It’s time to revisit the Second Age of Middle-earth and witness Sauron’s rise to prominence with the return of The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power. The Dark Lord already played a role in creating three of the titular the Rings of Power, and now, he looks to add more in the second season.
The series continues to be visually stunning transporting viewers to different locales of Middle-earth that feel unique. It makes it feel like an authentic lived in world that you can escape to for an hour each episode thanks to the combination of lavish sets, outdoor environments, and special effects. Speaking of special effects, we see many recognizable creatures that look so real. In addition, the intricate and detailed costuming add to it all to help produce something truly not of this world.
The Rings of Power also delivers some great action sequences regardless of scale. There are some finely crafted and choreographed smaller skirmishes and duels with creative use of weaponry. Then, there are huge epic battles like the highly anticipated Siege of Eregion, which is so huge, it spans the final three episodes. Amongst all the mayhem, big and small, the show manages to capture and frame some awesome moments.
Unfortunately, the story itself fails to click on all cylinders. There are some intriguing twists during this time of crisis such as unexpected alliances, but much of the narrative feels done before, albeit with a The Lord of the Rings twist. There is no subtlety regarding a recurring theme in J.R.R. Tolkien’s work, the corruption of power. Each corner of Middle-earth is vulnerable from the halls of Khazad-dûm to the island kingdom of Númenór. Purists may not like the changes the creators made as well.
The main source of that corruption and power is Sauron. We see more how cunning, devious, and evil he is, but that is all typical villain traits. He was more interesting last season when there was still an aura of mystery around him. What’s also uncomfortable is how Sauron lecherously pines for Galadriel. His obsession for her is second only to creating the Rings of Power. The pair do have a complicated history, but instead of adding another layer of tension between them, it just feels gross.
It is enjoyable watching these different threads develop and build, and watching them crossover at times, but this is where you can feel the limited source material. Things feel drawn out, particularly if you have a general idea of what’s to come. We receive some big answers, some it cute ways, but did we really need eight episodes to get there?
The second season of The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power is more spectacle than substance. While it is visually beautiful filled with great action, the story feels done before, merely with a Middle-earth twist.
New episodes of The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power release Thursdays on Prime Video.
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