Best Characters In The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim, Ranked

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Summary

  • Despite new characters in “War of the Rohirrim“, the story set around Helm’s Deep showcases impressive new additions to the franchise’s characters.
  • Legendary actors like Brian Cox bring depth to roles like King Helm Hammerhand in the film.
  • Characters like Héra and Olwyn showcase bravery and resilience, adding new dimensions to the iconic Middle Earth universe.

As a seasoned observer of stories and characters that grace our screens, I must say, the characters from “War of the Rohirrim” have left an indelible mark on me. Among them all, Héra, the brave princess turned war hero, stands out as the shining beacon.

The recently released “Lord of the Rings: War of the Rohirrim” movie has attracted Middle Earth enthusiasts to an era prior to the War of the Ring. Although familiar characters from the franchise are not abundant, this animated tale showcases some familiar locations and maintains a similar aesthetic in Tolkien’s magical realm.

In the latest movie, while established figures such as Gandalf are featured, it’s primarily fresh faces that dominate the storyline, focusing on the origins of Helm’s Deep. The warriors in the War of the Rohirrim who fill the battle around this legendary fortress offer exciting new characters to the already rich cast from the series.

8. King Helm Hammerhand

The Complicated King

  • The King of Rohan
  • Voiced by Brian Cox

Known as Brian Cox, this esteemed actor boasts an impressive vocal prowess, lending great impact to his characterization of Helm Hammerhand. In the movie, the King of Rohan is constantly under siege and occasionally falters in judgment, but he remains a noble soul amidst great hardship. His later dialogues with Héra reveal the depth of his affection.

In a world where only great heroes earn such distinguished titles, it’s Helm’s Deep that bears the name of its valiant protector, and in the movie’s opening battle, Helm demonstrates his courage. Despite being outsmarted and ambushed by Wulf’s forces, Helm continues to defend his home with unyielding determination until the very end. His reputation remains spotless. Although his leadership skills were found wanting at crucial moments, his tale is still one of unwavering bravery. In truth, however, Helm was a man of kindness who cherished his family and his homeland deeply.

7. Lief

The Face Of Rohan’s People

  • A Squire In Rohan’s Court
  • Voiced By Bilal Hasna

Despite his minimal presence in the prelude to the War of the Rohirrim, Lief stood out as a significant character with crucial roles. Amidst the frightened populace of Hornburg throughout the film, Lief embodied their fear and became a beacon of courage, striving to keep everyone composed amidst the chaos, and rallying them to flee when the battle reaches its peak.

Lief is a straightforward character, often coming across as bumbling or uncoordinated to viewers. Yet, beneath this facade lies a heart full of courage, ready to defend those under his protection. Lief embodies the spirit of Rohan, representing the ordinary people who give the place its unique identity. Although he may not engage in much combat himself, Lief plays a crucial role in the movie’s ensemble of characters.

6. Hama

The Heir Apparent

  • The Son Of Helm & Brother Of Héra
  • Voiced By Yazdan Qafouri

Although they may not have large roles in the narrative, the two sons of Helm Hammerhand play crucial parts. Hama, the eldest son, stands as a potential king for Rohan at the onset of the film. The tale portrays him as robust, just, and steadfastly devoted to his father.

Helm may come across as stern, but it’s Hama’s compassion and support that underscores his goodness to viewers. Hama’s radiance and kindness hint at a promising future for Rohan, one that might have been if not for the conflict ignited by Wulf’s troops. Furthermore, Hama demonstrates remarkable combat skills during their first encounter, further cementing his place among the legendary warriors of Middle Earth.

5. Wulf

Spurned & Out For Vengeance

  • High Lord of the Dunlendings
  • Voiced By Luca Pasqualino

Initially, Wulf seeks Héra’s hand in marriage from Hera, King of Rohan, even before their fathers engage in battle. However, his proposal is rejected numerous times, leading to his exile from Rohan. Yet, this setback doesn’t deter him; instead, he embarks on a journey for revenge and eventually ascends to the rank of High Lord among the Dunlending people. Remarkably, some familiar faces are part of his growing army as well.

Wulf exhibits intricate characteristics. Initially, he appears rational and composed, demonstrating leadership skills by mobilizing an army successfully and defeating powerful adversaries like Helm Hammerhand. Yet, as the story unfolds, he seems to lose control, which might stem from the prolonged siege his troops are enduring or perhaps a fixation on Héra, a relationship that could potentially lead him into peril.

4. General Targg

A Great Warrior’s Mind

  • A General In Wulf’s Army
  • Voiced By Michael Wildman

Initially, it appears that Wulf effectively gathers an army from the Dunlending tribe for their assault on Rohan’s king. However, it becomes evident later that another figure orchestrates most of this attack. As Wulf starts to prioritize his personal vengeance over the strategic counsel of his chief advisor, his army begins to crumble and falter.

General Targg is willing to aid Wulf in his campaign, which might stem from a sense of loyalty towards the Dunlending folk or a dislike for Helm Hammerhand personally. It’s plausible that if Wulf had heeded the advice of this tactful military strategist, he could have potentially conquered all of Rohan.

3. Fréaláf Hildeson

The Unappreciated Cousin

  • Nephew To King Helm
  • Voiced By Laurence Ubong Williams

In the annals of Rohan’s rich history, numerous valiant warriors and heroes have made their mark. However, while the War of the Rohirrim is predominantly known for Héra, it’s actually her cousin, Fréaláf, whose name echoes more profoundly through time. Unfortunately, Fréaláf, despite his valor, found himself disregarded by his uncle, the King, and was compelled to depart before the initial skirmish that drove most of Rohan towards Helm’s Deep.

Yet, it’s Frealaf who swiftly arrives, following Hera’s plea for aid conveyed by a mighty eagle. He turns the tide by vanquishing Wulf’s retreating troops. Despite his relatively minor presence throughout the narrative, it’s evident that he was an honorable man, a valiant hero of Rohan, and truly worthy of the crown bestowed upon him at the war’s end.

2. Olwyn

A Heroic Shield-Maiden

  • Aunt & Companion To Héra
  • Voiced By Lorraine Ashbourne

In the epic saga of the War of the Rohirrim, I, Olwyn, stand out as Hera’s most crucial ally. My aunt and steadfast companion, a shield-maiden of Rohan, fights by my side in every battle we face together. When Hera is abducted by Wulf, it is I who battles alongside her for our freedom. And when the citizens are fleeing Helm’s Deep, it is once again my sword and I who defend them fiercely, standing shoulder to shoulder with Hera.

Olwyn displays extraordinary bravery in every situation. She remains resilient against all adversity, demonstrating her exceptional combat skills. Notably, she manages to fight Wulf while Héra flees, managing her own escape from Wulf and his men. In later instances, when confronted by an army of Dunlendings, Olwyn once again showcases her warrior prowess and her status as a shield-maiden.

1. Héra

The Hero Of Rohan

  • A Princess Turned War Hero
  • Voiced By Gaia Wise

In the epic saga known as War of the Rohirrim, Héra emerges as the central figure. This remarkable character, relatively new to the lore of Middle Earth, exhibits a unique blend of strength and compassion. Despite her tale seemingly fading from the memories of Middle Earth’s inhabitants, she stands boldly as both a formidable warrior and a tender spirit, deeply empathizing with her people while bravely guarding their safety on the battlefront.

In essence, when Hera’s father vanished, she assumed control over Hornberg. She engaged Wulf individually, frequently defied him, and played a significant role in driving him to commit errors that ultimately contributed to the disintegration of his army. Hera is an iconic figure from Middle Earth whose legend was cemented in the franchise’s history with this portrayal, regardless of whether she reappears again.

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2024-12-28 22:34