Summary

As anticipation builds for the return to Middle-earth in Season 2 ofThe Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power, a newly released poster hints at the introduction of previously unseen, ghoulish creatures from J.R.R. Tolkien’s universe, poised for their live-action debut.

Amazon Prime Video’s high-fantasy epic,The Rings of Power, is set to return with its highly anticipated second season, bringing an even more ambitious and intense storyline set inthe Second Age of Middle-earth. In Middle-earth, one villain has always reigned supreme – a figure so sinister that his mere name instills fear across Men, Elves, Dwarves, and Hobbits (or Harfoots). That villain is none other thanthe infamous Dark Lord, Sauron, who is revealed in this upcoming season, promising a reign of terror. Adding to the excitement, the new season will also introduce new terrifying beasts from Middle-earth, sparking excitement and curiosity among Tolkien enthusiasts, eager to see how these menacing beasts will come to life on screen.

A standout feature inThe Rings of Poweris the vivid realization of J.R.R. Tolkien’s expansive lore. Season Two promises even more spine-chilling encounters for our protagonists, withthe eerie Barrow-wightsemerging as a sinister threat lurking beneath the surface. “The Barrow-wights are ancient, reanimated heroes, acting for evil against their will,” explainedThe Rings of PowerVFX supervisor Jason Smith. “It was super-exciting to take on something I hadn’t seen before. We’ve seen undead before, but not like this. We’re doing a little horror movie in Middle-earth.” Expanding on the first season’s grand scale, the new episodes will thrust beloved characters into escalating darkness, testing their resolve in a world teetering on the edge of disaster. Amidst Sauron’s schemes and Galadriel’s quests, the enigmatic Stranger and the menacing Barrow-wights add layers to the unfolding drama as alliances strain and kingdoms fracture. As the forces of good struggle against mounting odds, their greatest strength lies in their unity and determination to preserve what matters most — each other.

Season 2 ofThe Rings of Powerbrings a major game-changer with Sauron making his presence felt, marking a pivotal shift in the series' dynamic. Prime Video has unveiled a tantalizing new synopsis for the upcoming episodes, heraldingthe servant of Morgoth’sresurgence. Banished by Galadriel and devoid of an army or allies, the burgeoning Dark Lord must now rely on his own cunning to regain strength and oversee the creation of the Rings of Power. These artifacts are crucial to his plan to subjugate all the peoples of Middle-earth to his malevolent rule. Actor Charlie Vickers, who portrays Sauron, discussed the challenge of keeping this monumental secret throughout Season 1. Despite the revelation, Vickers notes that his approach to the character remains consistent, albeit now with the audience privy to Sauron’s overt actions. This dynamic adds a fresh layer to his portrayal, influencing his character choices as the storyline unfolds.

The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Powerseason 2 premieres in August on Amazon Prime Video.