This episode struggles with pacing and character development, leaving us wanting more.
Episode 3 opens with Elendil’s horse, Berek, bravely navigating the dangers of Mordor. After defeating two orcs, Berek ventures into a dark cave where Isildur is ensnared by the monstrous Shelob. Luckily, Isildur manages to escape, thanks to his loyal steed.
In Numenor, the atmosphere is tense as Elendil and Earien pay their respects to the fallen king. Queen Muriel, facing criticism for her blindness, shows strength when she embraces a grieving citizen instead of punishing her. As Pharazon advises her on her upcoming coronation, he suggests she wear white—a nod to her father’s legacy. Meanwhile, she discovers the Palantir, a dangerous artifact that could hold key secrets.
Back in the orc camp, Adar tries to calm his followers, highlighting their need for peace rather than war. This sympathetic angle is further explored as a young orc expresses concerns for their safety. Meanwhile, Sauron, now known as Annatar, subtly manipulates Celebrimbor, convincing him to forge the Rings of Power using mithril.
As Isildur makes his way through the Marshes, he encounters a wounded girl named Estrid, who inadvertently stabs him. They eventually find themselves in Pelargir, only to be ambushed by orcs. Just when it seems like hope is lost, Arondir arrives to help, though he has his grief to deal with following the off-screen death of Bronwyn.
The episode culminates in Queen Muriel’s crowning, disrupted by accusations of deceit. Just when chaos erupts, an eagle swoops in, signaling a moment of awe. As King Durin finally agrees to forge the Rings, the stakes are higher than ever.
This episode had potential, but it struggled to deliver a cohesive narrative. While the threads connecting Isildur, Numenor, and the orc camp are intriguing, the pacing felt sluggish. The emotional weight of Muriel’s character is evident, yet her blindness remains a point of contention, overshadowing her leadership.
The introduction of sympathetic orcs, especially the baby orc, seems misplaced. While attempting to humanize them, the show risks diluting the essence of evil. It raises questions about the need to evoke pity for the dark forces at play. The dialogue lacks the punch needed to make us truly invest in these characters.
Despite the efforts to build tension, many scenes dragged, making it difficult to stay engaged. While we appreciate the visual elements and the unfolding lore, the episode felt bloated with underdeveloped storylines. Here’s hoping future episodes pick up the pace and deliver the action we crave.
