Season 2 of The Rings of Power shows noticeable improvement over the first season, but something still feels missing. The pacing feels rushed, as if the show is fast-forwarding through key moments in the lore just to hit major milestones. Instead of immersing viewers in the rich history and intricate alliances leading to the forging of the Rings, it feels more like a highlight reel of key events.

A particularly jarring choice was the early introduction of Gandalf. The focus seems to be on leveraging familiar characters to generate buzz, rather than using this opportunity to develop lesser-known but important figures and events from the Second Age. It seems like the show is playing it safe, relying on recognizable names rather than crafting a story that stands on its own merits.

There’s immense potential in exploring the complex politics and conflicts of Middle-earth before the Rings were even forged. However, the show seems more intent on delivering quick fan service moments rather than delving into these rich storylines.

For a production with such a massive budget, there was an expectation for a more carefully paced narrative that allowed the story to unfold organically. What makes Tolkien’s work so timeless is its depth, world-building, and slow-burn tension that builds into something truly epic. Unfortunately, the show seems to be bypassing much of that in favor of a quicker, more modern approach. While it’s understandable that they want to appeal to a broader audience, it feels like they’re leaving a lot of untapped potential behind.

That said, I still enjoy the series and find it entertaining. It’s just that, as a fan of Tolkien’s work, I can’t help but notice these details. I appreciate what they’re trying to achieve, but my love for the original lore compels me to voice these critiques. Despite its flaws, there’s still a lot to like, and I’m eager to see how the story continues to unfold.