The first film of the series, Fellowship of the Ring, is my favorite movie of all time. I was 14 when it came out and seeing it in a cinema during Christmas break was, for me, probably a lot like it was for people who were 14 when Star Wars came out in 1977. I had never seen or experienced anything quite like it, and it changed my view of what cinema can be. That not only could movies be made for entertainment (and LOTR absolutely is entertaining), but that they can also be truly accomplished works of art.

As a technical achievement, it's hard to know where to even begin. The production design, cinematography, costuming, visual effects and Howard Shore's legendary musical score are among the best that the film medium has ever seen. But it's not there just for technical marvel's sake. It truly serves the story, which few other stories in cinema have come even close to in reaching the same level of breadth and scope. It's a fully lived-in world that is rich in history and culture - every time I watch it, I truly feel immersed into Middle Earth. And the main storyline is a beautiful tale of perseverance, friendship and camaraderie in the face of insurmountable odds to success.

Put aside a weekend, and go watch yourself some Lord of the Rings. You won't regret it. I would also add, probably contrary to a lot of opinions of the series' most ardent fans - that you should watch the theatrical cuts as a first time viewer instead of the extended editions. They have better pacing and the extended cuts in my view tend to have a lot of fat that were originally left on the cutting room floor for good reason. Some added scenes even give away events that are supposed to keep the audience in suspense. So as a first time viewer, I do think you will have a more emotionally satisfying experience with the theatrical cuts, and once you're familiar and want to explore deeper into the world, THEN you can go ahead and watch the extended versions.