FLM.RED / After the credits
The king returns, but the journey leaves a mark
The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King: recap, ending and discussion. Major spoilers.
Open the recap & discussion — spoilers
As Gondor faces Sauron, Frodo and Sam carry the Ring toward Mount Doom. Their victory demands courage from very different kinds of heroes.
The beginning
Gandalf and Pippin reach Minas Tirith as Sauron prepares to attack Gondor. Aragorn must accept his claim and seek allies among the dead.
The conflict
Gollum turns Frodo against Sam. Shelob attacks Frodo, but Sam returns, rescues him from the orcs and continues the journey beside him.
The turning point
At Pelennor Fields, Éowyn and Merry defeat the Witch-king. Aragorn arrives with the army of the dead and helps save the city.
A choice
Aragorn leads a diversion at the Black Gate so Frodo and Sam can reach Mount Doom. Frodo claims the Ring, but Gollum seizes it and falls into the fire, destroying it and Sauron’s power.
The ending
Aragorn is crowned and reunites with Arwen; the hobbits return home. Frodo cannot fully heal from his wounds and sails west with Bilbo, Gandalf and the elves, leaving Sam to continue his life in the Shire.
Questions after watching
- Why does Sam return after Frodo sends him away?
- What does Gollum’s fall say about mercy and the Ring?
- Why can Frodo leave even after the war is won?
A closer look
As Gondor faces Sauron, Frodo and Sam carry the Ring toward Mount Doom. Their victory demands courage from very different kinds of heroes.
Keep the conversation going
What happens at the end?
Aragorn is crowned and reunites with Arwen; the hobbits return home. Frodo cannot fully heal from his wounds and sails west with Bilbo, Gandalf and the elves, leaving Sam to continue his life in the Shire.
