The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim is a 2024 animated fantasy film directed by Kenji Kamiyama. Set 183 years before the events of J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings, the film explores the legendary story of Helm Hammerhand, the King of Rohan, and the origins of Helm's Deep.
Plot Summary
The film chronicles the sudden attack by Wulf, a cunning and ruthless Dunlending lord seeking vengeance for his father's death. This assault forces King Helm Hammerhand and his people to make a daring last stand in the ancient stronghold of the Hornburg—a fortress that will later be known as Helm's Deep. Amidst the siege, Héra, Helm's courageous daughter, emerges as a leader, rallying the Rohirrim to resist their formidable enemy.
Cast and Characters
Brian Cox as Helm Hammerhand: The stalwart King of Rohan, renowned for his strength and leadership.
Gaia Wise as Héra: Helm's determined daughter, who plays a pivotal role in the defense of Rohan.
Luke Pasqualino as Wulf: The vengeful Dunlending lord orchestrating the attack on Rohan.
Miranda Otto as Éowyn: Serving as the film's narrator, Otto reprises her role from Peter Jackson's trilogy.
Production Details
Produced by New Line Cinema and Warner Bros. Animation, in association with Sola Entertainment, the film aims to visually and thematically align with Peter Jackson's original trilogy. The animation style blends traditional and modern techniques, bringing Middle-earth's rich landscapes and epic battles to life.
Music
The film's score, composed by Bear McCreary, enhances the narrative's epic scope, incorporating motifs familiar to fans of the original trilogy while introducing new themes that reflect the film's unique storyline.
Release and Reception
Released in U.S. theaters on December 13, 2024, The War of the Rohirrim received mixed reviews. Critics praised its visual fidelity to the original films and the depth of its storytelling. However, some noted that it lacked the grandeur of its live-action predecessors. The film holds a 67% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
OTT Release
Following its theatrical run, the film is expected to be available for streaming on Max (formerly HBO Max) around February or March 2025, allowing audiences to revisit the epic tale from the comfort of their homes.
Conclusion
The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim offers a compelling exploration of Rohan's history, delving into the valor and resilience of its people. While it may not fully capture the grandeur of the original trilogy, it provides fans with a deeper understanding of Middle-earth's rich tapestry.