Remember, the Movies Are Not Just For Us!
Andrew Z.

Let's face it, it would be absolutely impossible to portray each character or turn of events in any novel, let alone Tolkien's epic series!. Characters like Tom Bombadil and Arwen are undoubtedly important, and play important parts.

The average Tolkienphile would like to see these characters portrayed; if for no other reason than to satisfy their curiosity, (Compare your imagined image of the character with that of another). However, the movies are not being made solely for those of us who know the intricacies of the story. If someone who is unfamiliar with the novels, sees the movie, and feels compelled to run right out to buy the book then I say fantastic!.

As to the Barrow Wights, I would like to see them (To satisfy my curiosity!), but there are scores of dark creatures in Middle Earth, and to be honest the story is pretty heavy. To the un-initiated, the Dark Riders alone should be plenty evil. They still make the hair stand up on the back of my neck whenever I re-read the series.