Alright, just got home from the theater! Went to eat with some friends after seeing Legend of the Guardians, and the phrase of the evening was "visual masterpiece." This movie was one of the most beautiful things I've seen on the silver screen in a looong time.
I saw it in 3D. Actually, I'm pretty sure that it's only offered in 3D.. that's how it was at this particular theater anyway. But the extra few bucks was not wasted at all.
In addition to the visual aspect, something I pretty much anticipated, I was pleasantly surprised with a quite intriguing storyline. While the seasoned movie-goer could feel a bit like he was watching Lord of the Rings with an all-owl cast (maybe just because the lead character was voiced by Elijah Wood), I think that they did a good job of keeping the viewer interested.
One complaint I did have was the fact that Hugo Weaving, owner of one of the COOLEST voices ever, was barely in this movie. He was only in the first ten minutes or so.. and a little at the end. A little disappointing, personally, but not a detrimental factor to the overall movie.
My favorite scene (no spoilers) was where the main owl, Sauron (spl? also, LoTR ref?),was flying through the typhoon with drops of water pelting his insanely detailed feathers (see below).. serious goosebumps right there.
