The Lord of the Rings: Return of the King Review & Analysis Part 2 (Chapter 6-Chapter 10)

Aragorn has revealed himself to Sauron in the palantír, the initial assault on Gondor has begun, Théoden leads Rohan into the fray hoping they are not too late, and Faramir has suffered a grievous injury. Today we move on into one of, if not, the most climactic sections of this novel and entire series with the events that occur from Chapter 6 through Chapter 10 in The Return of the King. Join us as we jump into the full battle on the Pelennor Fields of Gondor, see the fall of King Théoden, watch The Lord of the Nagûl meet his match, observe unsuspecting reinforcements come to the aid of one side, the healing of important individuals, plans for a last stand, and a final march to the Black Gate. With Chase & Josh taking you through one of the most action packed segments of the novel, highlighting key moments and dialogue, breaking down the logic behind certain decisions, and debating a couple topics that could have changed a few outcomes, you don't want to miss this. "We must walk open-eyed into that trap, with courage, but small hope for ourselves. For, my lords, it may well prove that we ourselves shall perish utterly in a black battle far from the living lands; so that even if Barad-dûr be thrown down, we shall not live to see a new age. But this, I deem, is our duty. And better so than to perish nonetheless – as we surely shall, if we sit here – and know as we die that no new age shall be."

The Lord of the Rings: Return of the King Review & Analysis Part 1(Chapter 1-Chapter 5)

Rohan survived the Battle of Helms Deep, Isengard's power is broken and the palantír is now in it's rightful place, while Frodo has been stung by Shelob and presumed dead and Sam makes the choice to continue the journey with the Ring alone, until he learns Frodo is in fact, not dead. Today we move forward into the third and final novel in the acclaimed Lord of the Rings series where we are covering Chapter 1 through Chapter 5 (Minas Tirith-The Ride of the Rohirrim). Stick around as we get a look at Gondor preparing for war, Denethor having a power struggle with Gandalf, the appearance of Aragorn's old friends from the North, a secret revealed to the Enemy, a path that none living should take, the beginning of the battle at Gondor, Théoden's fateful decision, and a face to face with the Black Captain and the White Wizard. With Chase & Josh moving into the final installment of the book series, highlighting a few foreshadowed and full circle moments, providing major key takeaways of each chapter, producing evidence of certain opinions, and closing out with intricate debates, you don't want to miss this. "Farewell, Peregrin son of Paladin! Your service has been short, and now it is drawing to an end. I release you from the little that remains. Go now, and die in what way seems best to you."

The Lord of the Rings: Two Towers Differences Part 2 Between Novel & Film

Today Chase & Josh close out The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers in its entirety as we compare the second half of the Extended Edition film, to its corresponding sections of the novel. Keep in mind the sequences do not line up as the perspectives shift focus so there are moments that happen early in the novel, that do not occur until later in the film and vice-versa! Tag along as we discuss some of the notable differences found between the movie and the book such as; the Isengard wolves ambush of Rohan, the budding love triangle of Arwen, Éowyn and Aragorn, the portrayal of Faramir's character, who Gandalf brings on the first light of the 5th day to save Rohan at Helms Deep, and Frodo coming face to face with the Nazgûl. With the Riddikulus Crew discussing the main notable differences that stood out to each individually, providing a numeric grade in regards to Part 2 of the film as well as a numeric grade for matching moments of the novel, giving an overall score for the Two Towers as a whole and comparing an epic battle scene with another franchise, this is one you don't want to miss. "But fear no more! I would not take this thing, if it lay by the highway. Not were Minas Tirith falling in ruin and I alone could save her, so, using the weapon of the Dark Lord for her good and my glory. No, I do not wish for such triumphs, Frodo son of Drogo." - Faramir

The Lord of the Rings: Two Towers Differences Part 1 Between Novel & Film

We are back again with Chase & Josh today where we cover and compare some of the major differences between Part 1 of the extended edition film The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers to its novel counterpart. This one is going to be a little different as the film shifts perspective early and often in an order that does not coincide with the book, so we had some fun putting this together. Stick around as we highlight some of the key differences between the movie and book such as; Éomer's banishment from Rohan, Frodo's mishap in the Marshes, Gandalf freeing Théoden's mind, Sam and Frodo's arguments, and Sméagol gaining a level of freedom. With giving the film a numeric grade, detailing moments and key changes that stood out to each, discussing potential alterings to a few plot points that could arise due to a couple differences, and talking about certain things each enjoyed more from a film perspective, don't miss out! "Now Théoden son of Thengel, will you hearken to me?" said Gandalf. "Do you ask for help?" He lifted his staff and pointed to a high window. There the darkness seemed to clear, and through the opening could be seen, high and far, a patch of shining sky. "Not all is dark. Take courage, Lord of the Mark; for better help you will not find. No counsel have I to give to those that despair. Yet counsel I could give, and words I could speak to you. Will you hear them? They are not for all ears. I bid you come out before your doors and look abroad. Too long have you sat in shadows and trusted to twisted tales and crooked promptings." Slowly Théoden left his chair.

The Lord of the Rings: Two Towers Review & Analysis Part 4 (Chapter 17-Chapter 21)

Frodo and Sam have passed the Dead Marshes with the help of Sméagol, went to the Black Gate of Mordor and found it impassable, decided on an alternate route, and coincidentally ran into men of Gondor, the captain being Boromir's brother Faramir who succeeded in what Boromir failed. Thanks for sticking with us as today we tackle the final five chapters and finish The Two Towers in it's entirety by covering The Forbidden Pool through The Choices of Master Samwise. Keep up as we stay with Frodo & Sam as they receive the blessing of Faramir to leave the temporary safety of Ithilien with Sméagol and continue their journey, view the evil city of Minas Morgul where the King of the Wraiths resides with an army set for war, climb along the secret pass to a tunnel, fall into a trap, fight for their lives against an ancient evil, and Sam having to make seemingly impossible choices. With Chase & Josh providing the major takeaways from each chapter, notating key full circles and foreshadows, pointing out a potential plot hole, coming up with our own draft of who each of us would take in a Fellowship re-do of who goes on the journey from Rivendell, and debating some fun scenarios, don't miss out! "He spun round, and rushed wildly up the path, calling and calling his master's name. He was too late. So far Gollum's plot had succeeded."

The Lord of the Rings: Two Towers Review & Analysis Part 3 (Chapter 12-Chapter 16)

The Battle of Helms Deep is over, the power of Saruman is broken, and now we move to the perspective of the other main characters, Frodo & Sam. We're excited to have you join us today as we jump into the next five chapters of The Two Towers which include The Taming of Sméagol through The Window on the West. Tag along as we follow Frodo & Sam after they depart the Company and make their way towards Mordor alone, find unsuspecting help along the way, attempt to pass through some eerie marshlands, approach the Black Gate from a distance, make the decision to put their trust in a sneaky creature, and meet a few men from Gondor that are reminiscent of some old friends. With Chase & Josh detailing the major key details of each chapter, providing analysis of foreshadows and thought processes of certain characters, and debating scenarios in which different paths may have been taken... don't go anywhere. "We wants it! But'--- and here there was a long pause, as if a new thought had wakened. "Not yet, eh? Perhaps not. She might help. She might, yes."

The Lord of the Rings: Two Towers Review & Analysis Part 2 (Chapter 7-Chapter 11)

Gandalf has rejoined the fray at the turning of the tide and with the help of Aragorn, Legolas & Gimli, King Théoden and his men leave Edoras ready for battle. And today, a battle they will get. Thanks for stopping by today as we jump into the next five chapters of The Two Towers which include Helms Deep through The Palantír. Stick around while we cover the siege which encompasses all of Saruman's might against a much smaller force, the Ents taking advantage of a defenseless Isengard, a grand reunion amongst friends, a dispute amongst Wizard's, and an glass ball orb that almost ruins everything. With Chase and Josh describing one of the most climactic battles in the series, discussing what stuck out most in each chapter, touching on easy to miss detail, pointing out major foreshadows, and debating some interesting questions... Don't miss out! "Behold, I am not Gandalf the Grey, whom you betrayed. I am Gandalf the White, who has returned from death. You have no colour now, and I cast you from the order and from the Council."

The Lord of the Rings: Two Towers Review & Analysis Part 1 (Chapter 2-Chapter 6)

Boromir has fallen, Merry & Pippen have been taken captive, Frodo & Sam go their own way, while Aragorn, Legolas & Gimli give chase to the orc hoard. Today we are diving fully into the second book in The Lord of the Rings franchise, The Two Towers covering Chapter 2 through Chapter 6 (The Riders of Rohan-The King of the Golden Hall). Join us as we meet some of the horse lords of the Riddermark, watch a disagreement amongst three different factions or orcs unfold, are introduced the the ancient Ents of Fangorn Forest, are rejoined by an unexpected powerful ally who is the same yet different, and finish up with a difficult decision made by King Théoden. With Chase & Josh fully transitioning to the next novel in the acclaimed series, discussing the highs and lows of the chapters, detailing the major events that take place, and debating potential "what if" scenarios when it comes to love connections amongst a key character, this is one you don't want to miss! "Be merry! We meet again. At the turn of the tide. The great storm is coming, but the tide has turned."

The Lord of the Rings: Fellowship Differences Part 2 Between Novel & Film

Today Chase & Josh close out The Fellowship of the Ring in it's entirety as we compare the second half of the novel (as well as the first chapter of The Two Towers) to the Extended Edition Part 2 film! Tag along as we discuss some of the notable differences found between the movie and the book such as; The reforging of Elendil's sword and Aragorn taking it straight from Rivendell, who the Crebain report to, who manipulates the weather on the mountain Caradhras, the Fellowship being attacked by a pack of wolves prior to their trip into Moria, who it was that disturbs the lake before the mountain's entrance, which creature spears Frodo, how the company enters Lothlórien, the incorporation of a lead Uruk-hai, and an all out battle scene that we get to visually witness. With The Riddikulus Crew notating the main differences that stood out to them individually, providing their thoughts on the second half of The Fellowship of the Ring, giving their takeaways on the first installment of the series as a whole and providing a numeric ranking score for both the novel and the film, stay tuned! 'At that moment there was a twang of bowstrings: several arrows whistled over them, and some fell among them. One smote Frodo between the shoulders and he lurched forward with a cry, letting go his paddle: but the arrow fell back, foiled by his hidden coat of mail. Another passed through Aragorn's hood; and a third stood fast in the gunwale of the second boat, close by Merry's hand. Sam thought he could glimpse black figures running to and fro upon the long shingle-banks that lay under the eastern shore. They seemed very near.'

The Lord of the Rings: Fellowship Review & Analysis Part 6 (Chapter 21-Chapter 1 of Two Towers)

The momentary safety of Lórien is pleasant and brings a sense of comfort to the Fellowship after such a great loss, but decisions have to be made and the Ring isn't getting any closer to Mount Doom while they remain there. Today we continue the quest and cover the remainder of The Fellowship of the Ring novel and also the very first chapter in The Two Towers which include Farewell to Lórien through The Departure of Boromir! Follow along as we learn about the two paths that lie ahead for the Fellowship, the gifts Galadriel bestows upon each member, the revelation of who has been following the group since Moria, a treasonous act, the path the ring bearer decides to take, an attack that results in a kidnapping, and one of the company's final farewell. With Chase & Josh closing out the first novel in this epic series, giving their perspectives on the characters choices, detailing the major key moments that define this section of the tale, and debating a "what could have been" moment, don't miss out. "Farewell, Aragorn! Go to Minas Tirith and save my people! I have failed."

The Lord of the Rings: Fellowship Review & Analysis Part 5 (Chapter 16-Chapter 20)

The Lord of the Rings: Fellowship Differences Part 1 Between Novel & Film

Chase & Josh are back at it again today where we compare the first half of The Fellowship of the Ring novel to it's Extended Edition Part 1 film counterpart! Join us as we highlight some of the key differences between the movie and book such as; the hobbit's trip into the Old Forest and subsequently their introduction to Tom Bombadil, Gandalf's conflict with Saruman, which elf helps Frodo get to Rivendell, Bilbo's place in the Council of Elrond and many more. With The Riddikulus Crew detailing the differences that resonated with each of them, their thoughts about the first half of The Fellowship of the Ring as a whole, and giving a numeric rating for both the novel & film, this is one you don't want to miss. 'When the old man, helped by Bilbo and some dwarves, had finished unloading, Bilbo gave a few pennies away; but not a single squib or cracker was forthcoming, to the disappointment of the onlookers.' "Run away now!" said Gandalf "You will get plenty when the time comes."

The Lord of the Rings: Fellowship Review & Analysis Part 3 (Chapter 11-Chapter 15)

The journey keeps rolling as we continue on our way to Rivendell with the hobbits and the Ranger called Strider as detailed through the next five chapter of The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring. Today we will see an escape from Bree, a battle at Weathertop, one of the group sustains a life threatening injury, unexpected help comes, and a secret council is held in the House of Elrond. Don't miss out as Chase & Josh take you on this next part of the adventure and discuss key events, highlight references to past works of literature, detail important foreshadows, and debate interesting topics! "I will take the Ring", he said, "though I do not know the way."

The Lord of the Rings: Fellowship Review & Analysis Part 2 (Chapter 6-Chapter 10)

We continue along down the road today where we pick back up with our favorite hobbits and tag along through the next sequence of events that unfold between Chapter 6-Chapter 10 of The Fellowship of the Ring! Join us as we tag along on a trip through The Old Forest, meet a strange yet friendly character that helps them out of a bind who is more than meets the eye, tangle with a Barrow wight, enjoy a few brews at The Prancing Pony, and are introduced to a very important Ranger. With Chase & Josh providing the highlights of each chapter, giving their respective takeaways, pondering thought provoking questions and closing out with some debates, this is one you don't want to miss! "I am Aragorn son of Arathorn; and if by life or death I can save you, I will."

The Lord of the Rings: Fellowship Review & Analysis Part 1 (Chapter 1-Chapter 5)

The time has come. Today Chase & Josh begin one of the most influential fantasy-fiction franchises of all time in The Lord of the Rings. We are going to join the Hobbits on their big adventure and see it through to the very end! We are going to tackle multiple chapters in each episode and will stop at the midway point and the end of each novel to compare it to the part 1 and part 2 extended edition of the films, so buckle up because this is going to be one wild journey. Today we cover the first 5 chapters where we get to hear about an old Hobbit's birthday, the backstory of a specific ring, leaving Bag End, and black riders making an appearance. We're just starting off with this great franchise, so don't miss out!

The Batman: Breakdown, Review, & Analysis

 

The Witcher Season 2: Rankings and Final Thoughts

Get ready to have some fun today as Chase & Josh close out Season 2 of the Witcher by doing what they do best. Tune in as we provide our ranking hierarchy list for a few different categories regarding some key components of The Witcher Season 2! We wrap up the episode by giving our opinions on what we think we are going to see in the future of The Witcher Series as well as events that we hope will come to pass, and character arcs we are most excited to follow. "We don't kill out of fear. We kill to save lives."