JRR Tolkien is, unquestionably, one of the biggest legends of the fantasy genre. He constructed a rich universe that served as a major influence on modern high-fantasy, including the likes of the "Game of Thrones" series.

"The Rings of Power" (TROP) is based on the Second Age history of Middle-earth—from Tolkien's "Lord of the Rings". The show delves into a well-known setting from the films, while introducing us to a completely new group of characters.

Similarly, "House of the Dragon" (HOTD) is a spin-off series of the popular book and TV show, "Game of Thrones"—based on George RR Martin's book, "Fire & Blood". It takes place 200 years before the events of "Game of Thrones," focusing on the exceptionally insane Targaryens, who are, by far, the most well-known family in this universe.

The structure of this show is quite different than its fantasy rival. It is more in-depth, concentrating mostly on how one family evolves over time. Allegiances alter, new members are welcomed, and resentments are formed, harbored, and ultimately taken out on one another.

From the first episode, it is clear that HOTD follows a similar trajectory of emotional complexities as "Game of Thrones". On the other hand, TROP is not nearly as gory and explicit. While it has its dark and twisted moments, it does not exactly hang a mournful weight upon the show.

A scene from "House of the Dragon"

Similarly, the jubilant moments of TROP will never be imaginable in Westeros. Galadriel's search for the dark-god Sauron, who killed her brother during the War of Wrath, brings an unerring sense of spine-chilling terror. Watching her moral ground slip over the span of a few episodes is what indulges the audience despite the weak storyline in the first episode.

TROP deep dives into the good vs evil duality, whereas HOTD has an unapologetic thirst for chaos. While in Middle-earth, friendship, loyalty and love are unconditional; in Westeros, everyone is hungry for power.

A scene from "The Rings of Power”

In TROP, each setting has been exquisitely crafted, from the thunderous Sundering Seas to the majestic halls of the dwarven rulers. The titular rings may not seem to be of importance at first but persevering politics and volatile crises will keep you entertained.

 HOTD's Daemon Targaryen is the perfect anti-hero, who you cannot help but root for—even though at times his actions seem deranged. Paddy Considine, who plays the role of King Viserys, also puts on a phenomenal performance. The actresses who played the younger and older versions of Alicent and Rhaenyra did a wonderful job of portraying the initially symbiotic and increasingly parasitic friendship between the two characters.

Unfortunately, the rage and ambitions of these female characters are not allowed to flourish, rather they are purported to be victims of the patriarchy. On the other hand, in TROP, Galadriel and Elrond—played by Morfydd Clark and Robert Aramayo respectively—exemplify enthusiastic and rebellious role models. Charlie Vickers as Halbrand delivered a powerful performance, carefully fleshing out his character's true identity.

TROP gained momentum halfway through the series as we see Mount Doom's eruption and the birth of Mordor. Galadriel gathers volunteers to go on an expedition to the mainland of Middle-earth to find Sauron. They are trained vigorously, similar to how in HOTD the kids are taught swordsmanship by Ser Criston Cole.

Actress Galadriel in the series "The Rings of Power"

Although Galadriel does not face spite and disrespect from her pupils, such is not the case for Ser Criston. It is satisfying to watch Galadriel finally have resources and people supporting her after being kicked to the curb many times. Meanwhile, the training scenes of HOTD are mostly intended to introduce you to the younger generation of characters and their nature.

Some HOTD episodes foray too close to real life circumstances, historical and political recounts that you almost forget that you are watching a fantasy series— until a dragon makes an appearance. It started out pretty strong, mostly attributed to its impressive casting.

However, after introducing compelling characters and building up tension throughout the season, the finale was horribly disappointing. The pacing was off for most of the episode, and by the end, neither the writing nor the execution mirrored the source material.

TROP series brought us a thrillingly addictive story, stunning visual composition, and a heart-warming soundtrack—that conveys the ideas of JRR Tolkien to even those who are completely unfamiliar with it.

A scene from "The Rings of Power”

The finale of TROP fell short as it was easily predicted by fans. Sadly, it was not a paradigm-shifting turn that would compel viewers to reevaluate each episode of the show in order to pick up on the subtle hints and cues that were hidden throughout.