By Ben Wright (@Iamzavagno | www.xgeeks.co.uk)
This review is spoiler-free.
Kenji Kamiyama’s The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim proves that anime is the perfect format to explore new tales from Middle-earth. Combining the artistry of Japanese animation with Tolkien’s legendary world, the film feels like both a natural evolution and a loving tribute to Peter Jackson’s cinematic masterpiece. Philippa Boyens’ involvement in the story helps anchor it firmly within the Lord of the Rings film saga, providing the narrative with authenticity and emotional depth. From the very first scene, I was captivated, and by that point, I had already begun to tear up – a testament to how effectively the film draws you into its world.
Set within the timeline of Jackson’s original trilogy, The War of the Rohirrim immerses viewers in the rich history of Rohan, focusing on the legendary Helm Hammerhand. It delivers a story that feels personal yet epic, as the stakes build toward a thrilling and emotional crescendo. The performances from the cast are remarkable, with Brian Cox embodying Helm with both gravitas and vulnerability, while Gaia Wise delivers a powerful, heartfelt performance that adds further emotional weight to the story. It was also a genuine pleasure to hear Lorraine Ashbourne in a big-screen role. Long celebrated as one of UK television’s most underrated talents, Ashbourne brings a familiar warmth and grounded presence to her part that balances the film’s more intense moments.
Visually, the film is nothing short of breathtaking. The anime medium elevates Middle-earth in ways that feel fresh yet faithful. The sweeping landscapes and intricately painted backgrounds resemble works of art. Meanwhile, the “false camera” movements bring impressive fluidity to character animation, particularly during the action sequences. These sequences are jaw-dropping, capturing the scope, brutality, and beauty of combat in a way that feels visceral and cinematic. Kamiyama and his team have succeeded in making Middle-earth feel alive and immersive, offering a rich and rewarding visual spectacle.
Stephen Gallagher’s score further enriches the experience, blending the grandeur and emotional resonance fans expect from Middle-earth’s musical legacy. The compositions seamlessly highlight the most impactful moments, whether it’s a tender character beat or a pulse-pounding battle sequence. Gallagher’s work ensures the score feels both fresh and reverent to Howard Shore’s iconic music from the Jackson films.
Admittedly, some of the franchise nods could be seen as lacking subtlety, but for me, this didn’t detract from the overall experience. By the time these moments appeared, I was already so deeply invested in the story and the characters that they felt more like affectionate callbacks than distractions. Fans of Tolkien’s lore and Peter Jackson’s adaptations will likely appreciate these touches as a way of further connecting The War of the Rohirrim into the broader Lord of the Rings franchise.
For fans of Middle-earth, this film is a triumph – powerfully performed, beautifully written, and visually spectacular. Kamiyama and his team have proven that animation is not only a worthy medium for Tolkien’s world but one that can push its storytelling and visual artistry to new heights. The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim is a stirring, heartfelt addition to the saga that honours the past while carving out its own place in Middle-earth.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim. It is an emotional, visually stunning, and beautifully crafted journey that left me both awestruck and moved. And, of course, I now want to delve into Jackson’s movie once more!
X-Geeks 