All about the 'Lord of the Rings' adaptation that just came out
'The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim' is the newest anime-style animated film in the cinematic saga originally helmed by Peter Jackson.
The film takes place 183 years prior to the events depicted in the original trilogy inspired by J.R.R. Tolkien’s iconic novels.
Directed by Kenji Kamiyama, the film delves into the fate of Helm Hammerhand, the ninth King of Rohan, and his house.
The plot centers on Wulf, a cunning and ruthless leader of the Dunlendings, as he seeks vengeance for his father’s death.
Image: Trailer of 'The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim' - Warner Bros. Pictures
This leads Helm and his people to mount a daring defense at Hornburg, a stronghold that will later be known as Helm’s Deep.
Image: Trailer of 'The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim' - Warner Bros. Pictures
Amid rising adversity, Héra, Helm’s daughter, must summon courage to lead the resistance against an enemy determined to destroy them entirely.
Image: Trailer of 'The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim' - Warner Bros. Pictures
The narrative was carefully crafted by writers Jeffrey Addiss, Will Matthews, Phoebe Gittins (left), and Arty Papageorgiou (right), delivering an original and engaging storyline.
Kenji Kamiyama, known for TV series such as 'Blade Runner: Black Lotus' and 'Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex,' brings his expertise to the project.
Despite his experience, Kamiyama described the project as big challenge: "I loved The 'Lord of the Rings,' including 'The Hobbit,' and watched it as a fan. I thought it would be rare to have the chance to make it into a movie," he has according to Japanese news site Oricon, adding the film was "a challenge I should take on."
"I hope that not only fans of The Lord of the Rings will enjoy it, but also that they will watch it as a Japanese animated film," he continued. When I saw the live-action trilogy 25 years ago, I was left with the impression that it was an amazing movie, and I felt that I had to protect that impression [with this film] at all costs.. That's why I ended up drawing it in the traditional Japanese animation style."
Image: Trailer of 'The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim' - Warner Bros. Pictures
Produced by Joseph Chou, the film stars Brian Cox, renowned for his role in 'Succession,' who lends his voice to Helm Hammerhand, the powerful King of Rohan.
Actress Gaia Wise, daughter of Emma Thompson, voices Héra, Helm’s determined and brave daughter.
Luke Pasqualino, known for 'Snowpiercer,' voices the vengeful antagonist Wulf.
Miranda Otto reprises her role as Éowyn, the Shieldmaiden of Rohan, delivering a nostalgic connection to the trilogy. She also narrates the film.
With a stellar voice cast, stunning art direction, and a compelling script, 'The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim' aims to deepen the legacy of one of the most beloved sagas in literature and film.
Image: Trailer of 'The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim' - Warner Bros. Pictures