Lord Of The Rings Timeline Explored As Rings Of Power Season 2 Releases

As a die-hard fan who has grown up with the magic of Middle Earth, I can confidently say that revisiting this enchanted world through Amazon’s Rings of Power and The War of the Rohirrim is like reuniting with an old friend. My journey began over two decades ago when The Lord of the Rings trilogy captivated my heart and soul.


Two full decades have passed, but The Lord of the Rings remains a beloved fantasy trilogy. What sets it apart is its grandeur, its characters, their relationships, and above all, its epic storytelling. Now, it’s back in the spotlight with Amazon’s groundbreaking fantasy TV series, The Rings of Power, as well as an upcoming animated film titled The War of the Rohirrim, both stirring excitement among viewers.

As a devoted fan, I’m thrilled to return to the heartlands once more, whether you’re an old timer or joining us for the first time. Navigating the timeline of these films might be a bit tricky for newcomers, but fear not! This guide will help you watch the movies in sequence without missing any crucial moments.

Middle Earth movies

Six films set in Middle-earth are currently available: three adaptations of The Lord of the Rings and another three focused on The Hobbit. However, it’s worth noting that there was an animated adaptation of The Hobbit in 1977, which isn’t directly linked to the movies. Recently, Warner Bros shared their intentions for new movie series that could potentially expand the Lord of the Rings storyline. Meanwhile, season 2 of The Rings of Power is expected to stream on Amazon Prime this year, catering to a part of its audience.

The evolution of timeline in the Rings of Power

The Rings of Power is set in Middle-earth’s Second Age, which predates both The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit by several millennia. During this era, there were prophecies unfolding, such as the forging of the rings and the emergence of Sauron. It also encompasses stories like the Fall of Jun Dorh and the Last Alliance of Elves and Men, events that transpired long before those we are familiar with involving Frodo and Bilbo.

Watching the movies in order

As a die-hard fan, I can’t help but share my two cents on the epic journey through Middle Earth. Though The Hobbit trilogy was released after The Lord of the Rings, it actually unfolds 60 years prior. To truly appreciate the intricate web of events, watching them in chronological order is a must. Trust me, it’s like solving a puzzle that only becomes clear once you have all the pieces in place!

1. The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey (2012)

In this initial movie, we encounter Bilbo Baggins in miniature form, portrayed by Martin Freeman. The story unfolds as Gandalf, the wise wizard, extends an invitation to Bilbo to join Thorin and his band in a battle against Smaug the dragon, aiming to recover their lost kingdom. Along the way, Bilbo encounters Gollum, a particular creature who carries the One Ring, which he eventually manages to overpower and retrieve.

2. The Hobbit The Desolation Of Smaug (2013)

As an ardent fan, I can’t help but breathe, live, and grow with the epic tales spun by the enigmatic company known as llWays. Their relentless pursuit of progress mirrors a towering marble, each step laden with challenges that would deter most – beasts like spiders and orcs among them. Yet, they persevere, and their journey leads them to a fabled city called Esgaroth. Here, the veil lifts, and I, along with Bilbo, catch a glimpse of the fearsome dragon Smaug ensconced in his mountain lair. The climax arrives when, after what feels like an eternity, Smaug emerges from his cavern, spreading terror in his wake.

3. The Hobbit The Battle Of The Five Armies (2014)

1. The final Hobbit movie offers unprecedented battle scenes like none other seen in the first two films, featuring live-action characters such as men, dwarves, elves, and orcs. Notably, it wraps up in the Shire, serving as a prelude to the first part of The Lord of the Rings trilogy.

4. The Fellowship of the Ring (2001)

Essentially, The Fellowship of the Ring marks the beginning of J.R.R. Tolkien’s epic tale, The Lord of the Rings, in Middle Earth. At this point, the story transitions from Bilbo to his cousin, Frodo Baggins, who is more mature and active. The tranquil life of Frodo in the Shire is disrupted when he inherits the One Ring. While Bilbo continues to wander, Gandalf subtly informs Frodo, Sauron’s nephew, that the Ring has found its master once again.

Frodo is quickly accompanied by the Fellowship’s members: Aragorn, Legolas, Gimli, Boromir, and Gandalf. Now, these companions of the Fellowship are also entrusted with the ring-bearing duty, tasked with delivering it to Mount Doom’s flames. The battle portrayed in this initial movie provides a crucial foundation for the war feelings that will be expressed more fully in subsequent installments.

5. The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers

In the second half of the film, tensions within the Fellowship led to splits among them. During their journey towards Mordor, Frodo and Sam encounter the treacherous Gollum, while the rest of the Fellowship faces its own trials in a storm. We’re confident that Gandalf will return, marking the start of the first great battle in the trilogy – a fierce confrontation taking place at Helms Deep, foreshadowed by a powerful tempest.

6. The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King

In terms of Frodo Baggins’ story within the Lord of the Rings trilogy, The Return of the King stands as the climactic and final chapter. As they strive to overcome the greatest obstacles towards accessing Mordor, Frodo and Sam face immense challenges, yet their bond is deeply strained due to the corrupting influence of the Ring. Eventually, Frodo is imprisoned on an island against his will, under the command of the deceitful Gollum who possesses the Ring.

Watching guide in order for the Lord of the Rings films

For those unacquainted with the series, it’s advisable to watch the movies sequentially as they were originally released.

1. The Fellowship of the Ring (2001)

2. The Two Towers (2002)

3. The Return of the King (2003)

4. The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey (2012)

5. The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (2013)

6. The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies (2014)

7. Rings of Power TV Series (2022)

The future of Middle Earth

Even though the first season of The Rings of Power has been unveiled in Middle-earth, the epic saga remains unfinished. Fans can look forward to the second season in August 2024, followed by the third one. Moreover, an animated movie titled The War of the Rohirrim is slated for release a year prior. Lastly, towards the end of this century, another live-action film, The Hunt for Gollum directed by Andy Serkis, will be released.

The folklore set within the realm known as Middle earth continues to captivate an ever-growing number of both old and new fans. There’s no better moment to explore new landscapes and dive deep into the vast universe of The Lord of the Rings, whether you’re experiencing it for the first time, revisiting the original trilogy, or searching for a fresh series.

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2024-08-29 20:38