The last episode of The Lord of the Rings isn’t a traditional television episode in the sense of a serialized series. Instead, it’s the culminating cinematic experience: The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King – Extended Edition. This final installment brings the epic saga to its definitive, albeit bittersweet, conclusion.
The End of an Era: Breaking Down The Return of the King – Extended Edition
While it might seem straightforward, labeling The Return of the King – Extended Edition as the “last episode” necessitates understanding its context. Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings trilogy wasn’t conceived as a segmented television show, but rather as a continuous story told across three films. However, given the narrative structure and the sheer length of the extended editions, many consider them akin to multiple-part television series, making the extended cut of The Return of the King the de facto finale.
The extended edition provides a significantly richer and more detailed conclusion than the theatrical release. It includes crucial scenes that were omitted from the cinema, adding depth to character arcs, resolving plot threads, and solidifying the thematic resonance of the entire saga. This version is considered by many fans to be the definitive adaptation of Tolkien’s work. Its intricate narrative tapestry, woven with moments of both triumph and sorrow, solidify its place as the closing chapter in this cinematic legend.
The Importance of the Extended Edition
The extended edition isn’t just a longer cut; it’s a more complete and nuanced narrative experience. Key moments, such as Saruman’s demise and the restoration of order in the Shire, are fully realized, providing closure that the theatrical version lacks. This added content profoundly impacts the overall perception of the ending, offering a more satisfying and emotionally resonant conclusion for dedicated fans. The depth that the extended edition adds provides a profound appreciation for the intricate detail with which Jackson approached his adaptation.
Saruman’s Fate: A Crucial Addition
The omission of Saruman’s death in the theatrical release left many viewers feeling that a critical plot point was unresolved. The extended edition rectifies this, depicting a satisfying, albeit tragic, end to the fallen wizard. This inclusion provides a sense of closure and reinforces the theme of the corruption of power that runs throughout Tolkien’s work.
The Scouring of the Shire: Returning Home
The “Scouring of the Shire”, a significant event in Tolkien’s book, was initially cut from the films. Its inclusion in the extended edition deepens the narrative and highlights the impact of the war on the ordinary lives of the hobbits. It also underscores the resilience of the Shire and the importance of defending what is truly valuable.
The Emotional Impact of the Ending
The final scenes of The Return of the King – Extended Edition are undeniably emotionally charged. The Grey Havens sequence, where Frodo departs Middle-earth, is a poignant farewell to the characters we’ve come to know and love. This departure symbolizes the fading of magic from the world and the beginning of a new age for mankind. The bittersweet nature of the ending leaves a lasting impression, solidifying The Lord of the Rings as a timeless masterpiece.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the End of The Lord of the Rings
FAQ 1: Does the Lord of the Rings story truly end with The Return of the King?
Yes, the core narrative of The Lord of the Rings concludes with The Return of the King. While Tolkien wrote extensively about Middle-earth’s history in works like The Silmarillion and Unfinished Tales, those stories predate the events of The Lord of the Rings and don’t continue the narrative of Frodo, Sam, and the Fellowship. The departure to the Grey Havens marks the end of their story and the conclusion of the War of the Ring.
FAQ 2: Is the Extended Edition considered canon for the movies?
While not officially canon in the same way the books are, the Extended Edition is widely accepted by fans as the definitive version of the films. It adheres more closely to the source material and provides a more complete and satisfying narrative, resolving plot points that the theatrical release leaves unanswered. Many consider it to be Peter Jackson’s true vision for the trilogy.
FAQ 3: Why was the Scouring of the Shire initially omitted from the theatrical release?
Peter Jackson stated that the Scouring of the Shire was cut for pacing reasons and to maintain the emotional focus on Frodo’s journey. He felt that reintroducing conflict after the Ring’s destruction would detract from the overall emotional impact of the ending.
FAQ 4: What happens to Frodo after he leaves Middle-earth?
Frodo sails to the Undying Lands, also known as Valinor, with the elves and the Ring-bearers. This journey is a form of healing and respite for those who have suffered greatly during the War of the Ring. It is not necessarily immortality, but rather a place of peace and tranquility.
FAQ 5: Why does Frodo leave Middle-earth and not Sam?
Frodo bore the Ring for a longer period and suffered more deeply from its effects. He was granted passage to the Undying Lands to heal from the psychic and physical wounds inflicted by the Ring. Sam, while a Ring-bearer briefly, was not as deeply affected and remained in the Shire to continue his life. The choice underscores the burden of the Ring and its lasting impact.
FAQ 6: Is there any connection between The Hobbit and the ending of The Lord of the Rings?
Yes. While The Hobbit precedes The Lord of the Rings chronologically, Bilbo Baggins’s experiences with the Ring in The Hobbit set the stage for the events of The Lord of the Rings. Bilbo’s eventual departure to the Undying Lands alongside Frodo highlights the lasting impact of the Ring and his connection to the larger narrative.
FAQ 7: What is the significance of the Grey Havens?
The Grey Havens represent the departure point for elves and Ring-bearers leaving Middle-earth for the Undying Lands. It symbolizes the fading of magic and the end of an era, marking a transition to a world dominated by Men. It is a place of sorrowful farewells and a symbol of the changing world.
FAQ 8: What are the Undying Lands?
The Undying Lands are located in Aman, west of Middle-earth, and are the home of the Valar and the Elves. They are a place of peace, beauty, and healing, where those who have earned the right can find respite from the sorrows of the world. They are not literally “undying” in the sense of granting immortality, but rather a place where the inhabitants experience a different passage of time.
FAQ 9: Did all of the Fellowship survive the War of the Ring?
No, not all members of the original Fellowship survived. Boromir died defending Merry and Pippin from Orcs. Gandalf seemingly died fighting the Balrog in Moria, but he was later resurrected as Gandalf the White. The survival of the others underscores the importance of their individual contributions to the quest.
FAQ 10: What are the main themes explored in the ending of The Lord of the Rings?
The ending of The Lord of the Rings explores themes of loss, sacrifice, the corrupting influence of power, the importance of friendship and loyalty, and the enduring power of hope. It also touches on the theme of the passing of an age and the transition to a new era. The ultimate triumph of good over evil remains a central theme.
FAQ 11: How does the ending of the Lord of the Rings books compare to the films?
While Peter Jackson’s adaptation remains largely faithful to the source material, there are some key differences in the ending. As discussed, the theatrical release omitted the Scouring of the Shire. Additionally, certain details about the characters’ fates and the overall tone of the ending are subtly altered. However, the core message of hope and the importance of sacrifice remains consistent.
FAQ 12: Where can I watch the extended edition of The Return of the King?
The Extended Edition of The Return of the King is readily available on various streaming platforms, including those that offer movie rentals and purchases. It is also available on Blu-ray and DVD. Make sure to specify that you are looking for the “Extended Edition” when searching.