December Comfort Watches, Day 25: The Lord of the Rings Trilogy

On Christmas Day, as the festivities wind down and the allure of new gifts fades, you find yourself in a familiar predicament: a long, leisurely stretch of time and an inner nerd calling for entertainment. What’s the solution? A day-long movie marathon, and what better choice than The Lord of the Rings trilogy? Whether you opt for the theatrical or extended versions, you’re in for an epic binge, ensuring your day is seamlessly booked.

Reflecting on The Lord of the Rings, both as individual movies and a monumental production, here are five thoughts:

1. While The Fellowship of the Ring is arguably the best overall, and The Return of the King the grandest, my personal favorite is The Two Towers. Middles are notoriously tricky in storytelling, but this film deftly navigates complexities, with the Battle of Helm’s Deep standing out as the trilogy’s best battle scene.
2. Peter Jackson’s skill in omitting certain elements from the films is commendable. The absence of Tom Bombadil and the scouring of the Shire, while controversial to some fans, streamlines the narrative, maintaining the trilogy’s pacing and focus on the central quest.
3. Controversially, the extended editions of The Lord of the Rings films are seen by some as unnecessary fan service. These versions, though loved by many, can disrupt the pacing and structure carefully crafted by Jackson for the theatrical releases. The additional scenes often feel more like ‘more’ rather than enhancing the overall experience.
4. The Lord of the Rings’ triumph, both artistically and financially, contrasts sadly with The Hobbit trilogy. While the former was a risky endeavor, the latter felt more dutiful and less essential, serving special effects rather than storytelling. The Hobbit films lack the immersive, magical quality that made The Lord of the Rings a cinematic marvel.
5. Despite the misstep with The Hobbit, The Lord of the Rings remains a rewatchable cinematic masterpiece. The enduring appeal lies in its gripping story, immersive world, outstanding characters, and the sheer magic that unfolds over the trilogy’s nine-hour runtime. It’s a Christmas Day tradition that stands the test of time.

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Galadriel, Celeborn, Gollum, Bilbo Baggins, Faramir,