By Ben Wright (@iamzavagno | www.xgeeks.co.uk)
This review contains spoilers.
After what feels like an eternity, Season Two of The Rings of Power has finally arrived, and I can’t wait to dive back into Middle-earth!
If you’re new here, welcome! This is a safe, respectful, and positive space for all who journey through Middle-earth. For those who’ve read my previous reviews of Season One, you know how much this show means to me and the deep connection I have with it. Just as the One Ring binds the wills of those who bear it, this show captivates me every time I sit down to watch.
With the first three episodes released at once, I’ll be breaking down each episode individually before sharing my overall thoughts at the end. As always, be warned – spoilers lie ahead…
Episode 1: “Elven Kings Under the Sky”
It took me a few minutes to grasp what they were doing with the opening, but once I caught on, I had to applaud the creative choice to start with a Sauron “prequel.” It was also a clever way to introduce Sam Hazeldine as Adar. Hazeldine’s portrayal of Adar was solid, and though Joseph Mawle’s absence is felt, the character seems to be in capable hands.
In Lindon, Elrond defies High King Gil-galad by refusing to hand over the rings and goes on the run. This sets the stage for the introduction of Círdan, played by Ben Daniels, one of the noblest of the Sindar. As the light fades, Gil-galad’s hauntingly beautiful singing in Quenya, brilliantly performed by Benjamin Walker, adds depth to the scene. Once the rings are returned and Elrond is subdued, The Light of the Eldar is restored. The decision to use an instrumental version of “Where the Shadows Lie” over the hopeful visuals was a smart move, adding an extra layer to the storytelling.
Meanwhile, Nori and The Stranger continue their journey towards Rhûn, only to discover they’re being pursued—not just by sinister forces, but also by Poppy, who was tracking them! I’m thrilled that she’s been reunited with Nori, and I don’t mind if critics call it a Frodo and Sam 2.0 – I’m all in! The most touching moment for me was when they integrated “This Wandering Day” into the story. It moved me to tears, and the instrumental version was stunning, evoking a genuine sense of adventure and hope. Finally, they reach Rhûn, home to many tribes including the Easterlings, whom we see at The Black Gate in The Two Towers.
The episode concludes with Halbrand, or Sauron, arriving in Eregion, where a concerned and uncertain Celebrimbor looks on. It was a fitting way to wrap up the episode.
This extended first episode did an excellent job setting the stage for the rest of the season. While it may have been light on ‘action’ in some parts, the gripping storytelling and stellar performances were enough to keep you entertained and glad to be back in Middle-earth with these characters.
Episode 2: “Where the Stars are Strange”
The first episode was missing two key elements, but both make a welcome return in Episode 2: the map and the opening credits, complete with the theme. The addition of the red sand was a nice touch – could this hint at Sauron’s influence?
We return to Khazad-dûm with Durin (Owain Arthur) and Disa (Sophia Nomvete). However, even this mighty kingdom is not immune to the spreading evil across Middle-earth. The mountain quakes, causing a total blackout, a truly terrifying thought. Once again, we see Disa, alongside Revna (Laura Jane Matthewson) and Brenna (Rachel Payne), sing a plea to the mountain – a moment that gave me goosebumps. Despite their efforts, King Durin III declares the long-held bond between Khazad-dûm and the Stone-singers over. Disa shone in this episode, breaking down the barriers erected by her husband and father-in-law.
In Caras Gaer, we are introduced to Ciaran Hinds as the Dark Wizard. In the first season, we knew them as “The Mystics,” but the Dark Wizard confirms they are called “The White Wings.” The Dweller (Bridie Sisson) returns, bringing news of Sauron’s influence and the “Istar,” also known as The Stranger. We also learn that Brânk (Yasen Zates Atour) is the one who has been tracking The Stranger and the Harfoots. I love how The Stranger has embraced the Harfoots’ ways, which hints at a future connection with Hobbits if The Stranger is indeed who we think he is. However, The Stranger, still unable to control his powers, once again puts Nori and Poppy in danger, this time during a great sandstorm.
In Eregion, Celebrimbor refuses to meet with Halbrand, and Gil-galad’s messengers are killed before they can reach Eregion with Halbrand’s true identity. Elrond and Galadriel clash over the influence of the rings and Sauron, and I’m very much on Elrond’s side here. Morfydd Clark and Robert Aramayo have fantastic chemistry, and you can feel the weight of this interaction. Gil-galad informs Galadriel that Elrond, not her, will lead a team to Eregion, setting the stage for more tension as the season progresses. Halbrand—this will be the last time I use that name—begins to exert his influence over Celebrimbor before revealing himself as the “Lord of Gifts,” Annatar. The recurring theme, “Where the Shadows Lie,” underscores the looming doom that is taking hold of Middle-earth. A message is sent to Durin, inviting him to Eregion, and we all know where this path leads.
This second episode was packed with narrative developments. It was great to revisit the Dwarves and start to see their role in the unfolding story. The highlight of the episode was undoubtedly the reveal of Annatar – it was executed and performed brilliantly.
Episode 3: “The Eagle and the Sceptre”
In my Episode 2 breakdown, I mentioned that two things were missing from the first episode. Naturally, I wasn’t referring to characters, since with a show of this scale, it’s impossible to include everyone in every episode. So, I was pleased that Episode 3 opens by diving into the aftermath for those from Númenor!
However, I didn’t expect the episode to kick off with Berek – the Orc-slaying horse – rescuing Isildur (Maxim Baldry). What a surprise! I knew Shelob was set to make a brief cameo, and I thought her inclusion in this thrilling opening was handled really well. Isildur meets Estrid (Nia Towle), a fellow survivor of the atrocities. She has a map leading to Pelargir, an ancient Númenorean settlement, but their journey is interrupted by an attack from Wildmen. Fortunately, Arondi (Ismael Cruz Córdova) arrives in true superhero fashion to save the day. At Pelargir, we witness the funeral of Bronwyn (played by Nazanin Boniadi in Season One). Boniadi retired from acting in 2022 to join the #WomanLifeFreedom movement in Iran. Unlike with Adar, it made sense to write her character off rather than recast her. The suddenness of this choice adds a layer of realism to the story. Ismael was outstanding throughout this scene, as was the accompanying song. I’m glad Theo (Tyroe Muhafidin) returned, and the tension between Theo and Arondi could develop into an intriguing subplot. Similarly, the reveal that Estrid has taken Adar’s mark adds another layer of mystery. Oh, and did I mention the Ents? That was yet another thrilling plot twist!
In Mordor, Adar’s concern that Sauron might still be alive leads Glüg (Robert Strange) to question his “father” and express a desire to avoid war, especially now that they’ve established a “home.” This is understandable, particularly when we see him share a tender moment with his mate and baby – yes, you read that right, an Orc-baby! Not something I expected to see in The Rings of Power! Meanwhile, Damrod (voiced by Benjamin Walker), the Hill-troll of the Ered Mithrin, arrives at Adar’s invitation. Like Adar, Damrod has unfinished business with Sauron.
In Eregion, Durin and Disa arrive to hear Celebrimbor and Annatar’s proposal to forge the Dwarven rings. I love that Durin is wary of Annatar, and his friendship with Elrond – one of the show’s strongest elements – comes into play once again. Durin knows he must reconcile with his father, and upon returning to Khazad-dûm, he seeks to make amends.
Back in Númenor, the aftermath of Tar-Palantir’s death and Pharazôn’s (Trystan Gravelle) power grab is felt by everyone, especially Queen Regent Míriel (Cynthia Addai-Robinson). Eärien (Ema Horvath), frustrated by her brother’s “death” and her father’s apparent indifference, aligns herself with Pharazôn—and gains access to the Palantír. During Míriel’s coronation, Eärien and Pharazôn make their move, but before the crowd spirals out of control, an Eagle arrives, which Pharazôn cleverly uses to his advantage. Something about this doesn’t sit right with me, especially since there was no hint of an “Eagles theme” to accompany it.
The episode concludes with the forging of the Dwarven rings…
Final Thoughts…
Overall, I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the first three episodes of Season Two of The Rings of Power!
The production quality remains outstanding, from the intricately designed sets to the meticulously crafted costumes. The storytelling continues to impress as well. Despite the numerous characters and intertwining narratives, all operating under a grand, overarching story, the writing maintains a perfect balance, delivering a compelling tale that never feels bloated or overwhelming.
The performances have been consistently stellar, bringing depth and nuance to each character. With plenty of drama and surprises still on the horizon, I’m eagerly anticipating what Episode 4 has in store for us next week. The season is off to a fantastic start, and I can’t wait to see how it all unfolds!
What did you think of the first three episodes of Season 2 of The Rings of Power? Let us know in the comments or find us on social media.
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