The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim, directed by Kenji Kamiyama, immerses audiences in the history of Middle-earth, delving into events 183 years before the events of The Fellowship of the Ring.
The film tells the story of Helm Hammerhand, the ninth king of Rohan, his courageous daughter Héra, and their struggle against the Dunlendings, led by Wulf.
This gripping anime explores themes of sacrifice, legacy, and the resilience of the Rohirrim, culminating in an epic conclusion.
Overview of the Story
The narrative follows the kingdom of Rohan as it endures a harrowing siege led by Wulf, who seeks revenge for his father’s death at the hands of Helm Hammerhand.
With the stronghold of Helm’s Deep under siege, the story explores the sacrifices made by the royal family to protect their people.
While Helm’s actions cement his legacy as a heroic figure, it is Héra who emerges as the story’s most compelling character, taking charge in the face of overwhelming adversity.
Major Events in the Finale
The film’s finale is a blend of tragedy, heroism, and renewal, setting the stage for the future of Rohan.
- Helm Hammerhand’s Sacrifice: Helm defends the gates of Helm’s Deep with unmatched bravery but succumbs to the overwhelming forces of Wulf’s army. His death becomes a rallying point for the Rohirrim and solidifies his legend as a protector of the realm.
- Héra’s Leadership and Duel with Wulf: With her father gone, Héra assumes leadership. She devises a bold plan to buy time for the people of Rohan to escape through secret tunnels. Clad in a symbolic bridal dress, she confronts Wulf on a siege tower bridge, challenging him to a duel. This act is both a rejection of his advances and a demonstration of her courage.
- The duel is fiercely contested, with Héra ultimately defeating Wulf. Her victory, however, comes with the revelation of Wulf’s treachery, as he attempts to kill Targg, a general who had sought peace.
- Fréaláf’s Rise to Power: After Wulf’s defeat, Fréaláf—Helm’s nephew—steps forward as a natural leader. His decisive actions during the final battle earn him the respect of the Rohirrim. He dons Helm’s armor and uses the horn of Helm Hammerhand to rally the remaining forces, driving the Dunlendings into retreat. Fréaláf’s crowning marks the restoration of Rohan’s leadership.
Impact on Future Storylines
The ending of The War of the Rohirrim bridges the history of Rohan with the events of The Lord of the Rings trilogy, introducing pivotal elements and characters:
- Fréaláf’s Kingship: As the first king of Rohan’s second line, Fréaláf’s reign establishes stability after the chaos of Wulf’s invasion. His leadership directly connects to Théoden’s lineage, maintaining the legacy of the Rohirrim.
- Héra’s Legacy: Héra’s decision to leave the political sphere of Rohan introduces a narrative of personal agency. Her future adventures are left open to speculation, potentially expanding Middle-earth’s lore in future stories.
- Saruman’s Appearance: The film concludes with a brief appearance by Saruman, suggesting his growing interest in Rohan and Helm’s Deep. This foreshadowing hints at the manipulative schemes he employs in The Two Towers and positions him as a future antagonist.
- Themes of Justice and Revenge: Wulf’s downfall reinforces the idea that vengeance leads to destruction, contrasting with Héra’s focus on unity and renewal.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Fréaláf become king?
Fréaláf ascends to the throne after proving himself in the final battle. With Wulf defeated and Helm gone, Fréaláf steps into the leadership vacuum, rallying the Rohirrim and earning their trust. His coronation signifies the beginning of a new era for Rohan.
What happens to Héra after the duel?
Following her victory over Wulf, Héra chooses not to pursue a role in Rohan’s monarchy. Instead, she departs, seeking a life of freedom and purpose beyond the confines of royal duty. This decision underscores her individuality and independence.
What is the significance of Saruman’s cameo?
Saruman’s appearance at the end connects the film to the larger Lord of the Rings narrative. His presence hints at the growing influence of Isengard and foreshadows his eventual betrayal in The Two Towers.
Is Héra part of Tolkien’s original works?
No, Héra is a new character introduced for the film. Her addition enriches the lore of Rohan, providing a fresh perspective and highlighting the strength and resilience of women in Tolkien-inspired stories.
The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim delivers an epic tale of courage, sacrifice, and resilience.
The film’s ending not only provides closure to the immediate conflict but also enriches the lore of Middle-earth by connecting the past to the future. Fréaláf’s rise to power and Héra’s bold choices leave an enduring legacy, setting the stage for future narratives in the Tolkien universe.
For fans of Middle-earth, The War of the Rohirrim offers a compelling blend of action, emotion, and rich storytelling that deepens the mythos of Tolkien’s world.