FallenKingdomReads’ list of Every Lord of the Rings Adaptation Ranked.
J.R.R. Tolkien’s epic fantasy series, The Lord of the Rings, has seen several adaptations on both the big and small screens. Here’s a ranking of every adaptation, from worst to best.
#7 – The Battle of the Five Armies (2014)
The final installment in Peter Jackson’s Hobbit trilogy sees Bilbo and his companions fighting against the fearsome dragon, Smaug, while also facing off against an army of Orcs.
#6 – The Desolation of Smaug (2013)
The second film in the Hobbit trilogy follows Bilbo, Gandalf, and the dwarves on their journey to reclaim the Lonely Mountain and the treasures within, as they face numerous obstacles and dangers, including the dragon Smaug.
#5 – Rings of Power, Season 1 (2022)
Amazon Prime’s new series is a prequel to The Lord of the Rings, set thousands of years before the events of the original trilogy. The series follows a diverse ensemble cast as they navigate the rise of evil in Middle-earth.
#4 – An Unexpected Journey (2012)
The first film in Peter Jackson’s Hobbit trilogy sees Bilbo Baggins reluctantly joining a company of dwarves on a quest to reclaim their homeland from the dragon Smaug, encountering many challenges and new allies along the way.
#3 – The Two Towers (2002)
The second film in Peter Jackson’s The Lord of the Rings trilogy follows the Fellowship as they split up to face various threats, including an epic battle at the fortress of Helm’s Deep.
#2 – The Return of the King (2003)
The final installment in Peter Jackson’s The Lord of the Rings trilogy sees the Fellowship coming together for one last battle against Sauron and his armies, with Frodo and Sam struggling to destroy the One Ring.
#1 – The Fellowship of the Ring (2001)
The first film in Peter Jackson’s The Lord of the Rings trilogy introduces audiences to the world of Middle-earth, as a group of unlikely heroes band together to destroy the One Ring and stop Sauron’s evil plans.
