The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power

:

Season 1
Season #: 3, 2, 1
User Score
3.0

Generally unfavorable reviews- based on 2938 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 711 out of 2938
  2. Mixed: 141 out of 2938
  3. Negative: 2,086 out of 2938

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User Reviews

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  1. HiDef-Jules
    Sep 4, 2022
    10
    A very strong start! it saddens me to see everyone bashing it here. I’m sorry to say the comments here saying the acting and dialogue are bad is utter nonsense. They have captured the atmosphere of the movies brilliantly and I was completely immersed in the story for these first two episodes. Those people claiming it’s “woke” trash are being completely over the top - a few additionalA very strong start! it saddens me to see everyone bashing it here. I’m sorry to say the comments here saying the acting and dialogue are bad is utter nonsense. They have captured the atmosphere of the movies brilliantly and I was completely immersed in the story for these first two episodes. Those people claiming it’s “woke” trash are being completely over the top - a few additional ethnicities is nothing and to let that cause the passionate vitriol seen in the comments here says more about the individuals posting rather than a balanced assessment of the show. For those interested in quality fantasy and spectacle I thoroughly recommend you check it out.… Expand
  2. Timmoc81
    Sep 3, 2022
    10
    I don't get the negative reviews, the first 2 episodes were great. I liked House of the Dragon, but this show is superior to every fantasy show out there (Wheel of time, GOT, shadow and bone, etc). One show to rule them all.
  3. judahjsn
    Sep 3, 2022
    10
    The first two episodes are glorious. I can't believe this is getting review bombed. I'll admit that I'm not a book reader and that I also didn't like the Jackson films, primarily because I couldn't get past the CGI.

    If people are mad about this show because it deviates in significant ways from Tolkien's stories, I can understand the frustration. However, it does seem odd since this is    The first two episodes are glorious. I can't believe this is getting review bombed. I'll admit that I'm not a book reader and that I also didn't like the Jackson films, primarily because I couldn't get past the CGI.

    If people are mad about this show because it deviates in significant ways from Tolkien's stories, I can understand the frustration. However, it does seem odd since this is essentially a prequel based on sketches of ideas from the the LOTR, right? Is whatever that has taken place in this first two episodes REALLY undoing Tolkien's work?

    I'm giving it 10 stars for its breathtaking joy. There is so much heart in this series so far. It's perfectly cast and the script and score are fantastic. This is possibly the best looking fantasy film I've ever seen. It looks like it cost twice what Amazon reportedly spent.

    Let's hope they can carry this energy through and give the story a satisfying conclusion.    … Expand
  4. greggiehooo
    Sep 2, 2022
    10
    The show is rich and epic. The mythology is very complex so the beginning needs to set the stage and can't move that fast.
  5. HOFFERN
    Sep 2, 2022
    10
    People need to chill down. Stop the hate. It’s getting ridiculous, and is why we cannot have nice things.

    The show is imo absolutely amazing - everything we could hope for in a fantasy show. Yes, they adapted it for TV, meaning it has creative freedom… but so what? This is better than every fantasy show we have gotten on TV the last decade.. truly refreshing. Amazing sets and scenery,    People need to chill down. Stop the hate. It’s getting ridiculous, and is why we cannot have nice things.

    The show is imo absolutely amazing - everything we could hope for in a fantasy show. Yes, they adapted it for TV, meaning it has creative freedom… but so what? This is better than every fantasy show we have gotten on TV the last decade.. truly refreshing. Amazing sets and scenery, filming is great, pace is great, story is so far also great.. with no cringe worthy dialogue. Extremely refreshing.. especially compared to Wheel of Time, and in my opinion much better than the Hobbit trilogy.. especially due to the fact that it does not feel overdone and more practical effects instead of overdone CGI work.    … Expand
  6. robdot
    Sep 5, 2022
    10
    So far it’s excellent. Galadriel is a badass just like you would expect. I’m 63, a fan of the series all my life. Don’t miss it,it’s pretty cool.
  7. LordoftheDance
    Sep 2, 2022
    10
    So many edgelords that were going to hate this show no matter what.... and I mean that as someone who is very critical. Show is fantastic. Silmarillion is one of my favorite books, and I knew going in this wasn't the Silmarillion, but it pairs up with it and LOTR perfectly. Really sad reflection of this day and age that something this amazing can be made and because its not theirSo many edgelords that were going to hate this show no matter what.... and I mean that as someone who is very critical. Show is fantastic. Silmarillion is one of my favorite books, and I knew going in this wasn't the Silmarillion, but it pairs up with it and LOTR perfectly. Really sad reflection of this day and age that something this amazing can be made and because its not their version of perfect people will still whine and complain.… Expand
  8. andy_indierock
    Sep 7, 2022
    10
    What an adventure! Don't know what wrong with many people berated this series for its cast. They all act well, the story is smooth with different stories like game of thrones, the special effects better than any Marvel series.
  9. Dasor
    Sep 17, 2022
    10
    One of the best shows i've ever seen, surely the best fantasy series. Every character is likable in its own way, it's very hard to pick one favourite.
  10. CalvinCrack
    Sep 2, 2022
    10
    So far so good. I have to give it a 10 on visual merit alone. This is the highest quality looking TV show I’ve ever seen. There’s a true artistry to these visuals, like it has been meticulously storyboarded for years before a camera rolled and now we are seeing the fruits of that labor. I appreciate that level of calculation in a fantasy epic which paints in such broad strokes. ThisSo far so good. I have to give it a 10 on visual merit alone. This is the highest quality looking TV show I’ve ever seen. There’s a true artistry to these visuals, like it has been meticulously storyboarded for years before a camera rolled and now we are seeing the fruits of that labor. I appreciate that level of calculation in a fantasy epic which paints in such broad strokes. This story is told visually, and with confidence. There are moments where less expensive shows would cut away but this one sticks with it and gives you the full sequence. That’s what elevates it— it feels like they had free reign to make every sequence as good as it could be, not just as good as they could afford. On the script side there are some great lines and moments in here. “The wind that seeks to blow out a candle can also stoke its flames.” [paraphrasing]. That and several other lines caught my ear as going above and beyond the call of duty for a television series into literary territory. The pacing oscillates between slow medium and fast throughout its runtime and that kept me on my toes. The slow parts can be a little slow and episode 2 in particular felt more like a TV show than the first episode but overall it maintains a good balance of series/movie hybrid. I’ve never seen anything quite like it. Acting is exceptional thus far, especially Galandriel. There is something about this woman that draws my attention. Every character is well done and they all have something intriguing about them. The actors are well cast and I like what everyone is doing with their role.

    I think considering the ambition of this project the creative team knocked it out of the park. This is high stakes filmmaking and it’s paying off so far.    … Expand
  11. thanatopsis
    Sep 4, 2022
    10
    It isn't great, but so far it is quite good. If you like the LotR books and/or movies, definitely give it a try. Don't listen to the review bombers. What a sad lives they must have.
  12. Dolken
    Sep 4, 2022
    10
    Its great. Far better so far than the Hobbit. Just the orcs are so mutch fearsome than PJs harmeless CGI goblin mess. Actors, filming, music is all great. Cant wait for more of this show. Finally back to middle earth. And I think this will be truer to the works of JRR then the movies were.
  13. darthstatto
    Sep 2, 2022
    10
    Amazing television. The Rings of Power draws you into its world with mind-blowing visuals, intriguing characters and tantalizing mystery.
  14. aksti
    Sep 5, 2022
    10
    Do not trust stupid Tolkien purists. The show is well made and the story seems to be great on their own way.
  15. me2shy
    Sep 3, 2022
    10
    Good start to a show. There's still a lot of world-building, but it works now. I look forward to what's going to come next.
  16. matthew2913
    Sep 3, 2022
    10
    Because it’s not written by Tolkien it must be bad. That’s the gist of what I’m getting from all these negative reviews. The production is top notch, the casting is great as well as the acting, and the story so far and writing is excellent. Add to that the music is amazing (Bear McCreary at it again). This show so far is great and is exceeding my expectations. Don’t listen to the naysayersBecause it’s not written by Tolkien it must be bad. That’s the gist of what I’m getting from all these negative reviews. The production is top notch, the casting is great as well as the acting, and the story so far and writing is excellent. Add to that the music is amazing (Bear McCreary at it again). This show so far is great and is exceeding my expectations. Don’t listen to the naysayers and watch it for yourself.… Expand
  17. Dr_Dan
    Sep 4, 2022
    10
    The show is absolutely beautiful with a good number of captivating mysterious.
  18. ocean10
    Sep 4, 2022
    10
    Outstanding first two episodes. Pure spectacle! Watch it on biggest screen possible.. Music, cinematography, attention to details, I love the tone, atmosphere and motifs they are focused on... They respected Tolkien's mythology and gave us something familiar but fresh at the same time. Really looking forward to it
  19. GoGSWarriors
    Sep 4, 2022
    10
    No freaking way is this a 2.4. I never change my own score to balance out obvoius review bombing but I had to this time. Realistically this is a 7/10 but I gave it a 10/10 because I don't want this show canceled because its pretty damn good so far! The show is a visual marvel without a doubt. The acting from some of the elves is kind of terrible but the overall production is top-notch. I'mNo freaking way is this a 2.4. I never change my own score to balance out obvoius review bombing but I had to this time. Realistically this is a 7/10 but I gave it a 10/10 because I don't want this show canceled because its pretty damn good so far! The show is a visual marvel without a doubt. The acting from some of the elves is kind of terrible but the overall production is top-notch. I'm not Tlkien fanboy so I'm basing my opinion of the show and my overall enjoyment as if this just a brand new IP I never knew about prior and with the mindset I really had fun with the first 2 episodes. There are a few interesting plot lines and mysterious elements that the writers are trying to explore and thus far they have grabbed my attention. I'll definitely keep watching!… Expand
  20. dr_heartless
    Sep 6, 2022
    10
    Loved it! It really sets a new high bar for what can be done on streaming. The acting is excellent and the visuals are amazing. It's also the update to the LOTR IP sorely needed. Check it out for your self, don't fall in the trap of the negative reviews from people who clearly didn't even watch the show.
  21. aligalahan
    Sep 2, 2022
    10
    This is a fantastic show. Incredibly detailed world building with multiple interesting characters view points, full of action, suspense, wonder. It is truly a masterpiece. Actor playing Silvan Elf is incredibly talented. Kudos to him. There are so many cool characters here. This is truly Game Of Thrones reborn, even better. Thank you thank you Amazon Prime.

    And on that sad note large    This is a fantastic show. Incredibly detailed world building with multiple interesting characters view points, full of action, suspense, wonder. It is truly a masterpiece. Actor playing Silvan Elf is incredibly talented. Kudos to him. There are so many cool characters here. This is truly Game Of Thrones reborn, even better. Thank you thank you Amazon Prime.

    And on that sad note large number of review bombing happening here is because diversity casting in the show. It is unbelievable at this age people could be so racist. And all others complaining material is not true to source, that is another BS. Tolkien estate did NOT sell the Silmarillion because they asked prohibitively high amount that no one can pay. So showrunners are doing their best here with what is available to them. they are doing a darn good job on that too.    … Expand
  22. akino3
    Sep 2, 2022
    10
    The atmosphere of Middle earth is so unique, so refreshing, so nostalgic, so beautiful... It is hard to explain but the series is everything it should have been and more! 11/10! Goodness gracious Tolkien! Thank you a million times Amazon Prime!
  23. Necrophat
    Sep 3, 2022
    10
    These review bombs are ridiculous, the first two episodes are great, visually stunning, cast is brilliant, music top draw, story is engaging and I can't wait for the next episode.
  24. Sanctify
    Sep 4, 2022
    10
    the show has been great so far, the production value is insane.
  25. Rinat1191
    Sep 2, 2022
    10
    Its the Lord of the ring! Waiting a new films pr series)
    The best series about LOTR universe
  26. Daigoust
    Sep 14, 2022
    10
    So far great adaptation! Pity for "fans" that complain about a adaptation... if you dont like, dont watch... the books still there, no one change it...
  27. lyekay1
    Sep 2, 2022
    10
    Fantastic, great story and cinematography! Knocked it out the park.
  28. Pech_SOG
    Sep 2, 2022
    10
    Fantastic! Incredible cinematography, scale, and scope. The world feels real with beautiful locations, lore, and world building. Great sense of mystery and wonder in almost every scene. Great casting. The dwarves finally look like dwarves! Perfect casting for Galadriel. She is amazing. Love the map and every place shown so far...including the sense of growing danger! A tour de force andFantastic! Incredible cinematography, scale, and scope. The world feels real with beautiful locations, lore, and world building. Great sense of mystery and wonder in almost every scene. Great casting. The dwarves finally look like dwarves! Perfect casting for Galadriel. She is amazing. Love the map and every place shown so far...including the sense of growing danger! A tour de force and great achievement for all stakeholders.… Expand
  29. PreyingOcelot
    Oct 22, 2022
    10
    Literally the best TV show ever conceived. Way better than the books. A+++++++
  30. LeoZamprogno
    Sep 2, 2022
    10
    Loving everything I've seen so far. Amazon does not have the rights to use the Tolkien's texts strictly, so it had to make some adaptations, but the entire universe is consistent with the writer's work and the events reported beyond what is described are believable.
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Awards & Rankings

1
#1 Most Discussed TV Season of 2022

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
71

Generally favorable reviews - based on 40 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 31 out of 40
  2. Mixed: 9 out of 40
  3. Negative: 0 out of 40
  1. The New Yorker
    Reviewed by: Jo Livingstone
    Sep 16, 2022
    80
    Adar’s début drips with signifiers. ... When Adar informs Arondir in Episode 4 that he has been told many lies, some that “run so deep even the rocks and roads now believe them,” it is still a thrill. Tolkien succeeded in creating a mythic world, one that has now grown vast enough through acts of typological repetition and imitation to conquer television, too.
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  2. Slant Magazine
    Reviewed by: Chris Barsanti
    Sep 16, 2022
    63
    With war brewing and the forging of the rings seemingly still far off, the first half of The Rings of Power’s first season constitutes little more than stage-setting for the struggle to come. Given the lack of quests and central commanding figures, it often makes for less-than-gripping drama. However, given that there are four more seasons already planned, and potentially dozens of new characters to be introduced, the slow and throat-clearing build is possibly a good sign.
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  3. TV Guide Magazine
    Reviewed by: Matt Roush
    Sep 9, 2022
    90
    The Rings of Power is a reminder of what drew many of us to epic fantasy in the first place: wonder. ... This series set in an ancient realm displays one dazzling and painterly landscape after another. Power also doesn't skimp on action. [12 - 25 Sep 2022, p.10]
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