THE LORD OF THE RINGS: THE FELLOWSHIP OF THE RING (2001) MOVIE REACTION - FIRST TIME WATCHING

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

Hey guys! Thank you so much for watching these with us, supporting us and embarking on this journey alongside us. It's 100K Knights that have our back and we couldn't be more grateful. This was such an amazing experience and I was truly awestruck when I saw just how expansive this world was and the amount of work and love poured into it. If you enjoyed this video like and subscribe so you don't miss out on the next reactions! If you'd like to support the channel and gain access to the full length reaction become a member of our patreon bit.ly/3ICVrJ6 Watch our reactions early! kzbin.info/door/iCUz1bHid4H9mu6g2IOjXgjoin

[@space1999]

Great reaction to a great great trilogy.... can't wait for the rest...

[@Galaxias_Kyklos-053]

🎉🎉🎉factz I am hyped.....and don't forget the Hobbit trilogy 😅

[@artistgamer3040]

I just came across this channel and love your passion and reaction to movies. It's great. I will say, these are some of the best movies out there to this day and I hope y'all are watching the EXTENDED versions of LOTR. They are longer, but there are scenes that add so much to these movies that I feel make them so much better. I can't go back to watching the theatrical versions. Thank you for making these. Hope you enjoy them. 😁

[@richeaton5752]

1:07:05 "Talk to the hand!" (overheard in the theater New Years Eve 2001-2002, I still chuckle every time I see the scene. lol)

[@Wesker35]

If u like this , u will love the other ones

[@oscarrigvall970]

Boromir is a good, noble man, but his desire to save his people makes him an easy victim for the ring. But even as he is dying he shows his courage and strength, fighting to the last. One of my favourite fictional characters

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

Absolutely!! Boromir was such a wonderful character, and we had many chances to see that. He is in no way a bad man or villainous, he was just too vulnerable to the Ring!

[@raphaelperry8159]

He's also much more three dimensional in the books. When he finally acknowledges Aragorn's claim to the throne with his dying breath it means so much more when you know that he's been actively denying it for the whole story up to this point. That acceptance helps Aragorn become more serious about taking on the role he has been born for.

[@chronolynx360]

​@@OfficialMediaKnightsthis is the part were Sean astin hurt himself by stepping on the broken bottles in the lake and Peter Jackson told everyone to say "cut" he was bleeding badly so they have to take him to the hospital. They hired the divers to remove all broken bottles make sure that doesn't happen again.

[@VoidVintage]

Daddy issues

[@kylecasey7010]

He’s like the traditional hero for stories like this, but in the case of the ring, it turns his virtues against him.

[@random3x70]

A thing to note. Galadriel's gift to Gimli is genuinely significant, not in terms of their goal but in history. Faenor, an elf widely considered the greatest craftsman to ever live, asked for three hairs from Galadriel. But she could tell he was, deep down, not a good person. So repeatedly, she refused a high king of elves. But here she has a dwarf. A historic enemy of her people, and all he asks for is one single hair to remember her beauty. She could see he was good to his core so she gave him three. It's why Legolas smiled. He knew how significant that gift would be. It is no wonder Gimli would later gain the title Elf Friend.

[@Makkaru112]

She and he brothers were best friends with dwarves. Especially Celebrimbor. Moria is the elvish name for Khazad Dûm

[@Makkaru112]

Galadriel's gift to Gimli has deeper meaning behind it, like most things in this movie & reflects the expanded lore of the middle earth universe. Galadriel is one of the 2-3 most powerful & wise elves remaining in Middle Earth since the time the land was young. She was born in a place called Valinor, or the Undying land... which is basically the place of residence of the Valar, the local pantheon, the local "gods" as you may call them. Back then, the world was not illuminated by the sun&moon, (only the stars, but rather by 2 trees of gold and silver, Telperion and Laurëlin that lit the world before the sun & moon were born from their last flower & fruit as they were basically killed by Melkor when he struck them with his Lance and Ungoliant the primordial Eldrich Terror, Ungoliant she was named by the Eldar). It is said that Galadriel's hair had somehow captured some of the shine of those two trees. Her uncle Fëanor, who was a great king of the Elven people after his father Finwë was slain by Morgoth(Formally known as Melkor). Fëanor arguably was their greatest craftsman to ever live, asked if she could give him a lock of hair, so that he could use it to fashion 3 gems that would shine of the same light as the trees. Sensing his pride & a shadow that wasn’t exactly belonging to him brewing from within, she refused his request 3 times. He stopped asking and made the gems anyway, managing to complete the task he had set for himself even without her hair. Around these 3 gems, the possession of which became the driving force for many of the great events in the world, entire wars that lasted for centuries exploded, and other events. The gems actively shaped the fate of the races of middle earth to the point that the aforementioned Valar got involved directly. During these times, events surrounding the gems brought about the traditional enmity between Dwarves and Elves... the same enmity that Gimli still feels towards them. That enmity however does not survive his encounter with the wise Galadriel, whom Gimli basically falls platonically in love with. By giving him 3 of her hair, Galadriel is opening a door, offering an olive branch that might one day close the gap that divides these two races. Legolas, himself being an Elven prince and centuries old, knows of the story through his father Thranduil & grandfather Oropher, as it shaped the lives of all Elves, and his subtle smile is possibly the first act of acknowledgment and reconciliation. it is also a way for Peter Jackson, the director of the film, to give a nod to all of the fans who know these facts and backstories... a way to make us feel seen, and to make us appreciate just how deeply the makers of the film respect the books and larger universe created by Tolkien. The thing with the hair may seem weird, but there is a significance to it in real life as well as in the lore of the story. In real life, it was not uncommon for wives, fiancés, or even girlfriends to give their men (who were going off to war), a lock of their hair as a keepsake, particularly in WWI, which Tolkien fought in. The lore part of it comes into play in The Silmarillion, Tolkien's tales of the creation of Arda, the Undying Lands of Valinor, and Middle Earth. Galadriel is many, many thousands of years old, & was born in Valinor before the sun & moon were even created. At the time, the world was lit by two trees, one gold and one silver which would shine at different times from each other, but would shine together once a day when one would fade and the other brighten. Galadriel's hair was said to look like the light of the mingled light from the two trees, which may have inspired Feanor, a master craftsman and heir to the high king of the Ñoldor, to craft the Silmaril's which were three jewels that captured the light of the two trees, one golden light, one silver light, & one co-mingled light. Fëanor had a bit of a thing for Galadriel and begged her for her hair three different times, which she rejected because she could perceive the inner darkness of his heart and rejected him, which made them "un-friends" after that. There is a lot more to the lore than that, so this is the super crib-notes version. But the point is, it was VERY significant that she granted Gimli three of her hairs to a dwarf, when she would not to the son of her king many 10s of thousands of years ago of which she is related to all three kings who were brothers and Elu Thingol of Doriath was one of the brothers that didn’t stay in Valinor even though he was one of the elven ambassadors along with his three brothers and that king I mentioned was VERY close friends with Thingol)

[@Makkaru112]

Galadriel’s Gift Part 2 - ever wondered how old Galadriel is during the War of the Ring? I have looked in many different sources and depending on where you look, she’s anywhere from 17,000-20,000 years old. 6,000 seems too young as it would make her close in age to Elrond, who I know is much younger than her even though he’s 6000-8000 by the third age, which wouldn’t make sense for her at all even if she was (“690 years older” as some kept repeating on the internet making 6960!)As she was around long before Elrond was even born and time was experience differently to say the LEAST as there is a lot to go into on that subject lol.) She was born during the Years of the Trees & back then the years were something like 9X longer than a solar year so I understand the math is hard, especially since she isn’t given an exact birth year. But it is said that Finarfin, her father, was born in Y.T. 1230, so I would assume she was born sometime within 1000 years of then (being generous). Basically, I’m wondering what the most accurate range is for her age during the events of Lord of the Rings. I’ll also add that Galadriel is was around before the ents even existed (of which Treebeard is 15,000 years old so she’s OLDER than Treebeard/Fangorn) or very close to when they were “created” by Yavannah and probably had much knowledge to do with such things and or direct knowledge of what happened. Probably through an early prototype of her mirror or simply another dream that made her long for middle earth all over again ontop of the yearning she already had to go there and explore. Nothing to do with Fëanor’s oath and all that jazz. Just going from the Appendices (and maybe Silmarillion) she would have to be at least 9000+ years older than Elrond, Elrond was born near the end of the First Age, Galadriel was adult before the destruction of the Trees. Actually, more than that: I just checked, and the Second Age ended in SA 3441. So an elf born literally at the end of the First Age (FA 590) is 3441+3018 = 6459 years old when Frodo leaves for Rivendell. Elrond was born in FA 532, so adds 58 years to get 6517. Elves are mature at 100, so Galadriel adds at leas 632 to Elrond's age, to be at least 7149, and possibly quite a bit more (as attested by other comments.) One fic had Maglor(Elrond’s Adoptive Father, Maedhros was also adoptive father alongside Maglor, they were the eldest sons of Fëanor) - One fic had as much older than Galadriel; I wondered how we knew, and it was pointed out to me that Maglor was the second oldest son of the first son of Finwë, while Galadriel is the youngest child of the third son of Finwë. So, yeah. Note that the second age was the LONGEST and again time was experienced very differently back then too aside from the internal clock of elves working very differently, she’s definitely older as far as the world and the other beings that age far faster around her. I also remind you all that she’s older than the sun and the moon and witnessed & most likely even helped in the Valar’s crafting what would be the vessels of the last fruit & flower of the two trees of Valinor. She was the most involved with learning everything possible from them and it was stated that she learned all there was to learn from ALL of the Valar that they could teach and she mastered all at a deep level. (Wow hey?) She’s 25th generation from Tata one of the elven forefathers to wake to the stars. Their birth was rather shrouded in mist. Only those of her grandfathers ilk have a chance of knowing the origins a bit better as they are closer to that culture that stemmed from the beginning. The Years of the Trees were the second of the three great time periods in Arda that followed the Years of the Lamps and preceded the Years of the Sun&Moon. They were known to be comprised of several Ages and lasted in total around 1500 Valian Years or 14,373 solar years. Time flowed differently back then and time flowed differently within them too for the elves live as long as the world does. Epic hey?❤❤ The Dúnedain said that Galadriel’s height was two rangar, or "man-high" - some 6 feet 4 inches (193 cm). However, Galadriel's most striking feature was her beautiful long silver-golden hair. The Elves of Tirion said it captured the radiance of the Two Trees Laurelin and Telperion themselves. Galadriel was said to be the tallest female in Middle Earth, at 6'4”. But then Thingol was the tallest elf ever to live, and he's estimated to be almost 9' (274 cm) Thingol was also a very very prominent figure within the Silmarillion and other books. He’s the great ancestor of Elrond+Arwen and through Aragorn being directly but distantly related to Elronds Twin Brother Elros it makes him loosely connected to Thingol as well. Let’s just say he died a tragic death long long ago. I’m a continent that doesn’t exist anymore. The events I spoke of in my earlier story of Elrond about his fathers deeds, which lead to the Valar helping with putting a Stop to Morgoth for good so to say and that War Of Wrath lasted 80 years straight and it left the landmass torn asunder from the clash of gods and the holy host of Vanyar elves that were closest to the Valar than all other elves so you can imagine what a bunch of mighty elves men and Maiar fighting a bunch of fowl creatures and beings for 80 years would do to a continent. It all fell into the sea. Galadriel barely made it over the mountain before that part of the story officially broke out.

[@Makkaru112]

(Fuller version) Galadriel & her elder brother Finrod Felagund were best friends with the dwarves. Same with Celebrimbor and the dwarves of Eregion especially the guild called Gwaith Í Mirdain. His bestie was Narvi the dwarf. Narvi and Celebrimbor created the doors of Moria. Moria is also the elvish name for Khazad Dûm. This gift for Gimli set it into imperishable Crystal and would be the only thing left in middle earth that holds the light of the two trees of Valinor (Valanor by the Eldar). It’s basically the uncursed version of the Nauglamir. He named it The Galadramir. ❤ ​​⁠ If you search for 'victorian hair art' then you can see what amazing things people created with hair in the past. Craftsmen as dwarfs were, I imagine that Gimli must have created something beyond exquisite!

[@Bargarz]

It’s no accident she gave Gimli three hairs. Three times prideful Feanor requested a hair from Galadriel. Three times she declined. Gimli humbly asked for one hair and his motives were genuine. So she gave him three.

[@josephthiel9695]

The most important part, of the entire thing is when Bilbo drops that ring, it was the first and only time any creature on the whole of middle earth had the willpower to abandon the ring first instead of being abandoned by it. Bilbo even after having the ring for such a long time and being infected by it, had the will to drop it.

[@K-11609]

Fun fact that pretty much everyone knows lol: Peter Jackson intentionally put a magnet under the floor when the ring was dropped so that it wouldn’t bounce. Showcasing the real and figurative weight it had in the story.

[@musthavebeenEscobar]

​@@K-11609 didnt know thanks

[@MermaidMusings7]

Bilbo deserves more credit.

[@Bill_the_curious]

@@K-11609 I always noted that it hit the floor with a thud like a very heavy weight

[@imadubsfan1]

@@K-11609 Also cool how they handle the ring in certain scenes too. Like when Frodo was falling in the snow when they're up in the Misty mountains and the next shot shows he's separated from the ring (before Boromir picks it up) they used a literal giant ring prop for that shot.

[@Luciphell]

"They made an amazing language." Tolkien. By himself. He was a linguist before he was an author.

[@DesignGeek06]

Yeah, the books were more of a byproduct of creating the languages which was his real passion. Language is strongly influenced by the cultures that speak it, which is influenced in turn by the history of that culture. So to Tolkien, the books were probably secondary to the languages he loved to create.

[@juhagabrieltakkinen1131]

well by himself sure, but heavily influenced by the Finnish language. Also he took a bunch of mythologies from our Kalevala for the elves

[@glasgowjohn7831]

yes he was very cunning...

[@aryblack]

It's actually his fault that I have a bachelor's degree in (spanish) linguistics and literature

[@Makkaru112]

Philologist. The umbrella above Linguist and other fields. ❤

[@djarwanwliams3098]

One of my favourite things in this, Aragorn and Boromir clearly have their differences, but Aragorn still honours Boromir by wearing his braces through the next 2 films.

[@joshscott6914]

It really messed up Aragorn's teeth

[@smuffinman]

Sean Bean is just so good. None of these actors could be replaced, it's all so perfect

[@sulijoo]

Peter Jackson made all three films at the same time; he said this isn't fantasy, it's history. He's a director who - unlike so many today - actually respected the source material. Yes he made some changes die-hard LOTR fans didn't like, but the trilogy pretty much pleased both LOTR nerds and non-fans alike, which is a rare thing. This trilogy will forever be a timeless classic.

[@DZatheus]

HIs work was so well intended that even the diehards mellowed to it in time.

[@pazvega5895]

If i remember correctly they were like a year and a half filming in new zeland all the material for the 3 movies.

[@nutbra694]

The only thing that ever bothered me was a certain scene in the extended version of RotK with a wizard and a bad guy. Everything else made sense to me in terms of the changes he made to put the books to film. This trilogy is one of my favorites of all time for sure.

[@MrDopeDan]

full production was actually closer to 4 years @@pazvega5895

[@AlaskanGlitch]

Complete and utter bullshit. Peter Jackson completely changed J.R.R. Tolkien's story. He had absolutely no respect for the source material and tossed the majority of it out replacing it with his own simplistic and incredibly bad writing. The lines that Jackson actually used from J.R.R. Tolkien were exceedingly few and noticeable among the swill written by Jackson and his wife. Only those who have never read J.R.R. Tolkien could enjoy these badly written movies. They are entirely Peter Jackson's creation, and has nothing to do with J.R.R. Tolkien.

[@jameskoia9417]

I was fortunate to be a background stunt fighter and extra in the Lord of the Rings Trilogy. I played many different characters. It was an amazing experience. Everyone got on so well and just wanted to give it their all. I think this passion shows through on screen. Great reaction.

[@Lethgar_Smith]

Oh, you lucky bastard!

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

That is awesome! Thank you for sharing your experience with us. It is such a special achievement being able to say you were part of something this big!

[@jameskoia9417]

Thank you it was an incredible few years. The experience was made so much better because I got to share it with three of my brothers. I can’t wait to see your reactions to the next two movies 😊

[@chrisbanks6659]

@@Lethgar_Smith This is not a Monty Python film!!!! LOLZZZZZZZZ. 🤣

[@riolkin]

That's so freaking cool! Where can we spot you in the films? Edit: Don't answer this actually the dude below me has a brilliant idea!

[@bibliophilelady6106]

I love your empathy for Frodo. So many reactions crap on him for being weak or whiny compared to everyone else while the poor guy is just using everything in him to keep putting one foot in front of the other while being physically and mentally tortured with every step.

[@TURNlP]

This is the film that pushed me into wanting to work in the movie industry. 8 years later I got my dream job at weta workshop. Still there and I'm grateful everyday for this trilogy of movies and how it shaped my life.

[@silver9wolf6]

That's so awesome!! 😃👏

[@paulchavez3039]

Oh my goodness congratulations belatedly! That's so heroic... I love that. You weta people are all legends.

[@leonmrs16]

Weta?! Whata a G Man, congratz!

[@JohnYoo39]

Love the stuff you guys do

[@ThwipThwipBoom]

Yoooo y'all are the GOATs

[@RedundantDan]

The biggest emotional gut punch for me is as Boromir lies there dying, in all his grief, his very first words to Aragorn are "They took the little ones." He formed a particularly strong bond with Merry and Pip and he tried to protect his friends with literally all he had. It devastates me every time.

[@goukeban6197]

Boromir is the fucking GOAT!

[@NickThorbjørnsen2207]

It makes sense. Merry and Pippin were the most youthful of the bunch, plus Boromir is the only one of the group that is someone's older brother. He's accustomed to having someone he watches over, protects and looks out for. Hence why I think he instantly bonded to Merry and Pippin.

[@goukeban6197]

@@NickThorbjørnsen2207 On point!

[@llchapman1234]

I still bawl every time I watch that scene 😭😭😭

[@luiscesarvianagomes970]

1:13:27 "He is still fighting" made me remember "The mightiest man may be slain by one arrow... and Boromir was pierced by many."

[@CasualFriedEggEnjoyer]

The thing about Boromir is that he is the pinnacle of humanity. A strong captain and leader of his people. His easy corruption was meant to display the absolute power of the ring. Boromir was a good man exposed to the most powerful corrupting figure in the universe.

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

That was also my take away from his tragic part in this story. It's not meant to show Boromir is weak in any way but to show us just how powerful that ring is. Truly frightening!

[@tonyyul703]

​@@OfficialMediaKnights JUST STRAP IN......

[@tonyyul703]

​@@OfficialMediaKnights YEEEEEEEEEEEEEEES THE EXTENDED VERSION IS THE BEST VERSION........

[@tonyyul703]

​​@@OfficialMediaKnightsbe sure to put New Zealand on your list of Vacation destinations.... Because New Zealand IS MIDDLE EARTH.... If you overlay the MIDDLE-EARTH map on top of the the New Zealand map... They ALMOST MATCH....... PERFECTLY

[@tonyyul703]

The Ring FEEDS OFF YOUR DESIRES... And Draws out the worse parts of you.... Tolkin was a Follower of Yeshua Jesus Christ, and Lord of the Rings was his way of explaining the truth of the Gospel of Christ as well as the END TIMES.... Infact the whole story of Frodo going forward is a reflection of Yeshua's passions to the Cross......

[@StoriesThatSuck-pw1vi]

Boromir's matter-of-fact delivery of the line "They have a cave troll," tickles me every time. Like "Of COURSE they have a cave troll. WTF not? Yeesh."

[@manuela1986]

🤣🤣🤣 Yeah its so funny how he says it.

[@LordEriolTolkien]

In the text it was a larger than normal Orc Chief that had the appearance and size approaching a troll. Such a distinction wouldn't have been easy to translate, and so the troll is explicit.

[@huyxiun2085]

With that logic, they should have brought a few dozens of Balrogs. WTF not? Yeesh.

[@SCP-Dr_Bright]

@@huyxiun2085 because there were a limited amount of balrogs when they first came to middle earth and the only one who is known to still even exist is the one that gets gandalf a few scenes later. they can't bring 1 balrog let alone a few dozen.

[@udraj914]

Someone said that if there was a place to include the f word in one place, this would be the perfect place. "They have a f***g cave troll" :D

[@JimbalayaJones]

Boromir dying is one of the hardest scenes in movie history. Tears every time.💪😩

[@corbelius6]

even when I read it in my childhood, I was moved to crying.

[@TheMadMurf]

I will never get over Cate Blanchett's performance as Galadriel in this film. Her opening narration is just so, so good. And her scene with Frodo where she's tempted by the ring is amazing. Galadriel is confident, lofty, and authoritative. You can _feel_ the wisdom from all of her years. But as soon as she is tempted by the ring and manages to resist its power, she comes out shaken and vulnerable. Absolutely incredible performance. Congrats on 100k! Can't wait to see the rest of the LotR with you!

[@JohnYoo39]

Top tier Galadriel

[@SCP-Dr_Bright]

yep, amazing actress. im glad she is the one and only depiction of galadriel. yep, no one else has ever played galadriel in a live action adaptation. she is the one and only and there totally wasn't a shitty prequel set in the second age. she was amazing as the one and only galadriel...

[@axell.576]

Let´s not forget that Galadriel is indeed a ring bearer herself! She owns Nenya, the ring of water.

[@cp368productions2]

She wasn't actually tempted, she was showing Frodo what would happen if she took it.

[@SCP-Dr_Bright]

@cp368productions2 she was tempted, just like Gandalf was. She resisted and said "I passed the test" so she OBVIOUSLY was tempted.

[@blanketstarry7725]

One thing that always amuses me...when Strider says that Frodo is passing into the shadow world and will soon become a wraith, like them...can you imagine, now there would be 10 nazgul, except one would be 3 feet tall and riding on an evil Shetland pony! :)

[@marcdejonge6569]

Bill the Beast!

[@Frostrazor]

now that's a horse of a different color

[@fraserbain6102]

Tinyfax, Lord of All Not-Too-Much

[@TK-421_66]

There are lesser dark things that exist both in the seen and unseen that are subservient to the Nazgul and Sauron. He wouldn't have been exactly like the 9. But yeah I have always imagined the same. 9 big dudes and their one little buddy terrorizing the countryside.

[@shellchoke427]

Nine wraths and one Frodonkey

[@kairokuys6991]

"My brother, my captain, my king." I never cry in movies but when I first saw that scene when I was in high school, I couldn't stop the waterworks. Boromir didn't like Aragorn at first but had a change of heart there at the end.

[@MiArcangel]

It's weird when you're a teenager and a movie makes you cry for the first time, it's like "oh shit, I have feelings"😂

[@SimplyConeh]

"Be at peace, son of Gondor" 😘 I got chills just from reading the quote in your comment. Sean Bean is so freaking good at dying...

[@MermaidMusings7]

❤

[@corpsefoot758]

I also just realized years later that the reason he stares down at the ground while kneeling arrow-ridden is because he might be asking himself what good it is to fight, if (as he believes) the hobbits he was protecting are doomed and his city will fall anyway So in the end he fights just to take as many down with him, to preserve himself as a warrior to the bitter end, or who knows which other motivation. So cool

[@lysolcoke2HD]

That shit gets me welled up every time I see it. I watch the trilogy at least 3 times a year and it never fails to hit me hard even though I know it's coming. Such a powerful moment.

[@raphaelperry8159]

Ian Holm, who plays Bilbo, got to play Frodo in the BBC 13 hour radio adaptation of the trilogy back in the 1980's. Having him come back to play Bilbo was a beautiful link to an older version of the tale.

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

No way?! We had no idea, that's such a beautiful full-circle moment!

[@zardify_]

Dayumn I'm a huge fan and I didn't know this either

[@Jacana2k6]

Ian Holm will always be my preferred Mr. Frodo. To be fair since it was a radio play, Ian had to rely on his voice alone for the performance. Elijah did a great job visually as Frodo.

[@maxpheby7287]

@@OfficialMediaKnights give that a listen if you have time its literally the perfect adaptation.

[@raphaelperry8159]

Just as Michael Hordern will always be my preferred Gandalf (and, ironically, Ian McKellen was blatantly channelling Hordern's performance for most of the film anyway :p).

[@billybibbit5551]

i love how we can see Denise nerdiness and passion about the trilogy and universe glancing at the camera and silently reacting to Ari's comments xD Can totally relate as i introduced my GF to LOTR this is too much fun She hit us with the classic " THATS ACTUALLY PETER JACKSON AND ARAGORN ACTUALLY DEFLECTED THE KNIVE FOR REAL"

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

Haha awww, see it's a milestone for any LOTR fan - to introduce our loved ones to it!! So glad you enjoy our reaction!!

[@Ernwaldo]

Was in theater, by myself (well, with hundreds of strangers!) at midnight for the earliest possible screening of this film, having read Tolkien 25 years prior. Just before Gandalf was dragged from the bridge by the Balrog and before Ian McKellan voiced the famous line, I whispered to myself, “Fly, you fools!” The young man next me turned in amazement and asked, “Have you already seen this?!?!”, puzzled, since it was the first screening. I just gave him a knowing “Gandalf-style” wink. 😉

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

Hahaha that is such a badass moment for you, love ittt

[@genny5309]

@@ErnwaldoI stood in line at midnight too! Those opening night showings were on Thursday, and I was teaching high school at the time. I made it to work on time and greeted students at 7:15am - and earned some cool points when they learned I’d been to the midnight showing and some nerd points that I did that for LOTR. Amazing experiences - especially on IMAX.

[@Ernwaldo]

@@genny5309 Very nice! And in IMAX, nonetheless? Color me impressed. Have only ever seen one thing on an IMAX screen and it was a nature doc when that tech was relatively new. I also had no one to impress. LOL Was just for my own satisfaction. Though I did go back that weekend with my brother & his family. Hope your students were duly impressed and jealous! 😉 Wish I had more teachers like you.

[@React2This]

Another actor was originally cast as Aragorn. I don’t remember the name, but more of a super-hero type. Peter Jackson knew it wasn’t working, and pitched the idea of a little-known Viggo Mortensen. Studio wanted to see an audition, so Jackson flew Viggo to New Zealand and filmed the scene where Frodo has been stabbed and Aragorn goes all torch-throwing berserker on the ringwraiths… Every actor in this cast shines, but Viggo Mortensen really brings something to the trilogy that a more traditional action star would have lost. There are so many layers to his Aragorn: he can kiss a dying man on the forehead and sing sad love songs and express self-doubt, and be a warrior, and all are believable. The scene where he uses his sword to bat away a thrown knife was no rehearsed. The knife was accidentally thrown right at his face, and he had practiced so much with the sword that he was able to deflect it. He lost a tooth and broke two toes making these films!

[@JeshuaSquirrel]

The first actor was Stuart Townsend. From what I understand, the main problem with him was his unwillingness to train and practice with swordplay and horse riding. He was like, "You'll get it on the day." Um, no. There's too much at stake to not rehearse and train. In Viggo Mortensen's favor, he was already an experienced horse rider. He even bought the horse he worked with in the films.

[@saturated3821]

@@JeshuaSquirrel I think the main reason the film makers have usually given for reconsidering Stuart Townsend was that they started thinking he may be a bit too young for the role (Viggo is 14 years older). Aragorn is almost ninety years old, and has gone through many weary years living as a ranger, they needed someone who could be believable in that role. I think they struck absolute gold with Viggo.

[@novashy7119]

Did they ever find the tooth?

[@zackaryhaselius2226]

He also almost drowned.

[@Alondro77]

@@novashy7119 The tooth will set you free!

[@Andor2022]

The Best Trilogy in the History of Cinema for many many out there ❤

[@mackindaw1750]

I agree everything about the films is amazing from the score to the visuals, lore and story is the best.

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

Yes yes and another yes!

[@Andor2022]

@@mackindaw1750Oh yes ..I’ve seen the trilogy in the cinema .it was pure magic ❤

[@mackindaw1750]

@@OfficialMediaKnights if you guys continue watching these I can’t wait for your guy’s reaction on the 3rd film with the ride of the rohirrim which is one of my all time favorite movie scenes and score

[@BigJoe6669]

mine for sure !

[@shainewhite2781]

Nominated for 13 Oscars including Best Picture, but won for Best Visual Effects, Best Makeup, Best Original Score, Best Cinematography.

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

And each of the wins/nominations are well deserved!!

[@Sparkk0]

Would later win Best picture for Return of the King tho!

[@KayQue-s3r]

@@Sparkk0By the time of the Oscars, I had seen this but not "A Beautiful Mind" . Was so angry that "FOTR" lost. Later, I finally saw 'ABM" and was no longer upset. 😊

[@rio20d]

They won 17 oscars from the Academy for the whole LoTR trilogy and that's an amazing Achievement

[@Deimos2k5]

The awards are so rigged. They didn't want these objectively brilliant movies to dominate for three years so gave crumbs to FOTR and TTT, before heaping basically everything on ROTK. All three deserved massive wins, and really FOTR is the best put together overall

[@Kiljaedenas]

I remember when I first saw this in theatre, the point where Aragorn beheads the big dude at 1:15:06 (I think his name was Lurtz?), the ENTIRE THEATRE CHEERED. It was awesome!

[@christopherwall2121]

Yeah, it's Lurtz. He's thrown in so that _Fellowship_ could have a satisfying ending as a standalone film, give the good guys a small triumph at the end.

[@modemanslutning]

The cinematic genius at 13:59. Dropping an ordinary ring on a stone floor it would bounce around. But to emphasize its weight it simply hits the floor, with some sound to signify its weight as well. That is such a small thing that sticks in your mind subconsciously. Lots of small things such as that makes for a fantastic movie.

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

RIGHT?! What a genius way to show the depth of the Ring's power!

[@dininelbourne]

They stuck a magnet under the floor for that little trick.

[@knarfjen6896]

Followed by a POV shot from the ring where Gandalf reaches for it, implying this is not just some inanimate object but something that is observing and affecting the world around it.

[@KS-xk2so]

Yeah I love that moment too... first time we get a glimpse into what a tremendous burden carrying this thing will be for Frodo.

[@Len0Grady]

That prop wing was a piece of steel the size of a donut in addition to the magnetized floor- amazing eye for detail.

[@leonmrs16]

The best film ever made telling the best history ever written.

[@donfette5301]

I don’t rank such things because I have no good metric BUT definitely one of my all time favs!! I can’t say I like anything better.

[@leonmrs16]

@@donfette5301 My friend, every fantasy history made after the hobbit and LOTR books are embeded in Tolkiens influency in the 19th century and on. The guy is a legend for its self. Look more for its history and you will know it! Hugs from Brazil.

[@aziouss2863]

@@leonmrs16 Frieren is the best example of that! Watching that anime i got hit by the Tolkien influence. The age of man after the exodus of the elves is a theme seen in Freiren too.

[@SéaFid]

​@@leonmrs16Tolkien was a good writer, yes, but what if someday, someone, somewhere, perhaps someone in Hong Kong or Dagestan, breaks the mold? Could also be a Finn, an Irishman, a German or a Dane, but what if one day people dip into otther sources to change the Fantasy genre forever?

[@debrickashaw9387]

32:38 The reason she is glowing like that is because he is seeing her spirit/soul and powerful elves have especially strong spirits. Peter Jackson gave all of Glorfindels scenes to Arwen. Glorfindel was basicly one of the most legendary elves to ever have existed

[@seancurtis1199]

I have ADHD and was super unfocused and hyperactive as a kid, Lord of the rings fellowship of the rings was the first time in my life I had sat silent for that long with my attention completely tasked by the screen. The movie is just that good and the next 2 are equally amazing, you are in for a treat

[@AcornSmokes420]

I smoke weed to cure my adhd and my au(ti)sm since age 20(2010)!!! I refuse to take legal meth for my adhd!!

[@saviourself687]

And they're fortunate enough not to have to wait a year between each release before the next one... Man, that killed me back in the day...

[@Randomcorpse]

The one thing people miss about Boromir, is that it's not so much weakness, but strength. The more powerful you are, the more susceptible to the ring's power you are. That's why Gandalf won't touch it and freaks out when Frodo offers it to him. The hobbits are the most resilient to it, because of their love of simple pleasures and an uneventful life. The fact that Boromir is so tempted, is the direct result of how insanely skilled and powerful a warrior he is and the ring is as drawn to him as he is to it.

[@mottwoman6775]

So true! I love that you pointed this out!

[@tapoemt3995]

Gandalf, Galadriel, Aragorn and I suppose Elrond in a way, all turn their backs on it. That can't exactly be said for Boromir... He had to keep being told by Aragorn or warned by Gandalf to leave it alone.

[@Randomcorpse]

@@tapoemt3995 Yes, he was heavily tempted by it and the ring called to him. Galadriel and Gandalf both described what would happen if they took the ring and how terrible that would be. It would be far worse if either of them took it because they are both more powerful than Boromir. But they are both also ancient and wise enough to know how susceptible they are. Aragorn is descended from Elrond's brother, and long lived, keeping the company of such people, he too has more knowledge on the subject.

[@mahapralaya999]

Exactly! And not only his skills and power but his lofty goals in life, his desire to serve the greater good, to save his people, his kingdom. Those types of desires are the easiest ones for the ring to exploit. If one's life goals are very simple and mundane the ring has less "ground" to tempt you.

[@Randomcorpse]

@@mahapralaya999 That's why I love the ring giving Sam a vision of covering half the world in gardens he tended.

[@robinpadilla6683]

I have to give a shout out to Denise! Denise does SUCH a great job keeping things to herself and not spoiling it for Ari, and therefore us who are vicariously experiencing his first reaction. I've watched many other reactions where one has already seen it and due to their own enthusiasm, etc, feel the need to comment or worse explain what is going in to the other who hasn't seen it yet! She bites her own tongue but gives us that know, the audience the knowing look, that gives us the experience of sharing with her, the knowingness of..."just wait and see" that we're all experiencing while watching the reactor having their own real first time experience. I love Denise for that. She honors both Ari reacting for the first time and us by giving us what we showed up for, which is to WITNESS the first time reaction. Also props to Ari because you DIDN'T talk alot and so we got the genuine "reaction" of watching you facially, emotionally and physically react. To me those are the MOST enjoyable reactions because of how genuine and honest they are. They words of explanation can really get in the way of the experience, so saving it until the end is way more enjoyable. I WAS however waiting to hear in your reaction in the end, Ari, a comment about expectations because you had stated in the beginning that you were worried, based on everyone saying how great these are, about whether the movie met your expectations, matched everyone else's, or even surpassed them. I would still really love to have you comment to that! Thank you for a great reaction @MediaKnights and I can wait for the rest of the journey with LOTR.

[@user-blob]

Agreed.

[@itachileesan]

agreed, they are the best reactors out there by far

[@BigglesSJW]

yes, not sure I could of done that, lol.

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

Shes the best when it comes to spoilers! Always lets others figure it out on their own pace. Thank you! You guys are truly the best. Seeing how much you’ve enjoyed these is truly heartwarming ❤️

[@ProvidenceNL]

Fully agreed!

[@kikebautista2110]

Martin avoided going to war and he writes about war, death, cruelty, despair, etc... the worst part of human beings. Tolkien went to war and fought one of the bloodiest battle ever. He lost most of his friends, he saw the worst... and he wrote about hope, friendship and the best aspects of a human being. Let this sink in for a moment.

[@corpsefoot758]

Morbid fascination vs. world-weary discretion. Great point

[@kirklanyoshinaga8953]

Both are intrinsic parts of humanity but I personally won’t read Martins work because I know he will never finish his story.

[@TJSaw]

Wow. Never thought of that. So true.

[@FREEK777ful]

I never thought about it like that, that's something I will try to keep in mind when I read about the worst of humanity in fiction and nonfiction. Thank you for pointing that out.

[@jmlaw8888]

I actively wanted Martins world to come to an end it was so disgusting, treacherous and degenerate. Like I wanted a "the antagonists won, the protagonists all died and the world froze over. The end." LOTR is the exact opposite for me. It was just an enthralling piece of mythology and I desperately hoped the forces of good would prevail.

[@luikanami]

Boromir's monologue on how he wants to use the ring for good is one of the strongest parts in the book. Just incredible. He is suhc a great character & so well written.

[@WereMike]

Few actors can "out-die" Sean Bean. Boromir's end remains an astounding performance. The redemption, the confession, and at last the hope he has as he passes always hits hard. His line "my brother...my captain...my king!" hits me like a sledge to the heart. I am so looking forward to both of your reactions to this entire trilogy!

[@x-wing8785]

Thank you! This line made my day "Few actors can "out-die" Sean Bean." Well said!😂

[@iggtastic]

To be fair, he's had far more practice at death scenes than most actors.

[@x-wing8785]

@@iggtastic Yeah, if you want to know how it feels to die, ask Sean Bean.

[@telynns8490]

I actually think it is one scene that the movie improved on the book. And that is very hard for me to say because I LOVE the books.

[@konto800]

During Boromir's death an Elvish chorus can be heard during Howard Shore's score. Translated they are singing, ‘I do not love the sword for it’s brightness or the arrow for it’s swiftness. I love only that which they defend.’

[@AnnaMarianne]

Which is a quote from the book, where Faramir said that when talking with Frodo in Ithilien.

[@konto800]

@@AnnaMarianne honestly you can watch this movie 100 times and still discover new hidden messages and contexts.

[@buttercup_42]

Denise looking at the camera like girl WE KNOW, amazing reaction, this is the greatest trilogy ever made and it will never not bring tears to my eyes everytime that intro hits

[@adrianfuegoscuro6308]

17:02 When Frodo mentions Sauron and the ring whispers "Zigûr....",( "wizard" ) - it is a great deatail cause that`s was a canon name used by Sauron when he lived in Numenor...He was known as Zigûr, the Wizard Woah, Chills every time!

[@Makkaru112]

Why would he whisper his own name in a tongue Gandalf would understand ? It’s like Sauron/Annatar outed himself. Haha.

[@luketimewalker]

that is FANTASTIC thank you! Clearly Tolkien made a nod to the ancient Ziggurats of Mesopotamia - the gigantic temples of the first great civilization, Sumer, and its heir, Babylon

[@KazumiKuwabara]

@@Makkaru112It was the first height of his power before he got Unmade the first time with the Destruction of Numenor and the Rending of Arda thanks to Pharazon McFuckstick, he's boasting. He can guess that Gandalf knows Ancient Numenorean and while he COULD have said Annatar, which was his name as the Lord of Gifts, he chose one in which his reach of power and influence over Men had even the Gods up in arms.

[@RetroJack]

Woah or woe?

[@lawlietriver8869]

Boromir is such a GREAT character. He is such a strong and good man. Having him fall under the spell of the ring from time to time is a great choice. It perfectly shows that it is not weakness, greed or a hateful heart that makes a person fall for the ring, it is just that the ring is THAT evil. I totally didn't get Boromir correctly back when I was 11 watching this in the cinema. I looked down at him. Now I got nothing but respect for him. His dying last words makes me cry. "I would have followed you my brother, my captain... my KING." Ooof, such a masterpiece.

[@tovick1643]

Boromir indirectly is the hero of the story, but for spoiling purpose i cant go into it deeper

[@DarkMajava]

YES

[@phousefilms]

Know it's late and you're already at the Hobbit, but wanted to give some fun facts!: Only Sauron and other beings with actual power can harness the abilities of the Ring. Anyone else who puts the Ring on(hobbits, men)simply turns invisible. Different people believe they could use the power and even use it for good, but they all eventually would fall to corruption. Hobbits largely aren't as corrupted by the Ring(since you're caught up as of ROTK). Smeagol is a Stoor Hobbit, a slightly larger and different breed, so this mainly holds. Because hobbits don't care for gold or power and only about the comforts of home, they don't get twisted or corrupted as fast(Bilbo and even Frodo's corruption was after a very long time. Sam, the short time he is the Ringbearer, has a vision of turning Mordor into one giant garden as the worst thing he considers using the Ring for, but quickly puts that thought aside as ridiculous.) Awesome details/foreshadowing during the Isengard scenes: -You can see the crebain(crows) flying around that Saruman uses as spies later. -You can hear Gandalf say "Gwaihir"(the name of the Lord of the Eagles)as he whispers to the moth. -The weaponry and armour being forged aren't the same weapons that Lurtz and the Uruk-Hai trackers wear, but it's for the eventual assault on Rohan/Helms Deep(you see the Berserkers two pointed swords and the crested helms the Uruks eventually wear). A bit of expansion on Moria(since you've watched "Unexpected Journey"). The dwarves mined too deep in search of Mithril and ended up unearthing a Balrog(a dark Maiar spirit(pretty much a fallen angel in the Tolkien Mythos)given a physical form of flame and shadow). The king at the time, Durin VI and his son were slain, giving this Balrog the name "Durin's Bane". The dwarves attempted to retake Moria in the battle of Azalnabur(spelling might be off), but it failed and Thror, the grandfather of Thorin, was killed. The next expedition was by Balin. They managed to retake Moria for a short time, but the orcs(as well as the Watcher in the Water, the giant squid creature)cost them many, with Balin dying from a poisoned arrow and them taking shelter in the only safe place, the tomb, where they all died. They managed to hold Moria for about five years with their colony. After the Balrog was defeated by Gandalf, sometime in the Fourth Age, Moria was finally retaken and the dwarves ruled there until the end of time.

[@scottsummers5994]

This movie/trilogy really holds up even 20 years later. The music, art style everything is so amazing.

[@Cbraqz]

There is a Story about Galadriels Hair. Someone named Fëanor admired her hair and requested three strand of her hair many times and she refused. Galadriel giving Gimli 3 strands of her hair shocked all the other Elves and is actually pretty significant. In terms of Gimlii it just means that she thinks he has a pure heart. And Gimli wants to incase them in a Crystal as a token of Friendship between the Woodelves and the mountain Dwarfs. (since dwarfs and elves hate eachother it's pretty significant for Gimli too)

[@jonathanaliff6121]

Finally, someone else recognized the true significance of Galadriel's gift and the consequences of her original 3 denials of Feanor.

[@bobblebrad]

Yes! This! In a blink and you miss it moment in the film, Legolas smiles down at Gimli because he knows this story and recognises the significance. This is the moment they become friends and every interaction from here on out changes to reflect that friendship as a result. Most people miss it. In the books, it's a really big deal. Dwarves and Elves have not been friendly for hundreds of years, so when Gimli is named "Elf Friend" by Galadriel, it's a really big deal because it resumes long cold relations between the peoples of both cultures.

[@markojovicic757]

i placed a comment and didn't reed yours first sorry :D

[@di3486]

Feanor requested 3 times for a lock of her hair. Not three hairs many times, that makes it even more symbolic. Gimli requested just one hair, once.

[@Cbraqz]

@@di3486 true i may have misremembered lol

[@kevinpetite7818]

I watch LOTR reactions when I’m sad, and I’ve watched pretty much all of them. I have to say guys, I’ve never seen your channel before, but this might be the best reaction to Fellowship on KZbin. You guys have such great chemistry, and your being film literate adds to the depth of appreciation. You also picked up on so much of the lore details, and emotional nuance in the storytelling. Having such a great guide makes a world of difference. I simply cannot wait for the next two!

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

Woah! Thank you for the massive compliment! We hope LOTR reactions continue to cheer you up! You guys have been so heartwarming and inviting to a newcomer. Thank you for being the absolute best ❤️

[@TallisKeeton]

I watch LOTR reactions when I’m sad, oh, thats also my case :) I watch LOTR (and "the hobbit") reactions when I m too sad or too irritated - its my way of chilling out and return to balance of emotions.

[@DeezNuts9813]

You might have seen it already, but (and sorry for advertising other channels on you guys' channel) SofieReacts has THE best reaction videos on LOTR and it's not even close. If you haven't seen it you'll be absolutely delighted. Now I'm gonna watch this one lol

[@MaxFalange]

The most important gift that Galadriel gave was her 3 hairs, only Legolas knows the story behind it (a story that happened thousands of years ago), that is why he smiles proud of his dwarf friend, because his heart is the most pure among all.

[@tobiasschumacher8602]

My local cinema showed the trilogy about three weeks ago. It was so overwhelming to watch this on the big screen again 20 years after the release, I sat there and cried like a small child. And now I'm sitting on my sofa, watching your reaction and I'm crying again. Seriously, this isn't just a movie, this is an experience.

[@archangel0891]

Aye lad, couldnt agree more. Read the books as a kid and being there each xmas for the release was magical. I was wrecked at the end.. you know why. All best from 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@silver9wolf6]

Mine showed the trilogy too! Couldn't make the first one but got to see RotK (extended edition!) on the big screen which was beautiful!

[@JimmysPerspectiv3]

Thank you for saying it

[@sassymess7111]

I hate that I missed it. I watched 2 & 3 in the theaters when they first came out. Would've loved to have seen all 3 at an IMax theater.

[@MermaidMusings7]

Best trilogy ever.

[@Trehek]

The ending credits of this movie are always so emotional to me. The Breaking of the Fellowship encapsulates the mixture of sadness and hope left at the end of the movie, and the vocals never fail to tear me up with their beauty. And that is followed by May It Be sung by ENYA, like Galadriel wishing the Fellowship a safe journey.

[@ProjectPiperCustoms]

Objectively, the LOTR trilogy are the greatest films ever made.

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

I (Denise) wholeheartedly agree!

[@V0ltron]

Well, I'm 44, so I'm old which is why I choose Star Wars. (Original trilogy) I know it may seem biased... but I won't deny it. Don't get me wrong this trilogy is a masterpiece. The visuals alone are stunning.

[@neddhu]

​@@V0ltronnot even close....SW

[@Grande79]

@@neddhuyou go to far, keep in mind Star Wars was an Original Story as opposed to LOTR being a Novel written in the 50’s. Both were mind blowing for their time but nothing will ever surpass how astonishing Star Wars was in 1977. LOTR could not have been made without Star Wars paving the way.

[@vincentjames7210]

​@Grande79 star wars pulled a crap ton from Dune. Not necessarily original

[@Pupeyes]

“You shall not pass” became such an iconic moment because Ian McKellen truly performed the absolute fuck out of that. It’s incredible how much weight his words carry in that moment. His authority when conjuring that spell makes Dumbledore look like an apprentice.

[@ChrisP.Bacon008]

ils ne passeront pas! from the battle of Verdun, Tolkien was just down the road fighting at the Somme around the same time.

[@tortepasti2]

@@ChrisP.Bacon008 Damn! I never knew, thanks for sharing.

[@devildante9]

Is such a shame that all the shouting, dramatic camera shots and music bloat out the words from McKellen, which are the best part of that scene. Also they changed "can not" to "shall not" in the movie, which is also a shame. "can not" is a statement of fact, while "shall not" is imperative, so much less power

[@Lepusxlupus]

totally get what you are saying@@devildante9 et al. But for the average viewer they wouldn't know the powerful subtleties of it. Ian was amazing at getting the feeling(?) across of how profound. But also pup, its apples to oranges. Soft vs hard magic. There really is no way to directly compare their 'power'. [[besides the fact that HP world was completely derivative of many well established lore universes of which a major one was lotr. Gandalf helped created the world so dumbledore could become an icon]]

[@Dr.Plankton]

Amazingly, they kept Gandalf's dialog almost verbatim from the book, even phrases that mean nothing to a person not versed in the lore. It means so much to longtime readers of the material!

[@TheNotedHero]

Man, every time Denise looks at the camera while tearing up had me reaching for the tissues too. These books, movies, and characters have always had a special place in my heart, and I was so relieved that the movies lived up to my super high expectations. But boy was it torture waiting for each movie to come out!

[@MsCassidy23]

I never thought I would get so much satisfaction out of each reactor exclaiming, "Is that it?!" after they view Fellowship. Usually, a statement like that would be of dissatisfaction, but they often want to continue it so severely. Love that.

[@Asticek]

film's swordmaster, Bob Anderson who trained the cast, described Mortensen as "the best swordsman he ever trained." He was so good and dedicated, he did his own stunts and insisted on only using a real steel sword not a mockup aluminium or rubber one

[@seanmcmurphy4744]

Plus Viggo Mortenson was hired at the last minute, the weekend before shooting started, to replace another actor. He had never read Tolkien, but decided to do it on the urging of his teenage son who was a fan. He flew to New Zealand and had one weekend to learn swordfighting from Anderson, because the first scene to be filmed on Monday was the Amon Sul fight with the Ringwraiths.

[@waynezimmerman1950]

@@seanmcmurphy4744 That was after Peter Jackson realized that his first choice: Stuart Townsend, was too young(as least according to the propaganda)

[@DominationDom]

@@waynezimmerman1950 Stuart Townsend wasn't exactly too young, but ignorant and not willing to learn/play the character of Aragorn how he was described in the books. Of course that struck a nerve with Jackson, who is EXTREMELY dedicated to bringing Professor Tolkiens source material in its closest into cinema. Just wanted to clear that up^^

[@semerahpadi4484]

@@DominationDom Good. Viggo has that built for the character, masculine, calm that many people love. His character is believable.

[@WolfHreda]

​@@seanmcmurphy4744 if Stuart Townsend has ended up being Aragorn, I don't think this trilogy would've survived like it has. Viggo Mortensen absolutely disappears into this role.

[@benediktcz]

btw, if you didnt realize it, galadriel (cate blanchett) was the one who was narrating the intro, and you also seen here in it as one of the elvish ring bearers btw2, ad languages - JRR Tolkien (author of the books) was professor of languages and made whole world of Arda and it's history (in part of which is LotR situated) at the beginning only as a backdrop for languages he was developing.

[@icecreamgenius557]

I love Denise face expressions during the entire video pin pointing important story elements and sequences. She represents every single one of us.

[@ashleyf423]

These movies man. No matter how many times I see them (and that number is ridiculously high) I still get chills, tears, and so hype about them.

[@leoneverest]

I remember going to each LOTR movies in the theater and they are simply the best cinematic experiences.

[@motodork]

"That scale is massive! That's a battle!" me: *laughs in Rohirrim*

[@Rikrik1138]

Me: laughs in Pellenor Fields…

[@Makkaru112]

@@Rikrik1138 me laughing in War Of Wrath.

[@falcon215]

Howard Shore won Academy Awards for Best Original Score for all three movies of the trilogy. The music was so popular that he took it on tour, corroborating each piece with a backdrop of the movie on a large screen behind the orchestra.. Amazing music.. wish I had been able to attend one of those shows. Great to see you guys giving this a look!

[@Frostrazor]

I saw this production in Oakland, CA - 2012 I think it was. The entire symphony orchestra was massive PLUS a full choir. The young man/boy who pines that beautiful note when the Gandalf talks to the moth was so powerful. The horns in the shot of the fires/forges at Isengard reverberated through the indoor auditorium. It was one of the most moving experiences of my life - it truly felt like a religious experience. I tried to find the other two - but the never came through my area that I saw. One of my biggest regrets was not getting to see them.

[@InsidiousBlackOps]

I'm so jealous of you watching it for the first time. My older cousin introduced me to LOTR when I was 13 years old, some 37 years ago. Then it was the 1978 animated tale, which concluded somewhere in the middle of the two towers. I immediately went to the library and started from 'The Hobit'. I went on to read LOTR. Sadly, the silmarilion was a bit beyond me at 13 years old. This cemented my love of the fantasy genre. Such a core memory for me. I remember waiting in line in the cinema on the day of the release of the fellowship. Fingers crossed, whispering, 'Please don't fuck this up, please don't fuck this up'. I got to be honest, I wasn't that confident. The only things I had seen of Peter Jackson were a low budget gore flick called 'Braindead' and the oddity called 'Meet the Feebles'. If you have seen either, you can probably understand my skepticism. Happy to be wrong. He knocked it out of the park.

[@itzakpoelzig330]

I had seen both of those movies and fully shared your skepticism!

[@illomens2766]

This movie has one of my favorite movie scenes of all time in it. When Gandalf uses the Black Speech in Rivendell to stop Boromir from touching it, you can hear Gandalf recite the first half of the Ring Verse, while you can also hear Sauron recite the second half along with him, with Sauron chuckling at the end. Chills every time.

[@telynns8490]

I just don't know why they changed it from the book. In the book Boromir was doubting that the ring being presented was master ring of Sauron. So to settle it Gandalf rips off what he read on the ring, in the Black Speech. It was to prove a point that the ring is indeed the correct ring and to show that he would indeed have the power and knowledge to know it for a fact. It just seemed to make more sense the way the book presented the scene. I think the part where Gandalf actually says the Black Speech could have been done the same (I agree with you, that part of it was very well done) just the reason for it made more sense in the book.

[@illomens2766]

@@telynns8490 Oh I agree 100% with you

[@jackal59]

My favorite moment in that entire scene, though, is Ian McKellen's wordless and deeply pained reaction when he hears Frodo say, "I will take the ring." What is really finest in these films are the performances.

[@nikola-ku5yu]

@@jackal59 Speech in moria or when Bilbo discribes how ring feels in the beginning...

[@scottredding7357]

Sir Ian’s eye acting in this is great. When he looks relieved when Frodo can’t see fiery letters, then when Frodo can. And when Frodo volunteers to take the Ring to Mordor, how he looks so sad.

[@shaundaly1134]

Yes its amazing. Not many people seem to mention that.

[@rykerm4249]

I never realized how much they got Sauron's character right in that intro. He never wanted to destroy everything out of pure evil like Morgoth, he wanted to control everything.

[@PeterBuwen]

I guess that I've seen pretty much every KZbin reaction to Lord of the Rings over the past few years because I love the films and even more so the books so much. I have to say that your reaction to the first film was one of the best I've seen so far.

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

Woah! Coming from a reaction connoisseur that truly means a lot to us. Thank you for watching this with us and for leaving such a nice comment ❤️

[@genny5309]

I agree. You appreciate not only the acting and the story, but the craft of the filmmaking and the score. I’m not saying that others do not notice these too, but your comments are perceptive and timely. And I am impressed how well she keeps from giving away any hint of spoilers!

[@marklewis1457]

An amazing experience watching you guys feel all these movies bring to us! That quote from Arwen saved me from suicide a few times already and It still brings me to tears every time! You will face the same evil and you will defeat it!

[@seregrian5675]

I'm an hour into the reaction, and I have to praise the two of you! One who hasn't seen it, and the other who only saw the theatrical release (and is looking intensely for the extended scenes) is a wonderful interaction. Denise, thank you for not giggling like a tween whenever a meme appeared... You're going to get lore dumps, behind-the-scenes trivia, and a lot of people cheering you on as we take this journey with you once more!

[@drew63215]

Met Frodo at ComicCon and he signed a Frodo action figure. It's crazy to talk to and get an autograph from a person who played such an iconic and unforgettable role in a major blockbuster movie. Not only did he sign Elijah Woods, but he also signed Frodo right under it. A guybsaid they don't usually sign them that way. Pippin and Meri were right there at the next table beside him.

[@libertyresearch-iu4fy]

The author, JRR Tolkien, who was a professor of English Literature and Languages at Oxford University, spent much of the spare time in his life building this legendarium. His son published 12 volumes of his father's notes along with a few other books, and there were 15 languages (of various detail) he created for this world. He also had written a children's book from stories he had told his young children called 'The Hobbit', which was a bestseller, and it included the tale of Bilbo acquiring the one ring. The publisher wanted a sequel, and 17 years and 1000 pages later came 'The Lord of the Rings'.

[@mohanicus]

I absolutely love that quote for these films.."it's a dangerous business frodo..going out your door..you step onto the road and if you don't keep your feet..there's no knowing where you might be swept of to"..

[@x-wing8785]

Me too. It describes so well my own experience when I read the book. I didn't have any idea what kind of story I was just starting to read but oh boy, it took me to the journey I couldn't imagine. I couldn't put the book down for three days and when it finally ended I was overwhelmed by everything I had experienced. That specific line is as if directly addressed to the reader. Tolkien was genius. :)

[@amzieelead]

Such a great reaction, so happy I found you guys! This is such an amazing film and trilogy. The scene with Arwen and Frodo being chased by the wraiths is my favourite of this film. The backdrop and the horsemanship is stunning. Plus, “If you want him, come and claim him” always gives me goosebumps.

[@HerpMcDerp89]

One detail I love is when Bilbo drops the ring as he's leaving his home, the ring doesn't bounce or clatter when it hits the ground. It lands with kind of a dull thud symbolizing the weight the ring has on the ring bearer.

[@roberttheis3832]

One of my favourite scenes in movie history. The way he drops it with a flat hand, his expression, Gandalf and his reaction, the tension between the two of them, the way the ring falls to the ground, the sound design, and the little shiver Bilbo does after leaving his home, finally breaking with the influence of the ring... Overall, a freakin awesome scene. Amazing attention to detail.

[@Gypsy_Danger_TMC]

Agreed

[@sinenomis]

I read somewhere that they made a replica of 20cm for that part, exactly for the purpose of showing the "weight" of the ring

[@Karadjanov]

It is an amazing Trilogy. No matter how detailed the Movies and extended editions are the lore is so rich that very little of it made it to the big screen. Regarding the prologue and the rings: Sauron's plan was to forge rings of power that would give their wilder amazing powers and turning them into great sorcerers and kings but would be under Sauron's will who would rule from the shadows. Sauron deceived the Elfs into helping him forge the rings of power: 9 for Men 7 for Dwarfs and then Sauron made the One ring to rule them all, however the Elf Celebrimbor forged the 3 Elvish rings without Sauron's presence and corruption making them unique in the way that they are good and benevolent and help others not just the person holding them. They are also unique in the sense that they are subject to "The One Ring" but not Sauron himself. This means that unless Sauron puts on The One Ring these 3 rings are the most powerful in existence. The 3 Elvish rings are not explored in the movies but they are an integral part of the lore and story so here is a little info on them that is not directly explained in the movies to help you have a grasp of what is going on offscreen. Their powers are not fully explained but what is know is: Vilya: The ring of Air. Elrond has this ring and with it he was able to heal Frodo from the Nazgul wound something that is normally impossible. It was also the ring of Air (Maybe with the assistance of Gandalf) that made the river wash out the Nazgul. Nenya: The ring of Water. Galadriel has this ring and with it she protects her kingdom from everything including time itself. This is why it is a very tough choice for her to help Frodo because if "The One Ring" is destroyed her ring will lose it's power and her kingdom will diminish and fall into history. Narya: The ring of Fire. Gandalf has this ring. With it he is able to do the Fireworks and probably helped him in his fight with the Balrog. Another quality of this ring is that it affects the people around it by increasing their courage, bravery and making them resist corruption. That is one of the reasons why Gandalf's presence was so inspiring and why despair took over the fellowship when he fell. P.S. Isildur was actually much wiser and way more noble in the books. They never were with Elrond in the pits of mount Doom for him to change his mind and keep the ring. Elrond merely SUGGESTED it was destroyed but Isildur asked to keep the ring as compensation and arloom for losing his father and brother in the battle. At the time nobody knew what it would mean if the ring is allowed to endure so Elrond AGREED and let him keep the ring. After some time Isildur realized the ring was starting to take over him and even though he had shown great resistance to it he had the foresight and modesty to realize he cannot fully control it. He was on his way to give the ring to Elrond for safe keeping and ask him for advice when he was ambushed and killed by orcs. In the books Aragorn is not only not ashamed but actually quite proud to be Isildur's heir and shouts his name as a battle cry when charging into battle.

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

Thank you for sharing your insights about some of the lore! I'm a sucker for lore and this one goes deep!

[@drivers99]

Me, whenever I pack up to go somewhere quickly: “Hobbits really are amazing creatures.”

[@lorig-ski]

I know Tolkien never could have imagined his amazing books being translated to film, especially with this magnitude! As a huge fan of the books (I started with The Hobbit in 6th grade 1982) I will say that the #1 reason the films look the way that they do is because Tolkien spent PAGES just describing scenery and characters! Seemed extraneous while reading, but everything in these films looks exactly how I imagined! It's unreal what an amazing job they did!

[@gustonzimasheen]

So glad you chose to watch the Extended Edition of this. Always love your insights throughout, and conversations afterwards.

[@Hanmieson]

When boromir almost touches the ring at the meeting and gandalf gives this "little" speech, is FCKIN AWESOME.

[@TheBlackbirdFly]

A an example of Masterclass filmmaking. I watch these movies every single year without fail.

[@AlphariusDominatus]

"There is only 1 Lord of The Ring. Only 1 who can bend it to his will. And he does not share Power." That scene gives brief and subtle glimpse between the veil between The Ainur and The mortal dilemma

[@CummyPancakes]

Maiar rather than the Ainur.

[@attackmanatee02]

I could watch people's first ever reactions to the balrog all day long. The music while it chases and the reveal of it are one of my favorite moments in cinema. It instills so much fear in the audience. Still upset i never saw it in theaters

[@WarKrieg]

I normally dislike and avoid mixed reactions (when one person has already seen the movie) because I think the interaction between two newbies is critical to a good reaction, but you guys are so great I am genuinely excited for this. LFG! 🔥

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

Aw that's such a huge compliment to us, thank you!!! We hope you enjoy our video!! LFG!!!

[@carpediem9750]

Same

[@Ernwaldo]

She was actually great at keeping tight lipped, at least until the scene(s) had passed, avoiding spoiling anything. Impressive, quite… 😉

[@AngusKhan21]

I feel the exact same way.

[@aussiejed1]

@@Ernwaldo Just a knowing look to camera. :)

[@timlois]

So glad two of my favorite reactors are doing my favorite movie series. One thing to point out that I see a lot of reactors miss. In the books, 17 years actually pass between Bilbo's party and Gandalf's return to inform Frodo that it's the one ring. So Bilbo is actually 128 years old when we see him reunited with Frodo in Rivendell. So it wasn't exactly instant aging per se.

[@D2jspOFFICIAL]

Dont be ashamed of tears. that is the good shit everyone went through watchning these fantastic movies

[@blitzgirl6522]

I was 11 when this came to theaters. To say this trilogy had an impact on me would probably be an understatement. I then went out and got the book (Fellowship, Two Towers, Return of the King in a single volume), and read it all. I've collected so many of Tolkien's books in the 2 decades since, and books about the movies and Funko Pops, and even got autographs from several actors. The Lord of the Rings (extended edition) film trilogy are definitely my comfort films, and I've rewatched the making of behind the scenes stuff countless times. It's all so fascinating and inspiring. I am so excited to see you go on this epic adventure!

[@user-blob]

Ok, I’m only half way through this reaction but felt I had to comment already. I’ve been subbed to you guys for a while now and was extremely happy to see you were watching these amazing films. You’re one of my favourite reactors and I had high expectations. You’ve surpassed them tenfold! I’m loving Denise’s looks to camera so as not to give anything away 😊 I love your appreciation of the score, which is superb! I love your knowledge of films that allows you to notice just how insanely well made these are, in every department. Thanks for the entertainment so far. I’ll be with you all the way 💚

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

Aw man! Thank you for the massive compliment and for watching this with us. There’s so many elements to this film that are extremely well done! And there’s so much to love. It’s a pleasure getting to share this experience with all of you! ❤️

[@angelavm84]

I don´t think there will ever be something like LoTR. It was massive and for a while it seems like earth came together in loving these movies. It still is a brilliant work of art. Timeless.

[@vermithax]

Seeing Denise mouth the words to poem/curse on the ring was adorable. And of course the knowing looks to the camera are wonderful. It's so much fun when you two get to see movies that you can enjoy with the same degree of enthusiasm we have.

[@babycarrot7256]

One thing that makes these movies so good is that all 3 were filmed at the same time. That means that the story, dialogue, and everything was already made. Lots of sequels suffer because they are only made due to success of the first film, and then producers and directors get influenced to add/take out things depending on fan reactions (i.e. having Aragorn do something out of character because he became a fan favorite and producers pushing more scenes for him). The care and diligence taken was second to none. Crazy thing about the trilogy is that everyone has their own favorite of which of the 3 they like the best. That’s just the quality that each film has. Unbelievably, many consider the next 2 films even better than the one you just watched. It’s crazy.

[@Arda-bz5je]

i love this. you guys are so intelligent and compassionate and it's so clear how much you actually love and appreciate movies and art. thank you.

[@joshuacoldwater]

The next to last scene with Frodo holding the ring over the water, the music cutting in, and Gandalfs voice- that breaks me… every time. This is a film that EVERY single actor and actress not only showed up for, but they did their best acting. Liv Tyler to Orlando Bloom (his first film btw). There were ZERO missteps in this film.

[@di3486]

Gandalf’s quote: “all you have to decide is what to do with the time that is giving to you” is what inspired me to be where I am now. No details but I am living my dream because of it. Also, the reason it doesn’t feel like you saw CGI is because there is minimal CGI here, all effects were mostly practical.

[@MatthewJamesKalasky]

7:00 I remember the old DVD we had for the movie. The box came with a map like that, and for each of the trilogy, there was a line that showed Frodo's journey.

[@stephenfitzgerald9769]

Watching Boromir tank those arrows is always simultaneously heartbreaking and manly for me. A coworker got me into bow-building in college and the truth is that war bows are _scary!_ A high draw-weight English longbow hits with more energy than a .44 Magnum at close range and those arrows are sometimes up to 1/2 inch in diameter. The prospect of getting hit once by that is terrifying. The fact that Boromir took three arrows before he went down makes him a beast!

[@Makkaru112]

In the books he was hit by 16 to the back and 9 to the front

[@bmxdoe]

From yew bows as large as a man's bow

[@Makkaru112]

I love your display picture avatar so much. ❤️

[@stephenfitzgerald9769]

@@Makkaru112 thank you, I appreciate that! Don’t remember where I picked it up, but I’d never dream of replacing it.

[@lezivanerrol3697]

The only surviving Long Bows were found on the Mary Rose - Henry VIII's principle warship ship which was sunk after French action. Modern bowmen can't fully draw some of the recovered bows. Medieval yeoman were bought up from an early age to wield the bow - It was compulsory. Took years of practice for skilled archers to fully draw the strongest bows. The phrase "Put you back into it" was allegedly referring to the method of drawing Long Bows.

[@mav2knight]

Over 20 years old and still one of the best movie trilogies of all time. JRR Tolkien was a genius and wrote the story between 1937 and 1949. I've read The Hobbit, The Lord of the Rings along with The Silmarillion and The Fall of Numenor. Masterful but you don't have to read thousands of pages to appreciate the movies which are somewhat different than the books but the main themes are still consistent. In fact, while many love Star Wars or Harry Potter, IMHO, this is the triology+ (or more) that all must be measured against. Once you are through with all 3, you'll know why JRR Tolkien is so beloved and revered to this day. Star Wars are wonderful stories and supreme movies, Lord of the Rings is also a compilation of great stories but also a mission with a majesty of creativity and multiple plots and themes that make you fall in love with it and if you get more involved, the history of Middle Earth and all the ages it encompassed. Enjoy !!!

[@Ernwaldo]

Agree. I read Tolkien in the mid-1970s, a couple years before seeing the original Star Wars film upon its initial release. Love Star Wars universe, don’t get me wrong, but nothing will ever supplant Tolkien’s world.

[@ovyto6267]

My favorite part in the whole score of the trilogy will always be “The Uruk-Hai”💪🏾😎 And my favorite quote of this film is: “I gave you the chance of aiding me… willingly. But you… have elected… the way OF… PAIN!!” Another detail, the day Frodo wakes up on Rivendell this first time, is my birthday😎

[@fenzirulfr]

Galadriel's hair is deeply significant and is a call back to in the Silmarillion. Galdriel's hair is said to shine with the light of the Two Trees (the first source of light in Tolkien's universe). Feanor, the guy who made the Silmarils (a very NB elven king who is Galadriel's half uncle) begged her three times for a strand of hair so that he could use it in his gem crafting and she denied him three times. Her gifting three strands is the ultimate sign of peace between elves and dwarves who have had a tumultuous relationship since the waking of the dwarves

[@alpacka18]

Thank you for saying it better than I could, I always loved this part of the history and lore of LOTR

[@Nerveroxis]

The Two Lamps preceded the the Two Trees and were what the Valar came together to make to give light to the world. It was after Melkor destroyed these and the landscape changed that the Valar founded Valinor and created the Two Trees. Doesn't change the weight of what Galadriel gave Gimili, just a little history fyi.

[@myroselle6987]

In the book Gandalf has left a kind of “introduction” to Aragorn at the Prancing Pony. “All that is gold does not glitter. Not all those who wander are lost. The old that is strong does not wither. Deep roots are not reached by the frost.” A rhyme written by Bilbo in honor of his friend…

[@Makkaru112]

Wasn’t that Bilbo’s song about Aragorn ? Which is why it being in ROP is the weirdest thing. It’s a poem about Aragorn specifically haha. 😅😂❤

[@myroselle6987]

@@Makkaru112In the book I believe that Gandalf leaves it in a letter for Frodo at the Prancing Pony. The “poem” is written by Bilbo in honor of his friend but Gandalf uses it here. He’s trying to assure Frodo that Aragorn is genuine. It’s been a minute since I’ve read it but it makes sense. He’s saying that Aragorn is more than what he appears to be…. Edit: I went back and read this part again. Gandalf left the letter in Bree to be taken to Frodo at Bag End but it doesn’t work out that way. Gandalf is giving instructions to Frodo about going to Rivendell and meeting Aragorn on the way. “Make sure it’s the real Strider. There are many strange men on the roads. His true name is Aragorn”. And then he adds the poem. I’ve just always loved the poem…

[@ninjatoriumnova2483]

But the second verse is about Aragorn (or a heir of Isildur in general).

[@colleenross8752]

From the ashes, a fire shall be woken A light from the shadows shall spring Renewed shall be blade that was broken The crownless again shall be King

[@myroselle6987]

@@ninjatoriumnova2483Absolutely… and I probably should have included the second part in my original post. It’s just that the first 4 lines have always meant so much to me. For me, the first 4 lines refer to looking below the surface and remember that all is not as it appears. Strider is presented as a ranger and not as he actually is. Anyway, the whole thing is beautiful and I love it. Plus, the second verse is said in the films so people would have a better chance of knowing it. The first part isn’t mentioned……

[@renediffie]

One of my favorite moments of the trilogy is in Rivendell when Boromir is speaking about Gondor and you vaguely hear the theme of Gondor in the background. I think it perfectly signifies an amount of planning and care that we'll never see again in any sort of media. LOTR is truly unique.

[@Saxonygal]

I absolutely loved your reaction, Ari! I also am so happy about how appreciative and invested you are in every aspect of the story, from the score and world building to the character arcs and their motivations! Can't wait for you to see the rest of the story unfold, it's absolutely worth it! One of my favorite facts has to do with Orlando Bloom (who played Legolas). He was cast in the Lord of the Rings trilogy 2 days after he graduated from Guildhall Drama and Music in 1999, and traveled from London to New Zealand to begin filming. This was the first major film role of his career. Talk about a strong start!

[@jannaromine5908]

It's so hard to believe it was 50 years ago when I read these books! I was 19 and head over heals in love with Stryker❤ My brother had a great dog he named Bilbo. So miss those times!

[@harleyw]

Denise, you deserve some kinda award for your amazing job not giving anything away during the reaction...

[@OfficialMediaKnights]

Haha thank you so much, it was SO DIFFICULT to not give anything away 😂

[@harleyw]

It is precisely because of that difficulty that I truly feel your effort to let Ari have his first reaction to this masterpiece be unspoiled is a wonderful measure of your spirit and of your friendship with him. Everyone should have their 'Sam'. 😊

[@WraithWTF]

"Wow, this looks so good!" Welcome to the power of practical effects and prosthetics...using real actors with makeup and prosthetics on real sets (with the occasional real dagger being thrown at you) will just about always create a better performance than any green screen or CGI will. Yes, Galadriel's gift to Gimli (and Legolas's knowing smile) is extremely significant, in an Easter Egg "if you know you know" sort of way...the reader's digest version is this: Galadriel was considered one of the most beautiful of the elves, and she was approached 3x by an elf named Feanor, widely considered the greatest of all elven craftsmen, each time he asked for a single strand of her hair to add to his creations. She refused all 3 times, knowing his intentions were impure and his heart corrupted by pride. The fact that she would gift 3 strands to a random Dwarf like Gimli, whose heart was humble and pure, is mind-blowing for elves, and is why Legolas is smiling to himself after Gimli tells him. Gimli would protect those strands, and they would eventually be encased in a jeweled structure made by the greatest of Dwarven craftsmen as an heirloom treasure of their people.

[@allenporter6586]

I think another part is Galadiel's history from the 1st Age and her connection to Menegroth and how it fell. For her to gift anything to a dwarf, let alone something as personal as strands of her hair shows her growth and wisdom and the foreknowledge that no matter how the quest ended, the time of the elves and magic in Middle Earth was ending.

[@kentonbaird1723]

Casual enjoyer: "He asked for one of her golden hairs and she gave three. what an amazing gesture between these two peoples that have been shown to have issues with one another." Fantasy junkie viewer: "Wow, it's very much like how a lady would give a token to the knight she believed in! It says so much without saying too much!" Silmarillion reader: "I HAVE SO MUCH TO TELL YOU ABOUT THIS SCENE, YOU HAVE NO IDEA!"

[@kristianthaler6525]

They should have put it in a cake.

[@domidium]

CGI was always meant to ENHANCE other kinds of effects, not replace them.

[@pavelsfik]

The reason why the Fellowship failed after Gandalf's death is that he bears one of the three Elvish rings, which inspires hope in men. But you won't find out about that in the movies. Also, the fact that Galadriel gave Gimli her hair has tremendous symbolism because when her uncle (the greatest smith of all time) asked her for it several times, she refused him.

[@DaSaltyCracka]

First things first, thank you for not breaking into two parts and releasing them days apart!! This is in my estimation, the greatest trilogy ever made. That’s coming from a lifelong Star Wars fan.