Bernard Hill has since confirmed that the moment when he breaks down in tears after saying "No parent should ever have to bury their child" was not acting. Even though it was scripted that he had to drop down and cry, Hill has confirmed that he really started crying and broke down for real due to high emotional nature of this scene. He said he considers this scene to be one of his most favorite of all the scenes he has done in his 40+ years career.
And it's no wonder too, the context, the high stakes, Theodred, Theoden's lines and the camera work of this are just fertile ground for legitimate tears, watchers and actors alike.
When i watched this scene i cried so much and i couldn´t stop for quite a while. I knew he was not acting in that moment. He felt every bit of it, and so did we. For me it is one of the greatest scene in all the Lord of the Rings.
I saw these movies many times before I became a parent. This was always one of my favorite scenes because I thought it so accurately portrayed what losing a child would feel like. Now I have three sons, and I appreciate it even more. Even though it's harder to watch than before.
something real coming through. my brother suicided when i was 15, my father died much earlier. my mother called me and franticly told me to come home, not giving me a reason for, but was very very resolute about it so i gave in. i will never forget the look in her eyes. the mixture if disbelief, devestation and grief. no parent should outlive their child. i cant tell you what it is, but i can tell you that it takes something big from you. just wanted to give you some insight view from a broken childhood.
His portrayal of Theoden is the best portrayal of a king in any movie I saw. He visibly carries the burdens, and tries to put himself as a person and father aside to keep up a brave face for his people, but sometimes it cracks, like here when the pain is too much to bear.
I can't imagine a better person to comfort him, than a literal angel in human form. When Gandalf reassured him that his son will find his way to the halls of his fathers, you bet your ass that he will find his way.
Except not even maiar know what happens with the spirits of men. That's why Gandalf hesitates before saying that. He is lying, but realizing comforting a grieving person is more important than the truth.
But that’s part of the issue. A maiar doesn’t know the Gift of Illúvatar, so Gandalf literally cannot understand the grief Theoden is experiencing. It’s not reassuring for Theoden to know where his son’s soul will go; what pains him is that his son isn’t here _now._
@@bsgfan1 when Theoden dies, he quotes the Halls of my fathers, part of what Gandalf said, when he is accepting his own death. Clearly he took something away from it.
It means you've probably lived through it and you see far beyond now from the eyes of a child. It does feel odd but it's life. Always remember life is full of pain but there is also love and beauty.
I like how this trilogy is...well, how can I say it? A case for positive masculinity. The men in this series aren't afraid for be vulnerable--to cry, or to express fear. I like that a lot.
What I realize about the trilogy is.... The men were not afraid to show emotions..... - Gimli cried over Balin's death - the entire fellowship was concerned over frodo - they were devastated over the death of gandalf and many more cases. It wasn't stereotypical "oh well, they are death, lets move on". They hugged, celebrated, played and suffered together. I think thats one of the big reasons why this movie was so good...made the characters not just badasses, but actual likeable characters you saw caring about one another.
I liked how Eowyn was written because she wanted to fight as part of her duty. She was of the royal family but she was always kept in safety. I love how theoden and eowyn express what he said about being a father. He won’t let her fight because he owes it to her to be a father. But she is more that that.
@@iainhowe4561 Yes, he finds them both on the fields of pelennor. He half-correctly assumes they are both dead and rallies the riders to their once and future king this is where the "Death" part of Theodens speech in the movie happens in the books, a much stronger moment in my opinion but still a great adaptation. “'Éowyn, Éowyn!’ he cried at last: ‘Éowyn, how come you here? What madness or devilry is this? Death, death, death! Death take us all!’ “Then without taking counsel or waiting for the approach of the men of the City, he spurred headlong back to the front of the great host, and blew a horn, and cried aloud for the onset. Over the field rang his clear voice calling: 'Death! Ride, ride to ruin and the world’s ending!’ “And with that the host began to move. But the Rohirrim sang no more. Death they cried with one voice loud and terrible, and gathering speed like a great tide their battle swept about their fallen king and passed, roaring away southwards.”
W. L. Orodor Calaerchon Because Tolkien based Rohan on Anglo-Saxon culture with a dash of Ostrogoth(their love of horse). Hell their language are old English.
@hoodle101 Myth still reflects life. People beating the darkness and living on. Unfortunately too many parents have to bury their children and it's wrong.. But life isn't perfect and unfortunately it happens sometime..
Yes me too when he says no I will still cover the grave of my son. As you get older you realize the father and mother‘s love please forgive me I have sinned my soul hurts damn heroine and dam all drugs to hell
@Anon Anonthank you, he was born with a brain disorder called Holoprosencephaly, which means his brain didn't separate into two hemispheres and he was missing the back half of his brain altogether 😔 it was something chromosomal but at the time I didn't know that. The doctors didn't expect him to live more than an hour, but he lived for four days and I'm thankful that I had that time with him, it's a bittersweet feeling.
@@kittycasino29 And in those four days, Hunter felt a love from his mother that was so strong, it followed him to the better place he is now. Find peace in that one day, you will see him again, and he will remember you. I will not say that I am sorry as the words of a faceless stranger can feel empty - but know that I truly and sincerely believe that even though his life was short, it was filled with love to last a lifetime. I wish you all the best in these years to come.
They guy who played Theoden is an amazingly good actor. Such gravitas, charisma. He knocked this role out of the park and made him one of the best characters in the triology.
Bernard Hill. Yes, his performance in LOTR is amazing. He has a very melodic delivery of his lines, which is appealing. And, this scene in particular is heart wrenching because of him. As I recall from the commentary track, he was told that this scene was incredibly important to someone on a personal level. So, he did his absolute best to deliver the line "No parent should have to bury their child" with gravitas.
please let me know where i can listen/watch this commentary track because bernard hill made theoden my favorite character of the entire trilogy book and movie version
Bernard Hill is a great actor, but a word of warning, he is HILARIOUS in the commentary tracks of Two Towers and Return of the King. There are scenes you will never take seriously again after hearing him talk about them
I held my daughter as she died after only five weeks of her life. I gave her eulogy and I lowered her into her grave. I watched this year's before my daughter was even born and I cried, I never knew who I cried for but now I do. Winter Scarlet Hutchinson 02.04.2015 to 11.05.2015 your father cried for you and still does xxxxx
I'm so sorry for you. Don't know what to say. I don't know if you believe in heaven - I do, and therefore believe she's there now. But even still, in this life there's no making away of the grief of losing our loved ones.
@@AnnaMarianne not many people understand it but I belive in heaven more after losing my daughter than I did for a long time before. I couldn't make sense of the pain the tore me apart after her death. It just hurt too much to be the result of an instinctual need to reproduce, the pain was in my soul. After I started to think like that I all of a sudden had a moment of utter peace and I've no idea where it came from.
@@lesleyhutchinson7065 Yes, we're more than just matter, we've been given eternal souls, and the mind to perceive the creation and to love our fellow creatures. Even though this world has become so dark, to be is still good, our humanity is still beautiful and worthy. I don't know why your life and her life took the turn they did, but I believe one day you will meet again and have all the stories to tell. Perhaps the peace of mind you had came from God, as an echo of His heart, and of your future.
@@AnnaMarianne I like to think the pain I feel for the loss of my daughter is an echo of the pain God feels for the pain and suffering for all his children. I love my daughter and that peace I felt I hope and pray was the love that God feels for me. X
The shot at 1:12 is truly one of the most beautiful images I've ever seen: The elderly king kneeling in the grass, silently weeping at the grave of his son, in the shadow of his own kingdom.
you have a great idea. I didn't notice that scene at all because my eyes were so fixated on theoden crying but after a second watch I totally agree. Beautiful shot.
Not to mention all those beautiful Simbelmynë flowers (Symbelmynë: meaning, "Evermind", referencing the memory of those gone on whose grave these flowers grow) under Theoden's feet, reminding us of Theodred while not explicitly focusing on them. Such god damn good movies. You can learn all about them in a month, yet after a hundred years they can still surprise you.
"No parent should ever have to bury their child." I buried my son, just a few short months before his 16th birthday. This scene doesn't come close to conveying the true devastation you feel.
I'm sorry to hear that. I know how you feel I had to burry my brother who died of stillbirth a few years ago, only my parents could fully understand the pain of losing a child. May his soul rest in eternal peace
Buried my firstborn and when I watch this movie, I ugly cry at this scene. Every time. One of the documentaries on this movie I saw showed Mr. Hill talking about this very scene. And he said he spoke to one of the crew members (I think) and she had buried one of her own and said these exact words to him. He saw her emotions and this is how he acted the scene....from speaking with someone who buried their own.
Theoden is a very Shakespearean role in many ways. At the beginning, he's King Lear, driven mad with despair. He progresses to King Henry VI, a good man who seems completely out of his element in some ways plagued by doubt and fear. But by the end, he's the strong and noble King Henry V rallying his army in a truly amazing way.
Wonderful observation. if i could make one change, I would substitute Henry VI for Henry IV. While both kings were often out of their depths, Henry IV was competent and willfull enough to stand on his own. But still dismayed by his inheritance ('heavy hangs the crown' and all that, which is itself very similar to Theoden's Where is the Horse and the Rider monologue.) Apart from that, love this comment very much. Thanks :)
K. Le Animateur Christopher Tolkien is an absolute cunt. The greatest trilogy of all time wasn't good enough for that prick. The movie adaptation that he seemed to want would have been so boring. And "mindless action movies". The movies got the perfect balance between action and non-action.
The Lord of the Rings trilogy is my favorite story ever put to film. I don't mean the following criticism to tear it down, merely to point out that there is always room for improvement, even in the things we love. There are a few scenes that I wouldn't have minded trading for more exposition. The fight scene with the cave troll in Balin's tomb could have been shortened, for instance, and instead of the whole "staircase acrobatics" sequence a bit later when they're running from the Balrog, they could have included the bit when Gandalf tumbles back down the corridor after the Fellowship and tells Aragorn that something nearly broke him when it perceived the locking spell he had been trying to put over the door. That's just from the Fellowship of the Ring, mind you, but all 3 movies have bits that could have been swapped for more world building or character development. The setting and its inhabitants would have seemed more real, and the action, when it did appear, would feel more dramatic for its less frequent portrayal.
I really like the character of Théoden, fighting against an endless evil force, but unlike Denethor, who lost he's son too, he don't loose hope and keep fighting the best he can.
He's one of the best portrayed of Tolkien's creations. Each movie gives us a character that shows us the best and worst of humanity. FOTR had Boromir, TTT had Theoden, and ROTK had Denethor. All three of these characters manage to show their very best right before they die. It's a truly touching testament to human nature and Jackson did a wonderful job bringing it to life from Tolkien's writings.
Ben Smith I don't know about that one. Denethor tried burning his son alive in a funeral pyre, only really giving a shit about him AFTER he died rather than when he was.
+The Android Next Door the book's version was different, where Denethor was described as a good man (if a little stern) fighting a losing battle and gave into despair. Gandalf did say to Faramir "Your father loves you. He'll remember it before the end".
+thelordnazgul76 Denethor was practically in the same state as Theoden was at the beginning of two towers, he was basically mind f***ed by sauron before it all went down while using a palantir. He never really recovered and the fall of his kingdom and the death of his sons caused him to be even worse.
0:45 The philosophy behind this line helped save my life once. I'd reached a point in my life where the one thing stronger than my desire to die was the guilt of what my suicide would do to my parents, and what they'd have to go through if I took my own life. I decided that no matter how bad things got, I would never give in to my dark thoughts so long as my parents were still alive. I'm glad to say that I'm in a better place now thanks in part to that line of thinking.
For what it's worth, I'm glad that you're still with us. And I hope you continue to find the strength and will to find a meaning and happiness in your life.
"Alas that this evil days should be mine. That the young perish and the old linger. That I should live... to see the last days of my house." Theoden is such a powerful character. Can a movie be better written that The Lord of the Rings?
Shadowkey392 Definitely, definitely. Back when Yoda was still awesome. "This one, a long time have I watched. All his life has he looked away, to the future, to the horizon... Never his mind on where he was! What he was doing! Huh... Adventure... Huh! Excitement.... A Jedi craves not these things. You are reckless!"
@hoodle101 What's your idea of a good film? I'm a doctor, I'm well educated, well balanced. The film may have had moments of levity, which means its not perfect. But nothing is perfect, in life nor art. But the heights this film achieved, thematically/technically/emotively, with the breath of genre boundaries it encompassed... it's nothing short of stunning. For a lot of people, the whole Tolkien/Jackson universe was a moden day scripture/Shakespearean work. Shakespeare's genius wasn't recognized til way later. So try a little humility, and open your eyes.
"No parent should ever have to bury their child." I keep in contact with the parents of a good friend of mine who died some years ago in a car accident. He had just graduated and was starting a new life. Whenever I watch this scene, I think of them.
I hope u may continue ur life in peace with no tragedies and all the best for the parents of ur friend,ur act is an act of pure kindness and that is the most importand thing that has been missing from this world...
Oh man... same... one of my closest friends just died a day ago. We've just graduated, and she was turned 24 two weeks ago. I'm still in shock and I feel that this pain will never leave my body, and also I just can't imagine how her dad is, she was their only daughter. And it was in a car accident, too.... :( 💔
1:09 This is how you compose a scene. The swelling music, the light cascading over the simbelmyne with Theoden in the foreground. Gandalf’s wise and touching dialogue. Beautiful.
"No parent should have to bury their child." It struck me recently when I called to console my Aunt after the death of my cousin, her oldest son, at 43 years old. As she spoke to me, grieved, she repeated those words exactly. Just strikes me hard. As a parent, doubly so.
That was the power of Bernard Hill's performance in my opinion. He honestly looked like someone who had just lost their child. Empathy is a hell of a thing.
RIP Bernard, Theoden King. One of the most moving scenes in the entire trilogy is even more moving now with his passing. What makes his performance so incredible is you honestly feel like he’s not acting. His performance in the LOTR will stand the test of time for generations to see. HAIL THE VICTORIOUS DEAD!!
Theoden will always be my favorite character. He feels the most real and has real struggles. Everyone else either has superpowers or doesn’t have many character flaws. Theoden is just a man, a king, but a man. He’s basically lost faith in himself, his kingdom is crashing down around him, and he is a grieving father. The grounding of his character just makes everything he does and says all the more incredible.
Here to remind everyone this is what real writing and acting is… this holy trilogy is untouchable. Gandalf is that angel watching over you when the darkness seems overwhelming.
"Simbelmÿne. Ever has it grown on the tombs of my forebears. Now it shall cover the grave of my son. Alas, that these evil days should be mine. The young perish and the old linger. That I should live to see that last days of my house." Such great dialogue. Shakespearean in timbre. RIP Bernard Hill
I only now realise this but Gandalf wasnt even lying to make him feel better. Technically Gandalf is like an "angel" in this form. He knows what happens in the afterlife in that universe.
I am sorry but that is not the case. The destiny of men souls is known only by Eru Illuvatar himself and no one else. The only thing known by the Valar and Miar (and some elfs) is that they dont stay in Middle Earth, they abandon it to go to a truly unknown place. Tragic as it sounds that misterious destiny is the great gift from the Creator himself to his children. And is clearly stated that is based on pure love and compassion towards men. It is not a punishing by any means
@@lowenhartw.4253 Gandalf died and returned as Galdalf The White. If anyone should know what happens after a good man dies, it's him. Not to mention Galdalf is a Valar and knows that Eru Illuvatar, as you say, has "pure love and compassion towards men."
@@TheJinnobiSorry, brother in fiction taste, but Alorien, a.k.a Gandalf, is not a Valar. He is Aînur indeed, but lesser Aînur (Miar). Basically he is an angel whereas Valars are archangels. And the previous commentator is also right. Gandalf's spirit indeed experienced afterlife, however his Lot is different to one of Man. His soul doesn't depart to the unknown after death whereas Men do. Valar created Arda with Êluvatar's guidance. But it is Êluvatar who created souls and planned their destinies. To conclude, Gandalf didn't know exactly, he could only consider and pray, but not without some strong evidence he may have experienced.
"He was strong in life, his spirit will find its way to the halls of your fathers." I cried like a bitch when I first heard it, still gets me every time TT_TT
So powerful, it really makes you think of our own mortality. Our spirit leaving this world that is to go with our ancestors, it's an encouraging thought.
The way Gandalf and Theoden interact and how the music underlines the overall mood is perfect. Gandalf speaks words of comfort, because that is what he does. He says: "Theodred's death was not of your making." Theoden answers: "No parent should have to bury their child." This line is a counterpoint to what Gandalf says even though this is not even an argument; he is saying: No matter whose making it was, my child is gone. The loss itself is what matters. The line is so tragically beautiful because it does not matter whether a king's or anyone else's son dies; the loss is the same. And Gandalf can only stand by. It's very much like the grief people experience in real life. And it's all so tastefully put on screen, between the music, the acting, the scenery... This trilogy is the best thing that was ever filmed, I insist.
"Theodred's death was not of your making." "No parent should have to bury their child." Almost as if Theoden is saying "Intent does not matter. Only consequences."
Theoden feels horrible guilt and shame because his son died while he was bewitched by Saruman. It’s not until the battle of Pelennor Fields that he feels truly redeemed.
"No parent should have to bury their child." Since I was 13 this line has always choked me up. This is my favorite performance of the whole series. It seems that he doesn't weep for his own child, but for all parents that have lost a child. Very touching. It's the kind of performance that stays with you.
Losing a child must be one of those indescribable human experiences. My mum told me that simply being away from your children is like losing a part of you - I can't imagine for those who have had to say goodbye permanently.
"No parent should have to bury their child" ... so true and if only more people understood their meaning. Bernard Hill really owns in this scene. Probably the strongest scene in the entire trilogy together with Eomer breaking down when he finds Eowyn appearantly dead on the Fields of Pellenor.
What? If only people understood the meaning? What meaning? This isn't some phrase with a hidden meaning. Exactly what he says is exactly what it means.
some kids don't understand the weight or burden if their parents had to bury their child... also, some kids don't understand the burden if a sibling dies as they haven't been through that life-changing experience...
@@AmadQ This is true. In fact, due to severe depression, I've wanted to kill myself many times, but because I could only imagine what my parents would go through, I've not done it. My depression comes and goes, although I guess it never really is gone. But if I were gone... I would absolutely break my father. My mother loves me with all her heart but somehow I feel she could deal with losing me. My father though, even if he only knew I am (or was) depressed, let alone suicidal (at times), he would blame himself and never forgive himself for it. If I'd die, I'm 100% sure my father would take his own life as well. I don't want that on my conscience. I've thought a lot if my parents are gone, I'd be free to leave this world knowing I'll do no harm and no one will miss me. It's weird to say, but I long for that freedom... but so long as my parents live, I couldn't possibly go through with it and scenes like this one are reminders as to why.
I look at this brief scene as such a great example of economy of screen time. It's only a minute long but it feels so much fuller. Excellent imagery, subtle reminders of the shadow they live under, the mythological feel of tradition to elevate things, and the emotional gut punch that really informs the scene -- that underneath the spiritual rhetoric and regalia is just a grieving father. Not to mention the acting, the cinematography, and that unforgettable score. The LoTR adaptations are simply amazing
Such a great observation! And what a masterful transition to the next plot move: Gandalf spots the kids from the burned village on the horizon. Peter Jackson is second to none in the way he delivers the narrative
My father died of type 2 cancer almost 4 months ago now. Ever since then I couldt look at this scene without thinking of my grandfather who is 94 now. Indeed no parent should have to bury their child. God bless anyone who has lost a parent or child.
This trilogy has not lost one bit of epicness and timelessness. Truly a lively world your can fantasize in and connect to so much characters. A masterpiece.
''No parent should ever have to bury their child''. I hear those words and it brings me back to the day that my cousin had to bury her 7 week old daughter who died of cancer. I'll never forget the face of her father as he carried her coffin and the cries of loss from my cousin at the funeral service and as her daughter's coffin was laid to rest in the cemetery. Its times like those that can make or break a family. It will forever be in my mind.
Sean Corcoran I'm so sorry for your loss. My brother went through something similar, it was their first, and stillborn. This scene always made me cry, but now it is even more poignant. Stay strong, I'm sure it meant a lot to know you were there for her. =]
Three masters come together to deliver a truly brilliant scene. Bernard Hill, Sir Ian and Howard Shore. Such powerful emotions, flawlesly portrayed. What a masterpiece.
I think this might be the most beautiful scene in the trilogy. Theoden begins as the stoic king. His words are poetic and beautiful and he delivers them with poise. Then he utters a more simple phrase, that no parent should have to bury their child, and breaks down. In that moment the King is just a man who lost his boy.
This man was Theoden, couldn’t picture anyone else doing it better. RIP king, you brightened the lives of so many with your performance and brought tears to my eyes on multiple viewings. Such a talent.
1:42 to 1:53 is one of the most beautiful shot I've seen in movies. The mourn of a father followed up by a Mystical figure (Gandalf) looking at the horizon to see a horse carrying two innocent chidlrens being siblings... everything feels just so spiritual.
Theoden and Boromir are characters that I’ve come to enjoy more and more the older I get. When I was young watching the movies I disliked them both for their stubbornness and perceived weakness for succumbing to evil influences (Boromir and the Ring and Theoden and Grima/Saruman). After experiencing the world I’ve come to understand them more and appreciate their flaws and their struggles to overcome them.
There’s a somber majesty to the score of this scene that just hits my soul. It somehow conveys the weight of Theoden’s deep grief at all he has lost, while also emphasizing the fact that as Gandalf says “There is still hope”.
As powerful as this scene is.. I feel like the main character here is Howard Shore. The theme just emphasizes their emotions with such intensity and accuracy. Best score in film history, and I'm close to meaning that objectively
Honestly I view the trilogy (extended) as lightning in a bottle, everything just came together so well and in such strange ways too (like Viggo going to turn down the role before his son piped up) Could you imagine if Nicholas cage played Aragorn instead? WEW Everyone did outstanding from the actors to all the behind the scenes people too.
Came here because I heard he passed away... Thank you Bernard, for these beautiful scenes and your talent, you will be remembered! Watching this scene without crying will now be even tougher... May you rest in peace🕊
Every single time I see this scene I feel the pain of Theoden and want to cry with him, and I have no kids on my own. That's why Bernad Hill's interpretation is so powerful and emotional. RIP this great actor.
Bernard’s performance is so beautiful here. Theoden is worlds away in this fantastical setting, fancy words and theatrical crying. Yet you feel deeply for him. Like watching a friend cry over their lost.
0:44 Yeah... This is the moment where Theoden just gave up having a king's fortitude about losing an heir, and showed that he is a father who lost a son he loved dearly.
I think in hundreds of years we may see this become a Shakespearean-esque lore. It is powerfully poetic and ethereal. Hard not to swell with tears at these sort of scenes.
My brother passed away at the age of 20, 9 days before Christmas. He suffered from Duchene, a muscle disease, which meant his life expectancy was not high. One of our family's Christmas traditions is to watch all the LOTR movies together. After all these years, this scene is the hardest one to watch without tears, especially for our parents. We cry and we remember during this scene.
You can rest now, Bernard Hill. You go to the Halls of your Fathers, in whose mighty company, you shall not now feel ashamed. Westu hál. Ferðu, Théoden. Ferðu. 🥺
The Lord of the Rings movies are THE greatest movies ever made and will go down in history. The story, the acting, the emotions, everything is absolutely stunning. I'm so glad that I was able to watch these masterpieces
Hardly the greatest scene, and hardly the greatest movie in the trilogy. And yet this is one of the most powerful scenes and strangely my favourite. It's very memorable.
RIP Bernard Hill. From the explosion of "Yosser" in "Boy's From the Black Stuff" I have watched this amazing actor in awe throughout his career. He has brought many great characters to life and given performances that will always be remembered. He will be sadly, greatly missed.
More and more I appreciate moments like these in the trilogy. I also like how Theoden and Denethor are contrasted as two leaders grieving their sons, with Denethor succumbing to despair while Theoden triumphs over it.
![Lord of the Rings - Gandalf vs Balrog [Entire Battle HD 1080p]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Y2fwe0rnHak/mqdefault.jpg)
![Lord of the Rings - Gandalf vs Balrog [Entire Battle HD 1080p]](/img/tr.png)
"I go to my fathers. And even in their mighty company I shall not now be ashamed."
Rest in peace, Bernard Hill. ❤️💮
He may rest now, the impact he had on others with his acting is immortal.
Hail Theoden, King!!😢
@@leozig3501I truly think so
He was strong in life. His spirt will find it's way to the halls of his forefathers.
Only ever knew him as Theoden. So forever shall he remain...
Bernard Hill has since confirmed that the moment when he breaks down in tears after saying "No parent should ever have to bury their child" was not acting. Even though it was scripted that he had to drop down and cry, Hill has confirmed that he really started crying and broke down for real due to high emotional nature of this scene. He said he considers this scene to be one of his most favorite of all the scenes he has done in his 40+ years career.
And it's no wonder too, the context, the high stakes, Theodred, Theoden's lines and the camera work of this are just fertile ground for legitimate tears, watchers and actors alike.
When i watched this scene i cried so much and i couldn´t stop for quite a while.
I knew he was not acting in that moment. He felt every bit of it, and so did we.
For me it is one of the greatest scene in all the Lord of the Rings.
You can always tell when it's real and not acting. The change in the mannerisms and how automatic they are show through. What a scene...
That's truly awesome.
Wow..just wow,this trilogy will always be best of best
No fans should have to bury their king...
Rest in piece, Bernard Hill. You really WERE Théoden.
Our King 👑
Hail the victorious dead!!
Amen.
He was strong in life. His spirt will find it's way to the halls of his fathers.
Oh my...he was great King.
"No parent should ever have to bury their child."
I'm not even a parent but that delivery makes me cry every time.
I like how they have him talking as a king might at first, but then it gives way to the words of a grieving father.
I saw these movies many times before I became a parent. This was always one of my favorite scenes because I thought it so accurately portrayed what losing a child would feel like. Now I have three sons, and I appreciate it even more. Even though it's harder to watch than before.
Same
something real coming through.
my brother suicided when i was 15, my father died much earlier.
my mother called me and franticly told me to come home, not giving me a reason for, but was very very resolute about it so i gave in.
i will never forget the look in her eyes. the mixture if disbelief, devestation and grief.
no parent should outlive their child. i cant tell you what it is, but i can tell you that it takes something big from you.
just wanted to give you some insight view from a broken childhood.
That one line and the crying after is some of the best acting I've ever seen tbh
Imagine grieving at your son's grave and having a literal angel standing there saying "He'll be OK."
I'd feel like
"Your presence is what I need right now but I grieve for needing it."
No god but Allah
Islam way for peace and real monotheist
Search about the truth with honest heart
And first ask Allah to help you to find the way ‘’
@@amany247 Ameen
@@amany247 fuck islam
@@amany247may Allah Love you
Bernard Hill doesn't get half the credit he's due for his portrayal of Theoden.
His melodic delivery is truly awe inspiring.
And he gets less than half the credit half as well as he deserves.
Dude, he's one of the best characters What do you mean..?
His portrayal of Theoden is the best portrayal of a king in any movie I saw. He visibly carries the burdens, and tries to put himself as a person and father aside to keep up a brave face for his people, but sometimes it cracks, like here when the pain is too much to bear.
zlinedavid “no parent should have to bury their child” 😒*wants to die
I can't imagine a better person to comfort him, than a literal angel in human form. When Gandalf reassured him that his son will find his way to the halls of his fathers, you bet your ass that he will find his way.
That is hope ☺
Except not even maiar know what happens with the spirits of men. That's why Gandalf hesitates before saying that. He is lying, but realizing comforting a grieving person is more important than the truth.
But that’s part of the issue. A maiar doesn’t know the Gift of Illúvatar, so Gandalf literally cannot understand the grief Theoden is experiencing. It’s not reassuring for Theoden to know where his son’s soul will go; what pains him is that his son isn’t here _now._
@@bsgfan1 when Theoden dies, he quotes the Halls of my fathers, part of what Gandalf said, when he is accepting his own death. Clearly he took something away from it.
He knows for sure. He has been there.
Gandalf's soft prayer for Theodred is one of those small things that make a great movie into a magical one.
Gives me chills each time.
What is it he says?
@@moncey1120 "Westu hál. Ferðu, Théodred, Ferðu." (Be-thou well. Go-thou, Théodred, go-thou.)
Sounds like he said "Westbrook is returning to the Eagles"😂😂😂
the older I get the more I appreciate these emotional scenes and not just the battles.
Same,it feels so odd
It means you've probably lived through it and you see far beyond now from the eyes of a child.
It does feel odd but it's life. Always remember life is full of pain but there is also love and beauty.
@@rickriot8743 thats true
I like how this trilogy is...well, how can I say it? A case for positive masculinity. The men in this series aren't afraid for be vulnerable--to cry, or to express fear. I like that a lot.
These scenes are actually my favourite
What I realize about the trilogy is....
The men were not afraid to show emotions.....
- Gimli cried over Balin's death
- the entire fellowship was concerned over frodo
- they were devastated over the death of gandalf
and many more cases. It wasn't stereotypical "oh well, they are death, lets move on". They hugged, celebrated, played and suffered together.
I think thats one of the big reasons why this movie was so good...made the characters not just badasses, but actual likeable characters you saw caring about one another.
This dude understeand all.
They included that in the films, at least. Eomer's grief on finding his Uncle and sister appearing dead together was a scene I remember.
I liked how Eowyn was written because she wanted to fight as part of her duty. She was of the royal family but she was always kept in safety. I love how theoden and eowyn express what he said about being a father. He won’t let her fight because he owes it to her to be a father. But she is more that that.
Yes what is always said about men and emotions is a complete lie
@@iainhowe4561 Yes, he finds them both on the fields of pelennor. He half-correctly assumes they are both dead and rallies the riders to their once and future king this is where the "Death" part of Theodens speech in the movie happens in the books, a much stronger moment in my opinion but still a great adaptation.
“'Éowyn, Éowyn!’ he cried at last: ‘Éowyn, how come you here? What madness or devilry is this? Death, death, death! Death take us all!’
“Then without taking counsel or waiting for the approach of the men of the City, he spurred headlong back to the front of the great host, and blew a horn, and cried aloud for the onset. Over the field rang his clear voice calling: 'Death! Ride, ride to ruin and the world’s ending!’
“And with that the host began to move. But the Rohirrim sang no more. Death they cried with one voice loud and terrible, and gathering speed like a great tide their battle swept about their fallen king and passed, roaring away southwards.”
"He was strong in life. His spirit will find it's way to the halls of your fathers."
gives me chills every time
Can't recall if that was in the books. But this is certainly an old typical Saxony or Viking-like believe.
Anglo Saxon to be precise :D
Ah yeah, ANGLO Saxon! xD That's the one!
Ta mate!
W. L. Orodor Calaerchon Because Tolkien based Rohan on Anglo-Saxon culture with a dash of Ostrogoth(their love of horse). Hell their language are old English.
I think the acting here was so terrefic, being a little older now and understanding the weight of this scene it really gets to me.
@hoodle101
Myth still reflects life. People beating the darkness and living on. Unfortunately too many parents have to bury their children and it's wrong.. But life isn't perfect and unfortunately it happens sometime..
I haven't watched The Lord of The Rings in years & this scene brought me to tears
Same
Same, also being really high helped. It also feels like this is part of the turning point in the whole trilogy.
Yes me too when he says no I will still cover the grave of my son. As you get older you realize the father and mother‘s love please forgive me I have sinned my soul hurts damn heroine and dam all drugs to hell
I buried my infant Son, Hunter, in Sept 2002, almost 20 years ago now. How true these words are, it's also an indescribable feeling.
@Anon Anonthank you, he was born with a brain disorder called Holoprosencephaly, which means his brain didn't separate into two hemispheres and he was missing the back half of his brain altogether 😔 it was something chromosomal but at the time I didn't know that. The doctors didn't expect him to live more than an hour, but he lived for four days and I'm thankful that I had that time with him, it's a bittersweet feeling.
@@kittycasino29 i am very sorry
I'm so sorry. RIP Hunter 🙏 🌹
@@kittycasino29 And in those four days, Hunter felt a love from his mother that was so strong, it followed him to the better place he is now. Find peace in that one day, you will see him again, and he will remember you.
I will not say that I am sorry as the words of a faceless stranger can feel empty - but know that I truly and sincerely believe that even though his life was short, it was filled with love to last a lifetime. I wish you all the best in these years to come.
"He was strong in life. His spirit will find it's way to the halls of your (fore)fathers."
RIP Bernard Hill, your spirit shall find its way to the halls of your fathers.
cringe
Maybe he should have played boromir? had he been more recognized that way? However, sean bean was increidble
Christopher Tolkien was strong in life and his soul shall find its way to the hall of his father. RIP Christopher Tolkien.
Wow I did not know this so I googled.. may he rest in peace indeed..
And same with Sir Christopher Lee
He was a snob
@@bennetttan8535 he fought at the somme, anyone deserves respect after that
@@2jz-boi He meant his son, Christopher Tolkien.
They guy who played Theoden is an amazingly good actor. Such gravitas, charisma. He knocked this role out of the park and made him one of the best characters in the triology.
Bernard Hill. Yes, his performance in LOTR is amazing. He has a very melodic delivery of his lines, which is appealing. And, this scene in particular is heart wrenching because of him. As I recall from the commentary track, he was told that this scene was incredibly important to someone on a personal level. So, he did his absolute best to deliver the line "No parent should have to bury their child" with gravitas.
please let me know where i can listen/watch this commentary track because bernard hill made theoden my favorite character of the entire trilogy book and movie version
Kelly Srdar
Buy the blu-ray, I guess.
He should have won something for this scene. It brings me to tears every single time. Fantastic acting.
Bernard Hill is a great actor, but a word of warning, he is HILARIOUS in the commentary tracks of Two Towers and Return of the King. There are scenes you will never take seriously again after hearing him talk about them
I held my daughter as she died after only five weeks of her life. I gave her eulogy and I lowered her into her grave. I watched this year's before my daughter was even born and I cried, I never knew who I cried for but now I do.
Winter Scarlet Hutchinson 02.04.2015 to 11.05.2015 your father cried for you and still does xxxxx
I'm so sorry for you. Don't know what to say. I don't know if you believe in heaven - I do, and therefore believe she's there now. But even still, in this life there's no making away of the grief of losing our loved ones.
@@AnnaMarianne not many people understand it but I belive in heaven more after losing my daughter than I did for a long time before.
I couldn't make sense of the pain the tore me apart after her death. It just hurt too much to be the result of an instinctual need to reproduce, the pain was in my soul. After I started to think like that I all of a sudden had a moment of utter peace and I've no idea where it came from.
@@lesleyhutchinson7065 Yes, we're more than just matter, we've been given eternal souls, and the mind to perceive the creation and to love our fellow creatures. Even though this world has become so dark, to be is still good, our humanity is still beautiful and worthy. I don't know why your life and her life took the turn they did, but I believe one day you will meet again and have all the stories to tell. Perhaps the peace of mind you had came from God, as an echo of His heart, and of your future.
@@AnnaMarianne I like to think the pain I feel for the loss of my daughter is an echo of the pain God feels for the pain and suffering for all his children.
I love my daughter and that peace I felt I hope and pray was the love that God feels for me. X
Winter will live again. The first Easter morning broke the back of death and it can't hold us anymore.
He was strong in life. His spirit will find its way to the halls of his fathers.
Rest in Peace, Bernard Hill
The shot at 1:12 is truly one of the most beautiful images I've ever seen: The elderly king kneeling in the grass, silently weeping at the grave of his son, in the shadow of his own kingdom.
you have a great idea. I didn't notice that scene at all because my eyes were so fixated on theoden crying but after a second watch I totally agree. Beautiful shot.
Not to mention all those beautiful Simbelmynë flowers (Symbelmynë: meaning, "Evermind", referencing the memory of those gone on whose grave these flowers grow) under Theoden's feet, reminding us of Theodred while not explicitly focusing on them.
Such god damn good movies. You can learn all about them in a month, yet after a hundred years they can still surprise you.
That exact shot plus the music climaxing right there is the bit that gets tears in my eyes every single time.
Absolutely agree. It's transcendent. Stunning.
0:02
"No parent should ever have to bury their child."
I buried my son, just a few short months before his 16th birthday.
This scene doesn't come close to conveying the true devastation you feel.
I'm sorry to hear that. I know how you feel I had to burry my brother who died of stillbirth a few years ago, only my parents could fully understand the pain of losing a child. May his soul rest in eternal peace
I hope you’re doing okay, friend. Truly.
Buried my firstborn and when I watch this movie, I ugly cry at this scene. Every time.
One of the documentaries on this movie I saw showed Mr. Hill talking about this very scene. And he said he spoke to one of the crew members (I think) and she had buried one of her own and said these exact words to him. He saw her emotions and this is how he acted the scene....from speaking with someone who buried their own.
I'm so sorry for your loss.
May the Lord God and Jesus be with you and your family. Sorry for your loss
Theoden is a very Shakespearean role in many ways. At the beginning, he's King Lear, driven mad with despair. He progresses to King Henry VI, a good man who seems completely out of his element in some ways plagued by doubt and fear. But by the end, he's the strong and noble King Henry V rallying his army in a truly amazing way.
Lovely observation. Couldn't agree more.
Wonderful observation. if i could make one change, I would substitute Henry VI for Henry IV. While both kings were often out of their depths, Henry IV was competent and willfull enough to stand on his own. But still dismayed by his inheritance ('heavy hangs the crown' and all that, which is itself very similar to Theoden's Where is the Horse and the Rider monologue.)
Apart from that, love this comment very much. Thanks :)
Ironically Tolkien despised Shakespeare.
@@Intrepid_Crusader1096 He did?!?
@@Lamporre Yeah. J.R.R. Tolkien was not a fan of William Shakespeare. I'll show you a link.
scenes like this remind me how deep this film was.
And some people say they're mindless action films (a quote from J.R.R. Tolkien's own grandson)
K. Le Animateur Christopher Tolkien is an absolute cunt. The greatest trilogy of all time wasn't good enough for that prick.
The movie adaptation that he seemed to want would have been so boring.
And "mindless action movies". The movies got the perfect balance between action and non-action.
Thingamajigs helms deep
The Lord of the Rings trilogy is my favorite story ever put to film. I don't mean the following criticism to tear it down, merely to point out that there is always room for improvement, even in the things we love.
There are a few scenes that I wouldn't have minded trading for more exposition. The fight scene with the cave troll in Balin's tomb could have been shortened, for instance, and instead of the whole "staircase acrobatics" sequence a bit later when they're running from the Balrog, they could have included the bit when Gandalf tumbles back down the corridor after the Fellowship and tells Aragorn that something nearly broke him when it perceived the locking spell he had been trying to put over the door.
That's just from the Fellowship of the Ring, mind you, but all 3 movies have bits that could have been swapped for more world building or character development. The setting and its inhabitants would have seemed more real, and the action, when it did appear, would feel more dramatic for its less frequent portrayal.
This film is one incredibly articulate analogy to life
I really like the character of Théoden, fighting against an endless evil force, but unlike Denethor, who lost he's son too, he don't loose hope and keep fighting the best he can.
He's one of the best portrayed of Tolkien's creations. Each movie gives us a character that shows us the best and worst of humanity. FOTR had Boromir, TTT had Theoden, and ROTK had Denethor. All three of these characters manage to show their very best right before they die. It's a truly touching testament to human nature and Jackson did a wonderful job bringing it to life from Tolkien's writings.
Ben Smith I don't know about that one. Denethor tried burning his son alive in a funeral pyre, only really giving a shit about him AFTER he died rather than when he was.
+The Android Next Door the book's version was different, where Denethor was described as a good man (if a little stern) fighting a losing battle and gave into despair. Gandalf did say to Faramir "Your father loves you. He'll remember it before the end".
+Ben Smith Well said my friend....
+thelordnazgul76
Denethor was practically in the same state as Theoden was at the beginning of two towers, he was basically mind f***ed by sauron before it all went down while using a palantir. He never really recovered and the fall of his kingdom and the death of his sons caused him to be even worse.
“His spirit will find its way to the halls of his fathers” RIP legend you will always be king of Rohan❤
“Is this all you can conjure Sauramon?” 💔🙏🏼😓
0:45 The philosophy behind this line helped save my life once. I'd reached a point in my life where the one thing stronger than my desire to die was the guilt of what my suicide would do to my parents, and what they'd have to go through if I took my own life. I decided that no matter how bad things got, I would never give in to my dark thoughts so long as my parents were still alive. I'm glad to say that I'm in a better place now thanks in part to that line of thinking.
For what it's worth, I'm glad that you're still with us. And I hope you continue to find the strength and will to find a meaning and happiness in your life.
You are a good person.
Carl Fredricksen, JimmySteller
Thank you both
@@Lamporre that's the kind of genuine selflessness our society is mostly bereft of now. Thank you for that, my friend.
@@xenomorph2056 I appreciate that. Thank you.
"Alas that this evil days should be mine. That the young perish and the old linger. That I should live... to see the last days of my house."
Theoden is such a powerful character. Can a movie be better written that The Lord of the Rings?
MrJedabak great lines indeed !!!! powerful
+MrJedabak Maybe the Original Star Wars Trilogy? If not better written, it's at least on par with it.
Shadowkey392 Definitely, definitely. Back when Yoda was still awesome.
"This one, a long time have I watched. All his life has he looked away, to the future, to the horizon... Never his mind on where he was! What he was doing! Huh... Adventure... Huh! Excitement.... A Jedi craves not these things. You are reckless!"
So good, but still doesn't hold a candle to book Théoden.
"I....don't believe it."
"That is why you fail."
Original trilogy Yoda was a stone cold badass.
Fuck this trilogy is a masterpiece.
And it will never be surpassed.
LOTR is the kind of movie that will be in the video essay on Cybertube in 2098 titled "what makes LOTR trilogy a masterpiece of this century"
Insert a comma
@hoodle101 What's your idea of a good film? I'm a doctor, I'm well educated, well balanced. The film may have had moments of levity, which means its not perfect. But nothing is perfect, in life nor art. But the heights this film achieved, thematically/technically/emotively, with the breath of genre boundaries it encompassed... it's nothing short of stunning. For a lot of people, the whole Tolkien/Jackson universe was a moden day scripture/Shakespearean work. Shakespeare's genius wasn't recognized til way later. So try a little humility, and open your eyes.
No movies even come close for me.
"No parent should ever have to bury their child." I keep in contact with the parents of a good friend of mine who died some years ago in a car accident. He had just graduated and was starting a new life. Whenever I watch this scene, I think of them.
I hope u may continue ur life in peace with no tragedies and all the best for the parents of ur friend,ur act is an act of pure kindness and that is the most importand thing that has been missing from this world...
I think of my grandparents who had to bury their son :(
That's is a powerful sad line that still sticks with me today, makes me cry
+janeyrevanescence12 I hope his spirit finds the way to the halls of God
Oh man... same... one of my closest friends just died a day ago. We've just graduated, and she was turned 24 two weeks ago. I'm still in shock and I feel that this pain will never leave my body, and also I just can't imagine how her dad is, she was their only daughter. And it was in a car accident, too.... :( 💔
1:09
This is how you compose a scene. The swelling music, the light cascading over the simbelmyne with Theoden in the foreground. Gandalf’s wise and touching dialogue. Beautiful.
Thought of this scene today.
Rest in peace, Christopher Tolkien.
Howard Shore's score on this was incredible.
Jay H Patel agreed. The music in these films is amazing
This comment needs more likes
Absolutely, masterpiece on its own.
Best music in cinema, especially this score.
The music and the environment awesome..
"No parent should have to bury their child." It struck me recently when I called to console my Aunt after the death of my cousin, her oldest son, at 43 years old. As she spoke to me, grieved, she repeated those words exactly.
Just strikes me hard. As a parent, doubly so.
*their
thestranger4812 UGH! Missed that one! Fixed.
Sorry for being a grammar nazi, btw.
Thank you! No biggie! Glad to fix it! I try and catch those things but sometimes they slip by.
You have no idea of many times I heard these exact same words. Sadly.
This scene, and when Boromir took arrows to the chest, are ones that quickly seized my breath.
Don't forget "Fly, you fools".
"You bow to no one" and the "departure of Frodo" on top of those you mentioned
i cried in this scene and i didn't even know who theoden or his son were at this point of the movie.
That was the power of Bernard Hill's performance in my opinion. He honestly looked like someone who had just lost their child. Empathy is a hell of a thing.
And when Faramir was told basically he was wished dead by his father
RIP Bernard, Theoden King. One of the most moving scenes in the entire trilogy is even more moving now with his passing. What makes his performance so incredible is you honestly feel like he’s not acting. His performance in the LOTR will stand the test of time for generations to see. HAIL THE VICTORIOUS DEAD!!
Theoden will always be my favorite character. He feels the most real and has real struggles. Everyone else either has superpowers or doesn’t have many character flaws. Theoden is just a man, a king, but a man. He’s basically lost faith in himself, his kingdom is crashing down around him, and he is a grieving father. The grounding of his character just makes everything he does and says all the more incredible.
But what really makes stand out is how he managed to overcome those hurdles and greet death with grace
When you're a kid, the best characters are Legolas and Gimli. When you're an adult, the best characters are Boromir and Theoden.
@@Vanderyn Im adult and my favorite character is Aragorn and Frodo
Gandalf: "Westu hál. Ferðu, Théodred, Ferðu." (Be-thou well. Go-thou, Théodred, go-thou.)
Thanks for that translation.. i had always wanted to know what Gandalf said.
"Be-thou whole. Fare-thou, Théodred, fare-thou."
Tolkien has being romanticizing with Old English yet again I see :)
You saint ❤
Thanks
RIP Bernard Hill. Thank you for leading the greatest cavalry charge in cinema history😢🙏
Here to remind everyone this is what real writing and acting is… this holy trilogy is untouchable. Gandalf is that angel watching over you when the darkness seems overwhelming.
RIP Bernard Hill. First thought was to come here and watch this breathtaking scene. Absolute masterclass.
The cinematography in this scene is so good. Very understated and not flashy. But the large shadow covering Edoras was very symbolic.
Best trilogy ever
"Simbelmÿne. Ever has it grown on the tombs of my forebears. Now it shall cover the grave of my son. Alas, that these evil days should be mine. The young perish and the old linger. That I should live to see that last days of my house."
Such great dialogue. Shakespearean in timbre.
RIP Bernard Hill
“No parent should have to bury their child.”
My mom’s broken heart when my brother passed. Watching her grieve was unbearable.
I only now realise this but Gandalf wasnt even lying to make him feel better. Technically Gandalf is like an "angel" in this form. He knows what happens in the afterlife in that universe.
I am sorry but that is not the case. The destiny of men souls is known only by Eru Illuvatar himself and no one else. The only thing known by the Valar and Miar (and some elfs) is that they dont stay in Middle Earth, they abandon it to go to a truly unknown place.
Tragic as it sounds that misterious destiny is the great gift from the Creator himself to his children. And is clearly stated that is based on pure love and compassion towards men. It is not a punishing by any means
@@lowenhartw.4253 Gandalf died and returned as Galdalf The White. If anyone should know what happens after a good man dies, it's him.
Not to mention Galdalf is a Valar and knows that Eru Illuvatar, as you say, has "pure love and compassion towards men."
@@TheJinnobiSorry, brother in fiction taste, but Alorien, a.k.a Gandalf, is not a Valar. He is Aînur indeed, but lesser Aînur (Miar). Basically he is an angel whereas Valars are archangels.
And the previous commentator is also right. Gandalf's spirit indeed experienced afterlife, however his Lot is different to one of Man. His soul doesn't depart to the unknown after death whereas Men do.
Valar created Arda with Êluvatar's guidance. But it is Êluvatar who created souls and planned their destinies.
To conclude, Gandalf didn't know exactly, he could only consider and pray, but not without some strong evidence he may have experienced.
I think this is one of the most beautiful scenes in the trilogy.
Especially the background music
Not just one of the most beautiful, but one of the most powerful
Every shot in this trilogy is beautiful
Lost my boy in the Afghan campaign a while ago and this scene always rips out my heart.
My deepest condolences.
💟
My sympathies
May the Lord God and Jesus be with you and give you peace that surpasses understanding. Sorry for your loss
I'm so sorry!
"He was strong in life, his spirit will find its way to the halls of your fathers." I cried like a bitch when I first heard it, still gets me every time TT_TT
Didn't expect to find Zodd the immortal here
and you're still a bitch
Lol
So powerful, it really makes you think of our own mortality. Our spirit leaving this world that is to go with our ancestors, it's an encouraging thought.
RIP Bernard Hill. Always believed his acting should have gotten alot more recognition for making LOTR come alive...
00:45 The most heartfelt and terrifying line I've ever heard. As a devoted parent, nothing would be more devastating than losing a child.
Nothing is more devastating, I’ve seen it. People don’t fully recover from it, they are never the same
@@steverogers2732 I've experienced it and helped close family and friends through it. 😓
I seen it happen too many times
That line was actually an ad lib by Bernard Hill, it was not in the original script, but it's so moving and appropriate for the scene.
@@MDkid1 Yes, I heard the same. Jackson was probably eager to keep it, it's perfect.
The way Gandalf and Theoden interact and how the music underlines the overall mood is perfect. Gandalf speaks words of comfort, because that is what he does. He says: "Theodred's death was not of your making." Theoden answers: "No parent should have to bury their child." This line is a counterpoint to what Gandalf says even though this is not even an argument; he is saying: No matter whose making it was, my child is gone. The loss itself is what matters. The line is so tragically beautiful because it does not matter whether a king's or anyone else's son dies; the loss is the same. And Gandalf can only stand by. It's very much like the grief people experience in real life. And it's all so tastefully put on screen, between the music, the acting, the scenery... This trilogy is the best thing that was ever filmed, I insist.
The way the horns come in around 1:13 just fits so well imo.
"Theodred's death was not of your making." "No parent should have to bury their child."
Almost as if Theoden is saying "Intent does not matter. Only consequences."
Theoden feels horrible guilt and shame because his son died while he was bewitched by Saruman. It’s not until the battle of Pelennor Fields that he feels truly redeemed.
"No parent should have to bury their child." Since I was 13 this line has always choked me up. This is my favorite performance of the whole series. It seems that he doesn't weep for his own child, but for all parents that have lost a child. Very touching. It's the kind of performance that stays with you.
Every time... This scene brings me to tears. Such an amazing trilogy.
"He was strong in life, his soul shall find the halls of your fathers"
Chills everytime
Losing a child must be one of those indescribable human experiences. My mum told me that simply being away from your children is like losing a part of you - I can't imagine for those who have had to say goodbye permanently.
The way Bernard hill delivers "no parent should have to bury their child" guts me.
Legendary actor
Go, Theoden. Join your son in the halls of your fathers. Be at peace, King of Rohan.
"No parent should have to bury their child" ... so true and if only more people understood their meaning. Bernard Hill really owns in this scene. Probably the strongest scene in the entire trilogy together with Eomer breaking down when he finds Eowyn appearantly dead on the Fields of Pellenor.
What? If only people understood the meaning? What meaning? This isn't some phrase with a hidden meaning. Exactly what he says is exactly what it means.
some kids don't understand the weight or burden if their parents had to bury their child...
also, some kids don't understand the burden if a sibling dies as they haven't been through that life-changing experience...
@@AmadQ This is true. In fact, due to severe depression, I've wanted to kill myself many times, but because I could only imagine what my parents would go through, I've not done it. My depression comes and goes, although I guess it never really is gone. But if I were gone... I would absolutely break my father. My mother loves me with all her heart but somehow I feel she could deal with losing me. My father though, even if he only knew I am (or was) depressed, let alone suicidal (at times), he would blame himself and never forgive himself for it. If I'd die, I'm 100% sure my father would take his own life as well. I don't want that on my conscience. I've thought a lot if my parents are gone, I'd be free to leave this world knowing I'll do no harm and no one will miss me. It's weird to say, but I long for that freedom... but so long as my parents live, I couldn't possibly go through with it and scenes like this one are reminders as to why.
@@SabatSch95 Been a while, but I hope you're still with us mate and that things are just a little better
I look at this brief scene as such a great example of economy of screen time. It's only a minute long but it feels so much fuller. Excellent imagery, subtle reminders of the shadow they live under, the mythological feel of tradition to elevate things, and the emotional gut punch that really informs the scene -- that underneath the spiritual rhetoric and regalia is just a grieving father. Not to mention the acting, the cinematography, and that unforgettable score. The LoTR adaptations are simply amazing
Such a great observation! And what a masterful transition to the next plot move: Gandalf spots the kids from the burned village on the horizon. Peter Jackson is second to none in the way he delivers the narrative
My father died of type 2 cancer almost 4 months ago now. Ever since then I couldt look at this scene without thinking of my grandfather who is 94 now. Indeed no parent should have to bury their child. God bless anyone who has lost a parent or child.
may he rest easy in god's kingdom, i hope you'll see him again.
this is like Shakespeare. Such artful dialogue and performances.
brilliant trilogy.
This trilogy has not lost one bit of epicness and timelessness. Truly a lively world your can fantasize in and connect to so much characters. A masterpiece.
''No parent should ever have to bury their child''. I hear those words and it brings me back to the day that my cousin had to bury her 7 week old daughter who died of cancer. I'll never forget the face of her father as he carried her coffin and the cries of loss from my cousin at the funeral service and as her daughter's coffin was laid to rest in the cemetery. Its times like those that can make or break a family. It will forever be in my mind.
Sean Corcoran I'm so sorry for your loss. My brother went through something similar, it was their first, and stillborn. This scene always made me cry, but now it is even more poignant. Stay strong, I'm sure it meant a lot to know you were there for her. =]
I am so sorry of their loss . Back in the old days mothers died of broken hearts and its easy to understand why
Safe journey into the West, Christopher Tolkien. Reunited with your father at last.
This is why this film is so superb. Amidst the battles & orcs, it takes time enough for a father's grief. So genuine, so real, so grounding.
More emotion conveyed in this 2 minutes than the entirety of the Rings of Power TV series so far.
No sign whatsoever that it will improve. It will only get worse.
Ye lol
Rings of Power is objectively a masterpiece.
@@AndersonMallony-EricCF False.
Without a doubt
Three masters come together to deliver a truly brilliant scene. Bernard Hill, Sir Ian and Howard Shore. Such powerful emotions, flawlesly portrayed. What a masterpiece.
Never forget Peter Jackson, he orchestrated everything you see here.
I think this might be the most beautiful scene in the trilogy. Theoden begins as the stoic king. His words are poetic and beautiful and he delivers them with poise. Then he utters a more simple phrase, that no parent should have to bury their child, and breaks down. In that moment the King is just a man who lost his boy.
This scene alone has more emotion and is stronger than all 3 Hobbit movies combined.
+CornyTelecaster49 They're not that bad...
lifelessperson1993 The first one is good. Second one is meh. But the third one is utter shit...
+CornyTelecaster49 Seen Nerdwriters video?
John Storm Never heard of him. I'll check him out.
+CornyTelecaster49 don't fucking lie
RIP bernard hill. His delivery of the lines was so emotional and always struck me, even before i had children. You shall be missed.
This man was Theoden, couldn’t picture anyone else doing it better. RIP king, you brightened the lives of so many with your performance and brought tears to my eyes on multiple viewings. Such a talent.
1:42 to 1:53 is one of the most beautiful shot I've seen in movies.
The mourn of a father followed up by a Mystical figure (Gandalf) looking at the horizon to see a horse carrying two innocent chidlrens being siblings... everything feels just so spiritual.
Exactly right. This scene, and so much of these films, really do have an intense spirituality to them. Imo what makes them so powerful and compelling.
"no parents should have to bury their child" it always gets me
Theoden and Boromir are characters that I’ve come to enjoy more and more the older I get. When I was young watching the movies I disliked them both for their stubbornness and perceived weakness for succumbing to evil influences (Boromir and the Ring and Theoden and Grima/Saruman). After experiencing the world I’ve come to understand them more and appreciate their flaws and their struggles to overcome them.
There’s a somber majesty to the score of this scene that just hits my soul. It somehow conveys the weight of Theoden’s deep grief at all he has lost, while also emphasizing the fact that as Gandalf says “There is still hope”.
As powerful as this scene is.. I feel like the main character here is Howard Shore. The theme just emphasizes their emotions with such intensity and accuracy. Best score in film history, and I'm close to meaning that objectively
Honestly, objectively it really is. It is unbelievable how the entire story is captured so well. My jaw still drops to this day.
Honestly I view the trilogy (extended) as lightning in a bottle, everything just came together so well and in such strange ways too (like Viggo going to turn down the role before his son piped up)
Could you imagine if Nicholas cage played Aragorn instead? WEW
Everyone did outstanding from the actors to all the behind the scenes people too.
so glad someone else thinks this..absolute facts mate.
I know I'm 5 years late but completely agreed. The soundtrack completely elevates every scene to perfection.
Shore just gave a gift to humanity with its masterpiece in these films.
RIP Bernard Hill, as I get older the more I love and relate to Thèoden.
RIP Bernard Hill. One of the best performances in this brilliant trilogy filled with great acting.
Came here because I heard he passed away... Thank you Bernard, for these beautiful scenes and your talent, you will be remembered! Watching this scene without crying will now be even tougher...
May you rest in peace🕊
Every single time I see this scene I feel the pain of Theoden and want to cry with him, and I have no kids on my own. That's why Bernad Hill's interpretation is so powerful and emotional. RIP this great actor.
Bernard’s performance is so beautiful here. Theoden is worlds away in this fantastical setting, fancy words and theatrical crying. Yet you feel deeply for him. Like watching a friend cry over their lost.
Rest In Peace, Bernard Hill- an amazing actor who brought this character to life like no one else could and did Tolkien’s work justice
0:44 Yeah... This is the moment where Theoden just gave up having a king's fortitude about losing an heir, and showed that he is a father who lost a son he loved dearly.
I think in hundreds of years we may see this become a Shakespearean-esque lore. It is powerfully poetic and ethereal. Hard not to swell with tears at these sort of scenes.
This scene touched my soul in the darkest days, it kept me going as I didn't want this for my parents.
Came here after hearing of Bernard Hill's death. 'He was strong in life. His spirit will find its way to the halls of his father'
RIP Bernard Hill, you elevated this film series to something beyond "just a movie" with this scene. Very worldly and extraordinary, all at once
My brother passed away at the age of 20, 9 days before Christmas. He suffered from Duchene, a muscle disease, which meant his life expectancy was not high. One of our family's Christmas traditions is to watch all the LOTR movies together. After all these years, this scene is the hardest one to watch without tears, especially for our parents. We cry and we remember during this scene.
R.I.P. Bernard Hill. He was perfect for this role.
You can rest now, Bernard Hill. You go to the Halls of your Fathers, in whose mighty company, you shall not now feel ashamed. Westu hál. Ferðu, Théoden. Ferðu. 🥺
His acting in this scene always makes me cry. Hail to thee, Theoden King
The Lord of the Rings movies are THE greatest movies ever made and will go down in history. The story, the acting, the emotions, everything is absolutely stunning. I'm so glad that I was able to watch these masterpieces
Everything from the acting to the background and music in this scene is perfect
Mr Bernard Hill got to deliver the most emotional line in the whole trilogy
The difference between this and the current TV show is night and day...
RIP Bernard. This scene is some of my favorite acting of all time. Such a short scene but masterfully done.
May you finally rejoin your father, Christopher. You were strong in life, and we thank you
please tell me you're talking about christopher lee
@@dracu9833 Christopher Tolkien
Hardly the greatest scene, and hardly the greatest movie in the trilogy. And yet this is one of the most powerful scenes and strangely my favourite. It's very memorable.
RIP Bernard Hill. From the explosion of "Yosser" in "Boy's From the Black Stuff" I have watched this amazing actor in awe throughout his career. He has brought many great characters to life and given performances that will always be remembered. He will be sadly, greatly missed.
Theodred funeral and this scene, extremely fine acting, lines, camera, sound, everything... this is one in a century filmmaking.
To me, this is the most beautiful scene in the trilogy. The writing, the scenery, music, imagery. Just brilliant filmmaking.
More and more I appreciate moments like these in the trilogy. I also like how Theoden and Denethor are contrasted as two leaders grieving their sons, with Denethor succumbing to despair while Theoden triumphs over it.