The Lord of the Rings (BBC Radio Collection)

I don't envy the actors in the forthcoming films the prospect of trying to follow this production. Iam Holm steals the show, William Nighy (such an under-rated actor) adds wonderful comic relief, the late Robert Stephens gives a powerful performance which I can only compare to Burton's best and Michael Hordern and Peter Woodthorpe ARE Gandalf and Gollum.

Think of the price in terms of CDs - the cost of 3 or 4 CDs for 13 hours of outstanding entertainment - a bargain. I bought this years ago and have never regretted it for a moment.


One of the finest adaptations ever, with an ensemble cast   May 11, 2001
 18 out of 18 found this review helpful

I remember reading the Fellowship of the Ring at school. My friend had the three volume book, but I thought I would start with the first and see how it went. I was captured, and have been enchanted ever since with the mythological world of Middle Earth. But, it was not until I had listened to this box set that I realised, for instance, how great was the suffering of Frodo, and indeed how bittersweet the ending really is. I don't think that this can replace the text, but owning it will compliment the books tremendously, and act as an appetizer to the upcoming movies. Enjoy!


EXCELLENT - The Best Adaption you'll find anywhere   December 5, 2000
 11 out of 11 found this review helpful

I originally heard this about five years ago, and listening to it again, it just gets better. The price may seem steep, but it is worth it. I originally heard this after I had read the books, and of course there are things you feel shouldn't have been left out, but putting what they did in 13 hours you will not be disappointed. All the actors are great, but I must single out Ian Holm for his performance, the emotions he can convey in his voice and the way he delivers his lines are excellent.

I just hope the upcoming movies can equal this, but I somehow doubt it.


The Definitive Lord of the Rings !   October 30, 2000
 13 out of 13 found this review helpful

I was lent this recording by a friend at the age of 11 and I knew I had to get my own copy as soon as possible . What can I say - the atmosphere of Middle-Earth is conjured up brilliantly with help from a superb soundtrack , and despite others' gripes about the omission of certain chapters , I really do believe that this cannot be bettered . The stunning performances from a cast of Britain's finest actors really make Tolkien's epic tale come alive - the only problem now is that nothing will measure up to it ! Much as I am looking forward to the film version , it's just a shame this cast can't be used - each of the actors IS their character as far as I'm concerned , and anyone else just wouldn't seem right . Buy it now - you won't regret it . 13 hours of high-class , gripping drama - what more can I say ? Tolkien would be proud .


BBC Radio Drama's Finest Hour?   April 2, 2000
 4 out of 5 found this review helpful

It doesn't get much better than this. In 13 hours the entire story is told in rich and vivid detail that captures the essence of the books more completely than any other version - and I've heard a few. Very wisely they do omit the embrassing Tom Bombadil chapter. The all-star cast give mesmerising performances with Ian Holm in particularly fine form. If you never read the books, never hear anything else by Tolkien - hear this.