The Rings of Power season 2 shouldn’t overlook one key character in final episodes

As a film enthusiast with a penchant for fantasy epics and a soft spot for complex family dynamics, I must say that the storyline between Prince Durin (Owain Arthur) and King Durin (Peter Mullan) in The Rings of Power has been one of the most captivating aspects of this series. It’s a breath of fresh air amidst the grandeur of Middle-earth, offering a heartfelt piece of family drama that resonates deeply.

During Sauron’s (Charlie Vickers) ominous actions aimed at controlling Middle-earth and the escalating violence during the Siege of Eregion, there’s one plotline that could be unnoticed in The Rings of Power season 2 – overlooking it would be a major oversight.

In a straightforward and engaging manner, let me rephrase that for you: Throughout the series, Prince Durin (portrayed by Owain Arthur) has stood out as a reliable voice of wisdom and caution, swiftly growing suspicious of Annatar/Sauron and resisting his deceitful schemes. However, his most poignant scene occurred in season 2 episode 6, where he broke down in tears upon the realization that he might have to confront his own father if he is to protect the Dwarven realm from impending danger.

Over the course of two seasons, it’s fair to say that the bond between Prince Durin and his father, King Durin (played by Peter Mullan), has been anything but straightforward.

They’ve not always seen eye to eye – but now marks a key turning point in the relationship. Durin has rapidly figured out that his father is not himself and it’s down to the ring on his finger. He’s callous, cold, and thoughtless and is clearly ready to put Khazad-dûm at risk – and it can continue no longer.

In Episode 6, King Durin becomes consumed by avarice following the use of his ring. Annatar then visits the King, encouraging him to hasten the extraction of mithril, a task that Durin is aware could endanger Dwarven miners. Surprisingly, he refuses the offer of timber and other valuable goods in exchange – to the bewilderment of his son, Prince Durin.

Feeling a glimmer of hope that my father has regained his sanity, I find myself relieved – only to discover he’s merely playing hardball for a better deal. Upon being questioned about his apparent insanity, I, King Durin, retort that it’s not me who’s lost my wits, but the entire world around me. I stand ready to take hold of this chaos and seize it by its very roots.

As a movie critic, I found myself utterly disturbed by the unfolding events in the scene. Prince Durin, with growing unease, pleaded with his father to remove his ring. However, the ring seemed to have taken a hold over King Durin, causing him to stubbornly refuse any need to prove himself to his son. In an unsettling display of aggression that was completely out of character for him, King Durin, under the influence of the ring, violently threw his own son aside.

In a heartfelt conversation, Durin reveals that his father, though changed significantly, is still not completely the same person as before (almost unrecognizable, but not quite).

In episode 6, these short moments stand out as some of the most heartfelt, despite making up just a small part of the episode. Throughout the series, the authentic portrayal of the father-son relationship has given depth and authenticity to the story that no other plotline has achieved. Although it may not be the most sensational or innovative story, it is remarkably poignant and powerful – far more engaging than the rather dry political struggle at Numenor.

In the midst of magical adventures and looming apocalyptic conflicts, Durin and his father present a touching family tale and a bond between father and son that truly resonates. As Prince Durin juggles his duties as future ruler and strives to serve his people, all while nurturing his connection with his father, the scene is heartwarming to behold.

However, The Rings of Power often tends to overlook more straightforward and less grandiose narratives. As we approach the last two episodes, let’s keep our fingers crossed that the dwarven storylines won’t suffer the same fate as other characters.

Of course, the last two instalments are going to have a huge job to do in wrapping up the drama of season 2, potentially killing off some of our darlings, and preparing us for what may be to come in a potential season 3. But it would be a mistake to brush this crucial storyline aside.

It’s possible that there’s no need for concern, and it’s hoped that Durin Squared will play a crucial part in the upcoming fight, given their role is proving vital to the series. However, some characters we were led to care about during season 1 have unexpectedly taken a back seat for one reason or another.

Remember Theo? What about Isildur having next to no screen time this season?

Although it’s understandable when a series decides to minimize some plotlines (after all, I wouldn’t mind if they gave us fewer scenes of the rather tedious Numenor), there’s always a chance that such decisions might result in the neglect of characters who significantly enhance the overall quality of the show.

Beyond demonstrating Prince Durin’s indispensable role in The Rings of Power on numerous occasions, it is vital that the series further develops its intricate world-building, exploring the extensive territories of Middle-earth, undeniably including Khazad-dûm.

2024-09-25 15:34

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