The latest film from the J.R.R. Tolkien series, “Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers,” is estimated to surpass the previous movie. Critics who have previewed the movie, set to open Dec. 18, warn that “Two Towers” picks up right where “Fellowship” left off. A quick recap from the first film would adequately prepare you to enter the theater to see yet another riveting fantasy from director Peter Jackson.

After the first of the series accomplished a gross of $860 million and 13 Oscar nominations, the public eye is eagerly anticipating the arrival of the newest part in this three series collection. Just second to “Harry Potter,” the “Fellowship” was one of the highest grossing films of 2001.

For those who are interested in seeing the best preview of the movie before it actually comes out, you can search for “Two Towers” at Yahoo!, and you will be able to locate a trailer of the movie in addition to theater times and locations.

The cast is comprised of Elijah Wood, who returns as the main character, Frodo Baggins, among other names like Sean Astin (from the movie “Rudy”), Sir Ian McKellan and Liv Tyler.

This three hour movie whisks you away on a quest as the hobbits journey into a world of evil to capture and destroy the ring, while others attempt to liberate the hobbits who have been seized by evil forces. Amidst all of the chaos, the wizard Gandolf returns to lend a hand in the face of danger.

The movie is rated PG-13 for its intense action and battle scenes. The two plots of this film (hence the “Two Towers”) are split among different scenarios and characters that will leave you guessing when you walk out of the theater. All loose ends should be tied up by the third installment.

If you are all wrapped up the in the fantasies of “Harry Potter” and “The Lord of the Rings,” then this movie should be at the top of your list to see over winter break. The fantasy film industry has American longing for more magical mystery with fantastic discoveries and scenery. The “Two Towers” craftily delivers.