Unfolding Middle Earth: The Rings of Power Returns with Season Two

Middle Earth, the fictional world from JRR Tolkien's works, is explored in the series 'The Rings of Power.' Co-creator JD Payne discusses the challenges and joys of adapting such a vast story. The upcoming season features psychological drama between key characters, including Sauron and Celebrimbor.

The world of Middle Earth, the fictional setting from JRR Tolkien's famous 'Lord of the Rings' series, is vast and complex. Portraying it on screen is akin to filling a lake with a teacup, says JD Payne, co-creator of 'The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power.'

Payne, who developed the ambitious Prime Video series with Patrick McKay, shared the joys and difficulties of adapting Tolkien's expansive universe. 'Middle Earth is so vast. JRR Tolkien's imagination is enormous. You're just trying to do justice to the magnitude of the source material,' Payne told PTI in an interview.

The second season, which returns this Friday, is primarily based on the appendices of Tolkien's books, describing Middle Earth's Second Age. It features younger versions of key characters, previously adapted in Peter Jackson's trilogies. This new season is set to focus on a psychological thriller between Sauron and Celebrimbor, promising a harrowing experience for viewers.

(With inputs from agencies.)