When I reviewed the theatrical version I said, "Like STAR WARS: EPISODE 1, I truly feel this film is just the first act of a much larger epic." I still feel that FELLOWSHIP is very plot heavy and that the real character development will come in the next two installments, however after seeing the EXTENDED EDITION I feel that the film is truly a fantasy classic and there is no point in ever watching the theatrical version again.
My chief comment about what was cut for the theaters is that it smells of executive tampering -- more action, more action. All the scenes or extra notes that were cut were all character development moments. Watching the theatrical version I felt it was just one long chase scene. I especially felt there was something missing from the beginning -- something in the set-up. The EXTENDED EDITION adds a small quiet moment after the opening narration were Bilbo writes about Hobbits in his book. That scene was what was missing. It's amazing what a small change can do to enhance the momentum of a film.
In addition, Viggo Mortensen's (A WALK ON THE MOON, 28 DAYS) Strider character really stood out more. There are a couple of added moments with him (especially one at the river), which really rounded out his internal conflict. New Line was brilliant waiting until November to release this version because now I want to see TWO TOWERS that much more.
Rick DeMott
Animation World Network
Creator of Rick's Flicks Picks
