While I can't say I disliked ROTK, I can't say it was my favorite movie of the year, or even that it was a great movie. It seemed very unevenly paced and I had some serious issues with character motivations, the death of the Witch King, and the use of the Ghost Army. I could go into detail, but to be honest, I didn't like FotR, or TTT in the theaters either, and both came alive with extended editions. Same goes for Matrix Reloaded. Maybe I just don't like theaters. ;)

Anyway, my pick for best movie (I saw) of the year, is tied between Lost in Translation (for its subtle beauty) and Last of the Samurai. And, as anyone who read my review of "If You Were Young: Rage" knows, I'm not a general fan of Japanese culture.

Best film of the year for me, clear and simple. It was the most entertaining. No problems of continuity or editing or helter-skelter rambling. Followed the book closer than "Two Towers." The ending, with its seemingly multiple conclusions, is right out of Tolkien, except for the slightly extended bit with Sam. Great moments of pathos, excitement, and grandeur. It was a film that stirred me, that moved me, that uplifted me. It's what pure entertainment is meant to do.

John

So it's on your worst of the year list, right, John? :D

I initially was unimpressed with FOTR when I saw it in the theaters, but kept my mouth shut since everyone adored it. Skipped Two Towers at the theaters. But last month I figured I must be missing something, so under a friend's advice I watched both extended editions of FOTR and TT, with the subtitles on so I wouldn't miss anything in all the dense dialogue and to also keep better track of the unfamiliar names (I've never read the books). I came to appreciate and really like the films. I think I had missed a lot the first time around.

But nothing prepared me for the experience of ROTK, which I saw over the holiday. It simply is one of the best movies I've ever seen. And that's not a comment I take lightly as an owner of almost 500 DVDs, and someone who even studied some film in college. I've rarely been so moved and exhilerated by cinema.

I urge anyone out there who was less than enthusiastic about the films (especially if you haven't read the books) to take another look at the Extended Editions and turn on the subtitles, at least for a while. It really helped me keep track of the MANY things going on, and also the unusual names of cities and characters. It's worth it. I can't imagine if I hadn't given it another try and missed out on one the greatest film experiences of my life.