What is the best The Lord of the Rings movie?

Which Tolkien adaptation is the greatest film in Middle-earth's history? From Peter Jackson's Oscar-sweeping Return of the King to the beloved animated classics, rank every journey into the world of hobbits, elves, and dark lords.

1

The Return of the King

Peter Jackson's 2003 Oscar-sweeping finale, winning all 11 Academy Awards it was nominated for including Best Picture.

2

The Fellowship of the Ring

The 2001 epic that launched the trilogy, introducing viewers to Middle-earth through Frodo's first steps toward Mount Doom.

3

The Two Towers

The 2002 middle chapter featuring the Battle of Helm's Deep, widely considered one of the greatest battle sequences ever filmed.

4

The Desolation of Smaug

The 2013 Hobbit sequel featuring Benedict Cumberbatch's terrifying voice work as the dragon Smaug and the Mirkwood adventure.

5

An Unexpected Journey

The 2012 Hobbit opening chapter that recaptures the spirit of Tolkien's lighter tale and sets Bilbo Baggins on his grand adventure.

6

The Battle of the Five Armies

The 2014 Hobbit finale centering on the climactic war for the Lonely Mountain and the tragic resolution of Thorin's gold sickness.

7

The Lord of the Rings (1978)

Ralph Bakshi's groundbreaking 1978 animated adaptation covering the first half of the saga, using innovative rotoscoping techniques.

8

The Hobbit (1977)

The beloved Rankin/Bass 1977 animated TV movie that introduced a generation of children to Tolkien's world through hand-drawn animation.

9

The Return of the King (1980)

The 1980 Rankin/Bass animated TV sequel completing the story with memorable musical numbers including 'Where There's a Whip, There's a Way.'