Long before the events of ‘The Lord of the Rings,’ Sauron plotted to control Middle-earth by creating the 20 Rings of Power with the Elven smith Celebrimbor. While three Elven rings remain unaffected by Sauron’s influence, the upcoming season of ‘The Rings of Power’ explores how he corrupts the other 16. Actors Charlie Vickers and Charles Edwards discuss the rings’ magic, highlighting that they amplify existing traits in their bearers, ultimately making them vulnerable to Sauron’s dark manipulation.
Long before the epic saga of ‘The Lord of the Rings’ unfolded on screen, Sauron devised a sinister plan to dominate all of Middle-earth through the creation of the 20 Rings of Power. Collaborating with the skilled Elven smith Celebrimbor, portrayed by Charles Edwards, Sauron secretly forged 19 of these rings, distributing them among the rulers of Elves, Men, and Dwarves. However, unbeknownst to Celebrimbor, Sauron crafted the One Ring in secret, aimed at controlling the others and ensuring his dark reign.
While the three Elven rings largely evade Sauron’s malevolent grasp, ‘The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power’ Season 2 delves into how Sauron slowly corrupts the remaining 16 rings. But what is the essence of the magic that empowers these artifacts? We turned to the actors portraying Sauron and Celebrimbor, Charlie Vickers and Charles Edwards, to uncover the truth behind their enchantments.
Watch ‘The Lord of the Rings – The Rings of Power’ on Amazon Prime Video❯
Insights from Sauron and Celebrimbor: The Magic of the Rings Revealed
The mechanics of the rings’ magic and the One Ring’s role in Sauron’s control over its bearers remain largely unexplained in both ‘The Lord of the Rings’ films and ‘The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power.’ We sought the insights of the very characters involved in their creation.
In an exclusive interview, Charlie Vickers, who plays Sauron, and Charles Edwards, who portrays Celebrimbor, shed light on the enchanting powers of the Rings of Power.
“I believe the rings amplify the inherent qualities of their bearers,” explains Vickers, hinting at the complexity of their influence. “It’s challenging to categorize their effects precisely.”
Edwards adds, “It’s essential to note that Tolkien never provided a scientific explanation for the rings’ magic.”
He continues, “There wasn’t a specific formula when we created them. We didn’t follow a recipe; that would take away from the magic and mystery surrounding them.”
“These rings enhance attributes specific to each race. For instance, the Elven rings amplify their vitality,” Edwards elaborates, while Vickers notes, “As the series unfolds, viewers will witness Sauron’s growing influence on the rings.”
The three Elven rings remain untainted because, at the time of their creation, Sauron was absent from Eregion. However, as the narrative progresses, Sauron’s involvement in forging the Dwarven and Men’s rings will come to light.
As more rings are crafted, Sauron’s personality subtly infiltrates them: “The corruption escalates with each subsequent ring, blending the innate traits of various races with Sauron’s dark influence.”
Edwards describes this blend: “It’s a confluence of dormant magic within the individuals, including Sauron and Celebrimbor. My magic seeks to bring out the best in people, while Charlie here slyly adds his darker touch.”
The Impact of the Rings on Their Bearers
What Vickers and Edwards reveal indicates that the rings do not necessarily grant superpowers but enhance existing traits. For example, if a character possesses magical abilities, like Gandalf, those powers would be intensified.
An Elf’s affinity for animals would be heightened, while someone driven by ambition would find that desire magnified. As Sauron’s influence grows during the rings’ creation, these traits can quickly turn malevolent, making bearers susceptible to manipulation.
By forging the One Ring, Sauron establishes a connection among the various rings. Wearing his ring enables him to exert control over the others and their bearers.
Currently, production is underway for Season 3 of ‘The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power.’ The series is designed to span five seasons, with plans to conclude the narrative at the climactic Battle of the Last Alliance.