Eight ways they could have improved... The Lord of the Rings (Jackson films)

— Theoden isn't portrayed as wrong/short-sighted about retreating to Helm's Deep. Rather than a foolish act against Aragorn's advice, it is portrayed as the strategically wise decision it is in the books, and Aragorn fully supports it.

— Faramir isn't portrayed as being tempted by the ring in the same was as his brother. He is meant to be Boromir's thematic counterpart, and he should retain his attitude towards the ring from the books: "If I saw this thing lying by the side of the road, I would not pick it up."

— Aragorn isn't portrayed as being unwilling to take the throne. As in the books, he has no interest in power over others, but knows very well that it is his duty to take the throne. He is not afraid of it, and dedicated to his ordained task.

— The Dwarves in general, and Gimli in particular, should be less "jokey".

— No Elves at Helm's Deep.

— The Dúnedain and their history get brought back into the story.

— Frodo doesn't abandon Sam due to Gollum's manipulation. Instead, Gollum leads them into a trap and tries to murder Sam while Frodo falls prey to Shelob.

— Aragorn doesn't decapitate an enemy who arrives under the flag of parley.