I was hoping that was the case (regarding yourself). But as we are on the subject, what are your major complaints/worries?

I know many are violently upset that Bombadil is being cut (I realize that at this point all of this is conjecture, but this seems to be a pretty solid rumor). As for this choice, I expected it. Although Bombadil is a fantastic character and a favorite of mine, as long as the Hobbits get the Numenorean "knives" somehow, then very little about the LOTR is really changed. Now some will argue that Bombadil is vital to the story, but I must disagree. While he certainly got the Hobbits through the Old Forest when none other could help, things could be fudged here and the main story would not be altered. And as you know they are going to have to edit some elements (for length), why not Bombadil (as much as I will miss him)?

But Eomer? And Eowyn as Queen, killing Wormtongue after he murders Theoden? Now that worries me! It seems needless and will make some bothersome changes necessary. I also do not see how it will save on time as scenes in Rohan are still vital and must be shot. While removing Bombadil allows for the removal of a whole chapter, cuting Eomer and meddling with Wormtongue, Theoden and Eowyn does not.

AS for Arwen's heightened role, that too I expected. One thing the LOTR lacks, from a "selling" standpoint is a strong and involved female character. Some have considered it the great weakness of his novels. So I anticipated such an addition to the screen, and am not surprised that they chose Arwen. I just hope that it does not change the nature of Aragorn's character and his role in the fellowship. This addition presents some room for potential damage to the storyline and integrity, but if done properly, it might not be as bad as some fear.

What are your thoughts?