more than the sequels.
The film is so beautiful. Aesthetically, it can't be faulted. Peter Jackson's vision for the setting was fulfilled majestically. The film also has some of the best physical effects and costumes you will ever see in any film. It is simply a visual treat.
It being a long film, the story naturally unfolds in relatively deliberate fashion, but their is not really any pacing issues. It builds slowly at times, but the story and characters are intriguing enough to keep audiences more than invested.
With the blueprint of Tolkien's narrative to follow, Jackson could hardly go wrong. Even so, he does a magnificent job of telling the key events, developing multiple characters and keeping the story flowing forward. I can't stress enough how impressive it is that Jackson adapted any of these books this well, let alone all three.
Elijah Wood gives my favourite of his performances in the trilogy in this first film, at least to me. I think he shows some terrific range and sincerity - something he continues in the later films too. He makes for an endearing protagonist who is able to carry the story very well.
Sean Astin is an underrated actor, especially considering how good he is in this trilogy. He might be the most lovable 'sidekick' in cinema history. His work with both Wood and McKellin is particularly stellar from start to finish.
Ian McKellin is wonderfully endearing throughout what is a truly iconic performance. He is impossible not to adore here, be it through his subtle facial expressions or his powerful, yet friendly voice - he commands the screen, even in his quieter scenes.
Viggo Mortensen just gets better and better as this film progresses. He shows more and more character and class, and has some brilliant action sequences that look visually stunning. He really looks and plays the part throughout the whole trilogy, but that starts here superbly.
Orlando Bloom and John Rhys-Davies have some really great moments in their supporting roles, but the best is yet to come for those two. Even so, I thoroughly enjoy them in this first film, especially in the last twenty minutes.
Dominic Monoghan and Billy Boyd establish a truly lovable duo that function as the film's comic relief quite brilliantly. The ease with which these two create humour makes helps lighten the film and keep that fantastical, adventurous feel. I think Boyd especially had his facial mannerisms down wonderfully.
Sean Bean does what he always does, and provides a sterling, strong performance in one of the film's most interesting and well-developed roles. He might even be the best actor in the film, for what it's worth. I only grow more appreciative of his acting, the more I watch him in this one.
The wonderful ensemble cast also sees superb performances in smaller roles from the likes of Hugo Weaving, Andy Serkis, Cate Blanchett, Christopher Lee, Liv Tyler and Ian Holm.
Overall, to say any of the film's in this epic trilogy are the worst feels wrong. Each one is magnificent, including this first film. It will always hold a very special place in my heart, and when I think of which film in the trilogy I enjoy watching the most, I think it might actually be this one.
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