'The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power' Takes Fans Once More into J.R.R. Tolkien's Magical Realm

Mar. 15, 2025

Photo: BEN ROTHSTEIN/PRIME VIDEO

Less than two weeks after thelaunchofHouse of the Dragon, HBO’sGame of Thronesprequel, we now have the epic backstory toJ.R.R. Tolkien’sLord of the Ringsnovels (or, if you prefer,Peter Jackson’s mammoth, visionary film versions).

At the least, this series reminds us thatLord of the Ringshas a greater moral purpose thanGame of Thrones. Good must fight evil, and at a terrible disadvantage and cost. Dragon, so far, isSquid Gamewith a castle full of squabbly blonde Targaryens.

BEN ROTHSTEIN/PRIME VIDEO

Morfydd Clark, best known for 2019’sSaint Maud, a terrifying horror film about religious mania, makes the most of the role in the opening episodes. She has the right shining Joan of Arc rectitude, although at times she looks likeLisa Kudrowwith braids. The show will make her world-famous.

Out of the gate, though, it’s hard to know what to make of all the other narrative threads. You may not be in the mood, just yet, to visit the caverns of the Dwarf Kingdom.

Powercould use a wizard — a Gandalf — who might turn up occasionally and, using his magical staff as a pointer, give us the big picture. Maybe one will arrive. The production is spectacular.

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The first two episodes ofThe Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Powerdebut Thursday on Amazon Prime Video.

source: people.com