# What is the best Lord of the Rings movie?

> Breathtaking trilogies, beloved animated originals, and sprawling prequels — Middle-earth has been brought to life on screen in more ways than one. Which film is your personal favourite?

*By YPB Team · Published May 12, 2026 · https://youpick.best/ranking/what-is-the-best-lord-of-the-rings-movie*

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## Current results (0 votes)

1. **The Fellowship of the Ring**
   Peter Jackson's 2001 masterpiece that introduced Middle-earth to a new generation, following nine companions setting out to destroy the One Ring.
2. **The Two Towers**
   The 2002 middle chapter featuring the Battle of Helm's Deep and the unforgettable introduction of Gollum as a fully realized CGI character.
3. **The Return of the King**
   The 2003 conclusion that swept eleven Academy Awards including Best Picture, culminating Middle-earth's epic saga with the siege of Minas Tirith.
4. **An Unexpected Journey**
   The 2012 first Hobbit film following Bilbo Baggins on a grand adventure with thirteen dwarves to reclaim their homeland from the dragon Smaug.
5. **The Desolation of Smaug**
   The 2013 Hobbit sequel featuring the thrilling barrel-river escape and the company's showdown with the magnificent, terrifying dragon voiced by Benedict Cumberbatch.
6. **The Battle of the Five Armies**
   The 2014 Hobbit finale that delivers the titular epic battle and brings the prequel trilogy to its bittersweet end, connecting back to the Fellowship.
7. **The Lord of the Rings (1978)**
   Ralph Bakshi's pioneering 1978 animated adaptation using rotoscoping to bring the first half of Tolkien's saga to life for a pre-Jackson generation.

Tags: fantasy, movies, franchises, classics