Big Tolkien fan here. Loved the books. Loved the original trilogy. The hobbit trilogy was disappointing...
So far, I think this series is awesome. Incredible production value, on par with lotr trilogy. I like a slow burn and story arc, rather than episodic action, and it seems like that's what this show is going to be. The first two episodes are mainly just setting the stage and introducing characters, but the stage they're setting is awesome. I don't understand all these haters whining about the show. Don't watch it if you don't like it, but quit trying to ruin it for everyone else. Some of us are excited for new lotr media with a budget worthy of the lore.