Saruman's Role in The Lord of the Rings: Understanding the Film vs. the Book

The character of Saruman in J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings and its film adaptation is a complex and multifaceted one. Often overshadowed by the main antagonists Sauron and Gollum, Saruman is a pivotal figure in the story, embodying themes of betrayal, ambition, and moral decay. This essay delves into why Saruman's role in the film adaptation feels superfluous and how it compares to his significant presence in the original novel.

The Transformation of Saruman in The Lord of the Rings: Film vs. Book

One of the most stark differences between the book and the film adaptation is the diminished role of Saruman. In the novel, Saruman is a central figure, the head of Orthanc and the Secret Order of the White Wizard, who ultimately sets in motion the events leading up to the destruction of the One Ring. However, in the film, Saruman is a secondary character, often portrayed merely as a sidekick to the main villain, Gollum. This transformation leaves the audience with a shallower understanding of his influence and motivations.

Film Adaptation's Depiction of Saruman

In the film, Saruman is not the primary villain but a supporting character whose actions contribute to the plot in a limited manner. The Uruk-hai, the war machines of Mordor, are depicted as purely Mordor's, with no mention of Saruman's involvement. Furthermore, the film muddles the concept of the "Two Towers," confusing viewers by making Orthanc and Barad-dur synonymous rather than representing two different locations. The book clarifies that the "Two Towers" refer to Isengard in Book III and Minas Morgul in Book IV. This conflation simplifies the narrative but loses the depth and complexity of the original.

Why the Book's Saruman is More Enthralling

According to the book, Saruman is the true villain of the story. As a former Maia corrupted by power and ambition, he represents a betrayal of the trust and values of the Elves and the Free Peoples of Middle-earth. Saruman's ultimate goal is the domination of Middle-earth, not the destruction of the Ring. This ambition stems from his belief that he can rule a united human force, a twisted version of leadership. Moreover, his treachery is not a new development; his defection to Sauron is his betrayal of the Balrog of Moria and his failed attempts to keep Sauron at bay while secretly seeking the Ring for himself.

Saruman's character development is pivotal in understanding the dynamics of power in Middle-earth. Had the film been faithful to the book, it would have highlighted Saruman's pivotal role, providing a deeper insight into his tragic downfall and the corruption that led to his demise. Instead, the film's portrayal equates him to mere sidekick Count Depu, a character who experiences a comedic and contrived end.

Key Holocaust Scenes and Their Omissions in the Film

The film adaptation also omits crucial scenes that highlight Saruman's true nature and actions. In the extended version, there is a poignant scene where Gandalf confronts Saruman, breaking his staff in a moment of moral clarity and triumph. This scene was cut from the theatrical release, likely due to the director's decision to streamline the narrative and focus on the primary conflict between the protagonists and Gollum. The theatrical version instead depicts Saruman's death by the hands of Grima Wormtongue, who stabs Saruman multiple times as he falls from Orthanc. This revised sequence changes the temporal and thematic impact of Saruman's demise, diminishing the gravity of his actions and the moral choices that led to his fall.

Conclusion and Future of Saruman

The film adaptation of The Lord of the Rings often misses the mark when it comes to fully capturing the depth and complexity of Saruman's character. While the book presents a richer, more nuanced portrayal, the film's portrayal is limited, reducing Saruman to a secondary figure. However, the extended edition and future discussions can serve to rectify this oversight. For Christopher Lee, the actor who played Saruman, a true depiction of the character's tragic arc would have been a fitting conclusion to his portrayal, as it would have fully justice to Saruman's pivotal role in the story.

For fans and scholars of Tolkien's works, it is essential to acknowledge the significant differences and the importance of Saruman in the original narrative. The book's depiction of Saruman provides a more complete and compelling story, one that is both thrilling and deeply moving. Preserving the integrity of characters like Saruman is crucial for future adaptations, ensuring that the richness and complexity of Tolkien's world are brought to light.