One returnee for the upcoming makes it clear the prequel will be linked to Peter Jackson's classic fantasy trilogy. The success of Peter Jackson's original is still being felt in the fantasy genre. There was a sharp uptick in fantasy blockbusters and TV shows in the aftermath of their success, and while the subsequent trilogy may have proved disappointing to many, there will always be a lot of love for what Jackson and his team achieved with the franchise.

This is what makes the upcoming so intriguing. This animated adventure is due for release at the end of 2024 and features a cast that includes

Brian Cox and Gaia Wise. takes place in the kingdom of Rohan, where Cox's King Helm Hammerhand must defend his people against an attack by the Dunlendings, and take refuge in the stronghold of Hornburg. Lovers of J.R.R. Tolkien's books will know that Hornberg was later renamed "Helm's Deep" in honor of Hammerhand.

Miranda Otto's Éowyn Will Narrate War Of The Rohirrim

Another exciting thing about is its canon links to Jackson's films. is set around 260 years the events of

and shines a light on a particularly dark chapter in Rohan's history. Viewers shouldn't expect to see the likes of Gandalf (Ian McKellen) or Viggo Mortensen's Aragorn, though of Miranda Otto's Éowyn, who acts as the anime movie's narrator.

Éowyn's brother Éomer was played by Karl Urban (The Boys) in the second and third parts of The Lord of the Rings trilogy.

Presumably, Éowyn won't appear onscreen, but having her narrate the tale makes sense. It also provides an organic link to trilogy, while still giving the stage to a new cast of characters. The story will ultimately focus on Helm and his daughter Hera (Wise), but Éowyn framing the battle for viewers is a nice touch

.

Éowyn's Lord Of The Rings Return Confirms A Break From Another Big Adaptation

The Tolkien estate was vocally unhappy with Jackson's films - feeling they dumbed down the source material - and with Amazon's , they set out to create a more "" adaptation. Hence, is in a separate continuity from Jackson's . With Éowyn's return in , Warner Bros is making it clear the prequel is tied into franchise spearheaded by Jackson.

The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies are all available to stream on Max.

It should noted Peter Jackson himself isn't involved with , though his creative partner Phillippa Boyens - who co-wrote the and trilogies - acted as a consultant. Jackson also had no participation in , despite being initially contacted by Amazon over it; this is likely due to the aforementioned desire by the Tolkien estate to keep the show and films apart.