As anticipation builds for the return to Middle-earth in Season 2 of The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power , a newly released poster hints at the introduction of previously unseen, ghoulish creatures from J.R.R. Tolkien's universe, poised for their live-action debut.

Amazon Prime Video’s high-fantasy epic, The Rings of Power, is set to return with its highly anticipated second season, bringing an even more ambitious and intense storyline set in the Second Age of Middle-earth. In Middle-earth, one villain has always reigned supreme – a figure so sinister that his mere name instills fear across Men, Elves, Dwarves, and Hobbits (or Harfoots). That villain is none other than the infamous Dark Lord, Sauron, who is revealed in this upcoming season, promising a reign of terror. Adding to the excitement, the new season will also introduce new terrifying beasts from Middle-earth, sparking excitement and curiosity among Tolkien enthusiasts, eager to see how these menacing beasts will come to life on screen.

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The latest issue of Empire Magazine provides an exclusive look into the second season of The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power, marking a milestone for fans with the first live-action appearance of Barrow-wights. Highlighting the series' expansion of J.R.R. Tolkien's vast universe and mythology, the magazine’s special edition (available for subscribers) offers dual collectible 3D lenticular covers, one showcasing Morfydd Clark's Galadriel in battle mode while the other reveals Charlie Vickers’ Sauron in his new ominous guise as Annatar. Alongside these striking visuals are never-before-seen images and concept art from the upcoming season of the Prime Video series, prominently featuring the eerie Barrow-wights in their live-action debut, adding to the thrilling lore of Middle-earth. Empire's latest issue highlights the series’ production's efforts to raise the stakes in this fantasy epic and is a must-have for fans eager to delve deeper into the horrors that await the heroes in the enchanting world of Middle-earth as reimagined in The Rings of Power.

A standout feature in The Rings of Power is the vivid realization of J.R.R. Tolkien's expansive lore. Season Two promises even more spine-chilling encounters for our protagonists, with the eerie Barrow-wights emerging as a sinister threat lurking beneath the surface. "The Barrow-wights are ancient, reanimated heroes, acting for evil against their will," explained The Rings of Power VFX supervisor Jason Smith. "It was super-exciting to take on something I hadn't seen before. We've seen undead before, but not like this. We're doing a little horror movie in Middle-earth." Expanding on the first season’s grand scale, the new episodes will thrust beloved characters into escalating darkness, testing their resolve in a world teetering on the edge of disaster. Amidst Sauron’s schemes and Galadriel’s quests, the enigmatic Stranger and the menacing Barrow-wights add layers to the unfolding drama as alliances strain and kingdoms fracture. As the forces of good struggle against mounting odds, their greatest strength lies in their unity and determination to preserve what matters most — each other.

Season 2 of The Rings of Power brings a major game-changer with Sauron making his presence felt, marking a pivotal shift in the series' dynamic. Prime Video has unveiled a tantalizing new synopsis for the upcoming episodes, heralding the servant of Morgoth’s resurgence. Banished by Galadriel and devoid of an army or allies, the burgeoning Dark Lord must now rely on his own cunning to regain strength and oversee the creation of the Rings of Power. These artifacts are crucial to his plan to subjugate all the peoples of Middle-earth to his malevolent rule. Actor Charlie Vickers, who portrays Sauron, discussed the challenge of keeping this monumental secret throughout Season 1. Despite the revelation, Vickers notes that his approach to the character remains consistent, albeit now with the audience privy to Sauron's overt actions. This dynamic adds a fresh layer to his portrayal, influencing his character choices as the storyline unfolds.

The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power season 2 premieres in August on Amazon Prime Video.

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Source: Empire