Plot Outline: The former Fellowship of the Ring prepare for the final battle for Middle Earth, while Frodo & Sam approach Mount Doom to destroy the One Ring. (more)(view trailer)
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Filmmaking and Storytelling at its Finest
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Also Known As: Return of the King, The (2003) (USA) (short title) MPAA: Rated PG-13 for intense epic battle sequences and frightening images. (also extended edition) Runtime:
201 min / USA:250 min (extended edition)
Country:USA / New Zealand Language:English / Sindarin Color:Color Sound Mix:DTS-ES / Dolby EX 6.1 / SDDS Certification:Brazil:12 / USA:PG-13
Date: 18 December 2003 Summary: Filmmaking and Storytelling at its Finest
All great classic films have something in common, no matter how many
times
you see them. They are beautifully moving. They are empathetic and
tender,
and terrifically entertaining--exuding a delightful energy that seems to
spread throughout your entire body when watching them. You are
inevitably
charmed by a great film's complexities, enamored of its giddy humor, and
never fail to cry nearly every time you watch it--hoping in some remote
fashion that the ending, perhaps this time, will shift just a bit. These
are the hallmarks of a great cinematic experience, and they are
completely
embodied in a remarkable piece of filmmaking...Lord of the Rings: Return
of
the King.
Many people have spoken of the grandeur of "King," of its sprawling scope
and intoxicating scenic beauty. The "Lord of the Rings" trilogy is one
of
those experiences that, passing a room where it is playing, a person is
made
to pause and take note--much in the same way as one would pause in front
of
a beautiful painting in a museum. The close-ups, the wide-angle frames
and
large sweeping vistas leave you breathless before hearing the first word
of
dialogue. You do not have to like Tolkien to acknowledge the sheer
splendor
and aesthetic value of these films.
It is the human element, however, that drives "Kings" to its paramount
perfection. Elijah Wood (who is strangely rarely spoken of as the
keystone
of these films, as he most certainly is) is the perfect Frodo: Cherubic
and
strong, and consummately overwhelmed by the task given him. His haunting
blue eyes reflect the careful naiveté of the Hobbit clan--within his
steal-blue gaze you can almost see his old life in the Shire, the sunny
dales and sprawling green pastures. Reflected also is the stricken
reality
of his present situation...the horror of foresight, knowing he may never
return from his quest. As for his role in "Return of the Kings," Elijah
Wood's performance cuts like a sharpened blade, stealthy and determined
and
wholly unaware of its own strength. Watching this movie you can hardly
wait
for his next appearance, even with the knowledge that with every scene we
become closer and closer to the certainty of his suffering.
The Hobbits as a whole have an innocent, androgynous beauty...they are
entirely believable as these brave little beings of substance, joy, and
love
for the simplicity of life. Samwise, as Frodo's loyal companion, steals
nearly every scene...his sincerity and strength is the backbone of their
relationship, and perhaps, of the film entirely. He is solid and
unwavering
in his devotion, and more than following Frodo, he more often than not
tends
to lead him on their quest. Without Sam's unwavering sensibility and
purity
of spirit, the fate of Middle Earth would have never been turned. Sean
Astin does a wonderful job here, his Sam is well-timed, sensitive and
moving. If it were left up to me, a Supporting Actor Oscar nomination
would
be in order here.
Billy Boyd and Dominic Monaghan are not to be overlooked. Their
exuberant
performances are wrought with clarity and nuance. These characters of
Merry
and Pippin play off each other's strengths and weaknesses, each a perfect
compliment to the other. What makes all of these performances work,
however, is that the actors themselves are as close as they are. Making
the
Trilogy was such an intimate experience, the true relationships behind
the
characters shine through and are undeniable compliments to the script.
Viggo Mortenson as Aragorn is simply breathtaking...It's hard to believe
he
was an "accidental" choice as this remarkable character. Aragorn is the
consummate leader, a leader that would be, sadly, right at home in a
fantasy
world yet scarce in reality--someone who is not arrogant or flamboyant,
someone with humility and true heart. Aragorn is strong and full of
purpose...he is unafraid, and the characters in this lovely story respond
to
him.
The same strong performances by the other actors that typified the last
two
are present in this film as well, and one or two scenes I cannot choose
as a
favorite. The fight with Shelob is filled with such adrenaline that just
when you think you can't stand another moment, the action kicks into
overdrive and leaves you breathless and shaking. Billy Boyd has many
fine
scenes, one most notably in the throne room of Denethor as he sings a
poignant Hobbit folk song interspersed with scenes of Denethor's son
rushing
the enemy, a most certain suicide mission. Every scene with Gandolf is a
delight, the perfect balance between knowledge and equality. The
sequence
on Mount Doom is both breathtaking and heartbreaking...the screen belongs
to
Astin and Wood as we are reluctantly drawn into their terrifying
resignation. "I am glad I'm with you Sam," Frodo says, "Here at the end
of
all things."
There is too much to love about this movie to talk about in one review.
This film is poetry and music, war and redemption. It is literally a
return
to the time of great filmmaking...a return to the silver screen of
Hollywood's heyday. It is the strongest of those classic films that
purport
the worthiness of the smaller person in all of us...do not discount that
them. I suggest, obviously, that you see it. Then see it again and
again.
With each viewing you'll find something new to delight in, something else
to
appreciate when you least expect it. "Return of the King" examines the
very
best of humanity: the triumph of love and camaraderie in troubled times,
and that uniting in a common goal breeds respect, as well as results.
"All
people for the greater good" seems to be the central theme of this
dazzling
tale. I encourage you to lose yourself in this wonderful film, and take
a
little bit of its love with you each time you watch it.
company.
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