We appreciate you guys, for all your support, so don't forget to hit that subscribe button, it really motivates us to keep up the content. And of course if you are interested in the full reaction, you can find us here : www.patreon.com/takeaticket (You can find the latest uploads of the shows we are watching and much more) Much love Rob and Trin
In regards to Gollum, what Rob said was "This isn't a guy in a suit"... that is exactly what Gollum is. It's Andy Serkis acting all of it with CGI that was way ahead of it's time. I really recommend you guys check out some of the behind the scenes regarding Gollum as it's really detailed and amazing.
When Rob said that, this was my exact thought! I was like, "Well... actually... " lol Andy Serkis is a literal genius in his acting. No one else could've brought Gollum to life like he did.
Same :) I thought, "Well...". Andy Serkis deserves as much praise as we can give him. What an incredible performance. Movements and voice are both iconic.
If I recall, these movies revolutionized the use of mocap. When James Cameron saw The Two Towers in theaters, he knew his dream story “Avatar” can finally be made.
They used a variety of techniques, AS in a suit for reference and to get the acting right. But he was usually removed digitally in post, or they took another shot without him. Then mocap in a studio (alone) for the rough body and face animation and finally keyframe animation for the detailed finish. Then they pasted the animated Gollum into the scene. That is if I remember the bts correctly, it’s been a while.
So when we see the Three Dudes chasing the Orcs across Rohan, we have Legolas with a broken rib from falling off his horse, Gimli's scale double with a dislocated knee, and Aragorn with a broken toe. True professionals all...
Trin: "Is it okay if I find [Gollum] cute?" Rob: "No." HOW DARE YOU, SIR! Trin is very much allowed to think Gollum is cute. Because he kind of is. Sometimes.
When I was 10 years old, I had so much empathy for Gollum/Smeagol that I would dislike Sam for being such a bully. I absolutely love Sam but I can't help but wondering if Sam would have been more supportive of Smeagol, could there be a possibility for redemption ?
@@louginko4432 Hard to tell. On their first encounter with Gollum he tried to murder them in their sleep so how could Sam trust him or think he deserved a better treatment? Plus, Smeagol had already done pretty awful things (fishing scene… won’t say anything further just in case I spoil it for them) when Gollum didn’t even exist, and then spent years and years ‘feeding’ that creature of Gollum and letting it become his main personality - which was in him all along. And if you remember the end of the trilogy when Frodo tells him “Smeagol promised!” and Smeagol answers “Smeagol lied”. Have a look at the scene in this one when Smeagol promises not to kill them and to take them to Mordor, he actually promises it “on the precious”. In conclusion none of his personalities are redeemable.
@@louginko4432 It's insane how culture has simplified to the point where any harsh treatment towards another is regarded as bullying. Harsh treatment is necessary in society to protect the vulnerable (Frodo), and to discipline the weak (Gollum/Smeagol).Weak individuals need to be treated harshly or else they will corrupt the vulnerable. Weak individuals will NEVER better themselves without discipline. Sam represents discipline, Frodo represents empathy. (Gollum/Smeagol) would have needed both empathy and discipline to work in tandem to be redeemed.
About Gollum "in a suit", you're both right and wrong. Andy Serkis was wearing a motion capture suit, so in a way it is a guy in a suit as well as a whole CGI creature. Basically everything he said and does is captured with Andy Serkis, who set the bar for motion capture work with this series. Edit; Also Viggo Mortensen broke his toe when he kicked that helmet, so his scream is of real pain. Peter Jackson decided it was the best take, so they kept it in the movie. Edit2; Also, Gollum don't know what their errand is yet, regarding the ring. He's got no idea they intend to destroy it, and all Frodo asked for was "To lead them to the black gate", so he did.
One of the reasons these movies are so good is that so many people involved with it were lifetime fans of the books. The actors kept copies of the books with them as they filmed and would put in little things from the books that weren't in the script but which they knew lifetime fans would notice. In the behind-the-scenes material, Sean Astin mentions this and gives the example of Sam reaching out to take Frodo's hand when Frodo woke up in Rivendell. These movies were a labor of love, and it shows.
In all fairness to Gollum, they didn't ask him to show the way into Mordor. They asked him to take them to the black gate. He did what they asked. They didn't ask for a way in, just a way to the black gate.
19:21 As to the questions of why the Nazgûl didn't use their fell beasts to fly everywhere in the first place: huge flying beasts are not exactly inconspicuous. Traveling by horse may take longer, but it's much less likely to attract attention from, say, the Elves or the Dúnedain (Aragorn's people). Secondly, the fell beasts are animals - monstrous animals to be sure, but living creatures nonetheless - and can certainly be wounded and killed by normal means (unlike their riders). It's also important to note that the prior encounters with the Ringwraiths all took place in the north, many miles closer to the Elven stronghold of Rivendell than to Mordor or any other stronghold of the Enemy.
In the LOTR wizards aren't just humans with magic. The best comparison is to angels. They were 'sent' by higher power. So therefore Gandalf was 'sent back' by that same higher power.
So true, the artists coming every day to sketch out new concept art, a couple of guys who's entire job for the movie production was to make chainmail, the horse riding extras, costume sewers, sword and armour makers, the actors, the set designers, everyone absolutely cared about their role and it comes together in such a perfect way.
In the book, we get this conversation between two of the Orcs that have captured the Hobbits: "Nazgul, nazgul," said Grishnakh..."You speak of what is deep beyond the reach of your muddy dreams, Ugluk...You ought to know that they're the apple of the Great Eye. But the winged Nazgul: not yet, not yet. He won't let them show themselves across the Great River yet, not too soon. They're for the War--and other purposes."
Watching this in NYC on opening night with a raucous ringer crowd (we were all going absolutely batshit over the opening scene with the Balrog part deux) was one of the more memorable cinema experiences I've ever had.
Fyi, Gollum is a "guy in a suit," Andy Serkis in a motion capture suit. He's really there, interacting with the other actors, kicking up rocks, stepping on grass, etc. They improved the technology after the first movie, and Gollum doesn't slide around as much. He wasn't first, but Andy Serkis' performance started a Mo Cap revolution.
The original book was one novel and had 6 main sections that was published in 3 volumes for various business reasons. Hence the same kind of reasoning for the movies. They are best thought of as one movie filmed together but released in 3 calendar years (24 month time gap).
When Aragorn, Gimli, and Legolas are first brought before the "white wizard", it definitely sounds like they either used the late Christopher Lee's voice completely, or blended it in with Ian McKellen's, to sustain the trick/impression that it was Saruman. Gandalf coming back as "Gandalf the White" represents his unveiling of more of his true self.
Yay! Part 1/3 of TT. Just yesterday, my son went to the theater to watch FOTR, extended edition, on the big screen. It was a matinee showing, and he said the theater was packed.
I'm so glad you got to see Gandalf the White in this part! He was never pretending to be Saruman, he was being referred to as the White Wizard so people just assumed it was the bad one. Also, you might recognize the dude poisoning the King's mind, that's Brad Dourif. He's been a well known character actor for decades. He played Chucky in all the Child's Play movies, but I'll always remember him as Billy Bibbit from my favorite film of all time, One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest 👍
Another very enjoyable reaction video guys. I lol when you described Gollum as a ‘drama queen’. I used the exact same phrase a couple of days ago when chatting with mates about that particular scene. I think most people have a love/hate attitude towards Gollum tbh. Andy Serkis really did a fantastic job of bringing complexity to his CGI character. Love your LOTR t-shirt and backdrop map btw. Going the extra mile with presentation. Much appreciated by Tolkien nerds.
Believe it or not but Gimli was played by actor John Rhys-Davis who stands at 6' 2" IRL making him one of the tallest cast, Most of the scenes you can see him distanced from the others (at the back) to masked his height diffrence
Gollum is an endearing character, but still untrustworthy. Andy Serkis did an outstanding performance of the wretched creature. The screech of the Nazgul is so chilling. I love the gloom of Fangorn Forest. The right actor was chosen to play Wormtongue (who whispers in the King's ear). The first time I saw Brad Dourif was in Dune in the 80s. Thank you, guys, for continuing this epic tale.
The neat thing about this trilogy is it was all filmed as one movie. And that’s a huge plus for me because the costume and make up stay consistent. Often in sequels there are sudden changes and improvements because “hey our last one was a success! More money bigger budget” here they filmed it all in one go and I think even the cast was able to feel and portray the marathon of this amazing story.
Again, just want to say y'all are my faves, and can't wait for the next part. I'll reiterate that I think y'all would love to see the entire documentary-type thing the did on the making of the movies, though it's super long, but it really does bring a whole new appreciation for these films. In fact, if yall did a reaction for those I would actually love that! It would be a new idea as well, never seen anyone else react to the Appendices. I know yall have a tight schedule, so its probably not even possible, but it would be a neat idea I think. Glad y'all are enjoying this so much!
"so he did go toe to toe with the balrog" you'll remember back in fellowship, gandalf says "this foe is beyond any of you," not "this foe is beyond any of us." he knew he could beat it, but it might cost him dearly.
Once again, I've really enjoyed rediscovering these films with you guys, thank you 👍. Some more background info for you: The Wizards (there were 5 originally) are actually angel like spirits known as Maia sent to Middle Earth by the Valar (or Gods, under Eru, The One) to advise & guide the peoples against Sauron. They have taken the guise of old men. Gandalf's real name is Olorin, but he is known by the Elves & higher races of men as Mithrandir. Saruman's real Maian name is Curunir. Sauron & the Balrog are also Maia, albeit fallen angels. In the book we meet a 3rd Wizard, Radagast the Brown, more at home in the wilds & friend to birds & beasts. In "Fellowship" Gandalf meets him on the road to Isengard & asks him to tell all his animal & bird friends to bring news to him & Saruman. This is how he escapes. Gwarhir, Lord of the Eagles, comes to bring news to Isengard as requested by Radagast but, finding Gandalf prisoner carries him away to safety instead.
I’m loving y’all’s reactions to these movies! Cannot wait for the other two videos, the excitement you two show is infectious and I find myself anticipating the next release!
Gandalf fought the Balrog for TEN days straight. This is a microcosm of the War Of Wrath in the first age that lasted 40-80 years and back then time was very different back then as I’ll remind people!! Two Maiar/Ainur they literally are duking it out one on one without causing major catastrophe which is also why the Valar don’t get involved anymore super directly/overtly as they care too much about the world and the children of Illuvatar!! ❤❤❤❤❤. The Balrog is essentially Gandalf/Olorin’s brother as one of the myriad of Maiar and ultimately the main beings they ultimately are called Ainur!
Rob: "Why didn't [the ring wraiths] fly from the beginning?" No clear answer, but I would assume because that would have drawn way too much attention and Sauron didn't assume it was needed, as he basically sent 7 killing machines after a hobbit. Why risk showing your full power, when you just need some dudes on black horses at most?
This is the best trilogy ever made and still holds up today. Can you imagine how insane this would all look if it were made today using today's technology for CGI and what not?
honestly, I don't think it would have changed much. Smeagol/Gollum might have been marginally cleaner, and the movie would have cost much less to produce, but I don't see the final product looking much more "insane".
"oh you clever little hobbit" you're going to be saying that a LOT in this series. fun fact- when Aragorn kicks the orcish helmet and screams... he broke 2 toes on the kick. during the chase sequences of gimli aragorn and legolas running after merry/pippen... they had to run thru the mountains in NZ, but.. orlando had cracked ribs, viggo had 2 broken toes, and the scale double for gimli had dislocated his knee the day before (falling off a horse)
It’s hard to not gush about how great this movie is. Every description I can think of is full of superlatives. Looking forward to your further reactions to the rest.
In Tolkien’s lore, there are three subspecies of hobbit: the Harfoots, the Fallohide, and the Stoors (which Amazon completely bungled in their “Rings of Power” series, partly due to licensing issues with the word “Hobbit” and the rest of Tolkien’s work). The Harfoot are the most numerous and the smallest in stature, and this subspecies is what Frodo, Bilbo, and all the other Shire hobbits are. They have an agrarian lifestyle of farming and raising livestock. Very very far North of the Shire are the Fallohide, the least numerous and sort of like Scandinavian hobbits, in that most have blond hair, blue eyes, and they are tall for hobbits, standing around 5ft tall with lanky builds. They subsist on primarily hunting and gathering. The “Riverfolk” are the Stoors, standing between the Harfoots and Fallohide in height, living alongside rivers and in swamps. They’re like Cajun hobbits. They mostly fish and farm things that grow in those environments, and they’re the only type of Hobbits that will occasionally wear shoes/boots.
Read more of Tolkien's notes. The Tooks are descended from Fallohides, and the Brandybucks from Stoors. Most hobbits in the Shire are mixed, like you'd expect such a population to be.
I have watched all 3 parts now and I wanted to comback to leave a Thank You. I enjoyed this reaction a lot. The more I watch all of the 3 films, the more I fall in love. They are true masterpieces.
It’s rumoured that they would have given Best Picture to all three based upon how strong FotR was, but they didn’t want three years of dominance from the one franchise; it might have made some studios alter their releases.
"So the Shire is safe, and everything else is dangerous." I see you've picked up on one of Tolkien's themes. Tolkien modeled the Shire after the English countryside from his childhood. He viewed it as the purest form of living.
That's right but it was also protected by Elves and Rangers like Strider against upcoming evil. They saved the borders of the Shire and were alltime connected to Gandalf while investigating around Mordor, Gondor and so on like a network. So they knew Gollum was prisoner in Mordor.
@does humor belong in music? Right. I do believe that Tolkien knew that his ideal English countryside was so perfect because of the sacrifices of so many people to keep it that way. He was a soldier in WWI and was also a part of WWII, and you can see a lot of parallels in his writing. Almost like he was trying to process everything he had experienced.
@@joshuawiedenbeck6944 Yes, I know he was a soldier in ww1 and kind of agent (not like Bond but information service/forgot the name of the organization) in ww2. Oh Jesus, it's 45 years since I read the hobbit, lotr and silmarillon. I'm old now, but from time to time I read some of my fav chapters of lotr. And I love the movies. Thanks for your response
@does humor belong in music? - -Spoilers- -spoilers- -spoilers- People always like to cite that Tolkien hated allegory and that his writings didn't directly represent anything from real life. But given quotes like Frodos after he returns to the Shire, there's no way that the wars didn't influence his writing: "How do you go on, when in your heart you begin to understand... there is no going back? There are some things that time cannot mend. Some hurts that go too deep." Really heavy stuff.
@@joshuawiedenbeck6944 Spoiler... Yes Spoiler... We're Spoiler... Talking Spoiler... About Spoiler... P Spoiler... T Spoiler... S Spoiler... D You're right, that's very hard stuff.
Gandalf was "sent" back to finish his task, which is tolight a fire in the heart of men. Hence his "magis" almost always has to do with fire. There is a a higher power for good at work behind the scenes. Eru Illuvatar, the One Father.
Dead Marshes connect to Legolas’ grandfather Oropher; a detailed battle that happened before it became the marshes and Legolas’s father and grandfather took part in this and were to join in the last alliance after that war took place that waylaid their people. His grandfather Oropher died there and it sunk very deeply with his Father Thranduil who literally is still rather haunted by it.
@@anangelcalledtoday8750 during the same era. There is a few lore videos out there that literally describe every movement. Using mobile avatar images across the map scape and everything 🎉. They were to come across a different road as a battle tactic to sideline the enemy at the main front upon the black gate. I believe it took place within Mordor itself as the poem song about it Gil Galad. Elendil and Gil Galad slayed Saurons physical body which sent his Fëa spirit away which is what leads to the whole necromancer thing in the hobbit.
Andy "Gollum" Serkis also voiced some of the Uruk-hai and orcs and got to a say lines like "We've had nothing to eat but maggoty bread for three stinking days.."
hey Rob and Trin, been watching all your walking dead stuff from episode 1 and also your more recent lord of the rings stuff. really enjoying your reactions! they make me smile 🙂
When Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli are chasing after the Uruk-Hai, Viggo had a broken toe, Orlando had a broken rib and Gimli's stunt double had a messed up knee.
*There and Back again:An Actor's Tale* by Sean Astin and *Gollum:How we made Movie Magic* by Andy Serkis books contain a lot of Behind the scenes about the filming if the Trilogy🎬
In the scene where Aragon kicks the head away and screams he was REALLY screaming because the actor Vigo broke his foot when he kicked the head away and so used the pain to scream!
I think regarding the horses vs fell beasts thing with the ringwraiths, early on Sauron still wanted a little bit of subtlety, getting the Nazgul all the way to the Shire without attracting too much attention, just some suspicious riders in black cloaks, but once they were defeated near Rivendell he manifested new forms for them and gave them more effective mounts for the war to come. And also how they can patrol a greater area of the borders of Mordor faster on flying beasts, as Sauron gets more paranoid. Stealth vs Strength, knowing which to apply in different situations
Trin, you have all the permission in the world to find Gollum cute, his childlike innocence is a large part of his character. When I say he is an innocent, I don't mean he is incapable of evil or bad behavior, but he seems unable to understand the consequences of his actions. He sees everything from his own perspective and is stuck in that childlike mindset of everything revolving around him, his wants and his needs. A very fascinating character. I'm so looking forward to the rest of the Two Towers and the Return of the King, thank you for some great videos.
Watch Andy Serkis making of Gollum! Or better watch the whole making of it's beautiful and also funny... These shots are amazing, New Zealand is breathtaking.. Peter Jackson is also a Kiwi..
The Dead Marshes are based on a WWI battle that is infamous: the Battle of the Senne. Poor Elijah Wood. When he falls into the water in the Dead Marshes, he's going face first into what amounts to a kiddie pool in a parking lot. He admits in the commentary that he's lucky that he didn't get hurt.
Andy Serkis deserved every accolade he got for playing Gollum, but a note: Gollum was NOT totally CGI, they had Andy do mation capture and act out all those scenes. If yall watched the Extened verision of the Fellowship you should have seen the conversation between Gandalf and Frodo where he tells Frodo about Smeagol/Gollum's past and Name
I'm gonna wait for part 2 to be uploaded first before watching. I really love yourself reaction to the The Fellowship of The Ring and am starting to check out all your reactions to movies as well as TWD
there was some one in a suit playing Gollum (Andy Serkis) and they motion captured him so most of the time he was in a green spandex jump suit covered in white dots ! he also did the voice and had to have a concoction he called "Gollum juice" (honey ,lemon, ginger, I think) as his throat would get sore doing the voice!
The quality of the filmmaking stays remarkably consistent in large part because principle photography was all done together in one extended. multi-year shoot.
When I was a kid and my parents read me the books including The Hobbit, I remember being confused as to how Gollum was so strong when he was so small lol. I do remember him being a bit more sinister as well heh. My mother hasn’t passed on or anything, but a lot of her memory has gone. I was thinking I’ll always associate these books with my mother. Truly a Tolkien aficionado! Heh.
We appreciate you guys, for all your support, so don't forget to hit that subscribe button, it really motivates us to keep up the content.
And of course if you are interested in the full reaction, you can find us here : www.patreon.com/takeaticket (You can find the latest uploads of the shows we are watching and much more)
Much love
Rob and Trin
7:00 That's SIRUP ... and it was as disgusting as it looks.
In regards to Gollum, what Rob said was "This isn't a guy in a suit"... that is exactly what Gollum is. It's Andy Serkis acting all of it with CGI that was way ahead of it's time. I really recommend you guys check out some of the behind the scenes regarding Gollum as it's really detailed and amazing.
When Rob said that, this was my exact thought! I was like, "Well... actually... " lol Andy Serkis is a literal genius in his acting. No one else could've brought Gollum to life like he did.
Same :) I thought, "Well...". Andy Serkis deserves as much praise as we can give him. What an incredible performance. Movements and voice are both iconic.
If I recall, these movies revolutionized the use of mocap. When James Cameron saw The Two Towers in theaters, he knew his dream story “Avatar” can finally be made.
I was gonna say this this too, it is a guy in a suit lol, Andy Serkis doing the movements
They used a variety of techniques, AS in a suit for reference and to get the acting right. But he was usually removed digitally in post, or they took another shot without him. Then mocap in a studio (alone) for the rough body and face animation and finally keyframe animation for the detailed finish. Then they pasted the animated Gollum into the scene. That is if I remember the bts correctly, it’s been a while.
So when we see the Three Dudes chasing the Orcs across Rohan, we have Legolas with a broken rib from falling off his horse, Gimli's scale double with a dislocated knee, and Aragorn with a broken toe. True professionals all...
"Until at last i threw down my enemy, and smote his ruin upon the mountainside."
Gandalf coming in with one of the all time badass lines of cinema.
No spoilers, but it's not Tolkien's only all-time line. Many more to come.
You know you're epic when you solo a balrog, and shatter an ancient mountaintop throwing him down after slaying it.
Huuuge flex.
There is a reason so many metal bands were inspired by Lord of the Rings back in the 70s and 80s.
Aragorn's legendary scream at 14:20 is that convincing because the actor Viggo Mortensen actually broke his toe while kicking the helmet.
Thank you, I was looking for The Toe Fact!
It had to be said :)
“One does not simply let someone watch Lord of the Rings for the first time without bringing up this fact.”
traditions! let it be known that his toe broke!
Trin: "Is it okay if I find [Gollum] cute?"
Rob: "No."
HOW DARE YOU, SIR! Trin is very much allowed to think Gollum is cute. Because he kind of is. Sometimes.
Sméagol tends to be the “cuter” one
When I was 10 years old, I had so much empathy for Gollum/Smeagol that I would dislike Sam for being such a bully. I absolutely love Sam but I can't help but wondering if Sam would have been more supportive of Smeagol, could there be a possibility for redemption ?
@@louginko4432 Hard to tell. On their first encounter with Gollum he tried to murder them in their sleep so how could Sam trust him or think he deserved a better treatment?
Plus, Smeagol had already done pretty awful things (fishing scene… won’t say anything further just in case I spoil it for them) when Gollum didn’t even exist, and then spent years and years ‘feeding’ that creature of Gollum and letting it become his main personality - which was in him all along.
And if you remember the end of the trilogy when Frodo tells him “Smeagol promised!” and Smeagol answers “Smeagol lied”. Have a look at the scene in this one when Smeagol promises not to kill them and to take them to Mordor, he actually promises it “on the precious”.
In conclusion none of his personalities are redeemable.
@@louginko4432 It's insane how culture has simplified to the point where any harsh treatment towards another is regarded as bullying. Harsh treatment is necessary in society to protect the vulnerable (Frodo), and to discipline the weak (Gollum/Smeagol).Weak individuals need to be treated harshly or else they will corrupt the vulnerable. Weak individuals will NEVER better themselves without discipline. Sam represents discipline, Frodo represents empathy. (Gollum/Smeagol) would have needed both empathy and discipline to work in tandem to be redeemed.
Gollum is motion capture not CGI as such. Andy Serkis is in effect Gollum.
About Gollum "in a suit", you're both right and wrong. Andy Serkis was wearing a motion capture suit, so in a way it is a guy in a suit as well as a whole CGI creature. Basically everything he said and does is captured with Andy Serkis, who set the bar for motion capture work with this series.
Edit; Also Viggo Mortensen broke his toe when he kicked that helmet, so his scream is of real pain. Peter Jackson decided it was the best take, so they kept it in the movie.
Edit2; Also, Gollum don't know what their errand is yet, regarding the ring. He's got no idea they intend to destroy it, and all Frodo asked for was "To lead them to the black gate", so he did.
One of the reasons these movies are so good is that so many people involved with it were lifetime fans of the books. The actors kept copies of the books with them as they filmed and would put in little things from the books that weren't in the script but which they knew lifetime fans would notice. In the behind-the-scenes material, Sean Astin mentions this and gives the example of Sam reaching out to take Frodo's hand when Frodo woke up in Rivendell. These movies were a labor of love, and it shows.
In all fairness to Gollum, they didn't ask him to show the way into Mordor. They asked him to take them to the black gate. He did what they asked. They didn't ask for a way in, just a way to the black gate.
Traveling with Gollum is like traveling with a toddler who’s also a crackhead 😅
19:21 As to the questions of why the Nazgûl didn't use their fell beasts to fly everywhere in the first place: huge flying beasts are not exactly inconspicuous. Traveling by horse may take longer, but it's much less likely to attract attention from, say, the Elves or the Dúnedain (Aragorn's people). Secondly, the fell beasts are animals - monstrous animals to be sure, but living creatures nonetheless - and can certainly be wounded and killed by normal means (unlike their riders). It's also important to note that the prior encounters with the Ringwraiths all took place in the north, many miles closer to the Elven stronghold of Rivendell than to Mordor or any other stronghold of the Enemy.
In the book, Legolas did shot down a Nazgul on wing preventing him to show up at Amon Hen. Damn wish they would've put that in the movie now.
In the LOTR wizards aren't just humans with magic. The best comparison is to angels. They were 'sent' by higher power. So therefore Gandalf was 'sent back' by that same higher power.
I think one of the reasons these films are SO good is because you can tell how much love and care went into every scene.
So true, the artists coming every day to sketch out new concept art, a couple of guys who's entire job for the movie production was to make chainmail, the horse riding extras, costume sewers, sword and armour makers, the actors, the set designers, everyone absolutely cared about their role and it comes together in such a perfect way.
The ringwraiths didn't fly the first time because they were on a stealth mission to the Shire.
In the book, we get this conversation between two of the Orcs that have captured the Hobbits: "Nazgul, nazgul," said Grishnakh..."You speak of what is deep beyond the reach of your muddy dreams, Ugluk...You ought to know that they're the apple of the Great Eye. But the winged Nazgul: not yet, not yet. He won't let them show themselves across the Great River yet, not too soon. They're for the War--and other purposes."
Watching this in NYC on opening night with a raucous ringer crowd (we were all going absolutely batshit over the opening scene with the Balrog part deux) was one of the more memorable cinema experiences I've ever had.
Treebeard (the talking tree) is based on C.S. Lewis (the author of Narnia) who was close friends with J.R.R. Tolkien.
Fyi, Gollum is a "guy in a suit," Andy Serkis in a motion capture suit. He's really there, interacting with the other actors, kicking up rocks, stepping on grass, etc. They improved the technology after the first movie, and Gollum doesn't slide around as much. He wasn't first, but Andy Serkis' performance started a Mo Cap revolution.
The original book was one novel and had 6 main sections that was published in 3 volumes for various business reasons. Hence the same kind of reasoning for the movies. They are best thought of as one movie filmed together but released in 3 calendar years (24 month time gap).
When Aragorn kicked the helmet, Viggo Mortensen actually broke his foot and channeled it into that scream
The great John Rhys-Davies (Gimli) also did voice for Treebeard
Aragorn is the BEST dirtdude of all, he can track anything...He is the G.O.A.T.!!!
When Aragorn, Gimli, and Legolas are first brought before the "white wizard", it definitely sounds like they either used the late Christopher Lee's voice completely, or blended it in with Ian McKellen's, to sustain the trick/impression that it was Saruman.
Gandalf coming back as "Gandalf the White" represents his unveiling of more of his true self.
They blended it
"The boss" sent Gandalf back to replace Saruman as The White, since Saruman f'ed up the job.
14:19 - when Aragorn kicks the helmet, he broke his toe. That's real pain when he yelled out.
20:59 - lightning from a sword: a D&D classic. 😉
There are a series of documentaries they did about how they made the films. Not all CGI a bit too early for that. Mostly practical.
Yay! Part 1/3 of TT. Just yesterday, my son went to the theater to watch FOTR, extended edition, on the big screen. It was a matinee showing, and he said the theater was packed.
As it should be.
I'm so glad you got to see Gandalf the White in this part! He was never pretending to be Saruman, he was being referred to as the White Wizard so people just assumed it was the bad one. Also, you might recognize the dude poisoning the King's mind, that's Brad Dourif. He's been a well known character actor for decades. He played Chucky in all the Child's Play movies, but I'll always remember him as Billy Bibbit from my favorite film of all time, One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest 👍
Rats! You beat me to it. Great range as an actor. Played both Billy Babbit and Wormtongue. Geatly overlooked.
One flew over the cuckoo's nest is one of my alltime favs, but it took me ten times LOTR to recognize Billy as Grima.🙄
Another very enjoyable reaction video guys. I lol when you described Gollum as a ‘drama queen’. I used the exact same phrase a couple of days ago when chatting with mates about that particular scene. I think most people have a love/hate attitude towards Gollum tbh. Andy Serkis really did a fantastic job of bringing complexity to his CGI character. Love your LOTR t-shirt and backdrop map btw. Going the extra mile with presentation. Much appreciated by Tolkien nerds.
I can never get enough of Eomer! I 💗 Karl Urban...ever since he was Caeser in Xena!!😊
When Aragorn kicked the helmet, Viggo actually broke his toes. That scream is the pain he experienced. Notice the delay. Made for an excellent scene.
this must be the most posted comment on YT lol 😁
@@Aereton Cool.
Once you learn this fact you can’t help but repeat it
I've waited for this comment 😆
this has gotta be the most known 'fun fact' in movie history
I'm fairness to gollum, Frodo specifically said "take us to the black gate", not "take us into mordor".
Believe it or not but Gimli was played by actor John Rhys-Davis who stands at 6' 2" IRL making him one of the tallest cast, Most of the scenes you can see him distanced from the others (at the back) to masked his height diffrence
watching these is a lot easier than committing to the three hours after you've already seen it. can't wait for parts 2 and 3! :)
You guys are really becoming my favorite reactors. I feel like I'm hanging out with you while watching. Keep this up
Gandalf told the party to flee so he could kill the special boss, keep all the loot to himself and level up
Gollum is an endearing character, but still untrustworthy. Andy Serkis did an outstanding performance of the wretched creature. The screech of the Nazgul is so chilling. I love the gloom of Fangorn Forest. The right actor was chosen to play Wormtongue (who whispers in the King's ear). The first time I saw Brad Dourif was in Dune in the 80s. Thank you, guys, for continuing this epic tale.
It’s John Rhys Davies doing Treebeard’s voice, but I agree with you on the awesomeness that is Brad Dourif. :)
One reason Wormtongue looks so creepy is that they had Brad Dourif shave his eyebrows for the part.
The neat thing about this trilogy is it was all filmed as one movie. And that’s a huge plus for me because the costume and make up stay consistent. Often in sequels there are sudden changes and improvements because “hey our last one was a success! More money bigger budget” here they filmed it all in one go and I think even the cast was able to feel and portray the marathon of this amazing story.
Again, just want to say y'all are my faves, and can't wait for the next part. I'll reiterate that I think y'all would love to see the entire documentary-type thing the did on the making of the movies, though it's super long, but it really does bring a whole new appreciation for these films. In fact, if yall did a reaction for those I would actually love that! It would be a new idea as well, never seen anyone else react to the Appendices. I know yall have a tight schedule, so its probably not even possible, but it would be a neat idea I think. Glad y'all are enjoying this so much!
I will say you dont need to worry about a drop in quality. Every movie gets better and better.
My 2 year old goddaughter called me the ‘lovely big hairy hobbit’ the other day. So proud and pleased with that!
14:19 Screaming because he actually broke 2 toes kicking that
I'm surprised and disappointed Rob as MMO player didn't think of ages old joke about Gandalf "soloing raidboss and taking all the loot to upgrade"😂
"so he did go toe to toe with the balrog" you'll remember back in fellowship, gandalf says "this foe is beyond any of you," not "this foe is beyond any of us." he knew he could beat it, but it might cost him dearly.
Was going to wait for all 3. Couldn't avoid it. Now I want more. Anxiously waiting. You guys are awesome.
Once again, I've really enjoyed rediscovering these films with you guys, thank you 👍. Some more background info for you: The Wizards (there were 5 originally) are actually angel like spirits known as Maia sent to Middle Earth by the Valar (or Gods, under Eru, The One) to advise & guide the peoples against Sauron. They have taken the guise of old men. Gandalf's real name is Olorin, but he is known by the Elves & higher races of men as Mithrandir. Saruman's real Maian name is Curunir. Sauron & the Balrog are also Maia, albeit fallen angels.
In the book we meet a 3rd Wizard, Radagast the Brown, more at home in the wilds & friend to birds & beasts. In "Fellowship" Gandalf meets him on the road to Isengard & asks him to tell all his animal & bird friends to bring news to him & Saruman. This is how he escapes. Gwarhir, Lord of the Eagles, comes to bring news to Isengard as requested by Radagast but, finding Gandalf prisoner carries him away to safety instead.
Most of the Riders of Rohan were actually women with fake beards, that were cast because women with advanced riding skills were easier to find.
I’m loving y’all’s reactions to these movies! Cannot wait for the other two videos, the excitement you two show is infectious and I find myself anticipating the next release!
"What a drama queen". Gentle mirth.
Gandalf fought the Balrog for TEN days straight. This is a microcosm of the War Of Wrath in the first age that lasted 40-80 years and back then time was very different back then as I’ll remind people!! Two Maiar/Ainur they literally are duking it out one on one without causing major catastrophe which is also why the Valar don’t get involved anymore super directly/overtly as they care too much about the world and the children of Illuvatar!! ❤❤❤❤❤. The Balrog is essentially Gandalf/Olorin’s brother as one of the myriad of Maiar and ultimately the main beings they ultimately are called Ainur!
Hurry up! Don't let us wait to long for part 2. 😉
8:13 can't hear it without the song meme
Rob: "Why didn't [the ring wraiths] fly from the beginning?"
No clear answer, but I would assume because that would have drawn way too much attention and Sauron didn't assume it was needed, as he basically sent 7 killing machines after a hobbit. Why risk showing your full power, when you just need some dudes on black horses at most?
This is the best trilogy ever made and still holds up today. Can you imagine how insane this would all look if it were made today using today's technology for CGI and what not?
honestly, I don't think it would have changed much. Smeagol/Gollum might have been marginally cleaner, and the movie would have cost much less to produce, but I don't see the final product looking much more "insane".
"oh you clever little hobbit" you're going to be saying that a LOT in this series.
fun fact- when Aragorn kicks the orcish helmet and screams... he broke 2 toes on the kick. during the chase sequences of gimli aragorn and legolas running after merry/pippen... they had to run thru the mountains in NZ, but.. orlando had cracked ribs, viggo had 2 broken toes, and the scale double for gimli had dislocated his knee the day before (falling off a horse)
And rob and trin are the best
These movies were filmed in NEW ZEALAND and karl urban who play's billy butcher is a New Zealand actor this was his first big movie.
It’s hard to not gush about how great this movie is. Every description I can think of is full of superlatives.
Looking forward to your further reactions to the rest.
Really enjoying this LOTR journey with you! Can't wait for part 2!
In Tolkien’s lore, there are three subspecies of hobbit: the Harfoots, the Fallohide, and the Stoors (which Amazon completely bungled in their “Rings of Power” series, partly due to licensing issues with the word “Hobbit” and the rest of Tolkien’s work).
The Harfoot are the most numerous and the smallest in stature, and this subspecies is what Frodo, Bilbo, and all the other Shire hobbits are. They have an agrarian lifestyle of farming and raising livestock.
Very very far North of the Shire are the Fallohide, the least numerous and sort of like Scandinavian hobbits, in that most have blond hair, blue eyes, and they are tall for hobbits, standing around 5ft tall with lanky builds. They subsist on primarily hunting and gathering.
The “Riverfolk” are the Stoors, standing between the Harfoots and Fallohide in height, living alongside rivers and in swamps. They’re like Cajun hobbits. They mostly fish and farm things that grow in those environments, and they’re the only type of Hobbits that will occasionally wear shoes/boots.
Read more of Tolkien's notes. The Tooks are descended from Fallohides, and the Brandybucks from Stoors. Most hobbits in the Shire are mixed, like you'd expect such a population to be.
Been waiting for this one
Same
The flying Mounts for the Nazgul came with Patch 2.0. 😅
I have watched all 3 parts now and I wanted to comback to leave a Thank You. I enjoyed this reaction a lot. The more I watch all of the 3 films, the more I fall in love. They are true masterpieces.
18:47 The Tragedy of Smeagle will break even the Coldest Hearts.
After this one, you will definetly want to see the third! The second movie is my favourite of the series and the third won best picture!
It’s rumoured that they would have given Best Picture to all three based upon how strong FotR was, but they didn’t want three years of dominance from the one franchise; it might have made some studios alter their releases.
"So the Shire is safe, and everything else is dangerous." I see you've picked up on one of Tolkien's themes. Tolkien modeled the Shire after the English countryside from his childhood. He viewed it as the purest form of living.
That's right but it was also protected by Elves and Rangers like Strider against upcoming evil. They saved the borders of the Shire and were alltime connected to Gandalf while investigating around Mordor, Gondor and so on like a network. So they knew Gollum was prisoner in Mordor.
@does humor belong in music? Right. I do believe that Tolkien knew that his ideal English countryside was so perfect because of the sacrifices of so many people to keep it that way. He was a soldier in WWI and was also a part of WWII, and you can see a lot of parallels in his writing. Almost like he was trying to process everything he had experienced.
@@joshuawiedenbeck6944 Yes, I know he was a soldier in ww1 and kind of agent (not like Bond but information service/forgot the name of the organization) in ww2.
Oh Jesus, it's 45 years since I read the hobbit, lotr and silmarillon. I'm old now, but from time to time I read some of my fav chapters of lotr.
And I love the movies.
Thanks for your response
@does humor belong in music? - -Spoilers-
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People always like to cite that Tolkien hated allegory and that his writings didn't directly represent anything from real life. But given quotes like Frodos after he returns to the Shire, there's no way that the wars didn't influence his writing:
"How do you go on, when in your heart you begin to understand... there is no going back? There are some things that time cannot mend. Some hurts that go too deep."
Really heavy stuff.
@@joshuawiedenbeck6944 Spoiler...
Yes
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About
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You're right, that's very hard stuff.
When aregorn kicks the helmet the actor actually broke his toe and that's why he screams,and the director decided to keep that part in
I want to write it but at least some one wrote it
Gandalf was "sent" back to finish his task, which is tolight a fire in the heart of men. Hence his "magis" almost always has to do with fire. There is a a higher power for good at work behind the scenes. Eru Illuvatar, the One Father.
As a subscriber of your channel I am always privileged seeing your reactions and commentaries.
This Part is my favorite. Awesome fight and its getting better and better
Frodo's instructions to Gollum, before removing the Elven Rope from his neck, were "you will lead us to the Black Gate".
So he did.
Dead Marshes connect to Legolas’ grandfather Oropher; a detailed battle that happened before it became the marshes and Legolas’s father and grandfather took part in this and were to join in the last alliance after that war took place that waylaid their people. His grandfather Oropher died there and it sunk very deeply with his Father Thranduil who literally is still rather haunted by it.
Is that the battle from the beginning of the movie or a different one
@@anangelcalledtoday8750 during the same era. There is a few lore videos out there that literally describe every movement. Using mobile avatar images across the map scape and everything 🎉. They were to come across a different road as a battle tactic to sideline the enemy at the main front upon the black gate. I believe it took place within Mordor itself as the poem song about it Gil Galad. Elendil and Gil Galad slayed Saurons physical body which sent his Fëa spirit away which is what leads to the whole necromancer thing in the hobbit.
Great reactions from both of you! I'm with you for the whole ride!!
Andy "Gollum" Serkis also voiced some of the Uruk-hai and orcs and got to a say lines like "We've had nothing to eat but maggoty bread for three stinking days.."
Minxery is my new favourite word.
hey Rob and Trin, been watching all your walking dead stuff from episode 1 and also your more recent lord of the rings stuff. really enjoying your reactions! they make me smile 🙂
When Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli are chasing after the Uruk-Hai, Viggo had a broken toe, Orlando had a broken rib and Gimli's stunt double had a messed up knee.
Found your channel through walking dead and i just love you guys! 💗💗💗
*There and Back again:An Actor's Tale* by Sean Astin and *Gollum:How we made Movie Magic* by Andy Serkis books contain a lot of Behind the scenes about the filming if the Trilogy🎬
“So men are badass they just can’t go anywhere near the ring.” To me that is perfect analysis 😂
In the scene where Aragon kicks the head away and screams he was REALLY screaming because the actor Vigo broke his foot when he kicked the head away and so used the pain to scream!
I think regarding the horses vs fell beasts thing with the ringwraiths, early on Sauron still wanted a little bit of subtlety, getting the Nazgul all the way to the Shire without attracting too much attention, just some suspicious riders in black cloaks, but once they were defeated near Rivendell he manifested new forms for them and gave them more effective mounts for the war to come.
And also how they can patrol a greater area of the borders of Mordor faster on flying beasts, as Sauron gets more paranoid.
Stealth vs Strength, knowing which to apply in different situations
He led him there because that was what Frodo specifically asked for, the Black Gate.
The reason Gollum led Sam and Frodo to the Black Gates, was so they could see for theirselves how hopeless that way was.
12:30 Pippins hands are tied and when he turns over before the horse tramples him, they are untied.
Also after the ringwraiths lost there horses in the river...Sauron gifted them the fellbeast (dragon things)
Love this channel so much
Regarding Gollum and the Ring: Remember that he doesn't know they're out to destroy it, just that Frodo wanted him to lead them to The Black Gate.
Fine... you have my bow... and my 'like'... and my comment... and my subscription... nows cans we's haves the nexts parts?
Omg! This one is my favorite. The very best. Probably TMI but I totally identify with the Ents in this series.
Trin is just like my mom when it comes to Gollum XD
I’m not sure why I associate this series (The original trilogy) and the Harry Potter Series with Christmas but alas … here we are lol
All three films were released a week before christmas, so makes sense
Trin, you have all the permission in the world to find Gollum cute, his childlike innocence is a large part of his character. When I say he is an innocent, I don't mean he is incapable of evil or bad behavior, but he seems unable to understand the consequences of his actions. He sees everything from his own perspective and is stuck in that childlike mindset of everything revolving around him, his wants and his needs. A very fascinating character. I'm so looking forward to the rest of the Two Towers and the Return of the King, thank you for some great videos.
Watch Andy Serkis making of Gollum! Or better watch the whole making of it's beautiful and also funny... These shots are amazing, New Zealand is breathtaking.. Peter Jackson is also a Kiwi..
The Dead Marshes are based on a WWI battle that is infamous: the Battle of the Senne.
Poor Elijah Wood. When he falls into the water in the Dead Marshes, he's going face first into what amounts to a kiddie pool in a parking lot. He admits in the commentary that he's lucky that he didn't get hurt.
Andy Serkis deserved every accolade he got for playing Gollum, but a note: Gollum was NOT totally CGI, they had Andy do mation capture and act out all those scenes. If yall watched the Extened verision of the Fellowship you should have seen the conversation between Gandalf and Frodo where he tells Frodo about Smeagol/Gollum's past and Name
I'm gonna wait for part 2 to be uploaded first before watching. I really love yourself reaction to the The Fellowship of The Ring and am starting to check out all your reactions to movies as well as TWD
there was some one in a suit playing Gollum (Andy Serkis) and they motion captured him so most of the time he was in a green spandex jump suit covered in white dots ! he also did the voice and had to have a concoction he called "Gollum juice" (honey ,lemon, ginger, I think) as his throat would get sore doing the voice!
The quality of the filmmaking stays remarkably consistent in large part because principle photography was all done together in one extended. multi-year shoot.
when he says you shall not pass. it always sounds like he's saying choose Sauron's path . why Gandalf would be saying that to him I have no idea🤣🤣
When I was a kid and my parents read me the books including The Hobbit, I remember being confused as to how Gollum was so strong when he was so small lol. I do remember him being a bit more sinister as well heh. My mother hasn’t passed on or anything, but a lot of her memory has gone. I was thinking I’ll always associate these books with my mother. Truly a Tolkien aficionado! Heh.