I sympathize with your position, but I would like to have seen how John Huston would have done, if he were alive for the role. He was masterful in the Rankin & Bass cartoon adaptation.
I loved Sean Connery, but I can't think of almost any other actors as fully qualified and naturally Gandalf-ish as Sir Ian. Ser Patrick Stewart would have been able to pull it off, and I also thought the actor who played Ser Barristan Selmy would've been a good possibility. The Actor playing "The Stranger" in RoP, killed it at capturing some of Sir Ian's mannerisms". I thought his pained looks, joyful smiles, tone of voice, especially in Quenya really remind me of Ian Mckellen.
I love how Gandalf the Grey knew how to have a good time while pondering all the elusive and important secrets of Middle Earth. Then when he becomes Gandalf the White, he knew pondering was useless and it was time to act in a very decisive manner. I still love the aloofness of him when we first meet him compared to the end of the story.
Gandalf the Grey, only because he seemed more approachable, more like a kindly uncle or grandfather, rather than Gandalf the White who seemed more kingly and majestic.
My sentiment exactly. I feel it would be a good time to sit and have an idle chat with Gandalf the Grey, whereas dining with Gandalf the White would be more of a formal occasion.
Feel like watching the movie again! Still remember the first time I saw him go against the Balrog on the big screen had me on the edge of my seat! A year later I saw the EPIC conclusion of that battle. Yep, going to watch it again!
Difficult to choose grey or white! I like Gandalf because of this character arc and transformation. But if i were made to choose I would go Grey simply because this is the amicable and quirky underdog we first meet in the main stories, whose magic is tantalizingly sparing and leaves most to the imagination and wonder.
I just want to take a moment to say how much I appreciate your understanding of clean, beautiful typography and design aesthetics in general. As a Tolkien guy, and a design guy, your videos are visual champagne. Thank you thank you thank you!
Gandalf the Gray is my preferred version, he was able to inspire and give hope to all he confronted. He'll give you a nudge in the right direction and ignite the courage in your heart to do the right thing. Gandalf the white, in my opinion, did the same but to a lesser degree because he had the power which he lacked in the gray version to take actions into his own hands.
I like what you said about Gandalf, my only problem with him was he kept a lot of information from the fellowship which helped caused his demise. Like he knew what was in the mines in the first movie but didn’t say anything about it. In the hobbit the first movie, Gandalf knew about the orc Thorin thought was dead and didn’t say anything. I don’t know why he did that but if you have an answer I would love to hear it because I’ve always been curious about that.
Perhaps one of the reasons an empowered Gandalf doesn't engage directly with Sauron, is that perhaps the people had to earn and learn their freedoms. If given to them, they may not guard it so carefully themselves un the future.
Gandalf the grey is my personal favorite. For he showed that it is truly with kindness, love and simple things that can keep the dark at bay. He showed us that no matter our power how we use it is what defines us as beings. With his representation of the kind and wise watcher over the folk of Middle Earth it proves that the greatest power of all is to be a light in the darkness rather than the water dousing the flickering candle that is the mortal life. Also he showed that even if one is of immense power and strength they do not necessarily need to be the one in charge but rather the one to guide those who are able to fulfil that role. He is the kind and wise guardian of the warm flames and he would seem to rather bring a smile to a broken soul than flaunt power he is not truly owning. I love how he parables with the sun, while it is truly a powerful thing it can also nurture those within its warmth and bring life back to those withered by the darkness.
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?
Found this channel by accident but I also just finished Rings of Power. This is unbelievably well made and I shall be binging the rest of your content! Thank you!!
Gandalf the Grey, from just a comparison, he was much more focused on the smaller parts of life. The fall of Gandalf the Grey was a metaphor for what happens to some soldiers going through a tense battle and losing themselves. Much like PTS, Gandalf the White is less gentle with the world around him and not as playful as he had been. Gandalf the Grey was a warmer presence.
don't forget the part from the hobbit with the trolls around the campfire. Gandalf suddenly appears out of the shadows just perfectly as the sun rose (which seemed to take the trolls by surprise, they thought it was rising much too early), and thusly turned the trolls to stone, saving Bilbo and the dwarves.
Dagor Dagoroth please! As always fantastic job. You guys have fantastic lore perspectives and knowledge and gave an extremely fair and honest review on the Rings of Power series. Thank you for all your hard work, it is thoroughly enjoyed and appreciated!
I don't recall Gandalf using magic as a direct weapon - perhaps on Weathertop but otherwise it's fire or light which strike fear into his foes rather than directly injuring them. At the same time, the light or fire inspires his friends and allies. Perhaps the fire he used in the Hobbit to drive off the Wargs was a direct attack, but still it was to drive them away, not kill them. So Gandalf's main role was to be an inspiration (which was supposed to be the role of the Istari) more than an attacker. Even with the Balrog he broke the bridge rather than attacking the Balrog with magic, then he used the sword rather than magic against the foe.
His impeccable timing? Well he is never early nor late. I recall he was initially reluctant to go to middle earth, still his desire to return and fulfill his charge, paired with his reluctance to use power, he seemed more like a longer leash and more brevity to flex when he needed
As Gandalf the White, he possessed greater charisma and a limited degree of clairvoyance, although he was unable to peer into the land of Mordor to see the progress of Frodo and Sam. His power and authority had increased so that he could break Saruman's staff with a spoken command, showing his authority to throw the treacherous wizard out of the order. He also was successful in preventing Sauron's Eye from locating Frodo.
@@lufka3267 end of the fellowship. Frodo is on the seat of seeing and has the ring on and he sees Sauron and Sauron senses him and starts to look for him. Gandalf prevents it and tells frodo to remove the ring from a great distance.
His 'power' being almost non existent and only portrayed by vague debatable theories is what ultimately ruins the character for me (at least the part of him being a wizard). Don't get me wrong Ian played the character really well in the movies and the fact that he is shrouded in mystery does make him interesting for a lot of people. But I can't be the only one who is just so tired of wizards and magic in general being downplayed every time (for the good guys at least). The reason that is given for Gandalf lack of showing his power is arguably a bit better than the "I''m out of mana" trope but it is still such an annoying cop-out imo.
@@blaat44 Why shouldn't magic be subtle? Why should it be hurling fireballs and lightning bolts about, when it can instead be a subtle, quiet thing that leaves the viewer mystified as to whether it really was some kind of supernatural power.
While I love the original trilogy in its entirely, there is one scene in the extended version that I do not like at all and I think you all know which I'm talking about--the Witch-King would have never been able to break Gandalf's staff and quite honestly Gandalf in his full power would have annihilated the Witch-King, so that scene went against all that we know about the both of them
I agree with you 100%. If Gandalf the Grey could bring down a Balrog, then Gandalf the White would absolutely destroy the Witch King. I do sometimes wish that Tolkien had written of a straight fight between Gandalf the White and say Khamul at the Black Gate. Seeing a Nazgul being dismembered by Gandalf would have raised a cheer from me. It would probably have left Sauron even more assailed by doubt. With the Witch King and Khamul gone, his remaining Nazgul would be left feeling vulnerable. It would have raised the spirits of the army of Gondor and weakened the resolve of Sauron's.
Personally, I like Gandalf the gray. I love the wise but snippy and sarcastic old man with the hint of worry and fear but resolute, strong and determined in the face of it. cunning and loyal but enjoys a good laugh from time to time. Great character. Maybe the greatest character? He’s very fatherly.
When the Istari were sent to Middle-earth, it wasn't known Sauron was still around. The Valar just knew a Shadow was growing yet again in Middle-earth and the Istari were sent as Agents of the Valar to contest this Shadow but not to command or rule the Free Peoples. It was only fully know that Sauron, Enemy of Old, was the Shadow that had been growing when Gandalf ventured into Dol-Guldur a second time in 2850 of the Third Age. Sauron openly declared himself in Third Age 2951. Gandalf the White was not akin in Power to Sauron even with Sauron without the One Ring. Only with the One Ring could Gandalf be sure of victory against Sauron but as Gandalf & the Three Hunters talked, Gandalf looked East and saw the One Ring was too far away to be an option. "I have spoken words of hope. But only of hope. Hope is not victory. War is upon us and all our friends, a war in which only the use of the Ring could give us surety of victory. It fills me with great sorrow and great fear: for much shall be destroyed and all may be lost. I am Gandalf, Gandalf the White, but Black is mightier still." - Gandalf the White, The Two Towers, LoTR Book 3, Ch 5, The White Rider
There were still limitations on what GtW could accomplish. I immediately recalled the "...Black is mightier still," line from the book while watching this video.
@@jggimi I do believe he was alluding to the entire situation not just between himself and Sauron. Sauron still had the 9 which nobody, save himself, could match. He also had a massive army of orcs, trolls , etc. headed to fight against a beleaguered Gondor while Saruman was trying to take down Rohan. So at that very moment when he met the hunters black was very much mightier still. He knew that he alone without the ring could not assure victory against all that. Now if Elrond, Galadriel and himself decided to wield the three it might have been enough as long as Sauron didn't have the one, but they were kinda busy with their own fights in the north at the time.
Yes please on the Dagor Dagorath! I’ve heard it told that when Morgoth finally escapes from the chain Angainor and is free of the Void, in the final battle it was either Beren, Turin, or Feanor that eventually defeated him (depending on when in building his legendarium and the source). Firstly I doubt it would be Beren ( the Lay of Beren and Luthien is more Tolkien writing he and his love for Edith into the mythology, and I can’t see him being so proud as to make himself the vanquisher of the ultimate corruption in Ea). If it were to be Feanor it would make for a fantastic character’s redemption arc if it weren’t for the fact he wrote Feanor so fiercely proud it would defy any logic. And if it were Turin, it would be befitting for the greatest tragic hero (IMO) of the mythology to have endured the worst of Morgoth to bring about his undoing. But I think the most important question would be why Christopher Tolkien thought his father might have abandoned the idea? How strong is the evidence he had, or simply hadn’t found a way to write it?
There is also a version where Melkor finally repents and instead of a Final Battle, there is the Final Music of the Ainur plus the Elves and Men, and "the themes of Illuvatar are played aright" This is from either the Silmarillion or Unfinished Tales.
Gandalf literally admitted that he's more powerful than anyone, unless brought before Sauron himself. That was in The Two Towers. Right when he met the three hunters. There was never any question that Sauron was more powerful.
When the wizards were sent to middle-earth, they were without much of their native power, and even when Gandalf was sent back he still did not possess all of his native powers though they were increased so that he could assume the duties that Saruman betrayed. Sauron entered middle-earth without these restrictions. The Valar learned from prior experience that great damage was done when direct force was used against Morgoth, Sauron’s master in the First Age, so the Istari were sent to inspire the inhabitants of middle-earth to resist rather than direct confrontation.
I dunno. It always comes with the cop out caveat "if suaron has the ring," which I mean... if Gandalf had the ring he'd be even more powerful... This is like saying I could win a fight with Mike Tyson, if I had a shotgun. Guess what would happen if Mike had the shotgun...
My assumption, at least since reading the Silmarilion, was that Gandalf the white had far less, though still very severe, restrictions on his inherent Maiar abilities. I know many read it as he gets an "upgrade" from Manwë or Varda, even both, and I don't find that a silly or strange way to interpret it at all. The former feels right to me, and it seems like "well why would you augment something hobbled already, just free it to a degree", if that makes sense?
Gandalf the Grey is unaware of his own nature. After fighting the Balrog and subsequently being resurrected, Gandalf the White remembers his own history as a Maia of Nienna. That seems to be the main difference as far as I can tell.
Love this one. Interesting thought at the end when it is stated Gandalf the white could have defeated Sauron. Knowing the art of war, we all gave a part to play, a burden to carry. There is no sandbagging in life.
It's Mithrandir! The White Rider!! Good 1 on 1 for sure..Yeah, a hell in a cell setting would be amazing..Keep up the great work Mellon!! Ecthelion! DAGOR DAGORATH PLEASE SIR!
Dagor Daggorath, please! I love how many things it brings full circle, including Feanor being at last released from Mandos to break open a silmaril to restore light to the Trees.
Thanks for the video, I found it very interesting. I never thought about it before, but the examples you gave of the connections between Gandalf and the sun remained me of how he defeated the trolls that were planning to cook Thorin and company in The Hobbit.
Dagor Dagoroth please. I really enjoy this videos and your commentary. I would suggest that the quote you talk about around 7:40 is that Galdalf is expressing his reluctance to face Sauron because of he was afraid of what would happen if he took the one ring after defeating him. I think the "it" that he's referring to is the ring not the power he was given. He still has a desire to test his will on the ring and use it for good, but is afraid of what that could lead to.
I’m only about eight minutes in, but the explanations as to why Gandalf might not directly face Sauron seem to fail to grasp a fundamental element of Gandolf‘s character, which is that he fears that he himself will become corrupted if he chooses to use force and power instead of inspiring others to fight for the ones that they love. He is tempted by power. He longs to impatiently impose his will, taking what is not his to impose a “good” upon the world, a classic “ends justify the means” shortcut. Note how and why he refuses the One Ring from Frodo. He is reluctant to impose his will on others, because he knows he could become evil himself, like Sauron or Saruman, who were not willfully choosing evil from day one, but who became twisted over time. There’s an element of Catholic theology on sin at play here: “small” acts of evil (venial sins) poison and harden one’s heart until finally we choose to do grave evil with full knowledge and free consent. Once this happens, we fall from grace and become ensnared by evil. Gandalf knows that embracing the road of power will likely harm his character. So he runs from it, refusing leading the White Council, refusing the One Ring, refusing to directly confront Sauron for control of Middle Earth. In the end, as Tolkien shows us, it is the humble who are exalted, and the prideful are brought low, another fundamental Catholic belief.
It's interesting that Gandalf, like Bilbo, Frodo, and Sam, lived a life of restricted power. The theme of "some powers should never be used" seems to echo in Gandalf's character.
I had to repeat the first bit to see what you were saying, turns out you were saying sun.. I was wondering who San was for abit. Thanks for the quality vid!
"Gandalf the grey, and gandalf the white and monty python and the holy grail's black knight, benito musolini, and the blue meanie, cowbay curtis and jambi the genie, robocop, the terminator, captain kirk and darth vader, lo-pan, superman, and every single power ranger, bill S preston and Theodore Logan, spock, the rock, dock ock, and hulk hogan all came out of nowhere lightning fast, and they kicked chuck norris in his cowboy ass it was the bloodiest battle that the world ever saw, with civillians looking on in total awe"
🎶And Gandalf the Grey and Gandalf the White and Monty Python and the Holy Grail's Black Knight... 🎶 My favorite version is Gandalf the Grey. He seems warmer and more personable. However, I think it's probably good that even though Gandalf literally returns from the dead, there is still a sense of loss because the character is not the same.
Grey or White matters little to me. Gandalf is the pinnacle of Tolkien's writings. He's the reason that I fell in love with Middle Earth. I'm fond of most of Tolkien's characters, but Gandalf glues everything together. Without him, so many of the outcomes needed to bring about the downfall of Sauron would not have come to pass. When as a ten year old, I first read of Gandalf's fall to the Balrog (which at first left me quite distraught), I told myself that Gandalf would want me to be brave and continue reading. I did, mainly in the hope that he wasn't actually dead. At that point, Tolkien hadn't written of Gandalf's actual death, so my hope was that at some point, Gandalf would return. Even today, 45 years later, the White Rider chapter is one of my favourites. ❤❤❤❤❤❤
Knowing somewhat of the scope & the full arc that is Gandalf - if I’m putting that correctly? I’d say the Grey & White are not to be separated and are one in the same. As both hold the all important common trait of putting the greater good, and even the good of a single friend ahead of that of his own. As you mentioned the power in both the grey & white is borrowed. But it is this trait that has these powers bestowed upon him. Despite the color, Gandalf always rose the occasion to the best of his ability with what had been given to him at any particular time of need. So my answer is there is just one Gandalf. It’s not his cloaks, focus of purpose, but his love & respect of all living things that makes him what he is :) Just Gandalf.
Gandalf the grey. For me i think that is when he is at his wisest and and could be curious about middle earth. But when he becomes the white he has to be serious to get the job done.
I would assume that the reason why Gandalf didnt flatten Sauron's forces is because, well, thats not really his job. If he did everything for the mortal races, they wouldnt learn anything, would have no achievements and would live in a peace gifted to them. By having them work for it, that achievement is far more impressive. That being said, I do now have an image in my head of Gandalf facing down Sauron and pull a Yamamoto by summoning a flaming sword that literally scorches everything to ashes.
Gandalf was betrayed by Saruman. He imprisoned Gandalf in Orthanc and later led the Fellowship to the Bridge of Khadaz-dum where died in his fight with the Balrog and was later resurrected. Do you think Saruman, in his hubris, thought he could be the next Dark Lord after the Defeat of Sauron?
What I like is how Gandalf moves through in the book that was way more powerful than most all of the others in the book actually went through his own hero quest and grew as needed to help his mission move forward. It just reminds me why I love the Lord of the Rings.
Gandalf the Grey seemed more human than his reincarnation as the White. The Gandalf that went to the shire and created fireworks was not threatening. However, I think that as the White he easily could've frightened the hobbits not intentionally, but because his power was more obvious. I wonder if Iluvatar intentionally sent both Gandalf and Sauruman knowing that Sauruman had the potential to turn dark and also knowing that Gandalf would never turn dark.
I think the reason why Gandalf did not go on to fight Sauron directly is because his original quest was to inspire men to conquer their foe. The Ring Narya probably helped inspire the men to accomplish this.
Gandalf the Grey saw more of him and he made me laugh with his exasperation with Dwarfs. The Hobbit Trilogy are my favourite films and I care not what people say about them. 😁
Shoutout to Sir Ian McKellen. The best wandering wizard
“The Ring’s location was coming closer to the Dark Lord”. Literally just a little north 😂
The legend that is that man!!
Here Here 🥂
I sympathize with your position, but I would like to have seen how John Huston would have done, if he were alive for the role. He was masterful in the Rankin & Bass cartoon adaptation.
I loved Sean Connery, but I can't think of almost any other actors as fully qualified and naturally Gandalf-ish as Sir Ian. Ser Patrick Stewart would have been able to pull it off, and I also thought the actor who played Ser Barristan Selmy would've been a good possibility. The Actor playing "The Stranger" in RoP, killed it at capturing some of Sir Ian's mannerisms". I thought his pained looks, joyful smiles, tone of voice, especially in Quenya really remind me of Ian Mckellen.
I love how Gandalf the Grey knew how to have a good time while pondering all the elusive and important secrets of Middle Earth. Then when he becomes Gandalf the White, he knew pondering was useless and it was time to act in a very decisive manner. I still love the aloofness of him when we first meet him compared to the end of the story.
Gathering information on your enemy is far more powerful when you attack than rushing in blind. Makes sense to me :D
Gandalf the Grey, only because he seemed more approachable, more like a kindly uncle or grandfather, rather than Gandalf the White who seemed more kingly and majestic.
My sentiment exactly. I feel it would be a good time to sit and have an idle chat with Gandalf the Grey, whereas dining with Gandalf the White would be more of a formal occasion.
Dagor Dagoroth please! (throwing in a little personal creativity on how it would unfold would be sick too since it has been an abandoned idea)
Oh yes!! 😁
That would be pretty awesome!
I support this
I second this request. Always enjoy your content.
I've always wondered if Gandalf eventually left his mortal form and became spirit again.
Feel like watching the movie again! Still remember the first time I saw him go against the Balrog on the big screen had me on the edge of my seat! A year later I saw the EPIC conclusion of that battle. Yep, going to watch it again!
Damn got me about to rewatch it now 😂😂
Difficult to choose grey or white! I like Gandalf because of this character arc and transformation. But if i were made to choose I would go Grey simply because this is the amicable and quirky underdog we first meet in the main stories, whose magic is tantalizingly sparing and leaves most to the imagination and wonder.
I just want to take a moment to say how much I appreciate your understanding of clean, beautiful typography and design aesthetics in general. As a Tolkien guy, and a design guy, your videos are visual champagne. Thank you thank you thank you!
"It doesn't matter how many times you kill me, I'll just keep coming back in different colours..."
- Parody Gandalf
LOL!
Gandalf the Gray is my preferred version, he was able to inspire and give hope to all he confronted. He'll give you a nudge in the right direction and ignite the courage in your heart to do the right thing. Gandalf the white, in my opinion, did the same but to a lesser degree because he had the power which he lacked in the gray version to take actions into his own hands.
I like what you said about Gandalf, my only problem with him was he kept a lot of information from the fellowship which helped caused his demise. Like he knew what was in the mines in the first movie but didn’t say anything about it. In the hobbit the first movie, Gandalf knew about the orc Thorin thought was dead and didn’t say anything. I don’t know why he did that but if you have an answer I would love to hear it because I’ve always been curious about that.
@@quintbakerjr2786 Forget the movies. They are Jackson's stories, not Tolkien's.
@@MrKbonez
Oh ok so the movies are written in a different way, ok thank you for the info. I was always curious about that.
*grey
It’s gray or grey depending on USA vs British English
Perhaps one of the reasons an empowered Gandalf doesn't engage directly with Sauron, is that perhaps the people had to earn and learn their freedoms. If given to them, they may not guard it so carefully themselves un the future.
Prophetic words to the future
Gandalf the grey is my personal favorite. For he showed that it is truly with kindness, love and simple things that can keep the dark at bay. He showed us that no matter our power how we use it is what defines us as beings. With his representation of the kind and wise watcher over the folk of Middle Earth it proves that the greatest power of all is to be a light in the darkness rather than the water dousing the flickering candle that is the mortal life. Also he showed that even if one is of immense power and strength they do not necessarily need to be the one in charge but rather the one to guide those who are able to fulfil that role. He is the kind and wise guardian of the warm flames and he would seem to rather bring a smile to a broken soul than flaunt power he is not truly owning. I love how he parables with the sun, while it is truly a powerful thing it can also nurture those within its warmth and bring life back to those withered by the darkness.
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?
Found this channel by accident but I also just finished Rings of Power. This is unbelievably well made and I shall be binging the rest of your content! Thank you!!
Hope you enjoy! :)
I love Gandalf's speech to the Balrog. A nice way of declaring his faith in Eru
Gandalf the Grey, from just a comparison, he was much more focused on the smaller parts of life. The fall of Gandalf the Grey was a metaphor for what happens to some soldiers going through a tense battle and losing themselves. Much like PTS, Gandalf the White is less gentle with the world around him and not as playful as he had been. Gandalf the Grey was a warmer presence.
don't forget the part from the hobbit with the trolls around the campfire. Gandalf suddenly appears out of the shadows just perfectly as the sun rose (which seemed to take the trolls by surprise, they thought it was rising much too early), and thusly turned the trolls to stone, saving Bilbo and the dwarves.
Dagor Dagoroth please! As always fantastic job. You guys have fantastic lore perspectives and knowledge and gave an extremely fair and honest review on the Rings of Power series.
Thank you for all your hard work, it is thoroughly enjoyed and appreciated!
I don't recall Gandalf using magic as a direct weapon - perhaps on Weathertop but otherwise it's fire or light which strike fear into his foes rather than directly injuring them. At the same time, the light or fire inspires his friends and allies. Perhaps the fire he used in the Hobbit to drive off the Wargs was a direct attack, but still it was to drive them away, not kill them. So Gandalf's main role was to be an inspiration (which was supposed to be the role of the Istari) more than an attacker. Even with the Balrog he broke the bridge rather than attacking the Balrog with magic, then he used the sword rather than magic against the foe.
His impeccable timing? Well he is never early nor late. I recall he was initially reluctant to go to middle earth, still his desire to return and fulfill his charge, paired with his reluctance to use power, he seemed more like a longer leash and more brevity to flex when he needed
Dagor Dagorath please !! I love the way you tell the story like a real storyteller ❤
Noone can tell that story. It has not yet happened lol
Gandalf was very aware of how the use of power could corrupt. Thus he used his powers sparingly, only when absolutely necessary.
That was more about how the valar didnt want them to use their powers
As Gandalf the White, he possessed greater charisma and a limited degree of clairvoyance, although he was unable to peer into the land of Mordor to see the progress of Frodo and Sam. His power and authority had increased so that he could break Saruman's staff with a spoken command, showing his authority to throw the treacherous wizard out of the order. He also was successful in preventing Sauron's Eye from locating Frodo.
How did he prevent Sauron's eye from frodo? I didiny ready any books unfortunately
@@lufka3267 end of the fellowship. Frodo is on the seat of seeing and has the ring on and he sees Sauron and Sauron senses him and starts to look for him. Gandalf prevents it and tells frodo to remove the ring from a great distance.
@@kaiserwilli thank you!
His 'power' being almost non existent and only portrayed by vague debatable theories is what ultimately ruins the character for me (at least the part of him being a wizard). Don't get me wrong Ian played the character really well in the movies and the fact that he is shrouded in mystery does make him interesting for a lot of people. But I can't be the only one who is just so tired of wizards and magic in general being downplayed every time (for the good guys at least). The reason that is given for Gandalf lack of showing his power is arguably a bit better than the "I''m out of mana" trope but it is still such an annoying cop-out imo.
@@blaat44 Why shouldn't magic be subtle? Why should it be hurling fireballs and lightning bolts about, when it can instead be a subtle, quiet thing that leaves the viewer mystified as to whether it really was some kind of supernatural power.
While I love the original trilogy in its entirely, there is one scene in the extended version that I do not like at all and I think you all know which I'm talking about--the Witch-King would have never been able to break Gandalf's staff and quite honestly Gandalf in his full power would have annihilated the Witch-King, so that scene went against all that we know about the both of them
I agree with you 100%. If Gandalf the Grey could bring down a Balrog, then Gandalf the White would absolutely destroy the Witch King. I do sometimes wish that Tolkien had written of a straight fight between Gandalf the White and say Khamul at the Black Gate. Seeing a Nazgul being dismembered by Gandalf would have raised a cheer from me. It would probably have left Sauron even more assailed by doubt. With the Witch King and Khamul gone, his remaining Nazgul would be left feeling vulnerable. It would have raised the spirits of the army of Gondor and weakened the resolve of Sauron's.
Personally, I like Gandalf the gray. I love the wise but snippy and sarcastic old man with the hint of worry and fear but resolute, strong and determined in the face of it. cunning and loyal but enjoys a good laugh from time to time. Great character. Maybe the greatest character? He’s very fatherly.
The best documentary of any character in LoTR or most of any other character.
🙌 Amazing and thank you!
Thank you so much for this video. What a character Galdalf is, I feel so inspired
Dagor Dagoroth please!
When the Istari were sent to Middle-earth, it wasn't known Sauron was still around. The Valar just knew a Shadow was growing yet again in Middle-earth and the Istari were sent as Agents of the Valar to contest this Shadow but not to command or rule the Free Peoples. It was only fully know that Sauron, Enemy of Old, was the Shadow that had been growing when Gandalf ventured into Dol-Guldur a second time in 2850 of the Third Age. Sauron openly declared himself in Third Age 2951.
Gandalf the White was not akin in Power to Sauron even with Sauron without the One Ring. Only with the One Ring could Gandalf be sure of victory against Sauron but as Gandalf & the Three Hunters talked, Gandalf looked East and saw the One Ring was too far away to be an option.
"I have spoken words of hope. But only of hope. Hope is not victory. War is upon us and all our friends, a war in which only the use of the Ring could give us surety of victory. It fills me with great sorrow and great fear: for much shall be destroyed and all may be lost. I am Gandalf, Gandalf the White, but Black is mightier still." - Gandalf the White, The Two Towers, LoTR Book 3, Ch 5, The White Rider
There were still limitations on what GtW could accomplish. I immediately recalled the "...Black is mightier still," line from the book while watching this video.
@@jggimi I do believe he was alluding to the entire situation not just between himself and Sauron. Sauron still had the 9 which nobody, save himself, could match. He also had a massive army of orcs, trolls , etc. headed to fight against a beleaguered Gondor while Saruman was trying to take down Rohan. So at that very moment when he met the hunters black was very much mightier still. He knew that he alone without the ring could not assure victory against all that. Now if Elrond, Galadriel and himself decided to wield the three it might have been enough as long as Sauron didn't have the one, but they were kinda busy with their own fights in the north at the time.
@@JD-kl8hz Thank you for the explanation!
Yes please on the Dagor Dagorath!
I’ve heard it told that when Morgoth finally escapes from the chain Angainor and is free of the Void, in the final battle it was either Beren, Turin, or Feanor that eventually defeated him (depending on when in building his legendarium and the source).
Firstly I doubt it would be Beren ( the Lay of Beren and Luthien is more Tolkien writing he and his love for Edith into the mythology, and I can’t see him being so proud as to make himself the vanquisher of the ultimate corruption in Ea).
If it were to be Feanor it would make for a fantastic character’s redemption arc if it weren’t for the fact he wrote Feanor so fiercely proud it would defy any logic.
And if it were Turin, it would be befitting for the greatest tragic hero (IMO) of the mythology to have endured the worst of Morgoth to bring about his undoing.
But I think the most important question would be why Christopher Tolkien thought his father might have abandoned the idea?
How strong is the evidence he had, or simply hadn’t found a way to write it?
There is also a version where Melkor finally repents and instead of a Final Battle, there is the Final Music of the Ainur plus the Elves and Men, and "the themes of Illuvatar are played aright"
This is from either the Silmarillion or Unfinished Tales.
This was really well done, James!
Fantastic video! Keep up the good work 👍
very nice,
nice to get all the differents and buffs all in one video
Gandalf literally admitted that he's more powerful than anyone, unless brought before Sauron himself. That was in The Two Towers. Right when he met the three hunters. There was never any question that Sauron was more powerful.
When the wizards were sent to middle-earth, they were without much of their native power, and even when Gandalf was sent back he still did not possess all of his native powers though they were increased so that he could assume the duties that Saruman betrayed. Sauron entered middle-earth without these restrictions. The Valar learned from prior experience that great damage was done when direct force was used against Morgoth, Sauron’s master in the First Age, so the Istari were sent to inspire the inhabitants of middle-earth to resist rather than direct confrontation.
I dunno. It always comes with the cop out caveat "if suaron has the ring," which I mean... if Gandalf had the ring he'd be even more powerful...
This is like saying I could win a fight with Mike Tyson, if I had a shotgun.
Guess what would happen if Mike had the shotgun...
My assumption, at least since reading the Silmarilion, was that Gandalf the white had far less, though still very severe, restrictions on his inherent Maiar abilities. I know many read it as he gets an "upgrade" from Manwë or Varda, even both, and I don't find that a silly or strange way to interpret it at all. The former feels right to me, and it seems like "well why would you augment something hobbled already, just free it to a degree", if that makes sense?
Gandalf the Grey is unaware of his own nature. After fighting the Balrog and subsequently being resurrected, Gandalf the White remembers his own history as a Maia of Nienna. That seems to be the main difference as far as I can tell.
Is that stated, or are you inferring it?
@@stevenschnepp576 When he meets Aragorn, Gimli, and Legolas in Fangorn he states that he remembers much that he had forgotten. It kind of implies it.
@@stevenschnepp576 It is implied in Gandalf's statements throughout the books.
Love this one. Interesting thought at the end when it is stated Gandalf the white could have defeated Sauron.
Knowing the art of war, we all gave a part to play, a burden to carry. There is no sandbagging in life.
It's Mithrandir! The White Rider!! Good 1 on 1 for sure..Yeah, a hell in a cell setting would be amazing..Keep up the great work Mellon!!
Ecthelion!
DAGOR DAGORATH PLEASE SIR!
Dagor Daggorath, please! I love how many things it brings full circle, including Feanor being at last released from Mandos to break open a silmaril to restore light to the Trees.
God I really need to know what you guys use as background music. It fits perfectly with y'alls calm voices
Thanks for the video, I found it very interesting. I never thought about it before, but the examples you gave of the connections between Gandalf and the sun remained me of how he defeated the trolls that were planning to cook Thorin and company in The Hobbit.
Both are amazing. We all love Gandalf in any form:)
Amazing video btw and channel..... good luck in future content
9:28 Erkenrand, I swear I thought you made a Skyrim reference 😂 (Irkngthrand)
Dagor Dagoroth please.
I really enjoy this videos and your commentary. I would suggest that the quote you talk about around 7:40 is that Galdalf is expressing his reluctance to face Sauron because of he was afraid of what would happen if he took the one ring after defeating him. I think the "it" that he's referring to is the ring not the power he was given. He still has a desire to test his will on the ring and use it for good, but is afraid of what that could lead to.
I have watch these movie multiple times and always find something new little things! I finally noticed he's carries his pipe on his staff!
Dagor Dagoroth please! Also just how funny could Frodo and Bilbo's reactions be to Gandalf suddenly turning into Olorin.
Man, excellent video. Thank you 🧡🤠
I’m only about eight minutes in, but the explanations as to why Gandalf might not directly face Sauron seem to fail to grasp a fundamental element of Gandolf‘s character, which is that he fears that he himself will become corrupted if he chooses to use force and power instead of inspiring others to fight for the ones that they love. He is tempted by power. He longs to impatiently impose his will, taking what is not his to impose a “good” upon the world, a classic “ends justify the means” shortcut. Note how and why he refuses the One Ring from Frodo.
He is reluctant to impose his will on others, because he knows he could become evil himself, like Sauron or Saruman, who were not willfully choosing evil from day one, but who became twisted over time.
There’s an element of Catholic theology on sin at play here: “small” acts of evil (venial sins) poison and harden one’s heart until finally we choose to do grave evil with full knowledge and free consent. Once this happens, we fall from grace and become ensnared by evil. Gandalf knows that embracing the road of power will likely harm his character. So he runs from it, refusing leading the White Council, refusing the One Ring, refusing to directly confront Sauron for control of Middle Earth.
In the end, as Tolkien shows us, it is the humble who are exalted, and the prideful are brought low, another fundamental Catholic belief.
It's interesting that Gandalf, like Bilbo, Frodo, and Sam, lived a life of restricted power. The theme of "some powers should never be used" seems to echo in Gandalf's character.
4:00 Oh I love that artwork! Gandalf v Balrog as seen by Gollum!
I love both Gandalf equally as he always held a purpose and served it diligently
Can u do a video on, if the balrog of Moria ceased the One Ring. That would be very very interesting 🙏
Dagor Dagorath Please!! Always love listening while at work!
I had to repeat the first bit to see what you were saying, turns out you were saying sun.. I was wondering who San was for abit. Thanks for the quality vid!
"Gandalf the grey, and gandalf the white and monty python and the holy grail's black knight, benito musolini, and the blue meanie, cowbay curtis and jambi the genie,
robocop, the terminator, captain kirk and darth vader, lo-pan, superman, and every single power ranger, bill S preston and Theodore Logan, spock, the rock, dock ock, and hulk hogan all came out of nowhere lightning fast, and they kicked chuck norris in his cowboy ass
it was the bloodiest battle that the world ever saw, with civillians looking on in total awe"
🎶And Gandalf the Grey and Gandalf the White and Monty Python and the Holy Grail's Black Knight... 🎶
My favorite version is Gandalf the Grey. He seems warmer and more personable. However, I think it's probably good that even though Gandalf literally returns from the dead, there is still a sense of loss because the character is not the same.
Dagor Dagorath please!
Amazingly done more !
Love your videos! Do you still make “what if” videos?
Grey or White matters little to me. Gandalf is the pinnacle of Tolkien's writings. He's the reason that I fell in love with Middle Earth. I'm fond of most of Tolkien's characters, but Gandalf glues everything together. Without him, so many of the outcomes needed to bring about the downfall of Sauron would not have come to pass.
When as a ten year old, I first read of Gandalf's fall to the Balrog (which at first left me quite distraught), I told myself that Gandalf would want me to be brave and continue reading. I did, mainly in the hope that he wasn't actually dead. At that point, Tolkien hadn't written of Gandalf's actual death, so my hope was that at some point, Gandalf would return. Even today, 45 years later, the White Rider chapter is one of my favourites. ❤❤❤❤❤❤
Knowing somewhat of the scope & the full arc that is Gandalf - if I’m putting that correctly? I’d say the Grey & White are not to be separated and are one in the same. As both hold the all important common trait of putting the greater good, and even the good of a single friend ahead of that of his own. As you mentioned the power in both the grey & white is borrowed. But it is this trait that has these powers bestowed upon him. Despite the color, Gandalf always rose the occasion to the best of his ability with what had been given to him at any particular time of need. So my answer is there is just one Gandalf. It’s not his cloaks, focus of purpose, but his love & respect of all living things that makes him what he is :) Just Gandalf.
Gandalf the grey. For me i think that is when he is at his wisest and and could be curious about middle earth. But when he becomes the white he has to be serious to get the job done.
Dagor Dagorath please!
Excellent work!
Can't wait for a Netflix adaptation for Gandalf the Black.
Rainbow Gandalf
@@ahriskof1 "Rainbow Gandalf."
No, that would be Saruman. He was the wizard of many colors.
White had more style but Grey had more vibe...
I can't imagine him as The White shooting up fireworks
I love the Honest Trailers covering of this movie.
This one got DEEP.
Watching this video I learned more about LOTR than....my whole life, haha. Explained simply. Thanks.
Glad you liked it! :D
Now this i will enjoy when i get a wee chance to watch🧙🏾♂️
And I hope you do enjoy it 💚
Dagor dagorath please. I would certainly like to hear about this.
I likw the idea of the loaning of power, makes sense to me 😃
thanks beautifull vid about Gandalf
Gandalf the Grey, if I'm throwing a party.
Gandalf the White, if I'm going to war.
I'm surprised that you didn't mention him invoking the sun in his speech on the bridge.
I really liked this one! Also Dagor Dagoroth! ;)
He leveled up, that is where the concept in role playing games like D&D came from the rest of it was from table top war gaming.
One of my favorite characters in fiction!
very well done
And monty python and the holy grails black Knight...
Deep reference there. Good luck everyone
I remember that song!
@@AzraelAlpha I wondered how long it would take someone to notice haha
That one is white, and the other one is grey duh😉❤love your channel
I would assume that the reason why Gandalf didnt flatten Sauron's forces is because, well, thats not really his job. If he did everything for the mortal races, they wouldnt learn anything, would have no achievements and would live in a peace gifted to them. By having them work for it, that achievement is far more impressive.
That being said, I do now have an image in my head of Gandalf facing down Sauron and pull a Yamamoto by summoning a flaming sword that literally scorches everything to ashes.
Gandalf was betrayed by Saruman. He imprisoned Gandalf in Orthanc and later led the Fellowship to the Bridge of Khadaz-dum where died in his fight with the Balrog and was later resurrected. Do you think Saruman, in his hubris, thought he could be the next Dark Lord after the Defeat of Sauron?
What I like is how Gandalf moves through in the book that was way more powerful than most all of the others in the book actually went through his own hero quest and grew as needed to help his mission move forward. It just reminds me why I love the Lord of the Rings.
Gandalf the Grey seemed more human than his reincarnation as the White. The Gandalf that went to the shire and created fireworks was not threatening. However, I think that as the White he easily could've frightened the hobbits not intentionally, but because his power was more obvious. I wonder if Iluvatar intentionally sent both Gandalf and Sauruman knowing that Sauruman had the potential to turn dark and also knowing that Gandalf would never turn dark.
Dagor Dagorath Please! Love your videos
Dagor Dagorath sounds like Ragnarok in Norse Mythology.
Yes, Dagor Dagorath, Please.
If you will.
Thank you.
😁
Gandalf was the first character I ever liked.
Dagor Dagoroth! Please make it as long and detailed as possible!
Gandalf the White for sure, more powerful and mote focused on his mission.
I think the reason why Gandalf did not go on to fight Sauron directly is because his original quest was to inspire men to conquer their foe. The Ring Narya probably helped inspire the men to accomplish this.
I always found The Gray to be more humorous and endearing.
Dagor Dagoroth please!!
I like Gandalf period. They both are great in their own way.
I will say the power of the wizards came both from their nature, live experiences, and knowledge, the last one being very important.
Dagor dagorath please
Durin's Bane came back too as Bane the Black... LOL
Dagor Dagorath please
Up next, a video about monty python and the holy grail's black night
Gandalf the Grey saw more of him and he made me laugh with his exasperation with Dwarfs. The Hobbit Trilogy are my favourite films and I care not what people say about them. 😁
I also liked The Hobbit Trilogy.
And his timing with the sun when he busts the Light on 3 trolls-| Blip!