Warner Bros.’s latest addition to Tolkien’s Middle Earth Universe, “The War of the Rohirrim,” is a visually stunning animated film that takes viewers on a thrilling journey through the world of Middle-earth.
With its Ghibli-esque hand-drawn animation style, the film brings the landscapes and characters of Tolkien’s legendary world to life with vibrant colors and intricate details. The battle sequences are particularly impressive, showcasing the power and ferocity of the Rohirrim warriors as they clash with their enemies in epic clashes.
The film centers around the legendary Helm Hammerhand, a complex and powerful king who is both admired and feared by his people. While his strength and determination are undeniable, his actions are not always without consequence. The film explores the weight of his decisions and the impact they have on his kingdom.
The animation is impeccable and makes it a worthwhile big-screen experience. The visuals are stunning, followed by the mesmerizing soundtrack. There are scenes in particular, like the entire blizzard sequence, where I am completely in awe of how beautiful it looks! The animation team did not hold back!
The characters have strong emotions, and the animation and the voice acting convey them very well. But, frankly, it feels less Tolkein-y because there’s a medieval war background but with less fantastical elements. It’s a good addition nonetheless but it would’ve worked even without the “Lord of the Rings” elements.
The film doesn’t offer much new insights into Middle-earth, feeling more like a standalone adventure than a crucial piece of the more considerable lore. I love how Helm’s character is someone whom I don’t particularly like, but I can also agree that he’s a necessary force as a king. He gives me Thor visuals with the appearance, and the hammer is the cherry on the cake.
Kenji Kamiyama’s direction feels like a much needed artistic addition to the lore since “Lord of the Rings” franchise has always been highly artsy despite being a mass-entertainer.
To conclude, Kenji Kamiyama’s “The War of the Rohirrim” is a visually stunning and entertaining film with epic battles has strong characters that will appeal to fans of the Lord of the Rings franchise and animation enthusiasts alike. Its breathtaking animation and epic battle sequences make it a must-watch for anyone seeking a visually immersive experience in Middle-earth.
