All Comments on 'Orli Fixated'

Being that I am certainly of that aforementioned group that's surely shamed the Tolkein legacy by fixating so obsessively with this minor aspect of the film adaptation, I can say this with generally unbiased grace: I agree with Helena's (if I should be so bold as to abbreviate) observation. This Orli crazy has reached astronomical proportions, to the point of nearly compromising the dignity of Tolkein's masterpiece.

But, in as much as this Orli-mania might have detracted something from this otherwise brilliant, classic story, hasn't it given back in a way?

If not for the millions of fans out there who have found something to really latch on to in the way of this visual contribution to Legolas' character (not to mention the other phenomenal representations), then Tolkein's universe might not have been so endlessly expanded.

Fan fiction, fan art, even the commercial popularity of the original texts themselves have soared as a result of Peter Jackson's tribute.

Personally, I've written a few fanfic's myself. I don't know if this is something I'm necessarily proud of, more like a guilty pleasure if you will. It's something most women over the age of 14 feel a little strange admitting out loud.

I'm not necessarily writing this as a negative response to Helena's piece, more like an extension.

The Orlando hype is ridiculous at best, but isn't it so much fun at 3am?

It's like being part of a super-secret society. One that exists exclusively online that unites countless people (women, the occasional man, and otherwise) in a mass, fictional adoration of this... well... fictional creation really.

I understand what you mean and agree completely!! I've been reading Tolkien since I was ten. My mother used to read me The Hobbit as a bedtime story instead of whiny little childrens books. Yet after seeing the first in the trilogy, I stumbled out of the movie theater completely obsessed with Orlando Bloom. I'm afraid my obsession is here to stay, as I have seen every movie he has been in since and gone to the trouble to seek out a british tv episode he played a minor role in. (Midsomer Nights or Murders, if you want to know.) I'm 26 and buying magazines for 14 year olds because they have a picture or article of HIM. It's embarassing. For some reason, he's just obsessable. And there's nothing you can do about it!