Description:
Viewers with more than a passing familiarity with fantasist J.R.R. Tolkien will find this hourlong documentary a trifle at best. With only a handful of photos and locations at their disposal, the filmmakers rely on a host of talking heads to discuss Tolkien's life as well as the influence of his Lord of the Rings trilogy on popular culture. Biographers Humphrey Carter and Graham Rogers provide informative but sporadic commentary; their input is overwhelmed by more substantial interviews with such fringe elements as ex-Magnum vocalist Bob Catley, who sings Tolkien-inspired folk rock, and members of Dagorhir, who enact re
Viewers with more than a passing familiarity with fantasist J.R.R. Tolkien will find this hourlong documentary a trifle at best. With only a handful of photos and locations at their disposal, the filmmakers rely on a host of talking heads to discuss Tolkien's life as well as the influence of his Lord of the Rings trilogy on popular culture. Biographers Humphrey Carter and Graham Rogers provide informative but sporadic commentary; their input is overwhelmed by more substantial interviews with such fringe elements as ex-Magnum vocalist Bob Catley, who sings Tolkien-inspired folk rock, and members of Dagorhir, who enact real-life versions of medieval battles. Their largely vapid contributions only serve to further enhance the often-negative popular opinion of fantasy literature. The shot-on-video production is competently filmed, with many images capturing the simple beauty of the English countryside, but the lightweight content renders Master only marginally useful as an introduction to Tolkien's worlds. --Paul Gaita
John Ronald Reuel Tolkien never set out to become a pop icon. But almost 30 years after his death, he has ascended to heights previously reserved for pop stars. For hundreds of thousands, his vivid description of the enchanted land of Middle Earth--and the band of Hobbits, heroes and wizards who set out to save it--have evolved into more than just a fairy tale. Travel to Tolkien's hometown in England. Experience Dagorhir, where participants enact Dark Age battles. Watch Bob Catley perform music from his album "Middle Earth." Get a rare glimpse into the unique work of Roger Garland as he creates images reflecting the world of fantasy. 60 minutes.
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Manufacturer: Lions Gate
Release date: 4 December 2001
Number of discs: 1
EAN: 9781588174031 UPC: 031398788126
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