The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim

et 183 years before the events of the original Lord of the Rings trilogy, this gripping prequel introduces a new chapter in the history of Helm’s Deep, one of Middle-earth’s most iconic fortresses. A fierce and unrelenting attack forces Helm Hammerhand and his people to make a stand in the Hornburg, an ancient stronghold designed for just such a siege. The assault comes from Wulf, a ruthless and cunning Dunlending lord, whose motivation stems from the deep pain of vengeance following the death of his father. Wulf is determined to exact retribution on the people of Rohan, and his plan leads him to besiege the fortress where Helm’s people must rally to protect their lives and way of life.

As the siege intensifies and the odds grow ever more insurmountable, Helm’s daughter, Héra, finds herself thrust into a role she never anticipated. In a world where men are often at the forefront of battle and leadership, Héra must rise to the occasion to lead the resistance. She is not just the daughter of Helm Hammerhand, but an individual with her own strengths and leadership qualities that come to the forefront in the face of overwhelming adversity.

The story delves deep into Héra's internal struggles as she faces both the pressure of her lineage and the devastating reality of the conflict. Although initially uncertain and overwhelmed by the enormity of the task ahead, she is forced to confront her own fears, doubts, and sense of duty. As the battle rages on, she must learn to channel her resolve and inspire those around her to keep fighting, even when hope seems lost. The people of Helm’s Deep are counting on her leadership to survive, and Héra rises to the occasion, demonstrating resilience and courage in ways she had never imagined.

This tale of the past offers a glimpse into the history of Helm Hammerhand, a legendary figure in Rohan’s history whose deeds would become the foundation for future legends. His wisdom and martial prowess are tested in ways that would later inspire the people of Rohan to continue resisting tyranny, as seen in the events of The Lord of the Rings. Yet, it is his daughter, Héra, whose leadership will determine the outcome of the siege and the survival of her people.

At its core, the story is about survival, leadership, and vengeance. Wulf's ruthless pursuit of vengeance is not just a personal vendetta but a symbol of the cycle of hatred that perpetuates violence and war. Héra’s fight is not only against a physical enemy but also against the emotional and psychological toll of war. The story explores the themes of sacrifice, the weight of responsibility, and the power of determination in the face of overwhelming odds.

In the end, the battle for Helm’s Deep is more than just a military conflict—it is a test of human spirit, leadership, and the unyielding will to protect what is dear. The legacy of the Hornburg, immortalized in the later Lord of the Rings saga, is shaped in this brutal yet inspiring chapter of Middle-earth’s long history.

Director: Kenji Kamiyama

Genre: Action, Adventure, Animation, Fantasy

Cast: Alex Jordan, Bea Dooley, Benjamin Wainwright, Bilal Hasna, Billy Boyd, Brian Cox, Calum Gittins, Christopher Lee, Dominic Monaghan, Elijah Tamati, Gaia Wise, Janine Duvitski