[Rimbaud]

Hello there:

You are absolutely right; the best thing about the movie was the astonishing sets. Truly inspired design work, and the effort and detail! The Shire was certainly spot-on, and Khazad Dum could not have been bettered. But although Rivendell was stunning, it was overwrought, and I share your misgivings with Lorien.

Much is made of the undeniably dramatic scenery of Edoras, but something about it that really didn't connect with me. Horselords they are, sure, but it was overly provincial compared with Minas Tirith (or Merthyr Tydfil as an acquaintance charmingly names it). Also, and I am willing to be picked up on this by someone geographically better informed, but would a country founded on horses build their capital and main city on a huge hill? Very unpleasant for their equine pals.

MT was ok, just spoilt by being made apparently of polysterene. I like the inside of Sauron's personal furnace, that was good, but I didn't enjoy the sweeping shots of Mordor, which just reminded me of one too many computer games.

~Rim