I just saw it tonight. I thought it was FANTASTIC!!!!! I think it's way better than the first one although I loved the first one too. I don't think I can wait another year for the conclusion. I haven't read the books, so I can't say what was true to the book and what was creative license, but I really, really enjoyed it.
I liked Gollum/Smeagol. I felt sorry for him, and he was hilarious when he was fighting with himself. But since I haven't read the books I don't know where he got the name Smeagol? Why is he called that? Can anyone help me out?

I just saw it tonight too and loved it. It was funny when Sam was talking to Frodo about wondering if people will remember this story in the future... everyone in the theater lauged at that. I think I liked this one better than the first just because the pace of the movie moved quicker since we were already introduced to the principle characters. I am definitely looking forward to seeing the final part.

My "Quick Version" of 2 Towers
 

AAAAAAAAGGGGGGGGHHHHH NOOOOO GANDOLF!!!!
Gollum is freaking me out.
Oh look, they're fighting.
Oh look, they're still fighting.
Oh, they quit fighting.
Awww poor Gollum!
Oh look, they're fighting again!
Oh. They're still fighting.
Oh wait, they quit again.
Hey wait! Who's that chick?!? That's not Arwen!
They're fighting again.
STILL FIGHTING.
Okay. They quit.
No Gollum! Keep being nice!
*sigh*
Guess I'll wait to see the fighting continue in Return of the King...
Actually, I loved it, but like the first one better. I haven't read all the books, so I didn't know to expect the fighting.

Crystal