‘The War of the Rohirrim’ Expands Tolkien’s Middle-earth in Animated Prequel

The film explores the legendary Helm Hammerhand and Rohan’s history but receives mixed reviews for its storytelling and execution.

Set 200 years before 'The Lord of the Rings,' the anime-style film delves into the backstory of Helm Hammerhand, a legendary king of Rohan.
Helm’s transformation into a fearsome warrior, likened to Batman, is a standout moment, showcasing his mythical feats during a siege at Helm’s Deep.
The movie’s animation allows for visually striking and larger-than-life depictions of battles and characters, though some critics found it lacking in originality.
Héra, Helm’s daughter, emerges as a compelling protagonist, drawing parallels to Éowyn from 'The Lord of the Rings,' but other characters, including the villains, are underdeveloped.
While praised for its attention to Tolkien’s lore and detailed animation, the film is criticized for its conventional script and inability to match the grandeur of Peter Jackson’s live-action adaptations.