It has been two years since The Rings of Power season 1 premiered- a series that arrived with immense anticipation but, by many accounts, failed to deliver. With a slow, at times dull plot and significant deviations from Tolkien’s lore, one wonders how much of its $465 million budget went toward the script. However, the investment in graphics and world-building paid off, as season 1 effectively captured the visual magic of Middle-Earth. Despite this, the shortcomings meant season 2 faced the challenging task of redeeming the show and winning back Tolkien fans. But has it succeeded?
Storyline – 2/5
Season 2 offers multiple perspectives across Middle-Earth, with varying success. The dwarven storyline stands out, especially Durin III’s descent into greed due to the dwarven rings, ultimately dooming Khazad-dûm. Key events like the pursuit of Mithril and the emergence of a Balrog are well-executed, staying true to Tolkien’s lore. Additionally, the storylines of the elves in Eregion, as well as those of Galadriel and Elrond, are written in a captivating manner. The various fight scenes- of which there was a notable lack of in season 1- effectively showcase the true strength of the elves and highlight their uneasy relationship with the rings. In particular, the manipulation of Celebrimbor by Annatar (Sauron) during the creation of the rings is portrayed exceptionally well.
However, the Harfoots and Númenóreans undermine much of the good writing. The Harfoots’ story feels disconnected from the main narrative, and the Númenóreans lack purpose, with their constant political back-and-forth feeling aimless and not having any impact on the broader story as of yet. Both groups suffer from the same issues as Season 1: stagnant, dull storylines with little depth. These flaws overshadow the otherwise strong aspects of the show, leading to a rating of 2/5.
Character Development – 3/5
Season 2 improves on character development, adding depth to most characters. The dynamic between Durin III and Durin IV is touching, with a poignant final scene as Durin IV faces certain death when fighting a Balrog. Sauron’s manipulative relationships with Celebrimbor and Galadriel are well-executed, and Charlie Vickers effectively portrays Sauron’s gradual rise to power. Additionally, more depth has been given to Adar, the ‘father of the orcs,’ revealing that he is more than just an evil adversary. This development adds complexity to the dynamics of Middle-earth, a contrast to Season 1, where characters lacked depth and had straightforward intentions.
However, the Harfoots and Númenóreans remain underdeveloped. Their simplistic portrayals drag down the overall character arcs, leaving much to be desired. As a result, while there’s clear improvement from season 1, the character development earns a 3/5.
Cinematography – 5/5
The visuals in season 2 are as stunning as in season 1. The cinematography is exceptional, particularly in the battle of Eregion, with graphics that arguably surpass Peter Jackson’s original Lord of the Rings adaptation. There is a wonderful blend of realism and fantasy, creating truly captivating scenes that I believe Tolkien would have been proud of. The visuals are easily a 5/5.
Despite its flaws in writing and character development, The Rings of Power season 2 is a solid attempt at adapting Tolkien’s complex world. It’s unfair to label it a ‘disaster,’ as many do, simply because it doesn’t match the near-perfect Peter Jackson films. On its own merits, it’s a visually stunning and fairly engaging show. However, there are still clear deficiencies, particularly in the handling of certain characters and storylines. Overall, it deserves a 3/5.
