I always read this as deferential and complimentary. Aragorn is openly acknowledging that Legolas and his people possess a skill that he does not, and in doing so he shows that he recognizes and values each team member’s unique, valuable contributions to the Quest. And in a situation where all of the free peoples of Middle Earth are in peril and must work together using their individual qualities and powers to save themselves, it seems even more appropriate.
It’s a sign of respect, not of condescension or division or whatever else it is that people are somehow reading into this scene.
Edit: In the books it’s better-put (as is usually the case), but the effect feels similar:
"‘Riders!’ cried Aragorn springing to his feet. ‘Many riders on swift steeds are coming towards us!’ ‘Yes,’ Said Legolas, ‘There are one hundred and five. Yellow is their hair and bright are their spears. Their leader is very tall.’
Aragorn smiled. ‘Keen are the eyes of elves’ he said."
I always read this as deferential and complimentary. Aragorn is openly acknowledging that Legolas and his people possess a skill that he does not, and in doing so he shows that he recognizes and values each team member’s unique, valuable contributions to the Quest. And in a situation where all of the free peoples of Middle Earth are in peril and must work together using their individual qualities and powers to save themselves, it seems even more appropriate.
It’s a sign of respect, not of condescension or division or whatever else it is that people are somehow reading into this scene.
Edit: In the books it’s better-put (as is usually the case), but the effect feels similar:
"‘Riders!’ cried Aragorn springing to his feet. ‘Many riders on swift steeds are coming towards us!’ ‘Yes,’ Said Legolas, ‘There are one hundred and five. Yellow is their hair and bright are their spears. Their leader is very tall.’
Aragorn smiled. ‘Keen are the eyes of elves’ he said."