The Lord of the Rings : The War of the Rohirrim

The Lord of the Rings: War of the Rohirrim is a nostalgic return to Middle-earth that explores Rohan's historical past with a unique blend of emotional depth and ambitious visuals. Directed by Kenji Kamiyama, the film revisits Tolkien's universe to recount the legend of Helm Hammerhand, a central figure in the history of Rohan, and the genesis of Helm's Deep, the fortress that becomes synonymous with resilience in The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers. Anchored by a captivating narrative and a solid cast, the film resonates with powerful themes of sacrifice, vengeance and legacy, but its inconsistent execution prevents it from fully reaching the epic heights it strives for.

Kenji Kamiyama's vision is audacious, developing Tolkien's mythology through animation. Set centuries before the events of the Lord of the Rings trilogy, the film tells a self-contained story centered on the beleaguered kingdom of Rohan. Narrated by Éowyn, once again played by Miranda Otto, the film ties the narrative to the larger story while giving it its own identity. The narration adds a layer of gravitas and emotional continuity, reminding viewers of the timeless struggles that define Middle-earth.

At the heart of the story is Helm Hammerhand, King of Rohan, played with commanding presence by Brian Cox. Helm is a complex character, embodying the duality of royal protector and impetuous warrior. The story captures his desperation as he fights to preserve his kingdom against Wulf, a vengeful chief of the Dunlendings. Wulf, played by Luca Pasqualino, is a fascinating antagonist who is more than just a villain. His motivations, rooted in vengeance and ambition, give him a depth that makes the central conflict both personal and inevitable. The interplay between these two leaders, each driven by their own sense of justice, elevates the story beyond a conventional tale of good versus evil.

Hera, Helm's daughter, played by Gaia Wise, is a remarkable addition to Tolkien's world. Her character is an inspired creation, combining courage, vulnerability and an unshakeable sense of duty. A true emotional core of the film, Hera's journey from loyal daughter to determined warrior highlights the often overlooked contributions of women in the great tapestry of Middle-earth. Her character draws parallels with Éowyn, the shieldmaiden who defied expectations in the original trilogy, but Hera is less nuanced. While her arc is fascinating, it feels underdeveloped at times, with the script relying on her role as a symbolic figure rather than fully exploring her individuality. Nevertheless, Gaia Wise's performance lends Hera a fiery determination that makes her an unforgettable presence.

Visually, The War of the Rohirrim takes bold risks by mixing 2D and 3D animation, creating a stylistic mix as ambitious as it is uneven. Rohan's vast landscapes, snowy fortresses and frenetic battles are often breathtaking, capturing the grandeur of Middle-earth with a fresh perspective. However, execution leaves much to be desired in several areas, with abrupt transitions between animation styles and occasional inconsistencies in visual design. Character models and sets sometimes lack the intricate detail and quality one might expect from a story set in Tolkien's richly imagined world, resulting in moments when the visual narrative feels flat.

Despite its slight visual flaws, the film excels in its action sequences. Kamiyama choreographs the battles with visceral intensity, combining cavalry charges and close combat to create a dynamic sense of scale and urgency. These moments are enhanced by Stephen Gallagher's evocative score, which combines original compositions and echoes of Howard Shore's iconic themes. Tracks like Paris Paloma's The Rider bring a contemporary yet timeless energy to the soundtrack, underlining the emotional weight of the story without overshadowing the narrative moments.

Thematically, the film addresses the cost of leadership, the weight of legacy and the sacrifices required to protect one's people. Helm Hammerhand's tragic journey is a poignant exploration of these ideas, as his choices are driven by a deep love for his kingdom but marred by his inability to temper his rage. Similarly, Hera's arc reflects the resilience and strength of the Rohirrim, showing how individuals rise to meet the demands of the story. The inclusion of Wulf as a complex antagonist adds another layer of thematic depth, as his motivations force the audience to question the righteousness of Rohan's cause and the cycles of violence that perpetuate such conflicts.

However, the film's pace detracts from its emotional impact. The first half is deliberate, building tension and establishing the stakes, but the second half rushes through key moments, sacrificing character development for the sake of spectacle. Combat sequences, while thrilling, sometimes overshadow the quieter, more introspective moments that could have added depth to the story. What's more, the use of nostalgia, with blatant references to Peter Jackson's trilogy, sometimes seems forced, drawing viewers away from the story to recognize its links with the great saga.

Wulf's character illustrates both the film's strengths and weaknesses. As leader of the Dunlendings, he is a formidable adversary whose vendetta against Helm is both personal and political. The script portrays him as a character shaped by loss and driven by a sense of injustice, but it doesn't fully explore the nuances of his point of view. This lack of depth extends to the world-building as a whole, as the film focuses narrowly on the central conflict without fully situating it within the broader socio-political landscape of Middle-earth.

The strongest moments, particularly those involving Hera, resonate with a powerful sense of sacrifice and hope. Her transformation into a symbol of Rohan's enduring spirit is both poignant and triumphant, capturing the essence of Tolkien's themes. The conclusion ties the story to the larger mythology of Middle-earth, offering a satisfying if somewhat predictable resolution.

The Lord of the Rings: War of the Rohirrim is a worthy addition to the Middle-earth saga, despite its slight imperfections. It offers a fresh perspective on a beloved world, combining epic battles with intimate moments to create a story that is both thrilling and emotional. While it doesn't reach the cinematic heights of Peter Jackson's trilogy, it is a testament to the enduring power of Tolkien's universe and the richness of his stories. For fans of Middle-earth, it's a journey well worth taking, offering a glimpse into the history of Rohan and the indomitable spirit of its people.

The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim
Directed by Kenji Kamiyama
Written by Jeffrey Addiss, Will Matthews, Phoebe Gittins, Arty Papageorgiou
Story by Jeffrey Addiss, Will Matthews, Philippa Boyens
Based on Characters created by J. R. R. Tolkien
Produced by Philippa Boyens, Jason DeMarco, Joseph Chou
Starring Brian Cox, Gaia Wise, Luke Pasqualino, Miranda Otto
Music by Stephen Gallagher
Production companies: New Line Cinema, Warner Bros. Animation, Sola Entertainment, WingNut Films
Distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures
Release date : December 11, 2024 (France), December 13, 2024 (United States)
Running time : 134 minutes

Seen December 9, 2024 at Grand Rex

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