The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power (Season One) Review
Despite being more stylish than substantive, Rings of Power still is the one Prime Video show to rule them all
BY MATTHEW ZEICHERT
J.R.R. Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings books defined the fantasy novel genre. Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings movies changed cinema for the better. “The Rings of Power” is NOT revolutionary television. But who says it has to be?
With its first season, the LOTR prequel series tells the story of Elves, Dwarves, Harfoots, Humans, and Orcs who lived around the time the seven rings for the seven kingdoms were originally crafted.
“The Rings of Power” is possibly the most elaborate and expensive television series ever. The world-building, costumes, and special effects are incredible. When used, the C.G.I. seamlessly blends in with the practical effects. This and much more make “Rings of Power” one of the most visually compelling shows on streaming services.
Then there’s the story. While there are well-crafted plot twists and memorable moments galore in the show, that doesn’t hide the fact that there are too many subpar storylines throughout. Although Morfydd Clark as Galadriel and Lenny Henry as Sadoc Burrows are particularly compelling when they are on screen, the actors in “The Rings of Power” can only do so much with the lackluster scripts they were given.
“The Rings of Power” will certainly wow some viewers; Others may be perplexed as to why they spent eight-plus hours watching a special effects showcase.