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7 Underrated Lord of the Rings Trilogy Scenes That Are Never Talked About Enough
Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings trilogy is full of iconic moments and lines, and the extended editions only add to them. However, with the films having so many legendary scenes, it’s inevitable that some get overlooked. While diehard J.R.R. Tolkien fans have no doubt picked apart every detail of the Lord of the Rings movies, there are standout moments that get referenced repeatedly. From Gandalf’s showdown with the Balrog, to Sam’s insistence that there’s “some good in this world,” to Middle-earth’s final stand “for Frodo,” it’s easy to understand why these continue to resonate.
However, it’s worth looking back on some of the quieter, less recognized scenes from the trilogy as well. There are a few underrated ones that deserve to be talked about more. They shine a light on the characters’ strengths, and highlight what they’re actually fighting for — and sometimes, they’re nearly as epic as the more widely loved sequences.
7) Bilbo’s 111st Birthday Party & Speech
The Fellowship of the Ring
Bilbo’s birthday party kicks off the Lord of the Rings movies, but once we’re fully immersed in Frodo’s errand, it’s easy to forget all about all the revelry. And mention of Bilbo usually leads people to think about his adventure in The Hobbit or difficulty letting go of the One Ring. But his birthday speech is probably his greatest moment in the trilogy, demonstrating his flair for the dramatic and unconventional approach to things. The latter quietly explains why Frodo is so willing to embark on an adventure, despite spending his whole life in the Shire. Bilbo’s party also draws a clear “before” and “after” for the characters, endearing us to the Hobbits before they take off.
6) Sam & Frodo See the Wood Elves Leaving Middle-earth
The Fellowship of the Ring: Extended Edition
The extended editions of the Lord of the Rings films add quiet but powerful moments, and one from The Fellowship of the Ring foreshadows Frodo’s fate later on. After Sam and Frodo leave the Shire, the pair crosses paths with Wood Elves, who are on their way to the Grey Havens. The Hobbits look on from afar, nothing that they’re “leaving Middle-earth” permanently. Sam then tells Frodo, “I don’t know why, it makes me sad.” Considering that Frodo eventually leaves Middle-earth, this is a more heart-wrenching scene that it initially seems. It’s cleverly placed, and it highlights the bond between Frodo and Sam before it fully develops. It deserves more attention for all of that, but it’s quick and often overlooked.
5) The Hobbits & Aragorn vs. the Nazgûl
The Fellowship of the Ring
With all the action that unfolds from the middle of The Fellowship of the Ring onward, it’s no surprise that the face-off with the Nazgûl on Weathertop doesn’t stay front of mind. However, it’s an epic moment that warrants more attention for a few key reasons. For one, it’s the earliest sign of how brave the Hobbits are (and how worthy of this mission). When they’re surrounded by the Nazgûl, they attempt to hold their ground. It’s a testament to their courage, even if they’re easily brushed aside. Frodo prioritizes the One Ring, too, despite being in so much danger. And Aragorn’s appearance with sword and torch is as badass as everything else he does. This scene does a lot of legwork for the characters, and it’s also just fun to watch.
4) Glimpses of Boromir’s Past
The Two Towers: Extended Edition
The Two Towers‘ extended edition takes us into the past through Faramir’s memories, and it shows us a side of Boromir that isn’t shown much in The Fellowship of the Ring. We witness his rousing speech after reclaiming Osgiliath, demonstrating that he’s a competent and hopeful leader — and showing us joy from a character who spends much of the former film struggling. We also come to understand his bond with Faramir, shedding light on Faramir’s grief. It’s a smart flashback, and it’s a shame it isn’t included in the original release. Thankfully, the extended edition makes it widely accessible. However, it’d be nice to see it talked about more, as it leaves viewers with a much different view of Boromir.
3) Gandalf Frees Théoden
The Two Towers
Gandalf has a lot of epic moments throughout the three Lord of the Rings movies, taking on a Balrog, participating in the Battle of Helm’s Deep, and riding down the Nazgûl. These larger, more cinematic sequences are highlighted often, but the scene during which he frees Théoden is just as thrilling. From Gandalf’s clever manipulation of the guards, which allows him to bring his staff into the throne room, to the reveal that he’s now Gandalf the White, the entire meeting plays out with style. It shows how powerful and sharp-witted Gandalf is, and it serves as a turning point of the film. Without Gandalf accomplishing this, nothing else in The Two Towers would play out the way it does.
2) Legolas & Gimli’s Drinking Contest
The Return of the King: Extended Edition
Legolas and Gimli have one of the best dynamics of the Lord of the Rings, and they provide plenty of comic relief — along with some more touching moments. The scene where they finally admit to being friends is referenced a lot, as is their killing competition. Yet their drinking contest from The Return of the King deserves more love, as it’s both hilarious and highlights how close the members of the Fellowship have become. It’s a small moment, but it makes the connections between the characters more believable. (And it’s just hilarious to see how little liquor affects Legolas compared to his Dwarf friend.)
1) Aragorn Confronts Sauron Through the Palantír
The Return of the King: Extended Edition
Aragorn and the others charging at the Black Gate and declaring that it’s “for Frodo” is easily one of the most satisfying moments of The Return of the King. Aragorn’s idea to distract the Lord of the Rings villain comes earlier though. And the scene from the extended edition, during which he first draws Sauron’s attention, is worthy of the same hype. Aragorn confronts Sauron using the Palantír, boldly showing the dark lord the reforged Andúril. Since he’s the descendant of the man who cut the One Ring from Sauron’s finger (and with the same sword), it’s a clear challenge — and a genuine reason for the villain to be afraid. And although Sauron shows Aragorn imagery of Arwen that should spook him, he’s riding to Frodo’s aid in the next cut. The moment proves how courageous Aragorn is, and how committed to his cause.
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