Last night I watched the first two episodes of The Rings of Power and it met every one of my expectations in an absolutely stunning fashion. The beginning starts a little differently than maybe expected but what it sets up is a storyline that makes Galadriel’s dogged determination in this show feel warranted and comprehensible.

The first two episodes are perfect because they made us care about every single storyline and the characters that inhabited these varying sections.

Galadriel is on a mission to find Sauron and she will not be denied. Not until she has found the very evil who took her brother’s life from her.

The Harfoots, the ancestors to the Hobbits, are as cute as ever and as lovable as I’d hoped. Elanor ‘Nori’ Brandyfoot is currently my favorite character so far. She’s so sweet and is a character that I think will become a fan favorite down the line.

There is also the elven soldier Arondir and human healer Bronwyn, the forbidden lovers who reside in the Southlands. I wasn’t sure whether I’d like their story very much in the context of the show considering that they were both characters who were not from Tolkien’s work but they fit seamlessly into the story. I’m now very invested in their storyline.

And then there’s Elrond, Prince Durin IV, and his wife, Disa. I love Elrond so much in this show already, Prince Durin IV and Disa are a lovable, hilarious pairing that oozes pure dwarven likability.

I’m not quite sure how I feel about Halbrand yet but I do know this, I have a theory about him. But I will share that in another post.

All of these characters were written so perfectly that I couldn’t contain my enthusiasm while watching the episodes. And don’t get me started on how gorgeous this show is because it looks like every cent it cost to make.

This show is literally stunning, with every frame reeking expense and meticulous craftsmanship. The costumes are grand and utterly transfixing. I found myself staring at the elven garb on a number of occasions.

The VFX is the best I’ve seen in a long while (especially when watching She-Hulk every week which, if I’m being honest, is very dodgy in the CGI department). The music is stellar. And yes, this is the fantasy show that I’ve been waiting for for years. This isn’t House of Dragon, this isn’t Game of Thrones, this is Tolkien’s incredible yet family-friendly work and I couldn’t be happier right now.

If the show continues like this it has the potential to literally stand alongside The Lord of the Rings, it’s that solid so far.

I thank you for reading and I hope you have a great day.