I don’t understand all the 1 star trolls who predetermined their opinion before the first episode. Granted, the series does start a little slow, but even from the beginning, you can tell the writers are building toward something worthwhile. Give it a chance! Every concern about character relatability or larger character arcs was put to bed as the series continued. For real Tolkien fans, perhaps it can come across as “predictable” or “off” at times, but the films are the same way… Temper expectation and enjoy it for what it is— good CINEMATIC story telling. Twists and turns along the way should be welcomed. Overall, it’s visually stunning and intriguing. I’d binge it again no doubt.