Why LOTR Sucks: Saruman Loves To Slam Doors

I don’t like the fact that Saruman is given a role in the first movie that isn’t in the book. I can understand the justification. It’s a good way to establish the various sides, especially the evil side. We get to explain Sauron’s return to power. But again, is any of this information necessary at this point? More importantly, couldn’t we just as easily find another means to convey any necessary information? So the final judgement on the addition must come down to how it plays in the movie.

And it plays poorly. Saruman is such a pompous dick it’s hard to believe that Gandalf ever would have counted him an ally. And after Gandalf tries to leave, and Saruman uses some Harry Potter magic to close the first door on him, is it really necessary to have Gandalf try three more times to walk through a door? Doesn’t Gandalf realize that each door will be closed to him? I feel like this film is made for an audience of twelve-year-olds.

Oh, and the wizard battle thoroughly sucks. Some MTV editing as two old men swing big sticks back and forth.

Minutes Watched: 50.23

Number of Montages: 3

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