Directed by Peter Jackson, The Two Towers continues the adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien's work with an extended version available on HBO Max on December 1, 2025, and a theatrical version available on Prime Video on December 15, 2025. Released in 2002, this second installment explores the fragmentation of the Fellowship and the military escalation led by Saruman and Sauron.
The film follows three main storylines: Frodo and Sam guided by Gollum to Mordor, Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli seeking to defend Rohan, and Merry and Pippin confronted by Fangorn Forest and the Ents. These parallel narratives construct a broader vision of Middle-earth in a time of crisis.
The extended version expands on several strategic sequences, reinforces Gollum's presence, and delves deeper into the political and military issues surrounding Rohan. The Battle of Helm's Deep remains one of the highlights of this installment.
Shot in parallel with the other installments, the film draws on the technical innovations of Weta Digital. The work on Gollum via motion capture and Andy Serkis' performance is a highlight of this production. The screenplay by Peter Jackson, Fran Walsh, and Philippa Boyens adapts the main events of the novel, articulating them around battle scenes.
This second installment is for fans of epic sagas, strategic narratives, and complex worlds, similar to the narrative approach of Game of Thrones. The extended version highlights additional scenes that are essential to understanding the alliances and the escalation of the conflict.
The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers
Film | 2002
On HBO Max (extended version) December 1, 2025
On Prime Video (theatrical version) December 15, 2025
Adventure | Running time: 3 hours 43 minutes
Directed by Peter Jackson | Starring Elijah Wood, Sean Astin, Viggo Mortensen
Original title: The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers
Nationality: New Zealand / United States
The extended version enriches the viewing experience of this second act, with its multiple stakes, between war, alliances, and the advance towards Mordor.
To go further, check out HBO Max's new releases for December, Prime Video's new releases for December, this month's streaming releases, and What to watch today on streaming.
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