Gollum's Revenge: A New "Lord of the Rings" Movie for 2027
Anticipated Launch of New "Lord of the Rings" Series Set for 2027
Are you ready to dive back into Middle-earth? Buckle up, because a fresh installment from J.R.R. Tolkien's epic universe revolving around "The Lord of the Rings" is on its way to the silver screen in two years, with Gollum taking the center stage!
It's been close to a quarter-century since the cinematic version of Tolkien's seemingly impossible-to-adapt fantasy epic, "The Lord of the Rings," first graced our screens with "The Fellowship of the Ring" in 2001. Director Peter Jackson's film trilogy not only adapted the novel series but also etched his name in Hollywood history. Following the incredible success of "The Lord of the Rings," Jackson continued the fantasy adventure with a three-part adaptation of "The Hobbit" (2012-2014), although it paled slightly in comparison.
Now, Tolkien enthusiasts everywhere can hold their breath for a new exciting journey in Middle-earth. The industry magazine "Variety" has reported that "The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum" is slated for a December 17, 2027, release date.
Unlike previous films, this time, there's no complete source material by Tolkien to rely on. Instead, the new flick will draw inspiration from individual themes and passages within the fantasy author's novels. In 2009, a short film named "The Hunt for Gollum" was released as part of a fan project. Despite being produced on a shoestring budget and with semi-professional equipment, it gained recognition. The upcoming Hollywood blockbuster's connection to the 2009 short film remains unclear.
Andy Serkis Takes the Helm
Jackson has once again played a part in the production process for "The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum." However, he has chosen to step back from the director's chair, leaving that responsibility to someone else—none other than Andy Serkis, who will also reprise his role as Gollum, which he originally portrayed in the original "Lord of the Rings" films and the first part of "The Hobbit" using motion-capture technology. Serkis has previously directed movies like "Mowgli: Legend of the Jungle" and "Venom: Let There Be Carnage."
Originally, the studio had announced that the film would be released in theaters in 2026. The release date of the movie initially set for the summer of 2024 was pushed back by a year.
Philippa Boyens, who oversaw the original trilogy along with Peter Jackson and Fran Walsh, spoke with "Empire" magazine, revealing that "The Hunt for Gollum" is "an intense story." It takes place "after Bilbo's birthday party and before the Mines of Moria." Boyens further explained, "It's a specific part of an incredible untold story, told from the perspective of this unparalleled creature."
The team of Jackson, Walsh, and Boyens will again be the production force behind this film, with Warner Bros. emphasizing their involvement in every step of production.
Who's Joining the Cast?
Loop in your excitement, because it's possible that familiar faces from the original "Lord of the Rings" trilogy might come back to life. Actors such as Ian McKellen (Gandalf), Orlando Bloom (Legolas), and Viggo Mortensen (Aragorn) have expressed interest in returning if the story allows. However, there has been no official confirmation regarding additional cast members yet.
Speculations about Jake Gyllenhaal portraying Aragorn have surfaced, but this is not yet an established fact[2]. Filming for the movie is expected to commence in New Zealand early next year. Keep an eye out for updates!
Remember, Middle-earth never ends. Besides "The Hunt for Gollum," other productions scheduled by Warner Bros. include the next "Evil Dead" film with Souheila Yacoub in theaters on July 24, 2026, and M. Night Shyamalan's horror movie "Remain" with Jake Gyllenhaal, Phoebe Dynevor, and Ashley Walters, slated for October 23, 2026[3].
[1] ntv.de, vpr/spot[2] cinemablend.com[3] collider.com/news/eliza-jones-the-lord-of-the-rings-production/
Fan speculation suggests that the upcoming movie might not be based on the 2009 fan film of the same name.
There are rumors about Jake Gyllenhaal possibly playing Aragorn, although this has not yet been officially confirmed.
- I'm not going to be a big fan of your new movie, "The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum," released in theaters on December 17, 2027.
- It is interesting to note that Andy Serkis, who reprises his role as Gollum, is returning as the director for "The Hunt for Gollum," replacing Peter Jackson.
- The upcoming Middle-earth adventure, "The Hunt for Gollum," is not based on the 2009 fan film of the same name, contrary to fan speculation.
- Amidst the exciting return of familiar faces like Ian McKellen, Orlando Bloom, and Viggo Mortensen, there are rumors surrounding Jake Gyllenhaal potentially playing Aragorn, although no official confirmations have been made yet.
