Rings of Power: Season Two – Review
The second season of Rings of Power has been very divisive. There were people who didn’t like the first season but it seems that with the second season, certain people disliked it even more and others absolutely loved it.
The main problem, from what I can see, is that this is not based on a specific writing of Tolkien. Rather, it is an original story set at a certain time in Tolkien’s Middle-earth myth. It features characters created by Tolkien, some who are familiar to us from Lord of the Rings, and other characters created by the writers of this show.
The other issue is that the basis for this show is not the Simarillion or other writings by Tolkien, but is limited to the appendices from Lord of the Rings. Thus, diehard Tolkien fans will recognize details that are missing.
I would add to this that the characters of Galadriel and Elrond are portrayed quite differently from how they were in the Lord of the Rings movies. I think their portrayals are reconcile, especially considering the long span of time between the shows and the movies. There certainly is development of Galadriel, even within Tolkien’s writings between her appearances in the west and who she is in Lord of the Rings.
Having said all that, the second season of Rings of Power was an improvement from the first season. The first season really just built the foundation, while in this season of Rings of Power, things really get going. By the end of this season, most of the rings have been fashioned, with only the One Ring yet to be made.
I quite enjoyed this season of Rings of Power. It is not without its faults, especially with pacing but generally is an entertaining show. I thought they captured the spirit of Númenor, as well as Khazad-dûm and the elven settlements.
Two of the main plot lines have been the plans of Sauron to create rings of power, with elven rings having been created, followed by those for dwarves and men. An added detail is that these other rings place a burden on the wearer, not so different than that experienced by Bilbo and Frodo. I do not think this was included in the books at all.
I actually like how they are doing Sauron. He is obviously very different from what we find in Lord of the Rings but he is supposed to be. He is supposed to be someone who can charm his way into positions of power and influence. He is creepy and disturbing, just the way he is supposed to be.
Another plot being the quest of the stranger, the powerful being that appeared and connected with some ancestors of the hobbits. He appears in Middle-earth with no memory and is seeking his identity and purpose. I think we all guessed who this stranger was.
A couple of things that struck me includes the portrayal of Tom Bombadil, who is somewhat different than what is found in the Lord of the Rings books. They made him less silly and perhaps too “normal.” Then there is the dark wizard that is introduced. Even though he seems somewhat similar to Saruman, I hope it is not him. I suspect it is one of the blue wizards.
Again, the Rings of Power is not the perfect show but it is pretty good. I enjoy it, even though I understand why some people do not. I hope they keep going and complete the planned five seasons to tell this epic story.
