3. The Return of the King (2003)
While this film is considered by many fans to be one of the best that Peter Jackson’s trilogy has to offer, it lands here “only” in third place. Don’t get me wrong, all three films are masterpieces in their own right. Part 3 shines with a grand battle and a very detailed ending, especially in the extended cut.
The film ties all threads together, dazzles with grand emotional moments, and entertains very well in this way. However, compared to its predecessors, there is simply less happening aside from the final battle. That’s nitpicking at a high level, and it remains a small miracle that Jackson has brought the trilogy to such a masterful close.
2. The Fellowship of the Ring (2001)
The kickoff to the grand trilogy is still unforgettable today. After an epic prologue, you are thrown directly into the Shire, right into Middle-earth. The film introduces its world very well and captivates with numerous iconic scenes. Care for a selection?
Bilbo’s birthday, the escape from the Nazgûl, Elrond’s council, Saruman, the Mines of Moria, Boromir’s death. Those are just a few highlights in a grand fantasy film that conveys the feeling of going on an adventure with friends from the very beginning. On MeinMMO, you will find a power ranking of the Fellowship.
1. The Two Towers
For some, perhaps a controversial number 1, The Two Towers has earned this spot through its sheer mass of cool moments. The great advantage of a middle part is that it doesn’t have to introduce or conclude anything. It can simply tell a lot, and unlike the The Hobbit films, there is enough content.
The Fellowship gets separated and discovers completely different corners of Middle-earth. No other film in the trilogy is as varied and exciting. With the battle of Helm’s Deep, it also has one of the most gripping battles in film history in store. And especially when the Ents embark on their final march against Isengard, a shiver runs down the spine.
That was our ranking of all 9 films from Middle-earth. Do you agree with the list? Feel free to share your suggestions in the comments and discuss among yourselves. If you’re looking for another ranking of a major franchise, check here: All 15 films of Star Wars ranked
