Why Fans Care Deeply About Rings of Power
When someone says, “If you don’t like Rings of Power, don’t watch it,” what they’re really saying is, “Stop caring.” But for longtime fans of Tolkien’s works, that’s just not an option. There’s a deep, emotional investment in Middle-earth, one that spans generations and resonates with universal themes that go far beyond typical fandoms. The Lord of the Rings isn’t just another story—it’s a cultural touchstone, a worldview, and for many, a treasured part of life. Dismissing it so easily undercuts the very essence of why fans care.
An Unprecedented Opportunity (and Budget)
Rings of Power had extraordinary potential. Amazon invested over a billion dollars in this project, with about $750 million going into production alone. This isn’t a typical budget for a streaming series; it’s unprecedented. And with those resources, plus access to one of the richest fantasy worlds ever created, expectations were naturally high.
Beyond the budget, Amazon had a unique advantage: adapting Tolkien’s Second Age, a fascinating period filled with lore, drama, and endless creative potential. This was a chance to tell a powerful story, one that could bring in millions of new fans while honoring the intricate world Tolkien crafted.
When “It’s Okay” Is a Failure
The general reaction from fans has been lukewarm at best—a common response being, “meh, it’s okay.” But for a show with these resources and the built-in fanbase of Middle-earth lovers worldwide, “okay” is like a failure. If Rings of Power were just another fantasy show, “okay” might be fine. But this was supposed to be the adaptation for Tolkien’s Second Age, and it should have delivered more than just an “okay” experience.
The Heart of Middle-earth: Why Fans Can’t Walk Away
For Tolkien fans, The Lord of the Rings is more than a story—it’s an exploration of timeless themes like courage, friendship, hope, and the strength that comes from unexpected places. Tolkien’s work speaks to the human condition, offering a glimpse of a world where even the smallest of us can make a difference. And that’s why many fans feel so deeply disappointed when an adaptation doesn’t honor that legacy. It’s about respecting Tolkien’s vision, something far more meaningful than just flashy battles and dramatic twists.
New Fans: Welcome to Middle-earth
For those discovering Tolkien’s world through Rings of Power, welcome. While this adaptation might miss the mark in some ways, it opens the door to the richness of Middle-earth. Tolkien’s original works are filled with wisdom, courage, and themes that resonate deeply. If you’ve been intrigued by the series, you have an incredible journey ahead exploring his world in all its depth. Be sure to subscribe to the Lore of the Rings Podcast (pick your favorite podcast player on the side) so that you can wander all the world and works of JRR Tolkien.
To dive deeper into this critique and explore why Tolkien’s legacy matters so much to fans, listen to the full episode.
Let’s keep the conversation going and continue to celebrate the world that Tolkien gifted to us.
