Stanisland Magazine

Review: Lord of the Rings film from Peter Jackson and Kenji Kamiyama is an average film at best.

There aren’t many franchises that can excite and unite fan bases quite like The Lord of the Rings. Its popularity is unparalleled, with some arguing that it is quickly surpassing even Lucasfilm properties.

The latest instalment in the saga is an anime film based on familiar Middle-earth characters. It marks the seventh adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien’s work by New Line Cinema.

What Is The Plot?

It follows the story of Helm Hammerhand, the legendary king whom the fortress – Helm’s Deep (featured in The Two Towers) was named after.

READ MORE: The New ‘Lord of the Rings’ Anime Trailer Is Dividing Fans

Following the decline of a marriage proposal for his daughter Héra to the Dunlending leader Freca’s son, Wulf, the situation escalates. The outcome leads to Freca’s death, prompting Wulf to seek revenge and resulting in a war between the two groups.

Casting and Production Details

The film originated from the efforts of Peter Jackson and WingNut Films, and was eventually released through New Line Cinema and Warner Bros. Animation. It is directed by Kenji Kamiyama, who previously led production on the Ghost in the Shell and Blade Runner: Black Lotus television series.

Reprising her role in this Middle-earth tale is Miranda Otto, who voices Éowyn. Brian Cox stars as Helm Hammerhand, with Gaia Wise playing the lead role of Héra. The antagonist, Wulf, is portrayed by Luca Pasqualino.

What Is It Like?

It’s a Tolkien movie for sure, but there are some key elements that need to be addressed.

For one, there is a lack of interaction between the mythological creatures intrinsic to the story, which are often featured prominently in each film.

The frame rate can feel jarring at times, and the mix of CGI and line-drawn animation can occasionally feel disconnected.

The story is fluid, with a sense of suspense augmented by the anime presentation. However, it primarily focuses, 99% of the time, on the race of men. Don’t expect to see sprawling elves or other creatures in this movie.

Verdict

It’s a solid effort for those interested in the world and storyline it is set within. However, if you’re not an aficionado of the franchise and perhaps haven’t read the books, this may not be for you.

It is primarily geared towards hardcore Tolkien universe lovers, with just a pinch of a hint towards a potential sequel. That said, there is much improvement needed as it delivers on some of the hype it generated, but ultimately falls short of its predecessors.

At times, the 1978 animated movie (although not perfect, it had atmosphere) felt represented until it deviates back to a presentation that will tide over fans for a fix of the brand.

Where to Watch

It has just been released globally in theatres in both 2D and 3D as well as IMAX. Tickets can be purchased at any cinema that is screening the film.

Will There Be a Sequel?

The studio has not announced plans for a sequel, though it’s hinted at on screen through the presence of Saruman and an off screen quest to meet Gandalf.