What Order To Watch Lord Of The Rings And Hobbit
Alright, you're ready to dive into Middle-earth! That's fantastic. But where do you even begin with all those Lord of the Rings and Hobbit movies?
Fear not, brave adventurer! This isn't a trick question designed to make you feel like a confused hobbit lost in a Mirkwood forest. We'll break it down into simple paths, each with its own appeal.
The Chronological Route: From Bag End to Mount Doom
Want to experience the story as it unfolds in time? Then start with the Hobbit trilogy.
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Think of it as the ultimate prequel binge! You'll meet a young Bilbo Baggins, get acquainted with Gandalf's wizardly ways, and encounter a truly grumpy dragon named Smaug.
Then, seamlessly transition into the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Frodo inherits the Ring, and the real adventure begins! Watch our little hobbits grow into heroes.
The Release Order Route: A Journey Back in Time
This is the way most of us experienced Middle-earth for the first time. Begin with The Fellowship of the Ring.
This path offers a certain nostalgic charm. Enjoy the groundbreaking visual effects of the early 2000s and then appreciate how technology improved.
Then, journey back to the past with The Hobbit movies. It's like a flashback, but with more dwarves and a singing Gollum.
The "Maximize Emotional Impact" Route
Want to feel all the feels? Watch Fellowship of the Ring, The Two Towers, and Return of the King first.
Get invested in Frodo and Sam's friendship, Aragorn's destiny, and the overall epic struggle. Then, after all the feels, experience The Hobbit.
Following that order, watching the Hobbit afterward can feel like a heartwarming return to simpler times, before everything went dark and Ring-wraithy. Think of it as dessert after a hearty meal.
Bonus: Should You Watch the Extended Editions?
A resounding YES! Only if you have time, of course. The extended editions are like director's cuts on steroids.
They add a ton of extra scenes, character development, and lore. You'll learn about characters like Tom Bombadil and other key figures that help bring Middle Earth to life.
Important Considerations
Snacks are essential. Elevensies is a must!
Prepare for some serious binge-watching. These movies are long, but you'll be thankful for every scene.
Remember, it's all about enjoying the journey. So grab your popcorn, settle in, and prepare to be transported to the magical world of Middle-earth. The adventures of Frodo, Sam, Bilbo and Aragorn await!
“It's a dangerous business, Frodo, going out your door. You step onto the road, and if you don't keep your feet, there's no knowing where you might be swept off to.” - Bilbo Baggins
