“The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power” (2022) is an epic fantasy television series set in J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth universe. Created by J.D. Payne and Patrick McKay, the show serves as a prequel to The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films. The series is produced by Amazon Studios and is based on the appendices and lore from Tolkien’s writings, focusing on events from the Second Age of Middle-earth—thousands of years before the events of the main trilogies.

The story spans several regions of Middle-earth and follows various characters, both familiar and new, as they navigate the rise of evil during this era. Key storylines include the rise of the Dark Lord Sauron, the forging of the Rings of Power, the fall of Númenor, and the last alliance between Elves and Men. The series also delves into the origins of iconic characters such as Galadriel (played by Morfydd Clark) and Elrond (Robert Aramayo), offering new insights into their histories.

Elrond (Robert Aramayo), offering new insights into their histories.

Galadriel, one of the main protagonists, is portrayed as a warrior determined to hunt down Sauron, believing he still poses a threat after the first war. Meanwhile, Elrond embarks on a journey that intertwines with the Dwarves and the crafting of powerful artifacts. The show introduces new characters, including humans, elves, dwarves, and harfoots (ancestors of hobbits), each with their own stories that gradually converge as darkness begins to spread across Middle-earth.

The Rings of Power is noted for its stunning visuals, expansive world-building, and epic scale. With a massive budget, it became one of the most expensive TV series ever made, delivering high production values, intricate set designs, and breathtaking landscapes reminiscent of Peter Jackson’s The Lord of the Rings film trilogy.

While the series has received praise for its visual effects, music, and ambition, it has also faced mixed reviews regarding its pacing and character development. Nevertheless, it remains a significant addition to the Tolkien universe, attracting both fans of the original films and new audiences alike.

Overall, The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power offers an expansive look at the ancient history of Middle-earth, blending epic fantasy with rich storytelling, as it explores the events that shaped the world leading up to the iconic stories of The Lord of the Rings.