Customer Reviews

The Hobbit/The Return of the King 2-Pak

5 star:		(8)
4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(2)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

I've been reading some of the reviews about 'The Hobbit' and 'The Return of the King'. Quite a few people say they're for kids, that Tolkien-fans shouldn't bother. Maybe it was made less-complex for children, and I agree, the books and the movies are different, but instead of looking at it and comparing it to the book, try looking at it for itself-- a wonderfully animated movie with great versions of the songs, and far beyond that, lessons that the 'children'-viewers and older people as well could learn much from. Look at the songs in it: The Greatest Adventure, Leave Tomorrow Until it Comes, Roads Go Ever Ever On, Less Can Be More.

All of those, if you listen closely, tell you things that you can use in real life. And going past just songs, the story of Bilbo-- a lazy dreamer turned into reluctant burglar turned into brave and confident man-- the same change we all have to go through in our own lives. "...but to take those steps. That would be the bravest thing ever. Whatever happens next would be nothing." You have to fight your own Smaug sometime in your life. I don't know if this box gives enough room for me to go into more detail, so I will close with: These movies are wonderful not only for children, but for everyone who has an open enough mind to look for what can be learned from the combined skills of J.R.R Tolkien and the people and Rankin-Bass.

I was always a big fan of this movie when I saw it back in 77. It was nostalgic watching it again a few weeks ago. For those who are complaining about the Movies on Parade release of the video, theyr'e right. I've watched anime fansubs with better picture and sound quality. And speaking of anime, now that I had a chance to really examine the credits of the film, now I see why the animation was so good for it's time. Japanese animated? Note that it's the same with Rankin-Bass's later shows such as Thundercats and Silverhawks. Definitely, Rankin-Bass had a knack for animated fantasy. Too bad they faded into obscurity alnong with Filmation(another one I miss) and others with the re-emergence of Disney and WB as monolothic corporations. For an U.S. produced animated tv movie, the production values for the movie were up to par with the anime being produced at the time in Japan (such as Yamato and Captian Harlock). Some of the character designs in Return of the King are familiar. Meriadoc looks like a typical character designed by Yoshikazu Yasuhiko(Mobile Suit Gundam) and Pippin sort of resembles Lupin III (which is sort of funny now to think about). All in all, a great movie. Is anyone working on getting it on DVD?

I am a great fan of Tolkien's works and I was very sceptical about these two movies. However these two films are great and I enjoyed every minute. The epic music is great and a lot of dialogues/poems are taken from the original books. The orcs look a little bit childish, but hey it is an animated cartoon! There are some minor errors in both films which can be accepted by a fan of Tolkien's works(e.g. in the movie "The Hobbit" the famous Arkenjewel is not mentioned). I recommend this collector's edtion to all who have read the books and are looking forward for some new stuff.

This is a great rendition of J.R.R. tolkiens classics although only the first and the last of the series are avalible, because they were the only ones animated they are true classics even for children. These animated features tell the story of bilbo baggins, and frodo and their quest and the story for the ring of power

"The Hobbit" and "The Return of the King" are two great animated movie classics that I highly recommend you buy. Both of these movies have a lot of fantasy and adventure to offer and are great for you and your entire family to watch and cherish. The only problem I have with "The Hobbit" and "The Return of the King" animated movies is that they both deviate from the books which they are based on at some points. But, other than that, these two animated movies are wonderful to own on video!

I personally enjoyed the movie. The characters were made well and the animation was good. I remember when I first watched "Return" I did not understand how Frodo got captured by the Orcs, or who was the Aragorn. It starts right smack in the middle of the trilogy. It was only when I got older and red the books that I understood what the Ring of Doom was, how the hobbits got involved in the war, and more. I hope that someone is planning to make a completion to fill the giant gap so that at least the children can understand what exactly is happening.

If you loved the book, you will ADORE this movie! A must buy, a must see, a great film!

Of course these movies don't go nearly as in depth as the books do, in fact they distort many of the plots points. However, these two movies, the Hobbit and The Return of the King are perfect movies for children to watch, filled with battles, songs, and good-vs.-evil. I first saw these as a child, and they were the reason I read the books. These tapes are a must have for anyone with children, or who loves to see beloved characters come to life.

great movie if you not read the books but there is a movie missing from this set. part one of the lord of the rings Not to be mixed up with another version with the same name.(different director) even this web site does not carrier it or even list it. Anyone have a copy???

The only reason I give any of the three movies 2 stars instead of one, is that they at least TRIED to capture Tolkiens writings on Video. I truly love The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings and am certainly not the only one! WHEN WILL SOMEBODY DO IT REASONABLY WELL???? The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings Videos are worth a sit through at least once, but throw The Return of the King in the garbage!