witsend64

Not a classic to be sure, but a decent TV movie-of-the-week adaptation of the oft-filmed Conan Doyle novel. Although it departs somewhat from the book, all the essential elements of the story are there. The cast does its best, and Granger makes an interesting Holmes. It would have been nice to have seen him as the Great Detective in other movies; he really was a class act. As noted by others, Bernard Fox is a more than adequate Dr. Watson. The costumes and sets are also good for a made-for-TV production of this era. But that music! You'd think that with the entire Universal Studios library of music at their disposal, the producers could have chosen more appropriate themes and cues!

At about 72 minutes, this brief version of a classic mystery makes an enjoyable time-filler; suitable for family viewing.

Okay, here's the deal. I know all you rabid fans out there hate anyone who dare criticizes these movies, but, honestly, didn't anybody else find the third installment a bit slow? I mean, I actually looked at my watch a few times, which I didn't do during the first two episodes.

While the first two movies (but especially the second one) were truly awe-inspiring, I found myself getting real frustrated with the last one. For example, I counted at least three endings before we finally reached the real one. The battle scenes were good but seemed a little too clunky to me. I thought some panoramic views were needed. Now, the battle at Helm's Deep was absolutely incredible, but this one was, frankly, kind of boring. I missed an identifiable "bad guy", like Christopher Lee. I know about that silly firey eyeball-thing, but it was just too much, and it's destruction was a bit of a let down. And for goodness sakes, Mr. Frodo needs to grow some...nerve. I got so tired of his near-faints and blank stares and sudden recoveries! Sometimes these little Hobbits can climb like the dickens, and other times it seems as though they can barely move. I hate to say this, but I was secretly hoping Frodo was going to jump off the ledge into the lava with ring! At least his (and my) agony would have been mercifully over!

But, I have to say, with the exception of Master and Commander, this movie will be the best of the year. Perhaps one too many trips to the well, though.

Great spider, I have to say.

Okay, it's no classic, but it is pretty decent. The special effects were pretty decent, and the set design was terrific. I hated that awful music at end, though. And, as nice as they were, did we have to see that singer's breasts?

I wouldn't let the kids see this one--there are some disturbingly frightening and gory scenes here.