Galadriel (Morfydd Clark) issued a critical warning to Celebrimbor (Charles Edwards) during the Season 1 finale of "The Lord of the Rings: Rings of Power": avoid contact with Halbrand (Charlie Vickers). Unbeknownst to her, Halbrand is merely a guise for the dark sorcerer Sauron. As one of the most powerful elves in Middle-earth, Galadriel assumed her authority was absolute and did not feel the need to elaborate on her orders. However, this assumption backfires as viewers discover in the opening episodes of Season 2.
Caution: Spoilers Ahead for the Season 2 Premiere of "Rings of Power."
The gripping first episode concludes with Halbrand determined to forge the rings at the gates of Eregion. Initially, Celebrimbor respects Galadriel’s warning, but by the end of the second episode, Halbrand has infiltrated Eregion and assumed the identity of Annatar, the "Lord of Gifts," gaining total influence over Celebrimbor.
In a recent discussion, Edwards explored the ease with which Sauron, despite his disguise, re-entered Eregion, attributing this to Celebrimbor’s lack of information. "Galadriel has never said that this man is Sauron. I believe that in Season 1, Sauron casts his spell during the interaction between Halbrand and Celebrimbor," he explained. Improved communication among the elves in Lindon might have prevented Celebrimbor’s error, but at that moment, Sauron was the only one affirming Celebrimbor’s importance.
"When Halbrand appears at the gates, Celebrimbor is happy to see him," continued Edwards. "He understands he should not engage with Halbrand, yet he feels disconnected regarding the developments with the three rings." By Season 2, Celebrimbor is poised to invite Halbrand in despite reservations.
Vickers shared that Celebrimbor found himself in a precarious situation, with Sauron keenly aware of how to exploit it. Choosing to present as Annatar was a strategic decision, with Vickers emphasizing a shift towards a more charming portrayal in this new iteration.
"Both characters, Halbrand and Annatar, share similar internal motivations, but their outward expressions differ greatly," he stated. "I aimed to give Annatar a distinct on-screen presence, infusing the character with charm while hinting at a sinister edge."
The audience, too, grapples with Sauron’s ambiguous intentions. He confided in Galadriel during the Season 1 finale, expressing a desire for them to unite in the hope of achieving goodness. This theme is echoed in the prologue, where Halbrand struggles with the notion of reform. Vickers interprets this duality as part of Tolkien’s depiction of Sauron, suggesting moments of genuine introspection about redemption.
"Tolkien writes about him contemplating goodness during this era, although the specifics of his repentance are left unclear," Vickers noted. "The ambiguity adds depth, highlighting his fleeting moments of sincerity, particularly during the prologue."
As Season 2 progresses, Halbrand—whether identified as Annatar or Sauron—seems resolute in his path. He now has Celebrimbor and the elves precisely where he desires, leading them astray with his manipulation.
"Sauron excels in persuasion, possibly employing some magic," Vickers remarked.
Edwards confirmed this notion, stating, "Sauron exerts a profound influence that isn’t always transparent. His capabilities have directed the elves towards a course that will irreversibly reshape Middle-earth."
The first three episodes of "The Lord of the Rings: Rings of Power" Season 2 are currently available for streaming on Prime Video, with new episodes debuting each Thursday.
