Book Frodo vs. Film Frodo: A Comparative Analysis

It is always a fascinating task to compare the characters portrayed in literature and their film adaptations. One of the most prominent and beloved characters from J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings is Frodo Baggins. The real challenge arises when we must contrast Frodo's character between the book and Peter Jackson's film adaptations. This article aims to illustrate the differences and the impact of these changes on Frodo as a character.

Introduction

I first became familiar with The Lord of the Rings well before the release of the Peter Jackson films. When I was young, I watched the animated film by Ralph Bakshi, which left a lasting impression on me. My parents then brought the books to life by reading them to me at night. In 1978, I was enchanted by the 1978 film adaptation as well. Therefore, I approached the films by Peter Jackson with a broad understanding of both the book and the earlier films. Initially, Elijah Wood's portrayal of Frodo did not deter me, but after a certain point, the differences became too stark for comfort. Let's delve into the key contrasts between Book Frodo and Film Frodo.

Frodo's Age and Journey

The first significant difference lies in Frodo's age and the timeline of his journey. In the book, Frodo leaves the Shire seventeen years after Bilbo's disappearance and is already fifty years old. In the film, he leaves the Shire much younger, around thirty-three years old (the age of 33 was the age when Bilbo left for the Grey Havens). This significant difference impacts how we perceive Frodo's experience and his character development throughout the series.

Relationships and Character Dynamics

The portrayal of Frodo's relationship with Sam also differs significantly. In the book, Frodo and Sam's relationship is more akin to a master and servant. Although Frodo is kind to Sam, there is no real friendship initially. Their bond develops gradually during their journey to Mordor, much like a friendship that is built out of shared experiences. However, in Jackson's films, Sam and Frodo are depicted as best friends from the very beginning, which is a major departure from the book.

The Battle with the Nazg?l

One of the most memorable scenes in both the film and the book is the confrontation with the Nazg?l, particularly the Witch King. In the book, Frodo shows braver behavior though he is still trembling with fear and putting on the ring to reveal this intense emotion. He faces the Nazg?l with valor and even challenges the Witch King. Conversely, in the films, especially during the film "The Fellowship of the Ring," Frodo is presented as a much weaker character. He is shown trembling, peeing his pants, and even crying out for his mother, a portrayal that does not do justice to Frodo's true character.

The Adventure Across the River Bruinen

The scene where Frodo crosses the River Bruinen is another crucial moment where the portrayal drastically changes. In the book, Frodo crosses the river on his own, while in the film, it is Arwen who helps him. This difference not only alters the dynamics of the scene but also affects the perception of Frodo as an independent and capable character. Arwen's introduction in the film serves a dual purpose of adding drama and introducing a new character, but it also diminishes Frodo's role in the moment.

Leadership and Crisis

Near the end of "The Fellowship of the Ring," Frodo's role as a leader is particularly diminished. In the book, he is mentioned to have fought alongside the Fellowship against goblins and a cave troll in Moria, showcasing his bravery and strength. Meanwhile, in the film, he remains hidden and is often portrayed as a quivering, helpless character. This portrayal does not do justice to Frodo's character and robs him of the chance to demonstrate his true courage and leadership.

True Character Development and Disappointment

Throughout The Two Towers and Return of the King, Frodo does show some growth and development. However, his actions, especially when compared to the moments where the other Hobbits show significant character growth, feel inadequate and disappointing. In the film, he remains the same character who is frightened and petty until the very end. The fact that Frodo is consistently portrayed as a scaredchild detracts from the significance of his character and the importance of his journey.

Conclusion

Peter Jackson's portrayal of Frodo is, without a doubt, one of the most criticized aspects of the film adaptations of The Lord of the Rings. While Jackson's trilogy is a masterpiece in its own right, the lack of depth and character development in Frodo's portrayal feels like a missed opportunity. The potential of Frodo as a character, his growth, and his bravery are underutilized in the films, leading to a character that feels unfulfilled and underdeveloped. Despite the other strengths of the film series, audiences still feel a sense of disappointment and a desire to see Frodo develop more fully as he did in the original book.