The Rings of Power season 2 review: Epic visuals overshadowed by uneven plotting

Season 2 of The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power premieres on Prime Video on August 29, delivering a mix of epic visuals and complex character arcs, though some storylines feel less compelling.

The season shines when it delves into Sauron’s dark schemes and the creation of the rings, with standout performances from Charles Edwards as Celebrimbor and Charlie Vickers as Sauron. Edwards, a seasoned Shakespearean actor, brings depth to Celebrimbor’s tragic journey, while Vickers embraces the role of a manipulative villain.

However, as the plot strays from Sauron’s machinations, it loses momentum, particularly in the subplots involving Númenór and Isildur. The scenes in Númenór, despite their stunning visuals, lack the intrigue found in other fantasy series, with characters like Queen Regent Míriel (Cynthia Addai-Robinson) and Pharazôn (Trystan Gravelle) falling into broad archetypes.

Meanwhile, the Harfoots provide a welcome lightness to the otherwise heavy season, capturing the core values of Tolkien’s work. Despite some uneven pacing, the grand battle scenes, richly detailed sets, and use of music help maintain the show’s epic feel.

Overall, while The Rings of Power may stumble in its pacing, it remains a visually stunning addition to the Tolkien universe.