The Rings of Power Season 2 Finale: A Divisive Episode

The Season 2 finale of Amazon Prime Video‘s “The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power” has been released, offering a controversial close to the season. Viewers witnessed significant plot developments as well as the resolution of several character arcs. The series continues to captivate and divide audiences, with opinions on the finale varying widely among fans and critics.

In one of the season’s most significant scenes, the episode saw the massive orc assault on Eregion reach its devastating conclusion. The elves, led by Elrond (Robert Aramayo) and Gil-galad (Benjamin Walker), united against the supremely powerful Sauron, portrayed by Charlie Vickers. The orcs, under a shocking twist of allegiance, murdered their leader Adar (Sam Hazeldine) and pledged their loyalty to Sauron, marking a decisive shift in Middle-earth’s power dynamics.

Meanwhile, events in Khazad-dûm played out with dramatic intensity. Prince Durin IV, performed by Owain Arthur, wrestles with the consequences of his father’s (Peter Mullan) obsession with mithril and the power of his ring. This obsession awakens the formidable Balrog. The elder Durin’s eventual sacrifice to save his son cements his legacy and prompts a transition of power.

A highlight of the finale was the revelation of the identity of the enigmatic Stranger, who has intrigued viewers since the series’ inception. Indeed, the Stranger is revealed to be Gandalf, portrayed by Daniel Weyman, which has been a topic of much fan speculation.

The episode also features a complex confrontation between Galadriel (Morfydd Clark) and Sauron, climaxing in an unexpected twist involving the cursed crown of Morgoth. Galadriel manages a narrow escape that leaves her vulnerable but resolute, setting the stage for potential future confrontations.