I loved the books and like the films but there was a funny sketch on TV here in the UK over Christmas where the in-laws had been forced to share the son in laws LOTR obsession by watching the movie on DVD.

Ma and Pa in law finally get to bed and she says that she has never been so bored in her life. Pa in law says "Why did they have to make the film so long?"
Ma in law replies " It's because they all speak so slowly and deliberately.... I .....am......Gand..alf....the.... White.... If they all spoke at normal speeds the entire film would only be an hour and a half!"

I suppose you had to see it but I thought it was hilarious (and more than a little true!)

Best wishes
Tony