Markella Kavenagh, who brings the adventurous Elanor ‘Nori’ Brandyfoot to life in The Rings of Power, recently opened up to Gent’s Post about the complexities and joys of playing such a spirited character. With Season 2 on the horizon, fans can expect more from the adventurous character. Reflecting on her initial reaction to landing the role, Markella described it as a surreal experience. “When I first found out, I couldn’t believe it,” she recalled, still amazed at the opportunity to join the expansive world of Middle-earth. “I was very jet-lagged and very excited. It was so surreal, and I’ll never forget that moment.” From the start, Markella was enthusiastic about diving into Tolkien’s world, eager to explore Nori’s unique blend of curiosity and courage.
See also: A retro-rich comedy with star-studded antics: Palm Royale
Playing Nori and the challenges that come with it
As the conversation continued, Markella delved into the challenges of portraying Nori, particularly the character’s impulsive nature, which often leads others into dangerous situations. “Sometimes it’s challenging when you’re like, ‘Oh, stop acting solely on impulse,’” she admitted, explaining how Nori’s desire for adventure sometimes conflicts with the need for caution. This internal struggle adds a layer of complexity to Nori, making her a fun yet challenging character to play. Despite these challenges, Markella finds joy in Nori’s adventurous spirit, noting that this aspect of her character is what makes her so endearing and dynamic.
ADVERTISEMENT  |
One of the most exciting aspects of playing Nori in Season 2, according to Markella, was seeing how her character interacts with beings outside of her usual circle. “This particular season, she interacts with beings outside of the trio, which was amazing,” Markella shared. This expansion of Nori’s world not only broadens her experiences but also pushes her to navigate completely new landscapes. “They’re no longer able to hide beneath the forestry,” Markella explained, highlighting how Nori and her companions are now exposed to greater dangers and opportunities. This exposure forces Nori to grow, both in her understanding of the world and in her personal development, making this season particularly transformative for her character.
Tolkien’s world
Markella also touched on the pressures of staying true to Tolkien’s world while bringing her own interpretation to Nori. Balancing these expectations with the need to create an authentic portrayal was a delicate act. “It’s about making sure there’s respect for Tolkien’s world while also exploring new backstories and arcs,” she explained. This creative freedom allowed Markella to delve deeper into Nori’s character, exploring her growth and how she evolves from the experiences of Season 1. “She’s not as naive as she was in Season 1,” Markella observed, noting that Nori’s new perspective is shaped by the challenges she faces.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Nori’s journey in Season 2 is the moral dilemma she encounters later in the season. Without giving away spoilers, Markella hinted at a significant decision Nori must make, which has far-reaching consequences. “She has a decision to make, and I think she makes the right one,” she teased, leaving fans eager to see how this choice will impact Nori’s character arc. This moral conflict adds depth to Nori, showcasing her growth from a carefree adventurer to someone who must weigh her actions carefully.
ADVERTISEMENT |
Markella made it a point to note, “I would hope that they [fans] can relate to the idea of making difficult decisions for the greater good,” she said. Markella emphasized that these decisions often come at a great personal cost, but ultimately lead to growth and better outcomes. Her portrayal of Nori, rooted in these universal themes, promises to resonate with viewers, highlighting the timeless appeal of Tolkien’s characters and the enduring relevance of their stories.
