Memorable Storytelling: The Lord of the Rings

“All you have to decide is what to do with the time that is given to you”

– J.R.R. Tolkien

To this day, the Lord of the Rings trilogy is my favourite fantasy fiction film series. To many it is a classic – the best fantasy series of all time.

To me it is precious.

I first watched the series when I was a little girl. I remember being terrified! The effects, the battles, the emotion was too much. I ended up forcing my parents to leave the theatre. But I knew there was something special here and I was missing out.

A few years later, I mustered the courage to try the series again.

I was utterly captivated, blown away by the ambition and scope of the film! The cinematography, film score, costumes, and characters transported me into Middle Earth.

Key Storytelling Elements

Relatability and morality:

The audience falls in love with the main characters – the good and honest hearts of the hobbits. And despite their small size and lack of combat skills they embark on a perilous journey to save Middle Earth. The characters that join them (Elves, Men, and Dwarves) have their own struggles. This arch of temptation and redemption amongst their comrades adds depth and feeling to the story.

High stakes:

Frodo is the Ringbearer. His mission is to take the ring to Mount Doom. He must face menacing creatures (Nazguls, Orcs, Trolls) and treacherous landscapes (Misty Mountains, Mines of Moria, Black Gate, Cirith Ungol) before throwing the ring into the fire and destroying it for good. Should he fail, all of Middle Earth will fall to the Dark Lord Sauron. Throughout the story the audience is at the edge of their seats, rooting for the characters in what seems to be an impossible task.

In depth material:

This film series was adapted from J.R.R. Tolkien’s books, providing bountiful material and reference. The films do an excellent job of leaning on this material, staying true to the intent and focus of the original story. As a result, the imagery and detail of the film is impressive, making watching the film even that more memorable.

Closing Thoughts

If you have not yet had the chance to dive into the fantastical world of Middle Earth, I highly suggest that you do! The story is packed with adventure – full of life and lessons. And the film is visually and audibly stunning.

Now please excuse me as I re-watch this 11 hour masterpiece!