Review: TTT Extended Edition
Some Obsessions Are Less Harmful Than Others....My Precious
Taking a new tact on the extended version of TTT, Jackson and crew have managed to take the same old story and make it riveting and fresh again. This version adds back in the humorous scenes that Jackson regrettably had to edit out of the theatrical version. For newbies to Tolkien, this is particularly helpful because a great deal is explained. Most notable is the set-up scene that depicts Boromir in happier times with brother Fairamir. Family dynamics get explained and a lot of foundation for one of the more important sub-plots is laid for ROTK. A bit more longing for Aragorn via Ewoyn is shown in this version; the bit where Aragorn admits his real age is an eye opener for those who aren't Tolkien scholars. And some of the more intricate dynamics between Tree Beard and Hobbits Merry and Pippin get some much anticipated screen time. Die hard ringers will thrill to the ent draught scene between Pippin and Merry, proving yet again that hobbits just wanna have fun after all.
And while the movie has fully another 40 minutes of scenes well worth watching yet again, the true gold is found, yet again, on the third and fourth discs. Check out the fascinating dialogue between Jackson, Boyles and Walsh, wherein numberous scenes are shown in chronological order interwoven with an intimate remember when chat between the comfortable threesome. The conversation reveals the strategy, trade-offs and trade secrets behind the magic. This Kiwi-esque casual exchange goes on for quite some time but yields pure treasure to film buffs and Tolkien lovers alike. Who knew that so many scenes that made the silver screen were actually filmed off the cuff during inclement weather or in a run down warehouse while on location shooting something entirely different? The conversation is well worth the time it takes to watch; no self respecting Ringer would be caught without such insider knowledge.
Also worth a nod is the how we did it Part Duex, where WETA continues to shine by revealing high-tech, low-brow and all in between manner of tricks, technology and artistry that made Middle Earth come alive. The humble, can do attitude of the cast of New Zealand masters continues to enthrall and impress, allowing all to stand, if just for a moment, inside the world that Jackson and a production crew of thousands created over a growing number of years.
The only possible downside of this excellent DVD came during Jackson's musings about the possibilkity of taking the thousands of hours of incredible footage and perhaps making a 20 hour version of the trilogy someday. If he never gets around to it, Ringers are going to be mighty disappointed.
Recommended: A must buy for all your friends and family. Makes a great stocking stuffer, along with a ticket to ROTK, of course.
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