The Lord Of The Rings: The Rings Of Power Season 2 Review Review: Plot: Season 2 of The Rings of Power continues to explore the Second Age of Middle-earth, first introduced in the inaugural season. We saw Galadriel (Morfydd Clark) deceived by Halbrand (Charlie Vickers), who was merely a host for Sauron, hiding in plain sight. Throughout the season, the world unknowingly handed Sauron everything he needed, with little knowledge of his true identity. Now, Sauron moves towards Mordor, where Adar sits on the throne. Yet, Sauron’s plan isn't simply to overthrow Adar immediately—his schemes run deeper, and Middle-earth must find a way to stop him as soon as possible.

The Lord Of The Rings: The Rings Of Power Season 2 Review: Analysis

It's significant that studios have finally recognized the cultural impact of what J.R.R. Tolkien created years ago and are now daring to extend beyond the Lord of the Rings trilogy, which has become a cult classic. The original trilogy, released over two decades ago, grossed $5 billion across three films, setting a high bar. So, when Amazon Prime Video announced The Lord Of The Rings: The Rings Of Power Season 2, the general reaction was, “Let’s see what they can do.” The show managed to create an interesting narrative, assemble a stellar ensemble cast, and operate on a massive budget. 

But does all of that guarantee a successful show? Certainly not. Season 1 of The Rings Of Power was indeed a fresh start, offering long-awaited Middle-earth content and satisfying fans who had been eager for more. It tapped into that hunger with a compelling story, where Sauron would finally take a human form and not just be a tower. However, can that formula work for more seasons? Perhaps not.

Season 2 of the Amazon Prime Video epic hits the platform this week and will continue with weekly episodes until October. Fortunately, I had the privilege to access all eight episodes in one go.

Middle-earth is now trembling because Galadriel, the most cunning and swift of them all, was tricked by Sauron. This means others will be even easier prey for him. Creators Patrick McKay and John D. Payne heavily rely on the Sauron narrative, and for good reason—it's the storyline that excites the audience the most. Season 2 takes us deeper into Sauron’s journey, revealing that he’s more than just a voice or symbol, but a symbiote that needs hosts. We finally get to see Sauron as a character, not just a shadowy presence.

The most captivating moments in the season occur when Sauron is on screen or when serious business directly connected to him unfolds. Three of the 20 Rings of Power, introduced in the season one finale, now dominate much of the screen time (as expected, given the title of the show). Sauron’s quest for these rings is compelling, as we now see him as a tangible being moving through Middle-earth and even teleporting (you’ll see). This development is fascinating, especially for those whose only knowledge of Sauron was the distant, shadowy figure from the original trilogy.

Charlie Vickers delivers a well-balanced performance as Sauron, maintaining an intimidating presence while ensuring that his true intentions remain hidden. The writing surrounding his character is layered, exciting, dramatic, and finely crafted. However, this focus on Sauron also becomes a drawback, as it leaves other characters feeling like mere afterthoughts. Much of the rest of The Rings Of Power seems like collateral damage, with endless build-up for an event that may not happen anytime soon.

For instance, in the first three episodes, we’re primarily introduced to characters and their backstories, which feels more like a high-budget textbook index than a story advancing in real-time. The show spends so much time preparing for the future that it forgets to live in the present. While we already know where this prequel is headed, dedicating almost an entire season to anticipation isn’t the most effective storytelling strategy.

This overemphasis on building up the Sauron storyline makes it feel like a completely separate film, which periodically seeps into a tangled narrative. The story gets so wrapped up in its multiple threads that it becomes suffocating, as all the plots lead nowhere significant at this point. Season 2 of The Rings Of Power repeatedly establishes one fact to an almost tiresome extent without offering any meaningful progress or outcome.

For example, Annatar, Sauron’s Elven host, spends much of the season convincing Celebrimbor (Charles Edwards) in a single building, with little impact on the larger story. Even Edwards, who is otherwise a brilliant performer, seems bored with the stagnant setting. If I were locked in that building for that long, I’d be tempted to forge rings just to escape. The effects and consequences of the rings—how they heal the Elven world and affect those who wear them—are intriguing, but their potential is diluted by the rest of the narrative.

The cast continues to thrive in their respective roles, with plenty more to explore. These seasoned actors understand the weight of their responsibilities. Someone should seriously consider making a buddy comedy starring Elrond (Robert Aramayo) and Dwarf Prince Durin IV (Owain Arthur) on a journey together. The set design, music, and technical elements are flawless, and you can clearly see how much thought went into bringing this world to life.

The Lord Of The Rings: The Rings Of Power Season 2 Review: Final Verdict

Season 2 of The Rings Of Power carries the weight of an iconic legacy franchise, but that doesn’t make it bulletproof. The show becomes entangled in endless build-up, failing to live in the present while losing sight of the overall story. While it holds promise, it serves as a reminder that storytelling needs to progress, not just prepare.

The Lord Of The Rings: The Rings Of Power Season 2 will hit Amazon Prime Video on August 29 with three episodes, followed by one every week till the eighth episode. Stay tuned to Mobile Masala for more information on this and everything else from the world of streaming and films.

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