Ridley Scott, the legendary director behind cinematic masterpieces like Gladiator and Alien, has never been one to shy away from acknowledging the brilliance of fellow filmmakers. Recently, Scott gave high praise to a fantasy epic streaming on Prime Video, calling it “so brilliant” — and this glowing endorsement has sparked plenty of buzz among movie buffs. If Scott himself can’t stop raving about it, then it’s certainly worth checking out. But what is this film that has captured the attention of one of Hollywood’s finest directors?
The film in question is The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power, the ambitious prequel series set in J.R.R. Tolkien’s legendary Middle-earth. While it may not come from Scott’s own directorial vision, the show’s grandeur, storytelling, and incredible visuals have earned Scott’s admiration, cementing it as a must-watch for fantasy lovers.
A New Chapter in Middle-earth
The Rings of Power takes viewers back to the Second Age of Middle-earth, thousands of years before the events of The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings. It delves deep into the untold stories of legendary characters, the forging of the fabled rings, and the rise of Sauron. With a sprawling narrative and epic world-building, the show brings to life the ancient history of Tolkien’s universe, expanding on themes of good versus evil, corruption, and power.
The show’s visual grandeur is nothing short of breathtaking, with sprawling landscapes, magical creatures, and stunning effects. From the Elves’ ethereal city of Lindon to the dark lands of Mordor, each scene is meticulously crafted to transport viewers into a fantastical realm where ancient legends and unforgettable heroes take center stage.
A Star-Studded Cast
One of the biggest draws of The Rings of Power is its star-studded cast, which features a mix of talented newcomers and seasoned performers. Among the standout characters is Galadriel (played by Morfydd Clark), the fierce Elven warrior whose journey to uncover the true evil behind the darkness creeping across Middle-earth drives much of the story. Alongside her are key figures like Elrond (Robert Aramayo), Isildur (Maxim Baldry), and a host of other characters, each of whom has their own unique and crucial role to play in the unfolding drama.
With such a diverse and talented ensemble cast, The Rings of Power has succeeded in creating complex characters with motivations that feel grounded despite the fantastical setting. This ability to develop emotionally resonant stories while maintaining an epic scope is a key reason why the show has drawn the admiration of filmmakers like Ridley Scott.
Unmatched World-Building
One of the greatest achievements of The Rings of Power is its unparalleled world-building. The show doesn’t just rely on the familiar elements of Middle-earth that fans know and love from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit; it goes much deeper, creating new cultures, languages, and histories for a time long before Frodo Baggins’ fateful journey.
From the kingdom of Númenor to the elven realms and the evil lands controlled by Sauron, the attention to detail in the show’s set design, costumes, and lore is remarkable. It feels as though Middle-earth is alive and evolving before your eyes, making each new revelation and plot twist all the more impactful. For fans of Tolkien’s works, the show offers a treasure trove of lore to dive into, while newcomers will be swept away by the magic and drama.
Why Ridley Scott Loves It
Ridley Scott’s admiration for The Rings of Power speaks to the show’s strength as a work of cinema and television. Known for his epic storytelling, Scott values films that combine grandeur with substance, which is exactly what The Rings of Power achieves. From its visually stunning landscapes to its emotionally complex characters, the series has the kind of sweeping narrative that Scott himself has often explored in his own films.
Scott has also been vocal about his love for films and series that embrace a grand vision and scale — The Rings of Power is exactly that. Whether it’s the battle between the forces of good and evil or the complex relationships between characters, the series manages to elevate Tolkien’s world to new heights, and Scott can clearly see the brilliance in that. As a director who has helmed his own beloved fantasy epics, Scott’s praise holds significant weight, further validating The Rings of Power as a must-watch for fans of high-quality storytelling.
Catch It Now on Prime Video
With Ridley Scott calling it “so brilliant,” The Rings of Power has solidified its place as one of the top shows to watch in the world of fantasy television. It’s a gripping, beautifully executed series that offers a rich tapestry of drama, adventure, and visual spectacle. If you haven’t yet watched it, now is the perfect time to dive into the world of Middle-earth once again.
Stream The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power on Prime Video and see for yourself why it’s earning the kind of praise that only an epic fantasy series could.