TLOTR

Why it's such agood film ?

Summary :

"The Lord of the Rings" is a famous novel written by J.R.R. Tolkien in the middle of the 20th century. The trilogy was then adapted into a film by Peter Jackson at the end of the century. The story takes place in a fantasy world where Man, Elf, dwarf, and evil creatures live together. A long time ago, a deceitful creature named Sauron fooled the entire world. Indeed, he gave some magic rings to each powerful leader of each race, telling them that the rings would give them power and abilities. What they didn’t know is that Sauron created another ring in secret, and even more powerful! The ring has a goal: to control the world. It can confer invisibility, long life, and a huge dependency on anyone other than Sauron who is wearing it. We follow a fellowship whose mission is to destroy the unique ring in the fire of a mountain. During their long journey, many issues arise, and the enemy puts a lot of hurdles to stop them. The freedom of men depends on the success of the quest.

The character of Gandalf is a central figure in the saga "The Lord of the Rings." Gandalf the Grey is a wizard with counterparts. In the film, we only see two others: Radagast the Brown and Saruman the White, but in the books, the two Blue Wizards are also present. All of them have been sent to Middle-earth by Eru Iluvatar, the creator of the world (God). I love the book because the author goes deeper into the characters, it gives them more presence. For example all the "mages" and Sauron are called the Istari which is a synonym for angel . It is a beautiful message to see how the same ability doesn't make you good or bad : Gandalf and Sauron (th evil) are basically identical. Al is our choice and our responsability. Gandalf is portrayed as the perfect example of a hero: brave and humble, much like Frodo and Aragorn.

Gandalf a hero ?

I really appreciate how Mordor is represented. The aesthetic chosen by Peter Jackson is very close to the description in the book. The depiction of Sauron reduced to an eyelidless eye after his defeat is particularly relevant. It's simple yet clear: a force that watches everything, that can never sleep. I also really like the Nazgul, the seven human ring bearers who have become slaves to the One Ring. All humanity is gone from them. They are the incarnation of death, and in one scene, we can see life draining from them. Every detail is perfect, down to the hooves of their horses bleeding. The voices and shadows that Frodo sees when he puts on the ring are incredibly powerful. You can feel the fear and loneliness with him.

Sauron

One of the most powerful aspects of Gandalf's personality is, in fact, his humility. Many watchers think that it would be easier if Gandalf were the ring-bearer. However, Gandalf recognizes his weaknesses and refuses the burden. We can also see in this character a representation of duty. He chooses to use his power for good and not for personal benefit, whatever the cost may be. Throughout the story, Gandalf serves as a symbol of hope: every time a situation seems desperate, he changes it.

Saruman is supposed to be the wisest of the wizards, hence the leader. However, he fails by claiming allegiance to Sauron. When Gandalf dies, the gods cannot let humanity be without a "right" and powerful figure of justice, so they decide to bring Gandalf back to life as Saruman was supposed to be. I see it as a model. He is showing the character and us the way to follow: wisdom, bravery, and kindness. Gandalf the White is a metaphor for doing what is right every time and always giving the best of ourselves, including our lives. Indeed, Gandalf dies while saving his friends.

Gandalf is humble even in friendship. He is close to ordinary people and even rogues like Aragorn. He doesn't behave snobbishly by associating only with elves and those of royal blood. Instead, he sees people for who they are and appreciates them for their worth. He allows himself to be surprised by simple folk like the Hobbits and isn't afraid to admit that he learns from them and enjoys their company. Indeed, it is this friendship with the "half-man" that Saruman reproaches Gandalf for in the third volume. This simplicity of laughing, dancing, and loving is a character trait that I particularly admire in Gandalf. He remains steadfast in both humor and war.