Upcoming Lord of the Rings series set for release in 2027
Get ready, Tolkien fanatics! Dive back into the enchanting world of Middle-earth as a new installment of J.R.R. Tolkien’s mythical universe comes to life on the silver screen in 2027. This time, the shadowy figure of Gollum steps into the limelight.
Quite a few years have passed since "The Fellowship of the Ring" kickstarted the cinematic sensation that was the "Lord of the Rings" trilogy in 2001. With acclaimed director Peter Jackson’s film trilogy adaptation of Tolkien’s novel, Hollywood history was undeniably rewritten. Although "The Hobbit's" three-part film adaptation wasn’t quite as captivating, it certainly didn’t disappoint.
Now, Middle-earth enthusiasts, anticipate another adventurous venture! As confirmed by industry mag “Variety”, Warner Bros. has unveiled that “The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum” is slated to hit theaters on December 17, 2027.
Unlike previous films in the series, this time there's no complete source material from Tolkien to follow. Instead, the movie will draw upon individual motifs and passages from Tolkien's novels, making it an intriguing prospect for fans. In 2009, a short film titled "The Hunt for Gollum" surfaced as part of a fan project. Despite its low budget and limited production value, it garnered some attention. We’re still unsure to what extent the upcoming Hollywood blockbuster will stem from this fan project.
Andy Serkis in the Director's Chair
J.R.R. Tolkien’s iconic world wouldn’t be the same without Peter Jackson, but this time, someone else will be steering the ship. Enter Andy Serkis, who will take over directing duties and reprise his role as the infamous Gollum. Fans may recognize Serkis’ directing work from "Mowgli: Legend of the Jungle" and "Venom: Let There Be Carnage."
Initially, the studio had set the film's release date for 2026. However, after the film’s announcement in the summer of 2024, its start date has been pushed back by a year.
Philippa Boyens, who collaborated with Peter Jackson and Fran Walsh on the original trilogy, hinted to "Empire" magazine that "The Hunt for Gollum" boasts an intense story. Set after Bilbo Baggins’ birthday party and before the mines of Moria, the film focuses on the riveting, untold tale of an extraordinary creature.
Jackson, Walsh, and Boyens will reunite again as the production team for the film. Warner Bros. emphasized the trio's involvement at each stage of the project.
Familiar Faces Return?
Rumor has it that we may see some beloved faces from the original “Lord of the Rings” trilogy make a return. Stars like Ian McKellen (Gandalf), Orlando Bloom (Legolas), and Viggo Mortensen (Aragorn) have all expressed interest in coming back if the plot allows it. However, no official updates on additional cast members have been announced.
Source: ntv.de, vpr/spot
Meaningful Connections and must-know facts
- The 2009 fan film, "The Hunt for Gollum," explored the search for Gollum by Aragorn as described in Tolkien’s "The Lord of the Rings."
- Warner Bros’ adaptation of “The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum” may have some connection to the 2009 fan project, but the extent of this is currently unclear.
- In 2027, fans can look forward to a new adventure in Middle-earth, as "The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum" is set to premiere, two years from now.
I'm not going to be a big fan of your new movie, given my high expectations from the "Lord of the Rings" series.Despite Tolkien's absence, the cinematic approach of "The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum" promises an intriguing depiction of the shadowy figure Gollum.Unlike previous films in the series, this movie will draw upon individual motifs and passages from Tolkien's novels, rather than following a complete source material.Andy Serkis, known for his role as Gollum in the original trilogy, will now direct and reprise his iconic role in the upcoming film.
