The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (2002)

With the help of a mysterious creature named Gollum, Frodo and Sam get closer to reaching Mordor. Meanwhile, Aragorn and the others try to help the people of the village of Rohan. They must band together if they're going to have a chance of defeating Saruman's army. Sequels to successful films are not easy to pull off and often disappoint. If that's difficult, then imagine the pressure of making a sequel that picks up where the first left off. Not only would you want to recreate some of what fans loved, but you'd also want to take things further.

The first film has it's share of dark moments, but is actually the lightest in tone of the trilogy. In The Two Towers however, the stakes are higher and the mood is darker. The addition of the Gollum/Smeagol character really helps in this area. In fact, the scenes featuring him are some of the most compelling of the film. As great as the first film is, this chapter is even better in some aspects. In other words, if you were blown away by Fellowship, this one just might knock the wind out of you.

Except Ian Holm, the entire main cast from the film film returns for this one. Again, everyone gives an amazing performance and the chemistry is still there. Newcomers like Brad Douriff and Miranda Otto are welcome additions, proving they too are acting forces to be reckoned with. As for director Peter Jackson, he continues to do his job with a steady hand. It's still hard to believe this is the man responsible for the wonderfully wacky Bad Taste. Plus, he and writing partners Fran Walsh, Philippa Boyens and Stephen Sinclair have written another beautiful script.

Howard Shore composes the score again and doesn't disappoint. It has great range and compliments the various scenes very well. The effects, all across the board, are nothing short of breathtaking. Characters like Gollum and the Ents are done completely with CGI, but look frighteningly real. The costume and set designs are also impressive, like the palace of Rohan and the wardrobe of it's people. There are so many costumes and the attention to detail is amazing.

Those expecting to see more epic battle scenes this time out won't be disappointed. You'll find some really exciting, well staged ones later on in the film. It's great to see both sides put up a good fight, utilizing some powerful weapons like the catapults. Those who love a good sword fight will see a little bit of that as well. The good news is that these are not the only entertaining moments in the film. Clocking in at nearly the same running time as it's predecessor, The Two Towers flows at a good pace for the most part.

When film's are 2 hours or longer, one may worry whether or not it'll hold interest throughout. The first film is nearly 3 hours, yet has a pace that makes it feel shorter. This is true of this film as well, but with the difference of it dragging in the middle. It's not big deal, but you may find yourself checking the time a couple times. The second of the Lord of the Rings trilogy did something so rarely accomplished by a first sequel/follow-up: it's even better than a great first film. How could they possibly top it?

10/10