Is Halbrand Actually Sauron? A Coincidence or a Deep Plot Twist?

In the Amazon Prime series The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power, Halbrand is perhaps the most controversial and intriguing character among the series' many twists and turns. His mysterious past and gradual revelation as Sauron have kept many viewers on the edge of their seats. However, for some viewers, the reveal of Halbrand being Sauron came as less of a surprise and more of a logical conclusion based on several plot points that were barely concealed.

The Scaling of Expectations

Watching a highly anticipated series can be a double-edged sword, especially when you have a sneak peek into the plot. This was the case for some viewers who were among the first to leak the plot of the series back in March 2022. For them, the reveal of Halbrand as Sauron was not a shocker but a confirmation of what they predicted based on the narrative leaks.

One of the worst-kept secrets in the series is the identity of Halbrand as Sauron. However, for those who had not been privy to such leaks, the plot twist added a layer of excitement to an already thrilling series. Despite this, the reveal still managed to resonate with viewers, especially those who picked up on subtle clues embedded throughout the first season.

The Masterstroke or a Flawed Script?

From the perspective of some viewers, the reveal of Halbrand as Sauron is a masterstroke. It aligns perfectly with the broader narrative of Sauron's manipulation and deception, bringing new depth to the story. The themes of identity and the struggle between good and evil are further enriched by this twist.

For others, the reveal falls short of expectations. The contrived nature of Halbrand's story and the reliance on other characters being "completely stupid" to believe his fraudulent claims are prime examples of the show's flaws. Let's revisit the key points that raised eyebrows:

Halbrand's Arrival on Numenor

Halbrand's arrival on Numenor involves an intriguing story where he rescues Galadriel from the sea. Despite the presence of a prominent sigil, Galadriel's insistence on his royal status, and Halbrand's emphatic denials, many rational characters should have seen through this deception. The sigil alone should have been a red flag, and the fact that Halbrand is an accomplished thief contrasts sharply with a king's behavior. His abject refusal to return to the Southlands also raises questions about the authenticity of his claim to royalty.

Sauron's Thievery

Sauron's repeated thefts, such as stealing Galadriel's dagger from Elendil and a Guildcrest, further undermine his claim to being a king. These actions should have been incongruous with the behavior of a king and should have been questioned by all characters involved.

Halbrand's Affinity with Metalworking

Halbrand's fascination with metalworking and his desire to stay in Numenor as a blacksmith are also red flags. Royalty typically engages in pursuits befitting their social status and not simply the craftsmanship of blacksmithing.

Writing and Character Development

The writing in The Rings of Power has faced significant criticism. The logical inconsistencies and contrived plot points make it difficult to accept Halbrand's royal status at face value. The narrative is filled with sudden and illogical actions, such as Sauron's seemingly wasteful creation of a magic sword to unlock a secret key for a small flood.

Galadriel's character development, or lack thereof, is another source of controversy. Her transition from an arrogant and self-centered character to a suddenly wise and just one in the final episodes is baffling to many viewers. This shift in character portrays Sauron as more sympathetic than Galadriel, undermining the established storyline's villains and heroes.

Galadriel's role as the primary architect of the conflict between Sauron and Eru seems to be subverted in favor of a more forgiving portrayal of Sauron. This change in dynamics is a significant shift in focus and narrative drive. It is unclear whether this will be a permanent shift or if it will be rectified in the coming seasons, but the shift is noticeable and consequential.

Conclusion

The reveal of Halbrand as Sauron in The Rings of Power is a twist that adds depth to the series but also raises questions about the overall quality of the writing and character development. While it may be a deliberate plot point, the logical inconsistencies and contrivances make it challenging to fully accept the reveal without question. The series' handling of Galadriel's character and the overall narrative drive will undoubtedly continue to be sources of debate and discussion among viewers.