Watch Secrets of the Middle Earth: Inside Tolkien's Lord of the Rings

Secrets of the Middle Earth: Inside Tolkien's Lord of the Rings is a captivating documentary series that offers viewers an in-depth look into the world of Middle Earth and the creation of J.R.R. Tolkien's beloved literary masterpiece, The Lord of the Rings. Hosted by Graham McTavish, who played the role of Dwalin in Peter Jackson's film adaptations of The Hobbit, and produced by Bob Carruthers from Total Content Digital, the show provides a wealth of fascinating insights, trivia, and behind-the-scenes stories that will thrill both die-hard fans and newcomers to the franchise.

The show explores various aspects of Tolkien's Middle Earth, beginning with the author's early life and the events that inspired his imaginative vision of a mythical world full of wondrous creatures, epic battles, and mystical powers. From there, the series delves into the intricate lore and language of Middle Earth, introducing us to the various races that inhabit the world, including elves, dwarves, hobbits, and orcs, and examining the complex histories and cultural traditions that shaped them. Along the way, we also learn about the iconic characters that populate The Lord of the Rings, from the heroic Aragorn and the wise Gandalf to the treacherous Gollum and the fearsome Balrog.

One of the main highlights of the show is the interviews with experts and scholars who offer valuable insights into the literary, historical, and mythological influences that shaped The Lord of the Rings. We hear from Tolkien biographers, linguists, and medievalists who expound upon the author's sources of inspiration, his creative process, and the ways in which his work has influenced modern popular culture. Throughout the show, McTavish and Carruthers guide us through a rich tapestry of knowledge, weaving together fascinating anecdotes and trivia that illuminate the depth and complexity of Tolkien's masterpiece.

In addition to exploring the literary and mythological aspects of Middle Earth, Secrets of the Middle Earth also takes viewers behind the scenes of Peter Jackson's film adaptations, revealing the technical and creative challenges that the filmmakers faced in bringing Tolkien's vision to life on the big screen. We see interviews with members of the cast and crew, including Sir Ian McKellen, Viggo Mortensen, and Andy Serkis, who share their experiences working on the set and bringing their characters to life. We also learn about the extensive pre-production work that went into creating the sets, costumes, and special effects that make Middle Earth such a rich and immersive world.

Overall, Secrets of the Middle Earth: Inside Tolkien's Lord of the Rings is a must-watch for any fan of J.R.R. Tolkien's work or Peter Jackson's film adaptations. Featuring a wealth of fascinating information, intelligent commentary, and stunning visuals, the show offers a comprehensive and entertaining guide to the world of Middle Earth, shedding light on the intricate details and hidden secrets that have made The Lord of the Rings such a beloved and enduring masterpiece. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual viewer, you'll find something to love in this engaging and informative series.

Secrets of the Middle Earth: Inside Tolkien's Lord of the Rings is a series that ran for 1 seasons (4 episodes) between November 11, 2003 and on Total Content Digital