But what has finally emerged is a towering epic on par with the first three films in the series; a masterclass in fantasy filmmaking with some of the best, most authentic genre setpieces filmed this year. Say what you will about Jackson as a director, but no one can deny that his style and sensibility is perfectly suited to this kind of movie. He allows us to believe, for a fleeting moment, in a world populated by giant eagles and tree people that coexist with wizards, demons and elves. The movie is imbued with the same spirit of fellowship and brotherhood, as well as the humor and gravitas, that marked both the Tolkien works and the first series of films. I'm so glad to have these movies back, and I'm even happier to report that this first one makes me feel like we never left.