Top 10 Iconic Scenes from The Lord Of The Rings: The War Of The Rohirrim

This article contains spoilers for The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim.

The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim Review

Released in December 2024, The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim marks a significant milestone as the first anime installment of the legendary franchise. Directed by Kenji Kamiyama, famed for his work on Ghost in the Shell, this 134-minute animated feature draws on decades of anime proficiency, reimagining the beloved universe of J.R.R. Tolkien. Following the critically acclaimed The Return of the King directed by Ralph Bakshi in 1980, this film brings forth some of the most exhilarating moments associated with the franchise.

Being the first Lord of the Rings movie since 2003’s The Return of the King, expectations were understandably high. This new release faces competitive pressure, especially with The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum scheduled for 2026. While it received a mix of critical feedback, audience reactions leaned towards the positive side, with many fans enamored by the film’s inventive retelling of Tolkien’s timeless mythos based on “The House of Eorl,”a tale from Appendix A of LOTR. The movie delivers vivid scenes that reinvigorate the classic fantasy landscape.

1. A Southron Is An Omen Of Distant Threats

War Of The Rohirrim Teases Tolkien’s Wider World

Among the standout moments is the unexpected introduction of a Southron, a race linked with warfare often referred to as the Haradrim. Originating from Harad, a region situated south of Mordor, the Southron’s presence enriches the lore, particularly for dedicated fans of Tolkien’s work. Early in the film, the discovery of a Southron’s decaying corpse serves as a forewarning of impending strife, underscoring that turmoil approaches Rohan as the broader conflict of the War of the Ring begins to materialize.

2. A Watcher In The Water Lies In Wait

The Mythical Beast Got A New Look In War Of The Rohirrim

Watcher in the Water in The War of the Rohirrim

The War of the Rohirrim revives the menacing Watcher in the Water, reminiscent of its iconic debut in The Fellowship of the Ring. Kamiyama’s interpretation diverges from what audiences previously knew, showcasing a creature adorned with tree-like appendages, evoking memories of other fantastical beings from the anime world. The Watcher’s design brings a fresh take to this legendary monstrosity, establishing one of the film’s memorable sequences.

3. Shieldmaidens Make A Comeback

Éowyn’s Importance In Lord of the Rings Is Recognized

In a commendable homage, The War of the Rohirrim highlights the legacy of Éowyn, presented through Hèra, Helm Hammerhand’s daughter. Early scenes celebrate the shieldmaiden tradition, showcasing how this brave lineage has nearly faded. As Hèra and her handmaiden, Olwyn, take up arms, the film breathes life into the heroism associated with these strong female characters, paying respect to Éowyn’s valor and contributions to the Rohirrim folklore.

4. Saruman Makes Himself Known In War Of The Rohirrim

Christopher Lee Returns To The Lord Of The Rings

Remarkably, the late Christopher Lee reprises his role as Saruman through archival footage integrated with modern technology, allowing fans to relish a piece of nostalgia. This striking reappearance serves as a critical element in the narrative, hinting at Saruman’s burgeoning power as he lays groundwork at Isengard. Utilizing Lee’s familiar persona adds depth to the film, establishing one of the high points of the viewing experience.

5. Hèra Rides To Meet Gandalf In War Of The Rohirrim

Gandalf’s Rune Signifies New Beginnings

Another thrilling moment includes Hèra’s journey towards meeting Gandalf, carrying with her a letter marked with his distinct rune. This enchanting reference to the wizard solidifies connections across the timeline of Middle-earth, tieing back to past events depicted in The Hobbit and further enriching the interlinking narratives within Tolkien’s universe.

6. Orcs Prove That Sauron Is Already Worried About The Ring

Two Orcs Were Voiced By A Special Duo

A delightful surprise comes in the form of orc characters voiced by actors Billy Boyd and Dominic Monaghan, famed for their roles as Pippin and Merry in the original trilogy. Their dynamic chemistry translates even in the roles of Sauron’s subordinates, injecting humor and nostalgia into the narrative.

7. Helm Goes Into Wraith Mode In The Lord Of The Rings Anime

Helm Hammerhand Loses His Humanity

In a stunning display of animation, Helm Hammerhand transitions into a wraith-like entity during a pivotal scene. The film diverges from the original source material by placing Hèra in the limelight, creating intrigue around her father while retaining memorable moments like Helm’s ferocious battles. The use of anime gives a unique flair to Helm’s dark transformation, effectively showcasing his descent into savagery.

8. Hama Faces His Fate With No Fear

Hèra’s Brother Was The Unsung Hero Of The Movie

Hama emerges as a silent hero within the narrative. Displaying unmatched bravery, he confronts his doom head-on, enriching the storyline with his poignant arc. Although not a central figure in “The House of Eorl,” Hama’s character development showcases his inherent courage, making his fate resonate emotionally, adding depth to the overall tale.

9. Helm Dies A Warrior’s Death

Helm Hammerhand Freezes To Death Standing

Helm Hammerhand’s fate culminates in a heart-wrenching warrior’s death, captured masterfully by the film. As he fights valiantly against insurmountable odds, Helm’s tragic end – freezing while standing to protect his people – underlines his legacy. The film does justice to his character, balancing his ferocity with a noble demise that resonates deeply with audiences.

10. Middle-Earth Soars Into View For The First Time In 10 Years

The Rohan Theme Made A Strong Comeback

The film opens with a breathtaking homage to Middle-earth, reigniting nostalgia among fans. Accompanied by Howard Shore’s iconic Rohan theme, the panning visuals of Rohan evoke the enchanting landscapes of New Zealand, further enriched by a new score from Stephen Gallagher. This powerful introduction sets the tone for a cinematic journey that resonates with the spirit of the original trilogy.

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