I know exactly what you mean. That LOTRs scene bugs me too. I love the bitten nails just as much as i love the gap in his teeth, and even down to the fact that he smokes. To me they make him human with frailties the same as the rest of us. They also portray the fact that he really isn't bothered about convention and the Hollywood obsession with perfection. He is what he is and it's up to you whether you accept him for that. As you say he's making great inroads in getting the nails in shape, but i'd hate to see them perfectly manicured. It just wouldn't be him.