10 Reasons Why The Lord of the Rings Is Hollywood's Greatest Achievement

5. Music

In a movie with this many distinct characters, locations, and civilizations, getting the right composer was essential. Luckily, not only did Howard Shore deliver a score that perfectly enhanced everything seen on screen, but he also created one of the most memorable film score in movie history, and one of the few that doesn't lose its effectiveness when listened to by itself. Just minutes into The Fellowship of the Ring, the audience is treated to the unforgettable Concerning Hobbits, while later on the movie gives us The Bridge of Khazad-dûm, Amon Hen, and the gorgeous Breaking of the Fellowship. The Two Towers gives us themes for civilizations like Rohan and the Ents and the Return of the King ties it all together musically while adding even more great stuff. Every civilization has their own distinct musical quality and each moment is brilliantly underscored and supported by the music. In many ways, The Lord of the Rings soundtrack is its own colossal masterpiece with over 10 hours of music recorded for the trilogy. Not only does the music work brilliantly in supporting the film, it stands outside it as one of the best works of modern classical music.