Pluses: Gollem is not a mere CGI creation, but a real character with body language, emotions and complexity that rivals any human. Gollem is ugly and piteous, funny and cunning. If Frodo is the ego, then Gollem is the id. Sam Gangee becomes the soul of this movie, the subconscious, the motivator that continually keeps Frodo on the right path. Liv Tyler and her perfect complexion have only to be in front of the camera and I am riveted. My daughters feel much the same about Orlando Bloom. The story moves, the battles are thrilling and this is, in short, everything one could hope for in a LOTR movie.

Except - the characters are set pieces with little complexity or emotional development. One of the things that make Gollem so appealing is that he has a complex inner life, no matter how twisted it may be, that makes him constantly at odds with himself. And poor dwarf Gimli has been reduced to being the butt of a continual series of jokes about his height or his bravado.

The Two Towers is worth seeing as many times as you can. If it lacks the heart of The Fellowship of the Ring, then it makes up for it in bravery and spectacle. This is director Peter Jackson's middle child, growing up in the shadow of the older sibling and sure to be forgotten, or nearly so, when the final episode arrives late next year. This year, however, this middle sibling demands your attention and deserves every minute of it. I can't wait to see it again.
12:04:26 AM    Comments?()