Review of The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power (2022)

General Information

• Creator: J.D. Payne & Patrick McKay
• Main Cast:
  • Morfydd Clark (Galadriel)
  • Robert Aramayo (Elrond)
  • Markella Kavenagh (Nori Brandyfoot)
  • Ismael Cruz Córdova (Arondir)
  • Cynthia Addai-Robinson (Miriel)
  • Charles Edwards (Celebrimbor)
  • Benjamin Walker (High King Gil-galad)
• Genre: Fantasy, Adventure, Drama
• Seasons: 1 (as of 2022)
• Platform: Amazon Prime Video

Plot

The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power is a prequel series to J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit, set thousands of years before the events of those stories, in the Second Age of Middle-earth. The show explores the rise of Sauron, the forging of the titular Rings of Power, and the ancient history of iconic characters such as Galadriel, Elrond, and Celebrimbor.

The series begins with the fragmented and uneasy peace following the defeat of Morgoth, the first Dark Lord. It follows several key storylines: Galadriel’s (Morfydd Clark) relentless pursuit of justice for her brother’s death and her growing suspicions about Sauron’s return; Elrond (Robert Aramayo) navigating political intrigue and forging alliances; and the discovery of a mysterious stranger (Daniel Weyman), whose arrival in Middle-earth could change the fate of all its peoples. Alongside these main narratives, the show introduces new characters and perspectives, particularly the Harfoots, ancestors of the Hobbits, whose quiet lives are disrupted by the larger events of Middle-earth.

Highlights

1. Visuals and World-building
   • One of the standout elements of The Rings of Power is its stunning production value and breathtaking visual design. Middle-earth is brought to life in all its grandeur, from the pristine elven cities to the darkening lands of Mordor. The landscapes are beautifully shot, with a mix of lush forests, sweeping mountains, and towering cities. The use of practical effects combined with CGI is seamless, creating immersive environments that feel rich in history and depth. The show’s commitment to capturing the look and feel of Tolkien’s world is evident, and it visually lives up to the legacy of Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings films.
2. Expansive World-building and Lore
   • The Rings of Power dives deep into Tolkien’s expansive mythology, bringing to the screen many elements from the Second Age that were only hinted at in the books. The forging of the Rings of Power, the rise of Númenor, and the fall of Morgoth are central to the plot, offering a rich exploration of Middle-earth’s history. The show effectively introduces a broader view of the world, with multiple storylines in different regions—such as the elven realms of Lindon and Eregion, the dwarven kingdom of Khazad-dûm, and the kingdom of Númenor—giving viewers a fuller sense of the vastness of Tolkien’s universe.
3. Character Development and Performances
   • The series excels in its character development, particularly with Galadriel and Elrond. Morfydd Clark brings a fierce, determined energy to Galadriel, portraying her not just as a wise and powerful leader but as a younger, more passionate character who struggles with her own grief and desire for justice. Robert Aramayo’s Elrond, on the other hand, is more diplomatic and politically savvy, creating a compelling contrast between the two elven leaders.
   • The supporting cast also brings depth to the story, with Ismael Cruz Córdova’s Arondir, a silvan elf who finds himself caught in the growing darkness, standing out as one of the more dynamic characters. Nori Brandyfoot (Markella Kavenagh) and the other Harfoots provide a grounding, more relatable presence in the midst of the epic events surrounding them, reflecting the theme of hope amidst darkness.
4. Thematic Depth
   • At its core, The Rings of Power is a series about power, temptation, and the battle between light and darkness. It delves into the complexities of leadership, the burdens of responsibility, and the moral choices characters must make as the shadow of Sauron looms ever closer. Galadriel’s quest for vengeance is a central theme, reflecting the fine line between justice and obsession. The show’s exploration of Númenor, an island kingdom whose downfall is tied to human ambition and pride, serves as a tragic reminder of the corrupting influence of power.

Criticisms

1. Slow Pacing and Multiple Storylines
   • While the show’s world-building and character development are strengths, the pacing can sometimes feel slow, especially in the first few episodes. Multiple storylines unfold simultaneously, which can lead to moments where the narrative feels fragmented or bogged down. Some viewers may find the early episodes slow to engage, with the plot taking its time to pick up momentum. However, this pacing is likely necessary for laying the foundation for future seasons.
2. Somewhat Predictable Plot Elements
   • While The Rings of Power delves into many parts of Tolkien’s lore, certain plot elements may feel familiar to fans of The Lord of the Rings and other epic fantasy works. The rise of Sauron, the forging of the Rings, and the internal political intrigue in Númenor are all key aspects of the Second Age’s history, which can sometimes feel predictable. Additionally, while the characters are well-developed, some tropes—such as the reluctant hero or the wise mentor—are present and may feel derivative to some viewers.
3. Unresolved Mysteries and Cliffhangers
   • As a series that spans multiple seasons, The Rings of Power leaves several major questions unresolved at the end of its first season. Some viewers may be frustrated by the slow build-up to the main conflicts, particularly in regards to the identity of the mysterious stranger and the true extent of Sauron’s machinations. However, as this is the first part of a larger story, these unresolved threads are likely part of a longer narrative arc.

Verdict

The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power is an ambitious and visually stunning exploration of Middle-earth’s Second Age. The show successfully brings the world of The Lord of the Rings to life with breathtaking visuals, strong character development, and a deep dive into Tolkien’s rich mythology. While its pacing and fragmented storylines may be challenging for some viewers, the thematic depth and world-building are impressive, and the performances, particularly from Morfydd Clark and Robert Aramayo, provide emotional weight. The first season sets the stage for an epic journey, and fans of Tolkien’s world will likely find much to enjoy, even if it takes time to build toward its larger narrative payoff.

Rating: 8/10