The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers is so much more than a sequel; it’s a dedication to the Fellowship established in the first film in the trilogy. Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli pursue the orcs who have taken Merry and Pippin, while Sam and Frodo continue to Mordor to rid the world of the one ring. Their pursuit is seemingly endless, running constantly in an effort to gain ground and rescue their friends.

The Two Towers highlights their tireless efforts, and, ultimately, shows what they’re willing to do to help those in need. When arriving in Rohan, they’ve learned of the king’s odd demeanor and lack of care for his people and lands. Although they learn about the possibility of Merry and Pippin’s demise, they quickly discover hope and find something else entirely.

Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli discover Gandalf, who was assumed dead after his fall into the depths of Moria. It’s quickly determined that the entire kingdom of Rohan and its leader King Theoden have been prey to Saruman’s twisted spell. With Theoden unable to think for himself, the lands get overrun by the enemy with towns being pillaged and people being killed.

Did the Pursuit of Merry and Pippin Strengthen the Fellowship’s Drive to Do Good?

During the Fellowship’s attempt to catch their friends, it’s clear it had an effect; Gimli was exhausted and griping (rightfully so) almost the entire way. Even physical exertion to the point of near-collapse did not make them stop. The three would not end their pursuit without being successful. Now that Merry and Pippin were in the care of the Ent Treebeard, the trio could refocus their efforts to helping many more people.

This bond is a particularly important thing for viewers to see, as it indicates what they’re willing to do to help those in need; and what’s more, how far they’re willing to go to help those who are not in the Fellowship. The Two Towers is indicative of loyalty and doing good when good can be done. It might not be a surprising message, as The Lord of the Rings pits good versus evil, but it’s easily recognizable within this incredible cast and its storytelling.

The importance of storytelling within The Two Towers leans on its characters who continue to prove what needs to be done to defeat Saruman and Sauron. Besides the initial pursuit and changing gears to help Theoden, the film shows Merry and Pippin’s drive to be more active. Despite having a smaller stature, it doesn’t prevent them from establishing a willingness to help. They push the Ents to go to war – and eventually fight alongside them.

Although the Fellowship was established with the purpose of destroying the ring, the group separated with a similar mindset: to aid one another and strangers alike, regardless of the cost. Through exhaustion, they fight through it. Through battles, they defend each other from harm. Even if it means tossing a dwarf, despite injury to Gimli’s pride, nothing is out of the question when it comes to staying loyal to the Fellowship’s original outline to foil evil.

Outstanding Takeaways from The Two Towers

The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers is an incredible film, and if your kids are old enough to watch it, they will see the bonds of friendship tighten further. Despite a tumultuous start between Legolas and Gimli, the two find ways to establish humor and loyalty on the field of battle. Pippin even believes the war might be too much for them before Merry reinforces the need to fight:

“The fires of Isengard will spread, and the forests of Tuckborough and Buckland will burn. And all that was once great and good in this world will be gone. There won’t be a Shire, Pippin.”

There are plenty of wonderful moments in The Two Towers where a member of the Fellowship reminds another of what their duties are. These exchanges are powerful, because life sometimes presents perilous times where hopelessness seems abundant – and seeing characters display courage and unity to defeat evil is the reason to seek out this movie if you’re in need of hope.

What do you think about the Fellowship and their growing bond? Are there other characters you’d highlight within The Two Towers? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!

Until next time, happy parenting and happy geeking.