Crafting a compelling prequel with a tragic ending is no small feat, but The Rings of Power embraces the challenge. The show navigates the narrative tightrope with finesse, finding pockets of hope amidst the darkness that defines Lord of the Rings’ timeless appeal. Season two’s trio of premiere episodes sets the stage for an ascending darkness that is no longer lurking in the shadows but is already here. The characters, unless named Halbrand, Sauron, or Annatar, are not having a good time in Middle-earth, and the realization that all three are the same person, the villain of the tale, adds an extra layer of tension.
While the show excels in capturing the darkness and intrigue surrounding characters like Halbrand/Sauron/Annatar and Celebrimbor in Eregion, it falters in the Elven storyline with unnecessary drama and contrivances. The Númenor plotline also rushes towards its perilous fate in Tolkien’s lore, missing opportunities for deeper exploration. However, the show finds its stride in the lesser plotlines, setting the stage for more intrigue and mystery beyond the audience’s expectations.
Overall, The Rings of Power shines in its exploration of darkness, betrayal, and the inevitable descent into chaos, but struggles at times with pacing and prioritizing certain plotlines. As the show moves forward, it will be interesting to see how it navigates the complex web of characters and storylines leading up to the events of The Lord of the Rings.