March 8, 2004

Re:i Never Knew, By Brett C.
Dunedan

I myself have many nits to pick, and agree with most of what he wrote, but in an attempt to have the movie sit better with us all, I will try to iron out and justify a few "nits". The last 3 he mentioned, to be exact.

The "one shot kill" of the Mumak can be expained with the possibility that the arrow managed to go straight into the eye of the beast, penetrating it's brain. This would be in line with what was written in the book about bold archers approaching the monsters to aim for the eyes, the weak point. Since we do not exactly see where the arrow strikes, it's safe to assume that this is what happened... although Legolas seems to be shooting at an angle somewhat awkward for this purpose, I must confess. Also, don't forget that he is now using a better bow than the one he used on the Moria cave troll, the archer's equivelant of an "elephant gun"?

It's not surprising that Gandalf was outfitted with fresh duds at Imladris (aka Rivendell). After all, he is a consummate wanderer, and a welcome and frequent guest at most Elven communities. Also, don't forget that everything in Middle Earth is hand-made, and the Elves in particular are skilled in textile craft. It would be an easy thing for them to create new robe, hat, and staff for their beloved Mithrandir.

Regarding Elrond sending out his daughter (his two sons seem forgotten in the movies, unless it is they who are depicted are reforging Anduril) against the Nine... I think it was Arwens love and concern for Aragorn rather than a "mission" per se that sent her out, although in the book Glorfindel does indeed seek out the party at the behest of the half-elven.