As a die-hard fan of “The Lord of the Rings” series, I can’t help but feel excited about the development of characters like Galadriel and Adar in Season 2 of “The Rings of Power.” Morfydd’s portrayal of Galadriel is captivating, and it’s intriguing to see her navigate through the complexities of Middle-earth while rediscovering hope.
Amazon Studios began filming “The Rings of Power” Season 2 as early as October 2022, before the first season had concluded. Since then, the production has shifted from New Zealand to the U.K., welcomed a fresh set of actors, navigated around the WGA strike, and set the groundwork for upcoming seasons.
On August 29, 2024, the eagerly anticipated second installment of showrunners J.D. Payne and Patrick McKay’s tale finally graced our screens with a thrilling three-episode debut. In the build-up to this grand event, I had the privilege of chatting with several cast and crew members about what Season 2 has in store for us gamers.
The following interviews feature discussions with nine cast members, along with an additional interview with McKay and executive producer Lindsey Weber. Topics covered in these wide-ranging conversations include relocating the series to another continent, possible inclusion of the Elf-lord Glorfindel, and the meticulous crafting of the show’s signature jewelry.
Charlie Vickers and Charles Edwards talk ring-making, deeper characters, and Sauron’s primary Second Age motivations
Initially, we enjoyed an engaging conversation with the talented duo of Charlie Vickers and Charles Edwards. In Season 1, Vickers portrayed Halbrand, a character who astoundingly turned out to be Sauron in disguise towards the end. As for Season 2, viewers can expect Vickers to delve deeper into the sinister role of the Dark Lord, showcasing fresh, captivating, and unsettling aspects.
In the next season, the character Edwards portrays, Celebrimbor the Elven master craftsman, who created the Three Elven Rings towards the end of Season 1 (although this does slightly alter the Tolkien timeline), will delve deeper into his recent artistic finding. However, the outcome could be perilous.
Here’s an account of our discussion with the two performers, delving deeper into their characters and unveiling the secrets behind bringing a genuine Ring of Power to life.
Sauron’s motivational elevator pitch and preparing to play Celebrimbor
Hey Charlie, it’s been noticed that you have a deep understanding of J.R.R. Tolkien’s original works, particularly when it comes to Sauron’s character. This season, we’ve seen Sauron carrying out many actions for various reasons. Could you share with us a brief overview of your perspective on what you believe his main objective is during the Second Age? What’s fueling him to make these moves?
Charlie Vickers: Absolutely. Tolkien described him as aiming to mend, organize, and restore Middle-earth. I find “organize” and “restore” particularly intriguing because they are quite precise words, and knowing that Tolkien chose them gives me something very specific to delve into. This organization and control over others, and within it lies the purpose of the rings. The purpose of the rings for dwarves and men is what drives him, and this is what makes Celebrimbor such a significant tool. He is used to reorder.
Wonderful! It sounds like you started working later during Season 1, Charles. I’m curious, how did the extra preparation time impact your portrayal of your character this season?
Charles Edwards: I found it fantastic! You see, last time I had a generous amount of preparation time, but this time, there’s significantly less of it available. However, the script is considerably more substantial since it’s the story centered around Celebrimbor… It’s indeed the main tale for our show. Consequently, we’ve got ample opportunity to work on it. Frankly, that’s unusual as we often face time constraints, especially when it’s late and raining heavily, and we need to capture a shot.
Regarding preparation and research, there’s ample time available. On set, we were given sufficient time to let this relationship mature and evolve naturally. As a result, my preparation was as comprehensive as possible, always being meticulous in this regard. I also delved into whatever Tolkien had written about this story, cherishing the chance to be part of its telling. Lastly, I’m grateful for being selected for the task of attempting to breathe life into this tale.
Bringing magical ring-making to life on screen and digging into Celebrimbor’s story
How did you manage to flesh out and depict the enigmatic ring-forging process on screen since J.R.R. Tolkien doesn’t provide extensive details about it in his works?
Edwards suggests that a key aspect of such a show lies in its mystique; providing a formula or recipe would undermine its magical quality.
Love that.
Edwards: It’s got to stay elusive.
Vickers: Yeah.
Edwards: Regarding the actual process of creating the rings, remember that marvelous machinery from Season 1? Absolutely captivated by it!
Vickers: Yeah.
As a gamer, I can see that he’s opting for the most effective strategy on a larger playing field. But when it comes to adding a little of this and a little of that, I tend to steer clear, as that’s where frustration often lurks.
Very wise.
Vickers implies that one thing we can understand about the rings is that Sauron becomes a larger part of each ring, which leads to them becoming increasingly corrupt. In simpler terms, he suggests that the influence of Sauron grows stronger in each ring, causing them to become more tainted or corrupted.
Edwards: A little more Sauron in this one I think.
That’s the ingredient that you got to worry about, right? Charles, no spoilers, but let’s just say Celebrimbor is a passionate and tragic character, especially at this point in the narrative as you were relating to earlier. What has it been like bringing that deeper complex story to the screen this season?
Edwards: Shooting this story was incredibly rewarding and I might sound repetitive, but it’s sincere. It was one of the most joyful set experiences I’ve had in a very long time. Mainly due to Charlie and the daily interactions we shared. It feels like just the two of us are weaving this tale together. As you mentioned, the writers have added depth and detail to the story in such creative ways, constantly surprising Celebrimbor. There are also some fantastic theatrical surprises along the way.
Vickers: Absolutely, there are some amazing instances during the season where you find yourself exclaiming something like, “Wow, I didn’t see that coming!” or “That’s fascinating!”
Benjamin Walker and Ismael Cruz Córdova explore their roles
As a devoted fan, I’d rephrase it like this: I myself find Benjamin Walker brilliantly portraying the Elven high-king Gil-galad in this series. He governs an expansive elven realm across Middle-earth, yet his command isn’t as commanding as one might expect (you’ll see more about that later). On the other hand, Ismael Cruz Córdova perfectly embodies the antithesis of high elven culture through his portrayal of the common elf Arondir. At the onset of the series, he grapples with grief and sorrow.
Here is our conversation with these two elven actors.
Gil-galad struggles to control his people
Benjamin, it appears that as Season 2 continues, Gil-galad is finding it challenging to manage a strong-willed Galadriel. Elrond also disappears, causing Gil-galad to enlist Cirdan’s help instead. Meanwhile, Sauron is devising strategies against Lindon. In your opinion, does Gil-galad hold significant influence over the direction of Middle-earth’s events at this stage in the narrative? Or is he simply tagging along for the journey?
Ismael Cruz Córdova: Oh, jeez. Wow.
Benjamin Walker: Can he control anything?
Well, knowing where he ends up, which is spoiler territory, so I will not clarify …
Speaker: Indeed, that’s intriguing! I believe everyone is losing their grip, quite honestly. As a fan myself, this aspect fascinates me. Watching characters who appear to hold the reins slip up unexpectedly makes for an engaging start to a television series. It also allows us to discover unseen dimensions of these characters, aspects that might be familiar to lore enthusiasts, but are entirely new even for long-time fans. This scenario serves as a reminder of the magnitude of the evil we’re dealing with and the path ahead. For instance, if you’ve followed Gil-galad’s journey, you know how much further we have to go. He can’t be infallible right from the start.
Yeah.
Walker: I understand your query, but I must say I don’t enjoy the portrayal. He’s aware of his actions, to some extent.
No, that’s a great answer. That’s a great answer.
Arondir’s ability to challenge the elves
Previously, Ismael, you mentioned that Arondir is an unusual main character in Middle-earth because he’s a non-royal elf. You described him as an outsider who has been rejected, abandoned, silenced, and portrayed him as a frontline soldier among elves.
Córdova: Yeah, all of that.
The crux lies here: his fate isn’t bound by the inevitable storyline typical of Elven characters in Tolkien’s works. Therefore, how did it feel to delve into an obscure part of Tolkien’s universe during Season 2?
As a passionate admirer, I find him captivating. He stirs the pot and questions the elves’ standing in our world. His very presence contradicts all they claim to know about knowledge, wisdom, and moral correctness. And as we delve deeper into the story, it becomes evident that infallibility is a complex concept, one that impacts everyone around him significantly.
And he’s the one that has to figure a lot of things out. He has not gotten his flowers, really, because even in Season 1, he essentially saves the day with the Southlanders, and then Galadriel shows up. She’s like, “I’m going to take this now.” But it’s a wonderful, wonderful character to show all of those blind spots and all of the conflict. That for me, I think, Mr. Tolkien being alive today would’ve really loved that. He’s like, “They got it. They got what I was talking about.”
Speaker: Indeed, you’re rising while things around us are falling apart. It seems everyone is being manipulated somehow. Isn’t it fittingly reminiscent of the works of J.R.R. Tolkien?
Patrick McKay and Lindsey Weber dish on original vision, upcoming characters, and challenges
Patrick McKay shares the role of executive producers, or showrunners, for “The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power.” Together with his partner J. D. Payne, he designed the initial five-season narrative for the series – a concept that played a significant part in securing their positions from the start. Lindsey Weber is familiar with overseeing substantial productions, and “The Rings of Power” is among her most significant undertakings yet.
Below is our conversation with this critical pair of behind-the-scenes individuals.
Tracking with the original vision and favorite parts of Season 2
Hey Patrick, when you and J.D. initially joined the project, it seemed like you two had a fully developed storyline ready. I believe J.D. mentioned at some point that you already had the final scene sketched out and everything. Since then, we’ve progressed to about halfway through the show. My question is, how closely have you stuck to that original vision as the project has unfolded?
Patrick McKay: We’re almost there. Two steps taken. A few more to follow… Collaborating with numerous talented partners and captivating actors is a constant source of fresh perspectives for us. Yet, regarding our overall direction, we’re still embarking on the same journey.
Hey Lindsey, out of all the parts in Season 2, which part are you most eager for the audience to witness, considering we have Entwives, Stoors, Tom Bombadil, and more Rings involved?
Lindsey Weber: Oh, fantastic! I’m really looking forward for viewers to witness the acts and the connection between Sauron, Celebrimbor, Charlie Vickers, and Charles Edward. Their portrayal is outstanding. It plays a crucial role in this season’s narrative, and I believe it will leave viewers both stunned and moved. I can hardly wait for people to see the Siege of Eregion and the effort we’ve put into it. We have been planning it for over a year, starting from day one, and it took an incredible amount of hard work, including long days, nights, and everything in between from several directors and some of the most talented filmmakers currently working. It was muddy and intense, but I think the outcome is fantastic. We are extremely proud of it, and I hope audiences will appreciate it as much as we do.
McKay: I’d like to mention one more point: In some ways, Galadriel and Sauron’s paths were intertwined in Season 1. However, this season they’ve been separated. But their paths are heading towards each other, setting the stage for a significant encounter. We can’t wait to reveal what happens when they meet again!
Making Season 1 vs. Season 2
Patrick, you mentioned Glorfindel at San Diego Comic-Con.
McKay: I did.
Can we really expect to see them in the show at some point?
Initially for our project, we compiled a list on a whiteboard that included every potential creature, setting, character, and person from the era of Middle-earth’s history. Among those listed is one you should watch out for. So, keep an eye out!
I love it.
McKay: Good things come to those who wait.
In the first season of your life, you experienced difficulties due to Covid-related complications. Now, in the second season, you relocated halfway around the globe, making things significantly larger. Of the two, which period proved more demanding for you to navigate through?
Weber: You make it sound hard. They were both challenging. Every day is challenging. Every shoot day is challenging for its own reasons. We were incredibly lucky to be in New Zealand in Season 1. I think we’ll always cherish our time there. We were incredibly fortunate to be in London for Season 2 with an amazing crew and some very talented actors who’ve joined us like Rory Kinnear and Ciarán Hinds.
McKay: Ben Daniels.
Weber implies that there’s much more to discuss, yet he feels as if we’re under the watchful gaze of a star, experiencing an ongoing adventure and test. Ultimately, he considers ourselves quite fortunate.
Love it. Patrick?
Speaker: Well, I’d put it this way: I believe the transition from Season 1 to Season 2 was quite challenging, given that there was a strike involved. Making this show is no walk in the park; it’s incredibly tough.
Weber: It’s a very difficult show to produce.
McKay: However, we take great pride in it, and it truly matters to us deeply. It’s never an easy journey, it’s always challenging. Yet, let me add that we all drew on our collective experience from Season 2, which I hope shines through in every episode.
Daniel Weyman, Markella Kavenagh, and Megan Richards talk Istari, Harfoots, and Rhûn in Season 2
In Season 1 of “The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power,” Daniel Weyman portrayed the enigmatic character known as “The Stranger.” By the end of the series, it was revealed he is an Istar, or a Wizard, although his background remains largely undisclosed. In the final episode, he journeyed eastward towards the relatively unexplored region of Rhûn, accompanied by Markella Kavenagh’s character Nori Brandyfoot. Megan Richards’ character, Poppy, initially chose to stay behind, but promotional materials suggest she will continue to be part of the narrative.
In this conversation, we’re discussing with the vibrant threesome who are spearheading the eastern segment of the “Lord of the Rings: Rising Powers” narrative.
Speaking in full sentences and discovering the Stranger’s identity
Daniel, what has it been like to be able to speak in full, often eloquent sentences this season?
Daniel Weyman: That’s an intriguing query. I was concerned people might think, “he’s less captivating when he speaks; wouldn’t it be better if he just stayed silent and we could revert to the previous topic.” However, we shall have to wait and see how the audience responds. It was enjoyable to explore this new direction. It seems beneficial for his character to grow, learn more through conversation, and return with insights. Additionally, he still has a lot to discover. I find it intriguing that even the dialogue doesn’t provide clear answers about the Stranger. Instead, it leaves us with more questions. Is that another question you have?
Are you excited about the progression of Charlie Vickers as Sauron in Season 2, and do you anticipate the moment when you too can reveal more about the Istar character, now that Patrick McKay hinted we should know who they are by the end of the season?
In simpler terms, Weyman explains that he hasn’t felt the need to worry about the overall story arc of his character because playing the scenes provided and collaborating with Markella Kavenagh and Megan Richards has been such a positive experience. He feels he already knows who his character is, despite not having a specific name yet, and this journey has been enjoyable for him.
Harfoots and Halfling friendships
Hey there! After the heart-wrenching events at the end of Season 1 for the Harfoots, I’m curious to find out more about their situation. Since we know the Stoors are on their way, could you tell me if we’ll get updates on the Harfoot community in Season 2 and if they might reappear later on?
Megan Richards: That’s an excellent query. This season, it seems like the leadership role has shifted somewhat. There are clear connections to the community, and I believe that the essence of that community is strongly present in both Poppy and Nori – from my point of view, that is. So, they’re still very much a part of them in spirit, but for now, the story is being told primarily through the perspectives of Poppy and Nori.
Yeah. Forward motion, right?
Richards: Yeah.
Is there any progress in the close bond between Nori and Poppy, similar to how Frodo and Sam always supported each other, shown more this season?
As a gamer, I can’t help but be captivated by the unwavering bond between Nori and Poppy in this game. Their friendship is more than just words; it’s palpable, and I firmly believe it will endure throughout the story. What truly draws me in is their ability to push each other, a dynamic that feels authentic both on-screen and off.
Yeah, there’s familiarity there, right?
Richards: Yeah.
Kavenagh: Yeah.
That’s great. Very good.
Richards: It’s family.
Thoughts on Rhûn
What is the most interesting thing about Rhûn?
Kavenagh: The most interesting thing about Rhûn?
Weyman: Wow.
Richard: For Poppy and me, the immensity of Tenerife’s landscape, as we filmed there, is overwhelming. It’s almost unsettling to try and locate yourself on a map and trust that you’re heading in the correct direction.
For The Stranger, all life has taken place within the green world, with scarcely any deviation.
Richards: Well, for Poppy and Nori too, yeah.
Weyman: Right. Yeah, yeah. So sort of water, earth, trees, foliage.
Richards: Yeah.
You find yourself abruptly arriving at a location devoid of water, greenery, or trees, only vast expanses of sand stretch before you. I guess that could be described as an overwhelmingly large and disquieting expanse, unsettling in numerous ways.
Kavenagh: And then knowing what’s to come as a performer.
Weyman: What is to … Oh, yeah. Sorry.
Kavenagh: Of Rhûn. Not of this story, but, yeah, it was exciting and thrilling.
Morfydd Clark and Sam Hazeldine talk Lothlórien, Dwarves, and adding to Adar
In essence, Morfydd Clark portrays Galadriel, who serves as a significant figure in “The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power” series. Although an ensemble cast is involved, Galadriel, as played by Clark, stands out notably. Her interpretation of Galadriel is a youthful and bold one, yet she undergoes humbling ordeals during the final stages of Season 1, which adds depth to her character.
In the series, Adar is a freshly created character introduced in the first season. Joseph Mawle portrayed him as the Orc leader, but for Season 2, another actor, Sam Hazeldine, took over the role when it was necessary to recast. We had the chance to interview both actors, whose characters’ narratives intersect significantly this season once more.
How Lothlórien will factor into Season 2 and how Hazeldine has added to Adar
In the story as it stands, by the time we’ve reached this point, Galadriel has already paid a visit to her future domain in Lothlórien, although it hasn’t taken center stage yet. Could we be exploring that area in the upcoming season, Season 2?
Morfydd Clark: In the upcoming seasons, we can expect Galadriel to grow closer to the charm and tranquility of Middle-earth than she was in Season 1. Last season, her personal sorrow kept her quite isolated from elven society. Now, she’s learning what it means to fully embrace Middle-earth and truly live as an elf again, which I found fascinating to portray.
Could you tell me, Sam, what distinctive touch or original aspect have you brought to the character of Adar in Joseph Mawle’s Season 1 performance that sets it apart from others?
As a gamer, I’d say instead of just stunning visuals, what truly sets this narrative apart is the way the circumstances within the story mold Adar. The tale takes an unexpected turn, making it less about his inherent traits and more about how he reacts to these twists and turns. Season 2 certainly doesn’t disappoint as a lot unfolds, and we need to adapt and respond swiftly to the events that transpire.
Clark: Poor Adar had a very short-lived …
Hazeldine: Victory. Yeah.
Galadriel’s relationship with the Dwarves and Adar leading Damrod
Is it possible that Morfydd, as portrayed in Unfinished Tales, will establish friendships or alliances with Dwarves in this upcoming season, given that Tolkien wrote about Galadriel acknowledging their potential and the power of Khazad-dûm?
Clark: Um …
Hazeldine: You’re thinking about what you can and can’t say?
Clark: Absolutely. In fact, what I find captivating about portraying her character is that she’s at a point where she’s uncertain about everything, almost lost. And yet, her journey towards self-recovery and avoiding Sauron’s influence seems to be through appreciating the beauty, mystery, and optimism of Middle-earth. This includes recognizing potential in the Dwarves and opportunities everywhere. What I find particularly intriguing about this season is that it carries a sense of perhaps unrealistic hope, as everyone must try, regardless of the seemingly insurmountable circumstances. An interesting question indeed!
I love that. That’s a great answer.
Clark: Maybe at some point, you can discuss it more.
It’s fantastic! By the way, Sam, how does Adar successfully form alliances and command characters as imposing as the hill-troll Damrod?
In simpler terms, Hazeldine suggests that we should work together to confront Sauron’s threat and gather as many allies as possible. Adar, to me, seems to embody a fearless attitude. If faced with a bear, as humans, we don’t typically flee; instead, we stand our ground.
Clark: It depends on the bear, doesn’t it?
Hazeldine: It does depend on the bear.
Clark: Certain ones, you should run away.
Hazeldine: I would never know which one to … Aren’t polar bears really …
Clark: I think you’re done.
Hazeldine: I think I’m unlikely to bump into a polar bear, though. Anyway.
Clark: But yeah. Actually brings me onto something in terms of … Oh, sorry.
Hazeldine: No, yeah, but go on.
Clark: I’m loving all the Tolkien monsters that we’re seeing in this …
Hazeldine: Oh yeah. Amazing.
That show is simply fantastic!”
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2024-08-30 02:31