Drama,War,History,Romance
United States of America
Tolkien, directed by Dome Karukoski, is a biographical drama film which takes an intimate look at the early life of the author of beloved works such as The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. The film stars Nicholas Hoult as J.R.R. Tolkien, along with Lily Collins, Colm Meaney, and Derek Jacobi in prominent supporting roles.
The story begins with Tolkien's childhood, tracing his journey from an imaginative boy living in a small town to a young man studying at Oxford University. While attending King Edward's School in Birmingham, Tolkien forms a close friendship with three other boys - Robert Gilson, Christopher Wiseman, and Geoffrey Bache Smith - who would become the basis for the characters in his later novels. They create a secret society known as the Tea Club and Barrovian Society (TCBS) where they gather regularly to discuss literature, share their writing, and inspire each other toward greatness.
As the years pass, the young men grow closer and Tolkien falls in love with fellow orphan and fellow writer, Edith Bratt (Collins). However, their budding romance is complicated by Tolkien's guardians, who disapprove of their relationship as Edith is not a Catholic, and by the looming threat of World War I.
The conflict ultimately pulls the boys apart as the members of the TCBS enlist to fight, with Tolkien stationed in France. As the horrors of war take their toll and they suffer unimaginable loss, Tolkien draws on his experiences to create his epic stories of Middle Earth.
The film is visually rich, with stunning recreations of the landscapes and cities that influenced Tolkien's beloved stories. It provides an insight into the development of the author's creative process and the real-life experiences that inspired his work. Additionally, Tolkien highlights the importance of friendship, love, and imagination in the life of one of the greatest writers of the 20th century.
