The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power (2022) is an epic fantasy television series developed by J.D. Payne and Patrick McKay, produced by Amazon Studios. Set in J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth, the story unfolds during the Second Age, thousands of years before the events of The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings trilogy. This prequel series explores the forging of the Rings of Power, the rise of Sauron, the epic tale of Númenor, and the final alliance between Elves and Men.

With an expansive ensemble cast, including Morfydd Clark as a younger Galadriel and Robert Aramayo as Elrond, The Rings of Power reveals Middle-earth at the height of its beauty, but with darkness looming. The show’s production was ambitious, boasting a high budget that allowed for stunning visuals, intricate costumes, and vast sets, drawing praise for its cinematic quality.

The reception was generally positive, with many viewers appreciating the visual grandeur and expansive world-building. However, some fans and critics noted pacing issues and took issue with deviations from Tolkien’s lore, which stirred discussions in the fan community. Despite mixed reactions, The Rings of Power garnered high viewership, marking a bold return to Tolkien’s world in serialized form, expanding Middle-earth’s mythology for a new generatio