From seeing all the episodes released so far, It is clear why the $1b budget was invested
I love The magical universe of Tolkien.
The novels are deep with meaning, emotion and philosophy John gathered through out his long life.
His “autobiography” is a story left to us as a gift, and is the art one can only express from the soul.
He never sought publicity nor fame for himself or his work as the tale is ever so personal, portraying the people and experiences derived straight from the authors life.
The Ilúvatar Universe is Tolkien’s diary.
To say the least, the author does make the executive decision to publish his work where it is open to the interpretation of each individual reader:
And that’s great. It gives the opportunity to experience the novels in a way that’s personal to us; letting ourselves become immersed.
To compare the Peter Jackson adaptation versus Amazon: They are completely different. As the purposes behind their creation are as well.
Peter Jackson did an incredible job capturing the depth of the story onto the big screen.
Notice that he as well made an adaptation of the storyline rather than strict “play by play”,
Yet, the presence of Tolkien is kept strong.
We are able to experience the same author, elevated to a 3D world, with the talent and creativity of Peter Jackson and his crew.
The Prime adaptation is made too with attention to specific intricacies, yet of a different kind;
The set and costume design, visual aspects, tv & sound production, good special effects and high tech., CGI.
Which are all great makings for an epic tv show to enjoy on a big screen.
The Amazon Prime adaptation, is all of that that + some elements from Tolkien’s world, to give it an interesting storyline.
The Amazon crew is focusing specifically more on the production of cinema, rather then holding the story true to Tolkien’s writing of * his mystical world.
If you want to enjoy the author’s true “universe”, for the soul,
Then read the novels and take time with each page.
That is the the closet you will find your self in the essence of Tolkien, and his work.
(And most “ true to the story” as it can get!)
If you desire TV entertainment, especially after a long day, the Amazon prime adaptation is great for that.
Both are wonderful in their own ways.
And this * adaptation * could be alluring to potential new readers and fans, and is a way to continue keeping Tolkien’s legacy alive, even if in this case a smaller part.
I personally enjoy the books far more.
Yet great to see those enjoying the show as well.