The fifth episode of The Rings of Power, "Partings," feels mostly like a setup episode in the greater scheme of the narrative. Yet it also feels essential and well-made overall.
Even though the previous episode came to a close with Nmenor formally committing its military assistance in freeing the Southlands from the orcs. There are still a number of significant obstacles to be overcome before this plan can be fully implemented.
Galadriel is a character that is simple to like but challenging to adore. She takes up the most of the first episode of The Rings of Power, making her the apparent protagonist. Galadriel has been on a downward spiral ever since diving into the Sundering Seas immediately before departing for Valinor. Tolkien used the words "headstrong" and "proud" to characterise her at this time period, but she is both of those things to a fault, and that faultline is rarely thoroughly explored.
In "Partings," Halbrand notes that Galadriel is seeking retribution. She seeks to destroy Sauron, as was revealed in the series prologue, having taken up the cause after her brother's passing. That's a perfectly acceptable quest, but Galadriel hasn't exactly handled things well. She cannot comprehend why Halbrand would not want to be king.
Elrond, a friend of hers, is mentioned along with the fact that the warriors in her previous unit were unable to "separate me from the evil that I was fighting." Were they mistaken? She encourages Halbrand and later the queen of Nmenor to defy their natural tendencies. Galadriel will undoubtedly come to regret some of her choices as her tenacious approach to politics appears destined to backfire. However, as of right now, she is presented to us as a one-note figure who requires the addition of some humanity.
Galadriel was treated differently than Elrond in The Rings of Power. He's a jovial type of guy who defends his buddies regardless of their ethnicity and addresses potentially unpleasant conversations with tact so that everyone comes out on top. He approaches things very differently, which makes him a more appealing character.
His interactions with Durin are once more a pleasure, and seeing the dwarf in Lindon inspires some wonderful exchanges, particularly with Gil-galad, who is returning. At the dinner table, there is amusement to be had. Later, Elrond's own quest is shown to have a deeper meaning when the Elven king informs him that his race is dwindling and that they require mithril to survive.
Nori and her family are catching up with the other Harfoots on Middle-earth as well. This colourful story about a group of travellers caring for a stranger who fell from the sky while battling the elements and wolves is entertaining. Watching Nori teach the meteor man how to speak serves as a reminder of the personal and creative storytelling possibilities in this TV format that would not have been feasible in movies.
There is no doubt that the meteor man is a wizard (and not a dangerous one) at this point. However, Bridie Sisson's bleached blonde Sauron servant is bringing some new stress to the situation. It only lasts for a split second, yet it demonstrates that The Stranger is being pursued by bad powers.
As a result of a dishonest elderly guy organising a mob and leading them directly to Adar, Arondir and Bronwyn lose half of their troops in the meantime. It turns out that Theo is only a lost young boy rather than a villain after all. He hands the cursed blade's hilt to Arondir without interference from the outside world. The two of them learn that Sauron formerly owned it.
One of the more slower themes in "Partings" is countered by Adar's persistent presence. He is such a fascinating villain who resembles an elf and thinks he is a god. Again, it's fantastic that The Rings of Power has the space to be able to explore these varied creatures. In addition to that, we get a couple more Orc exchanges, which are soon becoming highlights of the show.
Isildur wants to go on the Middle-earth trip after the queen Mriel's change of heart last week regarding Galadriel. He won't be able to leave so easily because of his father. When he tries to slip away, he finds Pharazôn's son Kemen preparing to blow up the boat he is aboard because he is upset that everyone is listening to the Elf.
It's disappointing that there is no obvious chemistry between Isildur's sister Eärien and Kemen. Despite the excellent world-building that has been done in Nmenor as the tensions between the two groups — those who trust the Elves and those who do not — start to mount. Isildur is now on a path that makes sense as opposed to just wanting to go west.
The Rings of Power, now five episodes in, is still preparing for what will presumably be its final clash in the Southlands of Middle-earth. With the fires of battle raging and armies poised to smash against one another, the season is in the middle of the quiet before the storm. The characters continue to develop as The Rings of Power more assuredly develops its own voice. Making the wait for the big showdown not as bad thanks to its engaging ensemble and their excellent performances.
Performance | 4.3/5 |
Enjoyment | 4.2/5 |
Overall Rating | 4.2/5 |