Its Sam for me, I understand how hard it can be to carry yourself with your own weight (Frodo). To me it's even harder to watch someone you care n love for suffer, and help them with there burdens. As long as you can gain strength from Tolkien's characters, Hail to you friend!
@@coys24it wasn't impossible. He was right there! All he had to do was let go! He'd already managed the impossible part, thanks to Sam. Else he would have failed repeatedly!
I will always have a soft spot for Frodo. He often gets shoved aside for other characters, but he truly suffered the greatest of them all. This is a story of heros and that is what makes it so special.
Frodo's arc was in some ways based on the stories of the soldiers Tolkien served with in WWI who were broken emotionally by their experiences. What I find heartwarming is the fact that none of the other characters judge or blame him for it.
What a lot of people don't understand is that there is no one single character in this story that you can look at and declare them *the* Hero. It's full of heroes all doing their parts. Frodo had the hardest part of all, but he did all that could be expected of anybody, and he made the destruction of the Ring possible. That counts in my book.
What can I say, Frodo is indisputably one of the most complex and multi-faceted heroes in any fantasy epic of all time. What fascinates me even more is how he and Bilbo are so alike but also quite different. Unlike Bilbo who grew to be an adventurer at heart, Frodo's motivation was more inspired by his love for the former. He's also more somber compared to Bilbo who was a bit of a rascal in his later years. I also refuse to buy into the sacrificial lamb attached to Frodo's character. Albeit he was pressured to make the choice due to the circumstances, it was still HIS choice to fully embrace the role of Ring-bearer and the responsibilities that came with it. Nobody forced him into taking on this task, and despite being fully aware of his own inadequacies and weaknesses he still decided to do the right thing. I think his character arc was also one of the more tragic ones (alongside Gollum's). He started as this somewhat naive and innocent Hobbit who dreamt of going on adventures with Bilbo to this disillusioned and hopeless despairing Ring-bearer, mind intent on death. I also think that after spending time with the Ring, listening to Its incessant temptations and the poisonous thoughts in his mind, he became further aware of his darker and corruptible side, which I'm sure the Ring taunted him with the entire time of his journey. Because of this, Frodo grew more compassionate, less hypocritical, and highly self-critical. His 'failure' to destroy the Ring further convinced him how wrong he was about himself and everything. Tolkien mentioned in one of his letters that Frodo had wanted to come back a Hero despite his declarations of humility. Again, though wanting to do good, he still had a part of him that conflicted with that. It's called being human and flawed. Nevertheless, what makes him to me interesting is in spite of the corruption he still chose to be kind and compassionate and not succumb to his depression and trauma. Most people who suffered as much as he had would've been jaded, pessimistic and shunned the world, but he tried his hardest to overcome his internal battles with himself and do right by everyone. Alas, the hurts ran deep and he had to leave ME.
Great video. I think one thing perhaps people who have only seen the films miss when some of them say words to the effect of "Sam >> Frodo" is that Frodo only "failed" in the sense that right at the last minute, he could not do what was needed. However, he did get the Ring to the place where it could be destroyed...yes, with help including from Sam, but with a small exception he carried the Ring all the way and suffered its effects. The Ring would have overwhelmed certainly Men and probably also Elves and Dwarves too _much_ sooner than this, and the Quest would have failed had it been in any of their hands. Even Gandalf feared to take it, because he might use it and fall into darkness. Galadriel refused it, despite all her power, for similar reasons. Elrond didn't even entertain the idea of keeping it in Imladris. Tolkien made it abundantly clear that of all the races in Middle Earth, only the Hobbits had a chance of resisting the Ring long enough for the Quest to succeed. Sam only carried the Ring for a very brief time, so he did not have time for the effects to really take hold, so yes he was awesome in supporting Frodo, but he did not have the same weight, exhaustion or terror that Frodo had. _Could_ he have done what Frodo did? Maybe...maybe not, but that was not his fate. Could Merry or Pippin? I doubt it, especially in Pippin's case. So Frodo achieved something that next to no one else in Middle Earth could have done, which was to get to the Cracks of Doom where the Ring could be unmade. Yes, he needed some "help" at the end from Gollum for this to actually happen, but he triumphed in getting the Ring even to that point. This isn't, by the way, to say that Sam isn't a tremendous character, who deserves recognition as a great everyday hero of Middle Earth. But I don't think Frodo gets the love he deserves by a long shot.
Frodo smoke an oath over Gollum. He said that he would command him to throw himself into the fire if he ever betrayed him. And that's what happened. Not exactly how Frodo intendet, but oaths have power in Middle Earth.
I love that quote at the end. I thought Elijah and the movies did Frodo well, I could really feel his struggle. It took such a mental toll and does not make him any less.
My favorite character of all time. Such an inspiration for me in the last decade of health challenges, trauma, loss, etc. Frodo kept going. A small yet powerful figure I find such comfort in. What a wonderfully fleshed out video of Frodo. Thank you!
Honestly, I can still see the general struggles that Frodo went through in the films. Sure, there are some details that were left out, like his age, etc. But I think the general struggle that he undertook were either: portrayed well, and if it wasn't it's mainly because it's generally hard to portray certain things in film. I've already knew who he was. I think it might've just been more like when people see him, they don't really see what he went through, thinking that he's just "sitting on a ring" without thinking about what he's carrying and what the ring actually entails. A more simplistic way of saying this would be that it seems not to be about the movies, but more the modern values of what entails a hero (though it's also not just about modern values). I also find his strength to be inspiring in our lives as well!
Frodo did not fail in the end for he trusted in friendship. He knew that should he fall, Sam would see it through. Heros are often aided or else they wouldn't have gotten as far they did. (I'll leave you to argue it.)
I feel that the movies for the most part portrayed Frodo as best they could. There were a few parts here and there that I wished they had saved form the Novels such as Frodo riding off to Rivendale himself and standing up to the Ringwraiths.
Tolkien's letter is the tip of the iceberg of what went on within Frodo as he lists "What he felt is another matter"..and can be misunderstood by many that is why he doesnt get much love as a character because of lack of understanding to most...he is however my favourite hobbit in book and movie even though they change slightley.. but the core value of self sacrifice,and altruism is there and he Is an eg of finding courage within when needed,and a character that repeesents no desire for power. Plus a lesson about life lies within this character ..the lesson on how to face things that happen when unwanted or unplanned ,how sometimes life gives you things you dont want at all..(going to war for e.g that Tolkien based this on)or how to find bravery within when it comes to the inevitabile. For Frodo!!! Awsome video 👏👏🦄
I listened to the audiobook years after reading through in middle/high school, and when I heard about the death of Frodo's parents I had the sudden realization that it probably was Gollum, which to me in that instant felt like I finally understood the great irony of it all.
I agree with the person who said Frodo was done wrong in the movies. I do enjoy Elijah Wood's performance with what he was given but it could have been so much more awesome if all Frodo's best moments in the books weren't either excised completely or given to other characters. Though I understand that the complexities of his mental struggle are very difficult to convey in a movie, but it would have been nice if they'd at least given the impression that they even tried. But oh well, I've ranted about this before and I'm tired of it, so I'll go on reading the real version of Frodo which is in the books, and watch the movies as an alternate universe version of the story.
I do feel that the movies did take away much of that courage, strength and general badassery that we see in the books. I also think the movies took away much of the character, that shows them in better light, from merry and pippin as well.
To answer your question, yep, I feel like Frodo’s character was not portrayed well in the movies. They took out a lot of the amazing, kick-butt things he did, like fighting back against the Witch King at Weathertop, and scaring away Shelob when he was in her lair. That second one in particular would have been awesome if they had made it be more like the book. Otherwise, I absolutely love the movies, I just don’t like Frodo as much 😅
I think the movies did a disservice to Frodo. Jackson’s interpretation of Frodo made him look like a weak willed fool. LOTR is still one of my fav movies (as in all three), but Frodo is made to look more like a drama Queen than he is in the books. In the books, Frodo’s is optimistic and upbeat throughout most of the story. He knows his task is dangerous, still takes it on, has the fate of all life and growing things on his shoulders (or rather on a chain around his neck), and is told to do the best he can; because everyone knows he’s the only sentient being in Middle Earth who could’ve made it to the crack of Doom. Most other beings would have either given in or lost their minds to the ring before even making it to Bree!!
I remember being in the theater for Return of the King, and my mom (among other people) was yelling at the screen, saying things like "dont give up! You're almost there!" "You can do it!" "Dont you dare give up, Frodo!" As a teenager at tge time, it was embarrassing. But when I look back now knowing more about the story, lore and Frodo, I understand their feelings. Dude was a hero, and its our nature to root for the hero.
I never heard the theory about Gollum before. It's not even probable for the very reason you stated - he would have just kept searching. And how would he even know these two random hobbits on the river are named Baggins anyway? The denizens of the Ivy Bush had more believable theories. Great video as usual. I haven't said it, but you find some fantastic fan art!
17:15 ++ ❤ mad respect for Ted Nasmith's artwork: I'm giving it my "Best in Show" for any of the multitudes of backdrops presented by Broken Sword (and 'other' channel's vids). I appreciate that every thing glows; the Fellowship moving away allows each viewer to 'see' these héros as they/we want. Loved the doors / gates ~ it's the total Elven aura, brilliantly achieved. ☮️😎
The films are so legendary and quintessential, it’s hard to tear them apart in any sense. But what the films omitted only adds to my longstanding belief that both Lord of the Rings and Harry Potter for the same reasons need to be remade as a television/streaming series. The smaller and lesser characters of both worlds are so intriguing and at times so important to the literary forms of these two stories, only a tv series can spend the amount of time required to show it all.
I think they did well in the movie with him besides the fact that they CERTAINLY put an awful kind of uselessness feeling to him while in the company. They didn’t do him great justice, but Elijah is a great portrayal at the same time. It’s a hard topic to perfectly nail down 🤣
Frodo was done wrong in the movies, imo. They made him too young, too naive and too gullible. And many of his moments of bravery were either removed (the barrow wights, and stabbing the WK's foot on Weatherop) or given to other characters (Arwen against the nine riders at the Ford of Bruinen). They also left out what being stabbed by the Nazgul's blade and stung by Shelob was doing to him physically, and by taking out the Scouring, we don't see the after effects of any of this, much less of losing the Ring. It's no wonder many movie goers don't care for him much and don't get his heroism. When I find a reactor who manages to understand him despite all that, I encourage them to read the books.
I wish I could like this more than once. I like Elijah Wood's portrayal but I do think Peter Jackson did Frodo a major disservice by making him a load to be carried around. He gets to solve the riddle of the doors to Moria, but that's about the only useful thing he gets to do other than carry the Ring.
@@TLC62 And he did that (the riddle) after PJ and Co decided Frodo should get the decision of going through Moria or not, while freezing his ass off on Caradras. 🤦🏻♀️
I first read LOTR in 1984. Peter Jackson made Frodo a wimp. I never connected with character in the movies. I was just indifferent. The way PJ presented Frodo almost showed how any hobbit could have taken the ring. Frodo wasn't special in the movie. And arguably the least likeable. The books on the other hand , compelled me to root for Frodo. I loved his character in the books. That being said, PJ'S movies are epic. PJ did an awesome adaptation. But he just isn't the Professor, and I never expected him to be.
Love the content guys! I thought I didn't need this info but even just the genealogy at the start was new XD But I miss the Tabletop Alliance! I know it's a time and thus money sink... But it was so good!
I am baffled that Frodo is described as revisiting Lorien before returning to Rivendell. How could such an error be made? The book makes it clear that Galadriel and Celeborn turned east to return to Lorien while Frodo continued north to Rivendell. Sam even says, "I wish I was going to Lorien." And Gandalf did not leave the hobbits at the Buckland Gate because after he left them in the daylight they rode on until they reached the gate in the dark.
I see the Lord of the Rings films the same way I see David Lynch’s Dune, it’s not Tolkien’s version of the story, rather Peter Jackson’s (albeit done a fair bit more faithfully than Lynch did with Dune). I love both the books and the movies (of both franchises), but if you want the true story, Tolkien’s work will always be the definitive version.
It would be great to have some more detail how twice Bag End was bought back by first Bilbo than second Frodo given that it seemed to be such a highly sought after property.
Shame that Frodo didnt leave a baggins heir to inherit it..in the films he says "there was Always a baggins lived at bag end and there Always Will be" or something along those Lines ..has a lot more meaning thinking that no more after him.
I certainly hold the view that Frodo was done a disservice in the movies, though I personally like him in both. It’s much harder to like him watching the movies, so I don’t fully blame those who don’t. At the same time, those who bag on Frodo are somehow oblivious to the fact that he’s not in his right mind and stumbling around because of the Ring and not because of him. Yes, Elijah Wood was too young for the role. Had his character been handled differently, that could have been inconsequential. It seems that the goal of the movies was to emphasize Frodo’s victimhood. Whether he is falling, being mind-controlled by some Ring trance, or wounded, he just comes off as weak. They take away key moments of his bravery and inner strength, like when he rode the horse and rode to the Fords, despite being in severe pain and being chased by terrifying riders. They also took away a key element of his relationship with Gollum, which is the way that Frodo used the Ring (or threatened to use it) to keep Gollum in line. It makes Frodo look wiser (since he was aware of Gollum’s wickedness) as well as making his slow corruption more interesting. Frodo’s obsession with the Ring is less about its actual beauty and more about the power he perceives that it gives him and the happiness it adds to his life. Finally, they really took away from his relationship with Sam. In the book, it’s easier to perceive that they’re friends. They have more friendly conversations, Frodo looks after Sam, and they are more open with their physical affection. Though Frodo screams at Sam twice because of his addiction to the Ring, he never trusts Gollum over Sam. Paranoia about losing the Ring is plausible, but it’s much more likely that Frodo would be paranoid about Gollum taking it than his dear Sam. Book Frodo has a deep goodness, inner strength, wisdom, kindness, and indomitable spirit that just isn’t really shown in the movie. In the movie, he feels more innocent than good, easily defeated (physically and emotionally), and almost personality-less. It’s certainly true that Frodo loses his personality and his mind the further along they go, but they started that way too early in the movie. As early as _The Fellowship of the Ring_, Frodo isn’t eating or sleeping in the movie. They talk about how strong he is, but since we as the audience don’t get examples, we don’t understand how he could be strong. It’s difficult to portray how tortured he was inwardly, so I try to be understanding. But I don’t see why they had to strip him so much to show how tormented he was. The book lets Frodo be a hero for a good portion of the story, only stripping away his physical ability when they enter Mordor. It is there that his body and soul are almost entirely eradicated, when he’s unrecognizable and too attached to the Ring to let it go. Frodo is my favorite character in LOTR, and I think he’s totally underrated. His hero’s journey is the most unique, the most tragic, and therefore the most poignant. There’s something to be said for the heroes who are dashing, gallant, or successful. But there’s more to be said for those who are brave and do all that is within their strength and resources to do, no matter how broken it leaves them. That is Frodo, a hero who took the Ring out of love and humility and lost himself because of it. There is less perceived greatness for him, but that is the fault of those who do not understand just how much he gave and how hard he tried. People who can get past their assumptions of the character will be able to see Frodo for who he is. It’s a pity the movies made that harder to do.
Well said. Frodo broke my heart when reading the books. I was devastated along with him. I don’t feel the fault in the movies lies with EW’s portrayal, but with the way he was written. Despite his youth, I think EW could have done a god job with the character if he had been well written.
It would not have mattered how big Gondor's army was or how effective, the assault would have failed if the Ring had not been destroyed. If Frodo had not got the Ring to the Cracks of Doom, and been merciful enough to take Gollum along, the West would have fallen once Sauron got the Ring back. Frodo was the true hero of the book and should be recognised as such in the films but then he was never recognised as a hero in Hobbiton. Only those who had travelled with him and seen what he had endured really knew what he was. Sound familiar?x
Frodo was a wonderful character who took on a lot. Ultimately, however, his character failed him, as happens all too often to all of us. Still, Frodo was a true hero, but he could not have made it without Samwise the Steadfast, who stayed true to his character -- unswervingly loyal, humble, and full of love. In my mind, Sam was the greatest hero of them all.
Sam had a flaw too, though-he was impatient with Gollum, which cemented Gollum’s plan to betray them to Shelob. He also would have killed Gollum, and Frodo may have kept the ring long enough for Sauron to regain it.
SkySpiral8 you are right, of course, although Samwise's loyalty to and love for Frodo drove both his mistrust of and impatience with Gollum. He wasn't flawless, but, again, he was true to himself and guided by love and loyalty, not to mention humility.
There isn't no call to go talking about Gollums and Smeagols. Boats are quite tricky enough for those that sit still without looking further for the cause of trouble.
What-if video idea for you to do: What if Gandalf never fell at the Bridge of Khazad-dum and continued with the fellowship to Lothlorien and on forward?
Any chance you could do one of those books versus movie videos for the meeting in which the Fellowship emerged from? For example, in the movie there's a bunch of men and Dwarves there but we never see them again after that meeting. Who were those people? Just filler for the movie or actual book characters?
I would say the Gollum killing Frodo’s parents is possible if you consider that after he murdered them Sméagol came out and stopped him from continuing. It could possibly be the first time Sméagol did appear since the ring was taking. It has been 33 years and he seems to be able to slip into Sméagol pretty easily when he’s with Frodo later as he doesn’t kill him even.
In my mind, I hear JRR Tolkien ~ soothing his heroic Hobbit: "You alone know what you carried, on Mission and in Burden. You, and no one else brought the One Ring to the very edge of the Fires of Mount Doom, with the one being whose evil cunning couldn't withstand exuberant glee. You needed Gollum, my friend ~ and soon you will rest."
The only thing in the movies I didn’t like about Frodo, was the added bit of drama with Sam, sending him away like that. But they did a remarkable showing the rings growing power over Frodo and his weakening will. I also think maybe the Scouring of the Shire (aside from just being my favorite chapter) would have helped to show Frodo’s growth and his wisdom.
Had no problem woth frodo as you could tell the ring was having more effect on his mental and physical health more so it was supposed to make him abit unlikeable IMO
The trilogy is an amazing movie worthy of being watched multiple times when looked at independently. However when compared to the books, it’s complete utter garbage. So many things left out, key people changed, and minor details that don’t matter weren’t followed. The few saving graces found in both trilogies are Bilbo Baggins and Frodo Baggins characters/actors did a wonderful job with their portrayals.
Honestly all of the hobbits in LOTR were heroes in my mind being as though they all played a part in it that was totally out of character for the common hobbit. Of course Frodo had the biggest burden to carry but he would not have made it through it all without Sam. So Sam gets my vote for the biggest hero.
Having never read the books when I first seen lotr in the cinema when I was 11/12. Frodo definitely seemed a weak and boring main character to me, Aragorn was the hero of the movies imo. It never quite made sense why Frodo would be in charge of the ring ahead of any other hobbit or was so important other than he had a will to keep going (most of the time)
The movie Frodo suffers from the poor acting skills of Elijah Wood who seemed to have only one emotional facial expression; that of constipated pain. Along with Liv Tyler who also is a one-dimensional actress, the complexities of these two Tolkien characters is sadly underrepresented in the movies.
@@circedeluneMy mistake. Sam became mayor after the retirement of Will Whitfoot. While Whitfoot was recovering from imprisonment by Saruman, Frodo served as Deputy Mayor for several months, and served a final seven year term, before being succeeded by Sam Gamgee, who served for seven consecutive seven-year terms
Frodo was burdened with the ring which weighed immensely on him physically, mentally, and emotionally. I love Sam. And believe him to be a hero. No doubt Frodo would not have succeeded without him. Sam however great and strong he was only held the ring for the briefest of time so did not experience the horrible toll it took on Frodo. Yes, Sam did physically carry Frodo for a time but, the book makes it clear that the ring was heavy only to Frodo and when Sam carried Frodo he was burdened only by Frodo’s actual emancipated weight. Yes, Sam as wonderful, a hero and great among all the peoples but, don’t let that diminish Frodo’s heroism and strength.
Frodo is the hero we want to find in ourselves at the hardest of times. No one inspired me more than mr baggins.
No worse inspiration to have!!
Its Sam for me, I understand how hard it can be to carry yourself with your own weight (Frodo). To me it's even harder to watch someone you care n love for suffer, and help them with there burdens. As long as you can gain strength from Tolkien's characters, Hail to you friend!
Except Frodo failed in the end. If not for Sam and Gollumn, he would have failed.
Wormtongue for me!
@@coys24it wasn't impossible. He was right there! All he had to do was let go! He'd already managed the impossible part, thanks to Sam. Else he would have failed repeatedly!
I will always have a soft spot for Frodo. He often gets shoved aside for other characters, but he truly suffered the greatest of them all. This is a story of heros and that is what makes it so special.
Well said! 👏
Frodo's arc was in some ways based on the stories of the soldiers Tolkien served with in WWI who were broken emotionally by their experiences. What I find heartwarming is the fact that none of the other characters judge or blame him for it.
He also had the mercy to spare Gollum, which saved the quest in the end.
Having read the books MANY times, the movies didn't alter my opinion of Frodo at all. I already understood who and what he was.
As Lady Galadriel tells Frodo Baggins, "This task is appointed to you !" Job well done Frodo Baggins of the Shire !
Don't care what other says, But in my eyes Frodo is the real Hero and always will be.
Hello there!
What a lot of people don't understand is that there is no one single character in this story that you can look at and declare them *the* Hero. It's full of heroes all doing their parts. Frodo had the hardest part of all, but he did all that could be expected of anybody, and he made the destruction of the Ring possible. That counts in my book.
What can I say, Frodo is indisputably one of the most complex and multi-faceted heroes in any fantasy epic of all time. What fascinates me even more is how he and Bilbo are so alike but also quite different. Unlike Bilbo who grew to be an adventurer at heart, Frodo's motivation was more inspired by his love for the former. He's also more somber compared to Bilbo who was a bit of a rascal in his later years.
I also refuse to buy into the sacrificial lamb attached to Frodo's character. Albeit he was pressured to make the choice due to the circumstances, it was still HIS choice to fully embrace the role of Ring-bearer and the responsibilities that came with it. Nobody forced him into taking on this task, and despite being fully aware of his own inadequacies and weaknesses he still decided to do the right thing.
I think his character arc was also one of the more tragic ones (alongside Gollum's). He started as this somewhat naive and innocent Hobbit who dreamt of going on adventures with Bilbo to this disillusioned and hopeless despairing Ring-bearer, mind intent on death. I also think that after spending time with the Ring, listening to Its incessant temptations and the poisonous thoughts in his mind, he became further aware of his darker and corruptible side, which I'm sure the Ring taunted him with the entire time of his journey. Because of this, Frodo grew more compassionate, less hypocritical, and highly self-critical.
His 'failure' to destroy the Ring further convinced him how wrong he was about himself and everything. Tolkien mentioned in one of his letters that Frodo had wanted to come back a Hero despite his declarations of humility. Again, though wanting to do good, he still had a part of him that conflicted with that. It's called being human and flawed.
Nevertheless, what makes him to me interesting is in spite of the corruption he still chose to be kind and compassionate and not succumb to his depression and trauma. Most people who suffered as much as he had would've been jaded, pessimistic and shunned the world, but he tried his hardest to overcome his internal battles with himself and do right by everyone. Alas, the hurts ran deep and he had to leave ME.
Great video. I think one thing perhaps people who have only seen the films miss when some of them say words to the effect of "Sam >> Frodo" is that Frodo only "failed" in the sense that right at the last minute, he could not do what was needed. However, he did get the Ring to the place where it could be destroyed...yes, with help including from Sam, but with a small exception he carried the Ring all the way and suffered its effects.
The Ring would have overwhelmed certainly Men and probably also Elves and Dwarves too _much_ sooner than this, and the Quest would have failed had it been in any of their hands. Even Gandalf feared to take it, because he might use it and fall into darkness. Galadriel refused it, despite all her power, for similar reasons. Elrond didn't even entertain the idea of keeping it in Imladris. Tolkien made it abundantly clear that of all the races in Middle Earth, only the Hobbits had a chance of resisting the Ring long enough for the Quest to succeed.
Sam only carried the Ring for a very brief time, so he did not have time for the effects to really take hold, so yes he was awesome in supporting Frodo, but he did not have the same weight, exhaustion or terror that Frodo had. _Could_ he have done what Frodo did? Maybe...maybe not, but that was not his fate. Could Merry or Pippin? I doubt it, especially in Pippin's case. So Frodo achieved something that next to no one else in Middle Earth could have done, which was to get to the Cracks of Doom where the Ring could be unmade. Yes, he needed some "help" at the end from Gollum for this to actually happen, but he triumphed in getting the Ring even to that point.
This isn't, by the way, to say that Sam isn't a tremendous character, who deserves recognition as a great everyday hero of Middle Earth. But I don't think Frodo gets the love he deserves by a long shot.
Frodo smoke an oath over Gollum.
He said that he would command him to throw himself into the fire if he ever betrayed him.
And that's what happened.
Not exactly how Frodo intendet, but oaths have power in Middle Earth.
I love that quote at the end. I thought Elijah and the movies did Frodo well, I could really feel his struggle. It took such a mental toll and does not make him any less.
Well said!
My favorite character of all time. Such an inspiration for me in the last decade of health challenges, trauma, loss, etc. Frodo kept going. A small yet powerful figure I find such comfort in. What a wonderfully fleshed out video of Frodo. Thank you!
Honestly, I can still see the general struggles that Frodo went through in the films. Sure, there are some details that were left out, like his age, etc. But I think the general struggle that he undertook were either: portrayed well, and if it wasn't it's mainly because it's generally hard to portray certain things in film. I've already knew who he was. I think it might've just been more like when people see him, they don't really see what he went through, thinking that he's just "sitting on a ring" without thinking about what he's carrying and what the ring actually entails. A more simplistic way of saying this would be that it seems not to be about the movies, but more the modern values of what entails a hero (though it's also not just about modern values). I also find his strength to be inspiring in our lives as well!
Amazing comment! Thank you for taking the time to write it!
@@TheBrokenSword you’re welcome!
Frodo did not fail in the end for he trusted in friendship. He knew that should he fall, Sam would see it through. Heros are often aided or else they wouldn't have gotten as far they did. (I'll leave you to argue it.)
"I will take the Ring, though I do not know the way."
Excellent work Mellon! Frodo is the BRAVEST being of the 3rd age...
"Elendil! Elendil! For the West!"
Thank you very much! :D
I feel that the movies for the most part portrayed Frodo as best they could. There were a few parts here and there that I wished they had saved form the Novels such as Frodo riding off to Rivendale himself and standing up to the Ringwraiths.
Tolkien's letter is the tip of the iceberg of what went on within Frodo as he lists "What he felt is another matter"..and can be misunderstood by many that is why he doesnt get much love as a character because of lack of understanding to most...he is however my favourite hobbit in book and movie even though they change slightley.. but the core value of self sacrifice,and altruism is there and he Is an eg of finding courage within when needed,and a character that repeesents no desire for power. Plus a lesson about life lies within this character ..the lesson on how to face things that happen when unwanted or unplanned ,how sometimes life gives you things you dont want at all..(going to war for e.g that Tolkien based this on)or how to find bravery within when it comes to the inevitabile. For Frodo!!! Awsome video 👏👏🦄
I fully agree! And thank you!
never realised just how much I love this hobbit
He's a great character isn't he!
Many people don't understand the heroism of Frodo.
So true!
I bet Tolkien saw many friends suffer in ways Frodo suffered after the hell was over.
Sad form of inspiration really :(
Iirc, Tolkien said most of his friends were dead by the end of WW1. Sad indeed
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
One of your best videos. So cool hearing the story with maps and artwork constantly showing.
Fatty was already in Crickhollw, it was Frodo, Sam and Pippin who encounter the black rider and the Elves.
Poor Bill never gets included as part of the fellowship, and such a silently dedicated member he was.
Equestrians:
We all Adobe the horses of Midfdle Earth, be it the mighty elven Steeds, Shadowfax or Bill the Pony!
Great fan theory with Gollum and Frodo’s parents! First time I hear this theory, but very possible and interesting indeed
I listened to the audiobook years after reading through in middle/high school, and when I heard about the death of Frodo's parents I had the sudden realization that it probably was Gollum, which to me in that instant felt like I finally understood the great irony of it all.
Especially since Sméagol came from river-faring folk
I agree with the person who said Frodo was done wrong in the movies. I do enjoy Elijah Wood's performance with what he was given but it could have been so much more awesome if all Frodo's best moments in the books weren't either excised completely or given to other characters. Though I understand that the complexities of his mental struggle are very difficult to convey in a movie, but it would have been nice if they'd at least given the impression that they even tried. But oh well, I've ranted about this before and I'm tired of it, so I'll go on reading the real version of Frodo which is in the books, and watch the movies as an alternate universe version of the story.
I do feel that the movies did take away much of that courage, strength and general badassery that we see in the books. I also think the movies took away much of the character, that shows them in better light, from merry and pippin as well.
The movies definitely portray Frodo differently. I like book Frodo much better, but Elijah woods did do a great job
To answer your question, yep, I feel like Frodo’s character was not portrayed well in the movies. They took out a lot of the amazing, kick-butt things he did, like fighting back against the Witch King at Weathertop, and scaring away Shelob when he was in her lair. That second one in particular would have been awesome if they had made it be more like the book. Otherwise, I absolutely love the movies, I just don’t like Frodo as much 😅
I think the movies did a disservice to Frodo. Jackson’s interpretation of Frodo made him look like a weak willed fool. LOTR is still one of my fav movies (as in all three), but Frodo is made to look more like a drama Queen than he is in the books. In the books, Frodo’s is optimistic and upbeat throughout most of the story. He knows his task is dangerous, still takes it on, has the fate of all life and growing things on his shoulders (or rather on a chain around his neck), and is told to do the best he can; because everyone knows he’s the only sentient being in Middle Earth who could’ve made it to the crack of Doom. Most other beings would have either given in or lost their minds to the ring before even making it to Bree!!
I remember being in the theater for Return of the King, and my mom (among other people) was yelling at the screen, saying things like "dont give up! You're almost there!" "You can do it!" "Dont you dare give up, Frodo!" As a teenager at tge time, it was embarrassing. But when I look back now knowing more about the story, lore and Frodo, I understand their feelings. Dude was a hero, and its our nature to root for the hero.
I think Tolkien was spot on when he suggested coming of age was 33.
I never heard the theory about Gollum before. It's not even probable for the very reason you stated - he would have just kept searching. And how would he even know these two random hobbits on the river are named Baggins anyway? The denizens of the Ivy Bush had more believable theories.
Great video as usual. I haven't said it, but you find some fantastic fan art!
Thank you but it’s the artists who deserve 100% of the praise!!
17:15 ++ ❤ mad respect for Ted Nasmith's artwork: I'm giving it my "Best in Show" for any of the multitudes of backdrops presented by Broken Sword (and 'other' channel's vids).
I appreciate that every thing glows; the Fellowship moving away allows each viewer to 'see' these héros as they/we want.
Loved the doors / gates ~ it's the total Elven aura, brilliantly achieved. ☮️😎
The films are so legendary and quintessential, it’s hard to tear them apart in any sense. But what the films omitted only adds to my longstanding belief that both Lord of the Rings and Harry Potter for the same reasons need to be remade as a television/streaming series. The smaller and lesser characters of both worlds are so intriguing and at times so important to the literary forms of these two stories, only a tv series can spend the amount of time required to show it all.
I prefer not. There is nobody left with the ethical and moral integrity of Peter Jackson.
He was not a 'distant' cousin. They were first AND second cousins, once removed either way.
I love all the art work you use during the videos they are beautiful and help tell the story where do you get them?
I meld the characters in my mind-I enjoyed both!
I think they did well in the movie with him besides the fact that they CERTAINLY put an awful kind of uselessness feeling to him while in the company. They didn’t do him great justice, but Elijah is a great portrayal at the same time. It’s a hard topic to perfectly nail down 🤣
Frodo was done wrong in the movies, imo. They made him too young, too naive and too gullible. And many of his moments of bravery were either removed (the barrow wights, and stabbing the WK's foot on Weatherop) or given to other characters (Arwen against the nine riders at the Ford of Bruinen). They also left out what being stabbed by the Nazgul's blade and stung by Shelob was doing to him physically, and by taking out the Scouring, we don't see the after effects of any of this, much less of losing the Ring. It's no wonder many movie goers don't care for him much and don't get his heroism. When I find a reactor who manages to understand him despite all that, I encourage them to read the books.
Very well put my friend!
I wish I could like this more than once. I like Elijah Wood's portrayal but I do think Peter Jackson did Frodo a major disservice by making him a load to be carried around. He gets to solve the riddle of the doors to Moria, but that's about the only useful thing he gets to do other than carry the Ring.
@@TLC62 And he did that (the riddle) after PJ and Co decided Frodo should get the decision of going through Moria or not, while freezing his ass off on Caradras. 🤦🏻♀️
I first read LOTR in 1984. Peter Jackson made Frodo a wimp. I never connected with character in the movies. I was just indifferent. The way PJ presented Frodo almost showed how any hobbit could have taken the ring. Frodo wasn't special in the movie. And arguably the least likeable. The books on the other hand , compelled me to root for Frodo. I loved his character in the books. That being said, PJ'S movies are epic. PJ did an awesome adaptation. But he just isn't the Professor, and I never expected him to be.
My favorite moment of frodo is when Gandalf was late !
Love it too 😂
What moment? Gandalf is never late! 😁
My favorite Hobbit!!!
Love the content guys! I thought I didn't need this info but even just the genealogy at the start was new XD
But I miss the Tabletop Alliance! I know it's a time and thus money sink... But it was so good!
Thank you! And we really hope to get back to it again, but until the work load calms down we just can't :(
@@TheBrokenSword I can wait. My best to you guys!
“For Frodo!”
I am baffled that Frodo is described as revisiting Lorien before returning to Rivendell. How could such an error be made? The book makes it clear that Galadriel and Celeborn turned east to return to Lorien while Frodo continued north to Rivendell. Sam even says, "I wish I was going to Lorien."
And Gandalf did not leave the hobbits at the Buckland Gate because after he left them in the daylight they rode on until they reached the gate in the dark.
I see the Lord of the Rings films the same way I see David Lynch’s Dune, it’s not Tolkien’s version of the story, rather Peter Jackson’s (albeit done a fair bit more faithfully than Lynch did with Dune). I love both the books and the movies (of both franchises), but if you want the true story, Tolkien’s work will always be the definitive version.
Educate yourself on the history before you slander a master, Lynch or Herbert.
It would be great to have some more detail how twice Bag End was bought back by first Bilbo than second Frodo given that it seemed to be such a highly sought after property.
Shame that Frodo didnt leave a baggins heir to inherit it..in the films he says "there was Always a baggins lived at bag end and there Always Will be" or something along those Lines ..has a lot more meaning thinking that no more after him.
I certainly hold the view that Frodo was done a disservice in the movies, though I personally like him in both. It’s much harder to like him watching the movies, so I don’t fully blame those who don’t. At the same time, those who bag on Frodo are somehow oblivious to the fact that he’s not in his right mind and stumbling around because of the Ring and not because of him.
Yes, Elijah Wood was too young for the role. Had his character been handled differently, that could have been inconsequential. It seems that the goal of the movies was to emphasize Frodo’s victimhood. Whether he is falling, being mind-controlled by some Ring trance, or wounded, he just comes off as weak. They take away key moments of his bravery and inner strength, like when he rode the horse and rode to the Fords, despite being in severe pain and being chased by terrifying riders. They also took away a key element of his relationship with Gollum, which is the way that Frodo used the Ring (or threatened to use it) to keep Gollum in line. It makes Frodo look wiser (since he was aware of Gollum’s wickedness) as well as making his slow corruption more interesting. Frodo’s obsession with the Ring is less about its actual beauty and more about the power he perceives that it gives him and the happiness it adds to his life. Finally, they really took away from his relationship with Sam. In the book, it’s easier to perceive that they’re friends. They have more friendly conversations, Frodo looks after Sam, and they are more open with their physical affection. Though Frodo screams at Sam twice because of his addiction to the Ring, he never trusts Gollum over Sam. Paranoia about losing the Ring is plausible, but it’s much more likely that Frodo would be paranoid about Gollum taking it than his dear Sam.
Book Frodo has a deep goodness, inner strength, wisdom, kindness, and indomitable spirit that just isn’t really shown in the movie. In the movie, he feels more innocent than good, easily defeated (physically and emotionally), and almost personality-less. It’s certainly true that Frodo loses his personality and his mind the further along they go, but they started that way too early in the movie. As early as _The Fellowship of the Ring_, Frodo isn’t eating or sleeping in the movie. They talk about how strong he is, but since we as the audience don’t get examples, we don’t understand how he could be strong. It’s difficult to portray how tortured he was inwardly, so I try to be understanding. But I don’t see why they had to strip him so much to show how tormented he was. The book lets Frodo be a hero for a good portion of the story, only stripping away his physical ability when they enter Mordor. It is there that his body and soul are almost entirely eradicated, when he’s unrecognizable and too attached to the Ring to let it go.
Frodo is my favorite character in LOTR, and I think he’s totally underrated. His hero’s journey is the most unique, the most tragic, and therefore the most poignant. There’s something to be said for the heroes who are dashing, gallant, or successful. But there’s more to be said for those who are brave and do all that is within their strength and resources to do, no matter how broken it leaves them. That is Frodo, a hero who took the Ring out of love and humility and lost himself because of it. There is less perceived greatness for him, but that is the fault of those who do not understand just how much he gave and how hard he tried. People who can get past their assumptions of the character will be able to see Frodo for who he is. It’s a pity the movies made that harder to do.
Well said. Frodo broke my heart when reading the books. I was devastated along with him. I don’t feel the fault in the movies lies with EW’s portrayal, but with the way he was written. Despite his youth, I think EW could have done a god job with the character if he had been well written.
It would not have mattered how big Gondor's army was or how effective, the assault would have failed if the Ring had not been destroyed. If Frodo had not got the Ring to the Cracks of Doom, and been merciful enough to take Gollum along, the West would have fallen once Sauron got the Ring back. Frodo was the true hero of the book and should be recognised as such in the films but then he was never recognised as a hero in Hobbiton. Only those who had travelled with him and seen what he had endured really knew what he was. Sound familiar?x
Frodo was a wonderful character who took on a lot. Ultimately, however, his character failed him, as happens all too often to all of us.
Still, Frodo was a true hero, but he could not have made it without Samwise the Steadfast, who stayed true to his character -- unswervingly loyal, humble, and full of love. In my mind, Sam was the greatest hero of them all.
Agreed Ted
Sam had a flaw too, though-he was impatient with Gollum, which cemented Gollum’s plan to betray them to Shelob. He also would have killed Gollum, and Frodo may have kept the ring long enough for Sauron to regain it.
SkySpiral8 you are right, of course, although Samwise's loyalty to and love for Frodo drove both his mistrust of and impatience with Gollum. He wasn't flawless, but, again, he was true to himself and guided by love and loyalty, not to mention humility.
Solid for a birthday video drop thanks
There isn't no call to go talking about Gollums and Smeagols. Boats are quite tricky enough for those that sit still without looking further for the cause of trouble.
Enjoyed that, lads - well done!
Thank you so much!
Is all of this in the book trilogy?!! How could I have forgotten so much?!!
Fatty was not with the others, he was with Merry at Crickhollow.
I would hope that Gloin would visit with Bilbo while he was at Rivendell for the Council of Elrond
I imagine he would have for sure :)
Do a video on what happened to Thrain, Thorin's father after he disappeared and why did he disappear 🤔
Nice work dude thanks
What-if video idea for you to do:
What if Gandalf never fell at the Bridge of Khazad-dum and continued with the fellowship to Lothlorien and on forward?
I highly recomand the Video "Psychology of a Hero - Frodo Baggins" by the Channel
Movie Therapy
I love Frodo's character: that's why I didn't like Jackson's portrayal of Frodo.
Any chance you could do one of those books versus movie videos for the meeting in which the Fellowship emerged from? For example, in the movie there's a bunch of men and Dwarves there but we never see them again after that meeting. Who were those people? Just filler for the movie or actual book characters?
FRODO LIVES!
Both Sauron and frodo lose fingers to the ring. Didnt really think about that till now.
Can you do something about the Gondor Civil War (Kin strife)? That would be really amazing...
It is on my list! :D
@@TheBrokenSword Awesome! I love the history of Gondor!
It's here!
I would say the Gollum killing Frodo’s parents is possible if you consider that after he murdered them Sméagol came out and stopped him from continuing. It could possibly be the first time Sméagol did appear since the ring was taking. It has been 33 years and he seems to be able to slip into Sméagol pretty easily when he’s with Frodo later as he doesn’t kill him even.
POV you hit 20.
I'm old gandalf I may not look it but I'm feeling it
In my mind, I hear JRR Tolkien ~ soothing his heroic Hobbit:
"You alone know what you carried, on Mission and in Burden. You, and no one else brought the One Ring to the very edge of the Fires of Mount Doom, with the one being whose evil cunning couldn't withstand exuberant glee. You needed Gollum, my friend ~ and soon you will rest."
cool vid James loved it mate no I think they depicted him pretty well in my opinion
Thank you!
27:07 *angry Boromir noises*
OnE dOeS nOt SiMpLy WaLk InTo MoRdOr
Frodo lives!
That Gollum theory is really dumb
Perhaps! I don’t agree with it, but some people like to hear the whacky theories anyway :)
@@TheBrokenSword I appreciate the videos and all the work (I imagine) you put into them. Not trying to hate!
Indeed. Gollum had not made it to the shire. Gandalf said as much. Debunked almost from the beginning.
Yes Good job 👍 my friend
Thank you 😁
The only thing in the movies I didn’t like about Frodo, was the added bit of drama with Sam, sending him away like that. But they did a remarkable showing the rings growing power over Frodo and his weakening will. I also think maybe the Scouring of the Shire (aside from just being my favorite chapter) would have helped to show Frodo’s growth and his wisdom.
The movies did tend t weaken Frodo as a character. In the books Frodo was far more badass.
There's something wrong with the sound. It goes from very loud to very quiet.
Full story of farimir
Definitely a good one for the future!
And Eomer with a nod to Theodred. Such heroes, but very little of that in the movies.
It was better than what Amazon did with their showing of the lord of the rings show
Had no problem woth frodo as you could tell the ring was having more effect on his mental and physical health more so it was supposed to make him abit unlikeable IMO
Listened till 22:33 then had to stop cuz that’s where I’m at in the book lol
Very jealous of you experiencing it!!
@@TheBrokenSword hehe it’s so beautiful :)
So Frodo was actually a middle-aged man in the human sense during the War of the Rings. Interesting.
It is definitely something that not all people realize :)
Well he was an adult
Nice i like yours videos
Thank you! And glad you like them!
The trilogy is an amazing movie worthy of being watched multiple times when looked at independently. However when compared to the books, it’s complete utter garbage. So many things left out, key people changed, and minor details that don’t matter weren’t followed. The few saving graces found in both trilogies are Bilbo Baggins and Frodo Baggins characters/actors did a wonderful job with their portrayals.
They did a disservice to Sam and weddings
Um.....no on Smeagol/Gollum.
Frodo had a very unusual upbringing, visits by wandering Dwarves and Wizards, tales of wonder....
I have one more request for you guys, pls revive your Star wars releted channel
We would like to one day when time allows :)
@@TheBrokenSword yeah, I'm looking forward to it. Good luck with that
Great person of Lord of the rings
Honestly all of the hobbits in LOTR were heroes in my mind being as though they all played a part in it that was totally out of character for the common hobbit. Of course Frodo had the biggest burden to carry but he would not have made it through it all without Sam. So Sam gets my vote for the biggest hero.
Having never read the books when I first seen lotr in the cinema when I was 11/12. Frodo definitely seemed a weak and boring main character to me, Aragorn was the hero of the movies imo. It never quite made sense why Frodo would be in charge of the ring ahead of any other hobbit or was so important other than he had a will to keep going (most of the time)
wait, Drogo Baggins?
Frodo Baggins? He's cool, but have you ever heard of Yolo Swaggins?
😂😂
The movie Frodo suffers from the poor acting skills of Elijah Wood who seemed to have only one emotional facial expression; that of constipated pain. Along with Liv Tyler who also is a one-dimensional actress, the complexities of these two Tolkien characters is sadly underrepresented in the movies.
He tried to keep the ring at the end in the movies! We have Gollum to thank for unintentionally destroying The Ring
That Gollum theory sucks.
Video 92
Correction: Samwise Gamgee was the Mayor of the Shire after Whitfoot. Frodo was Sam's deputy Mayor
Nope. Frodo served as the mayor for the rest of the remaining term. Sam then became the mayor, and served for seven terms.
@@circedeluneMy mistake. Sam became mayor after the retirement of Will Whitfoot. While Whitfoot was recovering from imprisonment by Saruman, Frodo served as Deputy Mayor for several months, and served a final seven year term, before being succeeded by Sam Gamgee, who served for seven consecutive seven-year terms
I don't really care for book frodo either. He comes off as elitist.
Tolkien wasn't a free mason or nothing. Lol
Or a Jesuit
Or part of the society of Jesus Christ
I think Sam was the greatest hobbit, was way stronger than frodo.
Frodo was burdened with the ring which weighed immensely on him physically, mentally, and emotionally. I love Sam. And believe him to be a hero. No doubt Frodo would not have succeeded without him. Sam however great and strong he was only held the ring for the briefest of time so did not experience the horrible toll it took on Frodo. Yes, Sam did physically carry Frodo for a time but, the book makes it clear that the ring was heavy only to Frodo and when Sam carried Frodo he was burdened only by Frodo’s actual emancipated weight. Yes, Sam as wonderful, a hero and great among all the peoples but, don’t let that diminish Frodo’s heroism and strength.
Frodo was very strong within..thats why he had to take the ring..and why many dont get his character because they misunderstand his strengths.
Bilbo > Frodo
I love frodo. But to be honest Samwise Gamgy was the real hero. He pushed Frodo beyond his limits.