Introduction
Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings are two of the most popular fantasy movies produced over the last few decades. These movies have a number of common themes that include good vs. evil, bravery and friendship. The similarity in themes and genre has caused comparisons to be made between the two movies. This paper will highlight some similarities and differences between Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings.
Similarities
Both movies feature young heroes who at first seem unlikely to succeed in the challenges they have to face. Harry Potter is unaware of his magical heritage when he is introduced as the hero of the story. Only a few wizards believe that he is the chosen one who will defeat the dark lord. In the same way, Frodo Baggins does not know of the many dangers involved with the ring when he begins his journey through middle Earth. This hero does not possess the necessary skills and seems doomed to fail. In both movies, powerful old wizards guide and nurture the young heroes therefore enabling them to reach their true potential and succeed in their missions (Abanes, 2005).
Another similarity is that the major characters in both movies are required to engage in a battle against powerful dark wizards. The powerful dark wizards in both movies have an army of followers while the heroes only have a weak force. However, despite this mismatch in power, the heroes end up achieving victory by conquering the evil wizards (Abanes, 2005). In Harry Potter, Harry and his friends are able to overcome the evil Lord Voldemort. In Lord of the Rings, Frodo Baggins is able to defeat the Dark Lord Sauron and save middle Earth. Both heroes exhibit great personal growth as they move towards fulfilling their missions.
Differences
However, the two movies have some major differences. There fictional worlds in which the two movies are set differ considerably. The Lord of the Rings takes place in a mythical place known as Middle Earth. Abanes (2005) notes that this is a completely invented world that is distinct from our own. On the other hand, Harry potter takes place in our own world with a magical element added to it. Harry Potter does not take place in a different planet or created world. Instead, the fantasy world exists side-by-side with the real world and the two often interact.
Another significant difference between the two movies is in the general perception of magic by the general population. In Harry Potter, only the magic community knows about magic and it is against the rule to use magic in the presence of ordinary humans. Abanes (2005) notes that in Harry Potter, “magic is a secret and hidden reality acknowledged openly only among the magical elite” (p.281). The majority of people in the world believe there is no such thing as magic. Contrary to this, in Lord or the Rings, the entire population openly acknowledges magic. The wizards practice their magic openly and the society members praise them for their abilities.
Conclusion
From these discussions, it is clear that the two movies have some major similarities and differences. Even so, both movies are hugely enjoyable and they have attracted millions of viewers who enjoy the memorable fantasy stories.
Reference
Abanes, R. (2005). Harry Potter, Narnia, and The Lord of the Rings. New York: Harvest House Publishers.