Episode Grade: (6.8/10)
After what was a promising second episode that seems to put the show on the right track, episode 3 was simply underwhelming. Galadriel and the Harfoots continue to wander with not much development to the main plot. The elves, dwarves, and humans that were introduced thus far were nowhere to be seen. The only positive development comes from the Southlands, where the captured Arondir has begun putting together what the orcs have been up to.
Plot (33/50)
Galadriel discovers that Sauron’s sigil is actually a map of the Southlands and that there is a plan in place that originates from those lands in the event of Morgoth’s defeat. Development in the orc storyline sees Arondir captured and made to dig tunnels alongside fellow elf and human captives. There, he learns that the orcs have built a vast network of tunnels that has made them undetectable thus far. They follow a leader named Adar and are possibly looking for some sort of weapon. Getting an explanation for what happened to the people of Hordern is good, but seeing as how there were no bodies and no trace of anyone at Hordern, there is a bit of inconsistency here. For this explanation to work, one has to assume that not a single person fought back against the orcs or that the orcs demonstrated immense restraint in not killing or injuring anyone who did, and that’s just not plausible. There was some action and adventure in the episode. Adar’s identity is mildly intriguing as he seems to be human. The situation in Numenor is also somewhat intriguing, but why do human kings always have to be lost?
Character Development (11/15)
Galadriel continues to prove herself incapable of making any sort of compromise. Halbrand’s backstory adds a bit to substance to what is otherwise a generic character. Elendil’s family and heritage is interesting enough, hopefully they are developed further.
Theme/Messages (3/5)
- “The tallest milkweed gets snipped” is the epitome of the low risk-low reward mentality.
- Make the best of whatever situation you find yourself in.
Acting (9/15)
The facial expression of Morfydd Clark (Galadriel) was meant to be over joyous while she was riding a horse, but it was plain creepy. The near-constant intensity of Markella Kavenagh (Nori) is too much. Maybe that’s how the writers want the character, but it’s way over the top. Nori has so much passion she’s about to cry when she’s talking about just about anything, significant or not. Give me a break… Ismael Cruz Cordova (Arondir) and Lloyd Owen (Elendil) were decent.
Cinematography (12/15)
The shots of Numenor were awesome (8:25).