Tuuli Gress

I find this to be a smart prequel in alignment with the tone and themes of Tolkien and Peter Jackson’s films. I find the Harfoot characters tremendously likable and they reflect the Tolkien-esque theme of the smallest, most vulnerable actors taking heart and showing the greatest courage; the smallest person can make a big difference if they are both compassionate and take action against evil that threatens their world. I loved the ethereal power and beauty of Galadriel from the films, but I have little problem leaving behind the mystical and ghostly (somewhat sterile) she for this young version who is a warrior, driven to fight evil and ally with potential enemies to do so. It is interesting to go back in time and see Middle Earth during the glory of Númenór, and see the desperate efforts to avoid, and the mistakes that lead to the establishment of Mórdor. I enjoy meeting the (fabulous!) forebears of dwarves we know, hobbits we know, and to meet young versions of the elves we know —all before the creation of the rings and the battle against Sauron—and watching them make choices and cope with the outcomes. Young facsimiles take a little getting used to, but I came to accept them. I am always fortified by the themes of goodness and redemption in Tolkien; it is the choices we make that change the world. These themes are faithfully at the glowing core of each storyline in this series. And all the while one can bask in the magical artwork: eloquent set designs, stunning vistas and enviable costumes. I looked forward to each week’s episode.