In an industry where often the most celebrated pieces are those that resonate with audiences on a universal scale, Peter Jackson’s preference for The Return of the King as his favorite installment of The Lord of the Rings trilogy may come as a surprise to many. Known for its grand scale and the culmination of an epic saga, this film, according to Jackson, stands out not just for its cinematic grandeur but for its profound emotional depth.
The Emotional Climax of Tolkien’s World
During a candid interview with IGN, Jackson expressed his deep connection with The Return of the King, describing it as “biblical” and “wonderfully over the top and epic.” What makes this film particularly special to him are the poignant moments that bring the characters’ arduous journeys to a fulfilling conclusion. He openly shared how certain scenes were moving enough to bring him to tears, underscoring the intense emotional investment he had in the storytelling.
“It’s climactic. It’s got an ending! And it’s very, very emotional. … And I find it… Aw, well, there’s several places where I kind of had tears in my eyes. It’s biblical. And it has a kind of climactic sense to it. It’s wonderfully over the top and epic. And it’s as if at the same time really incredibly emotional. It’s a lot about courage. The Frodo/Sam element of the next film is a lot about guts and determination and courage, which I find quite affecting,” Jackson remarked.
A Unique Perspective Amidst Fan Divisions
While The Fellowship of the Ring and The Two Towers received acclaim for their exploration of Middle-earth, mixing the enchantment of Rivendell with the grim realities of war, The Return of the King was met with a slightly more mixed reception from the fanbase. The darker tones and complex narratives challenged some viewers, yet for Jackson, this complexity is what made the film his favorite.
The Legacy of Aragorn: Explaining His Extended Lifespan
An intriguing aspect of Jackson’s films is the portrayal of Aragorn, played by Viggo Mortensen, who, unbeknownst to some viewers, is characterized by a remarkable lifespan of 210 years. This longevity is rooted in Aragorn’s heritage as a descendant of the Númenóreans, a race of Men granted extended lifespans after the War of Wrath. Though not deeply explored in the films, this backstory enriches the character’s depth and the mythic qualities of the narrative.
Aragorn’s extended lifespan allows him to witness and influence significant events in Middle-earth, culminating in his coronation as King of Gondor. His rule marks a time of peace and stability, paving the way for his son, Eldarion, to inherit a kingdom much changed from the war-torn lands of his forefathers.
A Director’s Love for His Craft
Peter Jackson’s favorite film choice might not align with the majority of fan opinions, but it highlights a creator’s personal connection to his work. The Return of the King serves as a testament to the emotional and narrative heights that cinema, especially fantasy cinema, can achieve. It is a reminder that sometimes, the most profound connections to a work of art are not those of the many, but the deep, personal connections of the few — in this case, the very creator of these cinematic masterpieces.