Based on Recognition:
* Elijah Wood as Frodo Baggins is arguably the most recognizable face from the franchise, as the story heavily revolves around his journey.
* Viggo Mortensen as Aragorn is another highly recognized figure, embodying the iconic "King in Exile" role.
Based on Character Importance:
* Frodo Baggins is undoubtedly the central protagonist, carrying the One Ring and bearing the brunt of its corruption.
* Aragorn serves as a vital leader and symbol of hope, guiding the Fellowship and eventually taking his rightful place as king.
* Gandalf the Grey/White acts as the wise and powerful mentor, guiding and supporting the Fellowship throughout their journey.
Based on Critical Acclaim:
* Ian McKellen as Gandalf is highly praised for his portrayal of the wise wizard, earning him critical acclaim and numerous accolades.
* Viggo Mortensen also received praise for his nuanced performance as Aragorn, particularly for his dedication to the role and physicality.
Ultimately, the "star" of The Lord of the Rings can be interpreted in various ways. It's a complex and rich story with numerous characters contributing to its success.