The Rings of Power: Season 2 Unveils the Mysterious Stoor Hobbits
The upcoming season of "The Rings of Power" is set to introduce viewers to a little-known race of Middle-earth: the Stoor Hobbits. These distant cousins of the Hobbits we're familiar with will take center stage in the second season of the Prime Video series.
A New Chapter in Middle-earth
J.R.R. Tolkien's fantastic universe comes to life on our screens through Prime Video. "The Rings of Power" series takes place thousands of years before the events of "The Lord of the Rings," during the Second Age of the Sun.
The first season, aired in 2022, received mixed reviews from critics. However, the second season promises new surprises. "Entertainment Weekly" magazine gives us a first look at the Stoor Hobbits, with exclusive images and interviews.
Who Are the Stoor Hobbits?
In the first season, we met the Harfoots, the ancestors of the Hobbits. The story ended with Nori departing for the lands of Rhûn, accompanied by the Stranger.
The Stoor Hobbits live in the desert regions of Rhûn. Tanya Moodie, who plays Gundabel, the leader of the Stoors, tells us more:
"Our ancestors were nomads. But over time, we settled down and created a culture based on mutual support."
Gavi Singh Chera, who portrays Merimac, another Stoor, adds:
"On set, there's a beautiful carving that tells the story of the origins of the Stoors and Harfoots. It was like a piece of my home and family."
A Different Story from the Books
In Tolkien's books, the Stoors loved water and lived near the marshes of Anduin. But the series changes their story a bit. Chera explains:
"It's interesting to see that our origins are in a dry place, where water is sacred. When you travel and find a river, it must be like an oasis for us."
The series shows the Stoors living in distant lands before arriving in the Shire with the Harfoots and Fallohides in the Third Age.
A New Adventure Awaits
The second season of "The Rings of Power" will premiere on August 29, 2024, on Prime Video. It promises to teach us more about these little-known Hobbits and enrich the history of Middle-earth.
Behind the Scenes
The show's production design plays a crucial role in bringing the world of the Stoor Hobbits to life. Kristian Milsted, the production designer, has created intricate wall carvings that depict the history of both the Stoors and Harfoots. These visual elements not only enhance the storytelling but also help the actors immerse themselves in their roles.
Chera mentions how these set pieces aided his performance: "Looking at the wall carving always helped me get into character as Merimac. It gave me a sense of the rich history and culture of the Stoors."
Adapting Tolkien's World
While "The Rings of Power" takes some creative liberties with Tolkien's lore, it strives to maintain the spirit of his work. The show's creators are filling in gaps in Middle-earth's history, particularly in regions like Rhûn, which Tolkien didn't extensively detail in his writings.
This approach allows the series to explore new aspects of familiar races like the Hobbits while introducing viewers to lesser-known groups like the Stoors. It's a delicate balance between honoring the source material and creating fresh, engaging content for a modern audience.
What to Expect in Season 2
As the story moves to the lands of Rhûn, viewers can anticipate:
A deeper exploration of Hobbit culture and origins
New characters and dynamics among the Stoor community
Possible interactions between the Stoors and other races of Middle-earth
Stunning visuals of the desert landscapes of Rhûn
Further development of the overarching storyline involving the creation of the Rings of Power
With its blend of familiar elements and new explorations, "The Rings of Power" Season 2 is shaping up to be an exciting addition to the Middle-earth saga. Fans of Tolkien's work and newcomers alike will find plenty to enjoy in this expansion of the beloved fantasy world.