December 3, 2003

Faramir Was Defamed!
dwian

seriously, if you have read the book there are some things you just do not expect to see in the films
-Sam solving riddle of Moria gate
-Legolas dropping something down the well
-Aragorn losing his sword
-Gandalf falling off Shadowfax
& Faramir kidnapping Frodo & Sam.
In the Book Faramir states categorically "not if i found it on the highway would i take it". It might seem reasonable to doubt these words, after all even Gandalf & Galadrial are tempted by the Ring, why not Faramir? However Faramir was wise enough not to test himself against what he knew was evil. His 'quality' was further demonstrated when he decided to let Frodo & Sam go even though he had no motivation to do so. I think he displayed a distinct lack of intelligence in the film as he actually has to see the Nazgul to be convinced to do the right thing. PJ apparently takes Elronds view that all men are weak. I prefer Boromir's words "there is weakness, there is frailty but there is courage also and honour to be found in men". Faramir is indeed both courageous and honourable. His words were not idle or empty ones but backed up by his actions. I was keenly disappointed in his portrayl although not so much as Frodo. I still think Frodo would never have given the ring to the Nazgul (not without a terrific struggle anyway).