on RoP are frequently shifting between my excitement for an adaptation and my frustrations with its weaknesses. Granted, is it really THAT bad? I mean, I not only watch every episode the day they come out, but end up watching them 1 or 2 more times with my boys and friends. Yes, they are far from perfect, and could be so much better if they embraced more of Tolkien's world as he wrote it and not as they change it, but they're obviously good enough to keep me engaged, entertained, and even appreciating parts of it that are done well. I mean, the music is THE best score EVER to any TV show or miniseries, the visuals are just gorgeous (I mean, I get the chills every time it actually shows Eregion), and it has good moments.

As I've always said, I'd rather have a mediocre adaptation than no adaptation at all. I will relish every opportunity to visit Middle-earth, warts and all. I'm pretty much in line with Nerd of the Rings and his take on RoP. His reviews and assessments are spot on with my own feelings. Men of the West is far more harsh, but also another of the most trusted Tolkien scholars out there. He does a great job pointing out the significant departures from Tolkien's world and writings. I'm much more generous in my appreciation of the show than Men of the West.