The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power is a prequel series to J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit, set thousands of years before the events of those stories, in the Second Age of Middle-earth. The show explores the rise of Sauron, the forging of the titular Rings of Power, and the ancient history of iconic characters such as Galadriel, Elrond, and Celebrimbor.

The series begins with the fragmented and uneasy peace following the defeat of Morgoth, the first Dark Lord. It follows several key storylines: Galadriel’s (Morfydd Clark) relentless pursuit of justice for her brother’s death and her growing suspicions about Sauron’s return; Elrond (Robert Aramayo) navigating political intrigue and forging alliances; and the discovery of a mysterious stranger (Daniel Weyman), whose arrival in Middle-earth could change the fate of all its peoples. Alongside these main narratives, the show introduces new characters and perspectives, particularly the Harfoots, ancestors of the Hobbits, whose quiet lives are disrupted by the larger events of Middle-earth.

The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power is an ambitious and visually stunning exploration of Middle-earth’s Second Age. The show successfully brings the world of The Lord of the Rings to life with breathtaking visuals, strong character development, and a deep dive into Tolkien’s rich mythology. While its pacing and fragmented storylines may be challenging for some viewers, the thematic depth and world-building are impressive, and the performances, particularly from Morfydd Clark and Robert Aramayo, provide emotional weight. The first season sets the stage for an epic journey, and fans of Tolkien’s world will likely find much to enjoy, even if it takes time to build toward its larger narrative payoff.