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The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum

2026-06-11T07:02:27Z

Chen Geller:

{{Disambig-two|the 2027 film adaptation|2009 fan film|[[The Hunt for Gollum]]}}
{{film infobox
|image = The Lord of the Rings - The Hunt for Gollum Logo.png
|caption =
|name = The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum
|director = [[Andy Serkis]]
|producer = [[Peter Jackson]] [[Fran Walsh]] [[Philippa Boyens]] [[Zane Weiner]]
|writer = [[Fran Walsh]] [[Philippa Boyens]] Phoebe Gittins Arty Papageorgiou
|narrator =
|starring = [[Andy Serkis]] [[Ian McKellen]] [[Kate Winslet]] [[Jamie Dornan]] [[Leo Woodall]]
|music =
|cinematography =
|editing =
|studio = WingNut films Imaginarium [[New Line Cinema]]<ref name=Gollum></ref>
|distributor = [[Warner Bros.|Warner Bros. Pictures]]<ref name=Gollum></ref>
|released = 17 December [[2027]]<ref name="TheDirect2027Release"/>
|runtime =
|country = [[New Zealand]]<ref name=Gollum></ref>
|language = English
|budget =
|website =
|imdb_id=32328070
|basedon=[[The Lord of the Rings]]
|production design=[[Dan Hennah]] (Production designer)}}
'''''The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum''''' is the title (originally, working title<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/09/curtis-brown-jrr-tolkien-literary-estate-deal-1236526748/|articlename=Curtis Brown To Rep J.R.R. Tolkien’s Literary Estate|author=Jesse Whittock|dated=10 September 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref>) of a forthcoming film adaptation currently in pre-production and set for a [[2027]] release, the first of a planned series of Tolkien films to be produced by [[New Line Cinema]], a division of [[Warner Bros.|Warner Brothers]].<ref name=":4">{{webcite|author=Matt Donnelly|articleurl=https://variety.com/2023/film/news/lord-of-the-rings-new-movies-warner-bros-1235533672/|articlename=New ‘Lord of the Rings’ Movies Set at Warner Bros. |dated=23 February 2023|website=[https://variety.com/ Variety]|accessed=10 June 2024}}</ref>

The film will cover [[Gollum]]'s travels after losing [[The One Ring|the Ring]] to [[Bilbo Baggins]] (as depicted in [[The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey|''An Unexpected Journey'']]), through [[Gandalf]] setting out to track the creature after [[Bilbo's Farewell Party]] (as depicted in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]'') and down to [[Gollum]] intercepting [[Fellowship of the Ring|the Fellowship]] in [[Moria|Moria.]]

It will be directed by and star [[Andy Serkis]], who played [[Gollum]] in [[Peter Jackson]]'s previous films, as well as directing second unit. [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] will produce with his co-writing team of [[Fran Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens]], who will also write the screenplay with ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]]'' scribes Phoebe Gittins and Arty Papageorgiou.

The subject of this film is a longstanding fascination of [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s who developed it quite intensly in 2008 with [[Guillermo del Toro]]. The film is in preproduction with several cast and crew members from previous films already attached, including actor [[Elijah Wood]], concept artists [[John Howe]] and [[Alan Lee]] and others.

==Early Development==
Although the film was only announced in 2023, it had a long gestation period with [[Peter Jackson]], who considered filming this subject since circa 1997, and at least as late as July 2015. During 2008, in particular, the film was in development with a plot synopsis, a tentative budget and an initial cast and crew attached, and drew the attention of further talent like [[Viggo Mortensen]], as well as the press. Elements of this proposed "bridge film" were eventually put into ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' but mostly axed during the early months of the shoot. Jackson also negotiated in 2018 about producing a show for [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon Prime]] about the related subject of the travels of young [[Aragorn]], but ended up producing ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]]'' with [[New Line Cinema]] instead.

===During ''The'' ''Lord of the Rings''===
[[Peter Jackson]] read [[The Lord of the Rings|''The Lord of the Rings'']] circa 1979, and he claims that he "always loved the concept that when [[Gandalf]] leaves [[Bag End]] he goes and joins up with [[Aragorn]] and the two of them hunt [[Gollum]] down."<ref name=":26">Peter Jackson, Philippa Boyens, Fran Walsh, "Director's Commentary", Peter Jackson, ''The Lord of the Rings trilogy'' (New Line Cinema: 2004).</ref> This piece of backstory was also expanded upon in the [[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)|radio serial]], which [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] was very familiar with. He and [[Fran Walsh]] first pitched a trilogy based on [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']] and ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'' around November 1995.<ref>Brian Sibley, Peter Jackson: A Filmmaker's Journey (London: HarperCollins, 2006), pp. 312 ff.</ref><ref>J. W Braun, ''The lord of the films : the unofficial guide to Tolkien's Middle-Earth on the big screen'' (Toronto: ECW Press, 2009), pp. 20, 63, 68-69, 195.</ref><ref>Michael Pellerin, "Completing Middle-earth," Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit'' (Warner Brothers: 2015).</ref> They may well have had the [[Gollum]] episode in mind at some time between that point and early 1997. So long as they intended to start with ''The Hobbit'' (up to early 1996), they will have been mindful of the need to connect the two novels, and while their treatment (mid 1997) doesn't seem to cover the [[Gollum]] episode, it already dramatizes the remainder of the backstory that's given in "[[The Shadow of the Past]]", "[[The Council of Elrond]]" and [[appendix B]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1j06oqh/so_what_is_the_hunt_for_gollum_really_based_on/|articlename=So, what is The Hunt for Gollum REALLY based on?|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=28 February 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> When the project expanded (September 1998) to three films, Jackson tried to finally incorporate this storyline - some eight pages' worth - but realized that he "just couldn't put [the Hunt for [[Gollum]]] into the movie".<ref name=":26" />

[[Peter Jackson|Peter]] nevertheless publicly expressed a desire to film "[[Gandalf]] and [[Aragorn]] hunting [[Gollum]], and his capture by [[Orcs]]"<ref name=":25">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://members.tripod.com/peter_jackson_online/lotr/articles/20_questions2.htm|articlename=20 QUESTIONS WITH PETER JACKSON- PART 2|author=Harry Knowles|dated=31 December 1998|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> At the time, the idea was to shoot this as additional material and add it into the extended edition: although by early 2001 he would have realized this could not be accomodated in the pickups to ''The Fellowship of the Ring'', in 2003 he would still half-jokingly talk about shooting more pickups to "fatten these films out without technically going beyond ‘[[The Lord of the Rings]]’ as the licensed property." Elsewhere in the commentary, he jokes about "spinoff" entries.<ref name=":26" /> Other ideas for this treatment included [[Tom Bombadil]]<ref name=":25" /> and the [[Lothlórien|attack on Lorien]], with the entire expansion estimated at around three hours' worth.<ref name=":26" />

By the end of 2001, The success of ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]'' emboldened [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]<ref>Kristin Thompson, T''he Frodo Franchise: The Lord of the Rings and Modern Hollywoo''d (Berkeley: University of California Press, 2007), pp. 51, 327, 338.</ref> to pursue more films (he was also in discussions to "rekindle" ''King Kong'' at the time) and he had later discussed filming a "''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|Lord of the Rings]]'' prequel", along with ''[[The Hobbit]]'', with composer [[Howard Shore]] and executive producer [[Mark Ordesky]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2006/11/19/24053-peter-jackson-and-fran-walsh-talk-the-hobbit-2/|articlename=Peter Jackson and Fran Walsh Talk THE HOBBIT|author=Xoanon|dated=19 November 2006|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref><ref name=":35">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.rhino.com/article/interview-howard-shore-the-lord-of-the-rings|articlename=INTERVIEW: Howard Shore (“The Lord of the Rings”)|author=Will Harris|dated=27 April 2018|website=Rhino}}</ref> At a later premiere, [[New Line Cinema|New Line]]'s president Robert Shaye told [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s agent [[Ken Kamins]] that they "would want to have a conversation" about the two films.<ref name=":30" /> The idea at the time was to incorporate [[Arwen]] as a female character<ref name=":10">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20230327113046/https://ew.com/article/2003/12/06/peter-jackson-mulls-rings-prequel/|articlename=Peter Jackson mulls ''Rings'' prequel|author=Gary Susman|dated=6 December 2003|website=EW}}</ref> and produce both films back-to-back "in some short order"<ref name=":30">Ian Nathan, ''Anything You Can Imagine: Peter Jackson and the Making of Middle-earth'' (London: HarperCollins, 2019), pp. 827, 835.</ref> after ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'', in order to "complete the set of films.”<ref name=":10" /> Peter was referring to these two films, when talking in the behind the scenes documentaries in 2004 about "Maybe there'll be something we can do." Actors [[Andy Serkis]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2003/dec/09/jrrtolkien|articlename=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2003/dec/09/jrrtolkien|author=Anonymous|dated=9 Dec 2003|website=The Guardian}}</ref> [[Ian McKellen]], producer Barrie Osborne<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2002/12/16/25965-ttt-benefit-with-barrie-osborne-2/|articlename=TTT Benefit with Barrie Osborne
by|author=xoanon|dated=16 December 2002|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> and concept artist Paul Lasaine all expressed interest at the time.

Also around this time, [[Andy Serkis]] goes into some detail in his book ''[[Gollum: How We Made Movie Magic|Gollum: Howe We Made Movie Magic]]'' into how he imagined Smeagol's personality and upbringing. This conception of Smeagol would become imperative for the film all those years later: <blockquote>I was interested in trying to define Gollum's class and status in the community, and had thought that, coming from the wealthiest and largest Stoor family, he would probably never have really worked a day in his life. He probably skipped school and spent time squandering money that he had stolen from his grandmother's purse. It was a matriarchy and his grandmother was the head of his family, so I wondered how we might reflect this. We decided that some sort of neckerchief, maybe made of silk and a little flamboyant, might be a good idea. I liked the idea of carrying through the drug-addict metaphor, implying that he was like a young rich kid who had always had money in his pocket and was able to experiment with whatever took his fancy, like a Middle-earth version of a young playboy or a Victorian dandy.

We also examined the idea of his curious and inquisitive nature. I always saw Sméagol as a loner, not particularly liked, a bit of a Billy-no-friends, and not very good at team sports. He would have been thought of as a bit weird, and he would have secretly dreamed up vengeful scenarios for all the other Stoor hobbits, who completely ignored him. So, to cope with being so introverted and alienated, he became a collector, obsessed with the "roots and beginnings" of things. Objects became more important than people: at least they couldn't hurt him. Physically: I gave him a stoop from constantly looking down. I imagined him to be fairly narcissistic, spending hours fascinating himself by staring at his own reflection in the water while he fished. We decided to display this obsessive behavior through shiny pau shell buttons and little trophies of fish bones tied to his belt, as if he were adorning himself with fetishlike status symbols. Although he was dysfunctional, he was not evil or malicious, just, as the Travis Bickle character says of himself in Taxi Driver, full of "morbid self-attention.<ref>Andrew Serkis, [[Gollum: How We Made Movie Magic|''Gollum: How We Made Movie Magic'']] (London: HarperCollins, 2003), p. 58.</ref> </blockquote>While talking about ''[[The Hobbit]]'' in 16 September 2006, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] said they "have thought about it from time to time" and in fact "spent most of this morning" talking about the films. They talked of how "[[Elrond]], [[Galadriel]] and [[Arwen]] could all feature"<ref name=":11" /> and "[[Gollum]]'s sneaking into [[Mordor]] and [[Aragorn]] protecting [[The Shire]]. That's what we'd do. Love to work with [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] again".<ref name=":11">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/30085|articlename=Part 5: Quint and Peter Jackson talk THE HOBBIT and a potential return to low budget horror!!!|author=Eric Vespe|dated=16 September 2006|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]], hearing this remark in 2012, said it "sounds like a lot of fun".<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2012/03/13/54232-viggo-mortensens-visit-to-boston-part-2-new-video/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen’s visit to Boston – part 2 (new video!)|author=Greendragon|dated=13 March 2012|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref> At the time, [[Peter Jackson|Peter]] had a falling-out with [[New Line Cinema]] who had tipped Sam Raimi to direct both films.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2006/11/22/926-the-new-director-of-the-hobbit-is/|articlename=Sam Raimi to Direct Hobbit Movie??|author=xoanon|dated=22 November 2006|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref>

===During ''The Hobbit''===
Since the rights to [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']] were split with [[MGM|Metro Goldwyn-Mayer]], in March 2007 [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] pitched this to CEO Harry Sloan: he had already heard of it from [[New Line Cinema]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.ign.com/articles/2006/11/14/hobbit-crown-panther-news|articlename=Hobbit, Crown, Panther News|author=Anonymous|dated=15 Nov 2006|website=IGN}}</ref> but Sloan was won over by Jackson's pitch, which was apparently very detailed.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.kristinthompson.net/blog/2008/05/19/the-hobbit-films-pj-and-fw-know-every-scene-every-moment/|articlename=The Hobbit films: PJ and FW know “every scene, every moment”|author=Kristin Thompson|dated=19 May 2008|website=Kristinthompson.net}}</ref> By contrast, Shaye later said [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] "hasn't told us too much about it."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.screendaily.com/new-line-mgm-team-for-two-hobbit-movies-with-peter-jackson/4036350.article|articlename=New Line, MGM team for two Hobbit movies with Peter Jackson|author=Jeremy Kay|dated=18 December 2007|website=Screen Daily}}</ref>

By December, both films were moving forward with a budget of $150 million each: the idea was that [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]], [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] would write and produce and the films will be shot in 2009 for release in 2010 and 2011.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/del-toro-doubles-up-hobbit-103547/|articlename=Del Toro doubles up for ‘Hobbit’|author=Borys Kit|dated=28 January 2008|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> Robert Shaye, Michael Lynne and [[Mark Ordesky]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://variety.com/2008/film/columns/shaye-kept-new-line-afloat-1117982001/|articlename=Shaye kept New Line afloat|author=Anne Thompson|dated=7 March 2008|website=Variety}}</ref> were attached as executive producers until February, when they were replaced by Toby Emmerich (previously head of production since 2001) and Carolyn Blackwood. Actor [[Ian McKellen|Ian Mckellen]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2008/mar/26/lordoftherings.jrrtolkien|articlename=Hard Hobbit to break: McKellen set for return as Gandalf|author=Anonymous|dated=26 March 2008|website=The Guardian}}</ref> assistant Matthew Dravitzky,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://if.com.au/guillermo-wants-old-buddies-to-join-him-on-the-hobbit/|articlename=Guillermo wants old buddies to join him on The Hobbit|author=Anonymous|dated=23 March 2009|website=IF FX}}</ref> composer [[Howard Shore]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/09/28/30045-howard-shore-is-working-on-hobbit-score/|articlename=Howard Shore is Working on Hobbit Score|author=28 September 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/02/24/28408-howard-shore-talks-hobbit-in-switzerland/|articlename=Howard Shore Talks ‘Hobbit’ in Switzerland|author=Calisuri|dated=24 February 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref>, [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]]<ref name=":38">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/10/22/30352-del-toro-interview-part-3-%E2%80%9Ci-love-new-zealand%E2%80%9D/|articlename=Del Toro Interview Part 3: “I Love New Zealand!”|author=Xoanon|dated=22 October 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> and [[Wētā FX|Weta FX]]<ref name=":37" /> were attached to the project. Although [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] hadn't ruled out directing - he later aired the notion of shooting second unit<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20081012042437/http://moviesblog.mtv.com/2008/10/08/guillermo-del-toro-to-fly-solo-on-hobbit-directing-duties-says-no-to-peter-jackson-assist/|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro To Fly Solo On ‘Hobbit’ Directing Duties, Says No To Peter Jackson Assist|author=Shawn Adler|dated=8 October 2008|website=MTV}}</ref><ref name=":17" /> - he soon picked [[Guillermo del Toro]] to direct.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/01/30/28331-torn-exclusive-del-toro-%e2%80%9c99-percent-certain%e2%80%9d-says-nl-insider/|articlename=TORN exclusive: Del Toro “99 percent certain” says NL insider.|author=MrCere|dated=30 January 2008|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref>

Subsequently, actors [[Andy Serkis]],<ref name=":17" /> [[Ian Holm]]<ref name=":15">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080501020820/http://www.mtv.com/movies/news/articles/1586421/story.jhtml|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro Addresses 'Hobbit' Fans' Concerns, Talks Possible Casting|author=Shawn Adler, Josh Horowitz|dated=28 April 2008|website=Premiere.com}}</ref>; concept artists [[Alan Lee]] and [[John Howe]]; prosthetics supervisor [[Gino Acevedo]]<ref name=":37">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/04/25/28747-guillermo-del-toro-chats-with-torn-about-the-hobbit-films/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro Chats with TORN About ‘The Hobbit’ Films!|author=Xoanon|dated=25 April 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> were all attached. They had approached [[Grant Major]] but he declined<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=http://www.artstars.us/grant-major/8/|articlename=Grant Major|author=Tom Lisowski|dated=14 November 2011|website=Art Stars}}</ref> and hopped onboard ''Green Lantern'' with costume designer Ngila Dickson: they were substituted by [[Dan Hennah]]<ref name=":32">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/51948|articlename=An Unexpected Journey: Quint on the set of The Hobbit Part 3 – Beginnings and Endings|author=Eric Vespe|dated=14 November 2011|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> and Kate Hawley.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.whowhatwear.com/living/who-what-wear-podcast-kate-hawley|articlename=How the Frankenstein Costume Designer Brought the Film to Life|author=Madeline Hill|dated=17 November 2025|website=Who What Wear}}</ref> Actors [[Martin Freeman]]<ref>In "The Road Back to Middle-earth", Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit'' (New Line Cinema: 2015), Philippa Boyens recalls proposing Freeman as Bilbo Baggins when she saw him at the 2003 BAFTAs.</ref> and [[Hugo Weaving]];<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.slashfilm.com/504115/guillermo-del-toro-confirms-hugo-weaving-for-the-hobbit-and-much-more/|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro Confirms Hugo Weaving For The Hobbit... And Much More|author=Brendon Connolly|dated=11 June 2009|website=Slash Film}}</ref> as well as [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]]'s regular collaborators (including artists Wayne Barlowe and Francisco Ruiz Velasco<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20081201164150/http://bilbohobbit.com/del-toro-talks-hobbit-in-live-chat/|articlename="Del Toro talks 'Hobbit' in Live Chat"|author=Alex|dated=27 November 2008|website=BilboHobbit.com}}</ref>) were also being sought beginning at this time. [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had first seen [[Lee Pace]] - which he would cast as [[Thranduil]] later - around this time, as well.

"We got really excited," said [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]], "because this second film is not a ‘tag on’, it’s not ‘filler,’ it’s an integral part of telling the story of those 50 years of history lost in the narrative".<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://theplaylist.net/60-year-period-between-hobbi-20080425/|articlename=60-Year Period Between ‘The Hobbit’ & ‘Fellowship’ For Hobbit Sequel Suddenly Gone? Or Not?|author=Rodrigo Perez|dated=25 April 2008|website=The Playlist}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.gamesradar.com/guillermo-del-toro-talks-hobbit-and-more/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro talks Hobbit and more|author=Anonymous|dated=25 April 2008|website=Total Film}}</ref> Although he had a radical new vision for the designs in the first film, <ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080915124607/http://www.premiere.com/features/4642/exclusive-guillermo-del-toro-on-hellboy-ii-page4.html|articlename=Exclusive: Guillermo del Toro on 'Hellboy II'|author=Anonymous|website=Premiere}}</ref> [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] intended to use the second film to affect a gradual change of style towards that of [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]: "We have to recreate a lot of the stuff they did on the [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|trilogy]]," he said: helpfully, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had kept the [[Bag End]] and [[Rivendell]] sets, and they set about rebuilding [[Hobbiton]].<ref name=":32" />

[[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] also rewatched the extended editions with [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]], [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] and intended to watch the making-ofs, dailies "the camera reports... everything," particularly for ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080914124349/http://www.comingsoon.net/news/nycomicconnews.php?id=44254|articlename=EXCL: Del Toro on Hellboy II and The Hobbit|author=Edward Douglas|dated=21 April 2008|website=Coming Soon.net}}</ref> The remastering of ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'' was also begun around this time. This was done because [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] felt that it "has to evolve into the lensing, the color palette, the texture palette, and the feel of the [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|trilogy]]…"<ref name=":13">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/37428|articlename=Quint and Guillermo del Toro chat about HELLBOY II, THE HOBBIT and more!!!|author=Eric Vespe|dated=12 July 2008|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> partially for this purpose, a break was to be scheduled partway through the shoot,<ref name=":31">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080712175117/http://www.ifmagazine.com/feature.asp?article=2879|articlename=GUILLERMO DEL TORO ESCAPES 'LABYRINTH' AND ENDS RIGHT BACK INTO 'HELLBOY'|author=Carl Cortez|dated=9 July 2008|website=iFMagazine}}</ref> which was estimated at over 370 days.<ref name=":31" />

[[Guillermo del Toro|Guillermo]] insisted the second film would add to the series.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wReRe8Si2aU|articlename=Guillermo del Toro: RT's Dinner & the Movies Interview Pt 5|author=OCR|dated=11 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> He said "it’s also expanding and illuminating some of the aspects of the trilogy in a slightly different way, like same characters in a different environment. I find that very attractive."<ref name=":13" /> The idea was that the first film would be a retelling of [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']], including the bulk of the [[Dol Guldur]] storyline, up to [[Smaug]]'s death: the second would wrap-up the remainder of [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']] in its first half, and concern itself with the Hunt for [[Gollum]] and other "bridging" plot threads in its second half.<ref name=":14">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20120831093447/http://moviesblog.mtv.com/2008/10/07/hobbit-films-will-be-one-continuous-journey-promises-guillermo-del-toro/|articlename='Hobbit' Films Will Be One 'Continuous Journey,' Promises Guillermo Del Toro|author=Shawn Adler|dated=7 October 2008|website=MTV}}</ref>

Although [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] predicted the second film would require the most work,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2P0dTo0yNpQ|articlename=THE HOBBIT 1 & 2 MOVIE UPDATE|author=ReelzChannel|dated=7 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> both he<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JVHzVKy_F8w|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro talks about Hobbit Movie|author=Brettmartintv|dated=7 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] showed a particular eagerness towards it, with [[Guillermo del Toro|Guillermo]] calling it a "treasure trove of possibilities."<ref name=":16">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080915084029/http://www.mtv.com/movies/news/articles/1590278/story.jhtml|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro Answers 'Hobbit' Fans' Questions About Returning 'Rings' Cast, Religion And More|author=Shawn Adler|dated=2 July 2008|website=MTV}}</ref> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] was also "really looking forward to developing Film Two. It gives us a freedom that we haven't really had on our [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] journey."<ref name=":17" /> [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] concluded that "the promise of that land is absolutely mind-boggling!"<ref name=":16" />

Referring specifically to [[Gollum]]'s part in the events, [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] said "[[Gollum]] has a rather fascinating arch to go through and his alliance to [[Shelob]] or his period of imprisonment in [[Thranduil]]'s". [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] added that "There's an awful lot of incident that happens during that 60 year gap. At this stage, we're not imagining a film that literally covers 60 years, like a bio-pic or documentary. We would figure out what happens during that 60 years, and choose one short section of time to drop in and dramatise for the screen". Both filmmakers said they agreed that "apart from extreme circumstances, we would never recast a character who appeared in the [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|LOTR trilogy]]".<ref name=":17">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080730161821/http://www.wetanz.com/holics/index.php?itemid=695&catid=2|articlename=An Unexpected Party Chat|author=Anonymous|dated=30 July 2008|website=Weta Workshop website}}</ref> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] later remarked that, in some cases, they'd sooner write around a character than recast the part.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/41848|articlename=Comic-Con '09: Peter Jackson talks to Capone about DISTRICT 9, THE HOBBIT, and the state of the film industry!!!|author="Capone"|dated=28 July 2009|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref>

As of the formulation of these comments in July, [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] said the second film is "too early"<ref name=":13" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5YoRDF12aRc|articlename=GDT the Hobbit 1|author=Garfeimao TheOneRing|dated=14 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> in its development process to know precisely what it might entail, estimating that it would take six months to formulate the storyline for the film.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.ign.com/articles/2008/07/09/exclusive-gdt-on-the-hobbit|articlename=Exclusive: GDT on The Hobbit|author=Eric Moro and Stax|dated=10 July 2008|website=IGN}}</ref> By September, however, [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] claimed they "found what reverberated."<ref name=":14" /> [[Guillermo del Toro|Guillermo]] had expressed reservations about the term "bridge film" from the outset, but by now he and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] disabused of the term completely, having come to see the films as five undifferentiated parts of a greater whole.

Although they apparently made an outline,<ref name=":15" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/10/16/30296-guillermo-del-toro-i%e2%80%99m-so-voracious-about-the-hobbit/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro: “I’m so voracious about The Hobbit!”|author=Xoanon|dated=16 October 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> it seems the film went no further than this. Up until this point, del Toro had been video-conferencing with Jackson and the other collaborators, meeting in person every three weeks.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://variety.com/2008/film/features/guillermo-del-toro-booked-thru-2017-1117991560/|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro booked thru 2017|author=Michael Fleming|dated=3 September, 2008|website=Variety}}</ref> By the time he arrived to concentrate on writing the story treatment in November 2008<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=http://newboards.theonering.net/forum/gforum/perl/gforum.cgi?post=147373;guest=501771554#147373|articlename="Hola"|author=Guillermo del Toro|dated=8 November 2008|website=The One Ring Discussion Boards}}</ref><ref>Alfio Leotta, ''Peter Jackson'' (London: Bloomsbury Publishing, 2015), p. 196.</ref> the contents of the "bridge" film were being gradually edged-out by the contents of ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]],'' to the point that by the time the completed treatment was greenlit in April 2009<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2009/08/03/32999-peter-jackson-speaks/|articlename=Peter Jackson speaks|author=MrCere|dated=3 August 2009|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref> the films could only be described as a two-part adaptation of ''[[The Hobbit]],'' albeit with elements of the bridge film "integrated''."''<ref>Anonymous, "The Hobbit: Gollum, Bilbo, del Toro and Jackson," ''Empire'', April 2009.</ref> Although [[John Howe]] apparently sent [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] some sketches,<ref name=":38" /> and [[Howard Shore]] had musical ideas,<ref>TheOneRing, Hobbit Desolation of Smaug Music Commentary Watch Along, ''YouTube'', 29 July 2020. Esp. 1:12:15. One such musical idea dates back to the composition of ''The Fellowship of the Ring:'' the flat sixth setting of the Hobbits' bassline that's heard when Gandalf glimpses Thorin's map: Howard was saving that as a "portent of an adventure" towards a potential adaptation of The Hobbit, but by the stage of discussing with del Toro he would have realized it would be applicable to the "bridge" film as well.</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/30722|articlename=ScoreKeeper Talks To Howard Shore About THE TWO TOWERS Complete Recordings, THE HOBBIT, And More!!|author=Merrick|dated=16 November 2006|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> no more work was done on the bridge film. At this time, a [[The Hunt for Gollum|fan film on the same subject was released]], followed shortly by [[Born of Hope|a fan film about Aragorn's errantries]]. The latter of this gained a measure of approbation from [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s camp.

Even so, elements of the bridge film clung to the project for a long time: in 2013 [[Philippa Boyens]] said, probably referring to the preproduction period, that "When we started structuring this trilogy we honestly thought about telling some of that. How [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]] becomes the uncle of [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] and take care of him. The story of [[Gollum]]…"<ref name=":9" /> Casting calls had been issued for the roles of [[Primula Brandybuck]] and [[Drogo Baggins]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20201024010428/http://www.movies.spoilertv.com/2010/01/hobbit-casting-call.html#ixzz0btnyJvCI|articlename=Hobbit - Official Casting Call and Plot Details|author=DarkUFO|dated=4 January 2010|website=SpoilerTV}}</ref> with Primula said to be "Prone to letting words and thoughts tumble out of her mouth without pause" while Drogo was "well known around The Shire and is a bit of a ladies man." While Caroline Grace-Cassidy was considered for [[Primula Brandybuck|Primula]], [[Ryan Gage]] was cast in the role of [[Drogo Baggins|Drogo]] and remained attached to it well into shooting, only being recast as [[Alfrid]] around May:<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/cate-blanchett-revisiting-rings-role-57193/|articlename=Cate Blanchett Revisiting ‘Rings’ Role In ‘Hobbit’|author=Gregg Kilday|dated=7 December 2010|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]] would have told of their drowning in the prologue, and they would then participate in scenes with [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]] and [[Master Worrywort|Worrywort]]. Although both parts were described as "leads" Boyens remembers Alfrid, itself a small role, being bigger than Drogo. The role of and [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]], which was originally rumoured to include him "moving to live at [[Bag End]]" were probably rewritten into their present form around that time.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=theonering.net/torwp/2014/03/25/87789-how-would-have-peter-jacksons-the-hobbit-looked-as-a-duology/|articlename=How would have Peter Jackson’s The Hobbit looked as a duology?|author=Demosthenes|dated=25 March 2014|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref>

They had scouted locations for the [[Barrow-downs|Barrow Downs]], possibly with a connection to the aforementioned "[[Aragorn]] protecting the [[The Shire|Shire]]" plot point.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://narniafans.com/2019/08/interview-with-narnia-conceptual-designer-john-howe/|articlename=Interview with Narnia Conceptual Designer John Howe|author=David Sutton|dated=18 August 2019|website=Narnia Fans.com}}</ref> More scenes were planned for the [[Dol Guldur]] story and the [[Orcs]]: they had gone as far as designing a young [[Gothmog (Lieutenant of Morgul)#Gothmog in adaptations|Gothmog]] who would participate in the concluding battle, but didn't utilize him.<ref name=":0" /> Another storyline concerned Itarille (later [[Tauriel]]) and her romance with an Elf lord of [[Rivendell]]: clearly an outgrowth of the original idea of featuring [[Arwen]] in the film. [[Aidan Turner]] seems to have read for the part of this Elf Lord. Indeed, Jackson recalled in 2015 that "We did try to figure out a way to get a cameo, even if it was a cameo, for [[Aragorn]] and actually for [[Arwen]], too: we tried to have [[Liv Tyler]] in the film".<ref name=":0" /> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] remarked in 2013 that they envisioned [[Aragorn]] being "quite young" in the film, but concluded that [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] "could have absolutely played" him at the time. "It was incredibly tempting."<ref name=":39">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TapH7wM8MdI&t=85s|articlename=Philippa Boyens ci parla delle scene tagliate dello Hobbit: la Desolazione di Smaug e di... Aragorn!|author=Badtaste|dated=11 December 2013|website=YouTube}}</ref> It's unclear when the idea finally died out: Philippa claims they "always" wanted to have him in the film, and the scene "invoking [[Aragorn]]" was scripted in early 2013, as a "homage" to their earlier plans.

[[Viggo Mortensen]] had been interested in the project since 2007.<ref name=":43">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/09/18/29885-viggo-mortensen-still-waiting-for-guillermo-del-toro%E2%80%99s-%E2%80%98hobbit%E2%80%99-call/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen Still Waiting For Guillermo Del Toro’s ‘Hobbit’ Call|author=Xoanon|dated=18 September 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref name=":44" /> Although it was reported that [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] had held conversations with him<ref name=":43" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thetimes.com/uk/law/article/hobbit-movies-meet-dire-foe-in-son-of-tolkien-lxnpmnsd2rp|articlename=Hobbit movies meet dire foe in son of Tolkien|author=John Harlow|dated=25 May 2008|website=The Times}}</ref> these appear to have not taken place before 2010. In 2008 [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] said he would "rather do it myself than see another actor finish the job for me,"<ref name=":44" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/12/17/30804-tv-watch-viggo-mortensen-on-night-talk/|articlename=TV Watch: Viggo Mortensen on ‘Night Talk’|author=Xoanon|dated=17 December 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/39305|articlename=Capone has a GOOD chat with Viggo Mortensen about politics, THE ROAD, APPALOOSA, and THE HOBBIT!!!|author=Steve Prokopy|dated=11 May 2009|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> saying "it would be fun."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://ohnotheydidnt.livejournal.com/41460224.html|articlename=Moviefone's Exclusive Viggo Mortensen Interview!|author=Anonymous|dated=25 November 2009|website=Moviefone}}</ref> Other actors from [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'']] have also expressed interest in appearing in the film, including [[Liv Tyler]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2011/03/21/42863-liv-tyler-not-contacted-for-hobbit/|articlename=Liv Tyler Not Contacted For Hobbit|author=DiveTwin|dated=21 March 2011|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> [[Cate Blanchett]],<ref name=":16" /> [[Dominic Monaghan]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.firstshowing.net/2009/dominic-monaghan-ready-to-return-for-the-hobbit-movies/|articlename=Dominic Monaghan Ready to Return for The Hobbit Movies?|author=Brandon Lee Tenney|dated=19 January 2009|website=First Showing}}</ref> [[Sean Astin]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2009/03/10/31356-astin-up-for-hobbit-if-hobbit-up-for-him/|articlename=Astin up for Hobbit if Hobbit up for him|author=Xoanon|dated=10 March 2009|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref name=":44" /> [[John Noble]] and [[Sean Bean]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.digitalspy.com/movies/a434476/sean-bean-on-the-hobbit-absence-theyre-sticklers-for-detail/|articlename=Sean Bean on 'The Hobbit' absence: 'They're sticklers for detail'|author=Emma Dibdin|dated=30 October 2012|website=Digital Spy}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://theplaylist.net/viggo-mortensen-optimistic-about-role-20090401/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen Optimistic About Role In Del Toro’s ‘Hobbit’, Project Extends To A Trilogy?|author=Simon Dang|dated=1 April 2009|website=The Playlist}}</ref> [[Christopher Lee]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://whatculture.com/film/christopher-lee-wants-sarumann-return-in-the-hobbit|articlename=Christopher Lee wants Saruman return in THE HOBBIT|author=Matt Holmes|dated=25 June 2011|website=WhatCulture}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5qGFbBNnodw&t=77s|articlename=Christopher Lee about possibly returning to Middle Earth|author="Rushblogg"|dated=12 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> [[Brad Dourif]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/09/12/29751-brad-dourif-on-returning-to-middle-earth/|articlename=Brad Dourif on Returning to Middle-earth|author=Deej|dated=12 September 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> [[John Rhys-Davies]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/the-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy-makeup-difficulties-explained-john-rhys-davies/|articlename=John Rhys-Davies Reveals Gruesome Makeup Process for Gimli in The Lord of the Rings [Exclusive]|author=Aidan Kelley and Steven Weintraub|dated=9 August 2025|website=Collider}}</ref> and [[Elijah Wood]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/11/16/30565-elijah-hobbit-appearance-concievably-possible/|articlename=Elijah – Hobbit appearance ‘concievably possible’|author=Altaira|dated=16 November 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.firstshowing.net/2008/elijah-wood-confirms-dual-hobbit-movie-details/|articlename=Elijah Wood Confirms Dual Hobbit Movie Details|author=Alex Billington|dated=11 January 2008|website=First Showing}}</ref>

Around 2010, [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] recieved an availability call<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2013/may/28/viggo-mortensen-interview|articlename=Viggo Mortensen interview: 'If I think a film's beyond me – that's a good sign'|author=Imogen Tilden|dated=28 May 2013|website=The Guardian}}</ref> from [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]: "I said sure, if [[Aragorn]] is supposed to be in the bridge story, because he’s not in [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']]."<ref name=":1">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2013/05/30/72294-viggo-turned-down-role-as-aragorn-not-so-fast/|articlename=Viggo ‘Turned Down’ Role as Aragorn? Not so fast…|author=Newsfrombree|dated=30 May 2013|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.wired.com/2012/03/viggo-mortensen-speaks-2/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen Speaks: Part 2 of 3|author=Ethan Gilsdorf|dated=11 March 2012|website=Wired.com}}</ref> Informed that they "can take certain liberties" he said he'd "love to revisit him."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/films/features/viggo-mortensen-interview-captain-fantastic-lord-of-the-rings-aragorn-hobbit-david-cronenberg-a7231826.html|articlename=Viggo Mortensen interview: 'I didn't throw Peter Jackson under the bus'|author=Jacob Stolworthy|dated=23 January 2017|website=The Independent}}</ref> However, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] later revealed that since that call, they "could think of no way of doing it".<ref name=":0" /> Having no further contact, and knowing that "[[Orlando Bloom]] and [[Cate Blanchett]] shot something,"<ref name=":44">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://viggo-works.com/?fromday=1&frommonth=6&fromyear=2006&today=25&tomonth=2&toyear=2026&order=date&page=243&selectedcat=262&ascdesc=DESC&filter=Go&m=on|articlename=Viggo Mortenson Dangerous Method Interview|author=Anonymous|dated=25 November 2011|website=Movies.com}}</ref>[[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] concluded in November 2011 that "[[Aragorn]] is half [[Elves|elf]] [sic] and also lives a couple hundred years or more and he could be in a bridge, but I have to assume it isn't going to happen".<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reuters.com/article/lifestyle/rings-actor-mortensen-unlikely-to-repeat-role-idUSTRE7AM2U9/|articlename="Rings" actor Mortensen unlikely to repeat role|author=Kurt Orzeck|dated=24 November 2011|website=Reuters}}</ref> Although he still has misgivings - "It would make sense if Aragorn was part of the story and he's not"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.scotsman.com/arts-and-culture/interview-viggo-mortensen-is-lord-of-all-things-1573949|articlename=Interview: Viggo Mortensen is lord of all things|author=Chitra Ramaswamy|dated=25 May 2013|website=The Scotsman}}</ref> - he said he would still be open to playing [[Aragorn]] "if it seemed sensible to do so".<ref name=":1" />

===After ''The Hobbit''===

Conversations about making the "bridge film" as a third instalment<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.firstshowing.net/2009/guillermo-del-toro-updates-on-the-hobbit/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro Briefly Talks More About The Hobbit Split|author=Alex Billington|dated=5 June 2009|website=First Showing}}</ref> continued well into 2010:<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://geeksofdoom.com/2009/08/19/bridge-between-the-hobbit-lord-of-the-rings-still-to-be-built-peter-jackson-to-direct-third-movie|articlename=[Updated] Bridge Between ‘The Hobbit’ & ‘Lord Of The Rings’ Still To Be Built? Peter Jackson To Direct Third Movie?|author="The Movie God"|dated=19 August 2009|website=Geeks of Doom}}</ref> In 2012, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had revealed that "a third movie has always been in discussion."<ref>Michael Pellerin, "The Clouds Burst", Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies'' (New Line Cinema: 2015).</ref> These conversations resumed - now with the film situated as a fourth movie - as [[The Hobbit (film series)|''The Hobbit'']] was winding down in 2013. Says [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]]: "There’s enough story there to make a bridge movie, you know, there’s 60 years between ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'' and a lot of things happened."<ref name=":9">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.heyuguys.com/interview-peter-jackson-the-hobbit-the-desolation-of-smaug/|articlename=The HeyUGuys Interview: The Hobbit director Peter Jackson all but rules out a return to Middle Earth|author=Stefan Pape|dated=13 December 2013|website=HeyUGuys}}</ref> In the director's commentary to ''[[The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies|The Battle of the Five Armies]]'' in 2015, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] remained open to the idea of making more films, and mused about what Jackson jokingly calls "A fictitious film 3.5" which [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] goes on to call "The Hunt for Gollum".<ref name=":0">Peter Jackson, Philippa Boyens, "Director's Commentary," Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies'' (New Line Cinema: 2015).</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] said it could include "a few other things that go on which are really interesting" like [[Saruman]]'s search for the [[The One Ring|Ring]]. She elaborates:<blockquote>''[[Aragorn]] really is one who tracks Gollum and ends up...and finds him eventually in the [[Dead Marshes]], and he's taken [[Woodland Realm|to the Elves]]. And he's taken to the Elves, and because of the kindness of the Elves - and [[Legolas]] is one of his keepers... in [[Mirkwood]], and through their kindness he actually manages to escape. Or has he escaped? Or was he let loose?''<ref name=":0" /></blockquote>[[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had kept the possibility of returning to [[Middle-earth]] open<ref name=":0" /> but [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] revealed that they "had zero expectations of going back to this."<ref name=":7">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2024/05/the-lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-peter-jackson-andy-serkis-philippa-boyens-explain-23-years-after-cannes-saved-original-trilogy-1235917510/|articlename=Peter Jackson, Andy Serkis & Philippa Boyens Explain Why They’re Returning To Middle-Earth For ‘The Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum’ 23 Years After Cannes Saved The Billion-Dollar Franchise|author=Mike Fleming Junior|dated=15 May 2024|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://uk.movies.yahoo.com/don-t-expect--the-hobbit-3--to-lead-directly-into--the-lord-of-the-rings-140402150.html|articlename=The Hobbit 3 won't lead into The Lord of the Rings|author=Tom Butler|dated=11 December 2013|website=Yahoo Entertainment UK}}</ref> Their ultimate decision to return to this premise may have been stirred, in part, by other projects: first, Jackson had seen the in-development video game ''[[Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor|Shadow of Mordor]],'' on which [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]] and others from Jackson's crew had worked, and which had nestled itself into the gap between ''[[The Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]].''<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.ign.com/articles/2014/02/20/why-lord-of-the-rings-fans-should-be-excited-for-shadow-of-mordor|articlename=Why Lord of the Rings Fans Should Be Excited for Shadow of Mordor|author=Luke Karmali|dated=20 February 2014|website=IGN}}</ref>

Shortly afterwards, when the [[Tolkien Estate]] (still nominally under [[Christopher Tolkien]]) shopped the television rights, the idea of doing a show about young [[Aragorn]] was pitched, first by Netflix, and then - at the suggestion of the Russo brothers<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-features/the-rings-of-power-showrunners-interview-season-2-1235233124/|articlename=‘The Rings of Power’ Showrunners Break Silence on Backlash, Sauron and Season 2|author=James Hibberd|dated=5 October 2022|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> - by [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon Prime Video]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=http://newboards.theonering.net/forum/gforum/perl/gforum.cgi?post=946980;sb=post_time;so=DESC;forum_view=forum_view_collapsed;guest=206510448#947231|articlename=If you will indulge me in a story|author="Uncle Iorlas"|dated=21 July 2018|website=The One Ring.net Message Boards}}</ref> Upon hearing this, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]]' mind immediately went to the period of the hunt: "If you're telling the [story of] him hunting [[Gollum]], you're getting closer to [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]]."<ref name=":21">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.fandom.com/articles/peter-jackson-lord-of-the-rings-series|articlename=Peter Jackson’s Tips For Casting Aragorn in Lord of the Rings TV Show|author=Kim Taylor-Foster|dated=4 December 2018|website=Fandom.com}}</ref> She and Jackson had also expressed interest in the potential of [[Aragorn]]'s younger days and life in [[Rivendell]]: "He's probably going to have to start young,"<ref name=":21" /> remarked Boyens, concluding that "A lot of the early [[Aragorn]] story hasn't been told."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.stuff.co.nz/entertainment/film/108970711/philippa-boyens-on-mortal-engines-hobbits-and-going-solo|articlename=Philippa Boyens on Mortal Engines, Hobbits and going solo|author=Philip Matthews|dated=16 December 2018|website=Stuff.nz}}</ref> [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortesen]] also got wind of the rumours and said he's open to reprising his role.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/viggo-mortensen-interview-falling-lord-of-the-rings/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen on Falling, Directing, and LOTR TV Show Interest|author=Christina Radish|dated=14 February 2021|website=Collider}}</ref>

Toby Emmerich and Carolyn Blackwood from [[New Line Cinema]] were brought into the fold in the hopes of cooperating on the show. In early 2018 lawyer Peter Nelson set-up "dialogue between [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon]]" to participate as executive producer.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/how-lord-rings-tv-series-landed-at-amazon-not-netflix-1099213/|articlename=Inside Amazon’s $250M ‘Lord of the Rings’ Deal: “It’s Very Much a Creature of the Times”|author=Tatiana Siegel|dated=5 April 2018|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20210308114202/https://www.herr-der-ringe-film.de/v3/de/news/tolkienfilme/news_121920.php|articlename=Exklusiv: Zu den Kulissen der HERR DER RINGE Serie, Her Der Ringe Film (archived).|author=Cirdan|dated=20 June 2018|website=Herr der Ringe.de}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.stuff.co.nz/entertainment/celebrities/108520139/sir-peter-jackson-hasnt-given-up-hope-of-making-the-dam-busters|articlename=Sir Peter Jackson hasn't given up hope of making The Dam Busters|author=James Croot|dated=12 November 2018|website=NZStuff}}</ref> Preoccupied with ''Mortal Engines'' and ''They Shall Not Grow Old'', [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] proposed in June 2018 to review the scripts and put "the creative team together."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://de.ign.com/tv/129313/interview/peter-jackson-ist-fur-das-kreative-team-hinter-der-herr-der-ringe-serie-verantwortlich|articlename=Peter Jackson ist für das kreative Team hinter der Herr der Ringe-Serie verantwortlich|author=Valentin Aschenbrenner|dated=5 June 2018|website=IGN.de}}</ref> In July, Amazon landed on [[John D. Payne]] and [[Patrick McKay]] as showrunners, and before any work could be done, a regime change in [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon Prime Video]]<ref name=":19">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/peter-jackson-amazon-lord-of-the-rings-tv-series-1235193692/|articlename=Peter Jackson Says Amazon’s ‘Lord of the Rings’ TV Series Ghosted Him|author=James Hibberd|dated=5 August 2022|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> in early 2019 resulted in [[New Line Cinema]] being demoted to a "minority licensee stakeholder."<ref name=":20">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/lord-of-the-rings-amazon-vs-warner-bros-1235337625/|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings’: Amazon, Warner Bros. Ready for Tolkien Battle|author=James Hibberd|dated=28 February 2023|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> Although the showrunners had asked to meet [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]],<ref name=":19" /> COVID prevented this from taking place.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2022/02/10-burning-questions-about-amazons-the-rings-of-power?srsltid=AfmBOopmlhLKVkCtSqkuvTTAcUtyQUICWXopTWLQq_1tu4aEf1ICrDLp|articlename=10 Burning Questions About Amazon’s The Rings of Power|author=Joanna Robinson|dated=14 February 2022|website=Vanity Fair}}</ref> While the show used a substantial number of his crew, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] were reportedly "very frustrated that so many believed they were involved with [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon]]’s show."<ref name=":20" /> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had avoided watching the show to prevent "cross-contamination."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.slashfilm.com/1693866/why-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy-screenwriter-wont-watch-the-rings-of-power/|articlename=Why One Lord Of The Rings Trilogy Screenwriter Won't Watch The Rings Of Power|author=Jaron Pak|dated=21 October 2024|website=Slash Film}}</ref> Since then, the show had left [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s home country of [[New Zealand]].

Already in 2019, the show's development had galvanized Emmerich and Blackwood to pursue an animated film with [[Middle-earth Enterprises]] (who were not involved in the show) and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]. The bridge film might have been the "CG-animated" story that [[New Line Cinema|New Line]] "had been exploring with Sir [[Peter Jackson]]" but it failed to materialize and they decided to pursue ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim]]''<ref>Daniel Falconer, ''The Art of The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim'' (Wiliam Murrow: London, 2025), pp. 9-10.</ref>. Later on, Emmerich and Blackwood were replaced by Michael de Luca and Pam Abdy, who were "striving to keep [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon]] from blurring the lines too much between" the show and the films.<ref name=":20" /> Other projects like [[Tales of the Shire: A "The Lord of the Rings" Game|''Tales of the Shire'']], the remastering of the six films to Ultra High Definition and renovations of [[Hobbiton]] were begun shortly afterwards, as well.

After this long gestation period, ''The Hunt for Gollum'' entered development once again in 2022. [[Andy Serkis]] was attached as director in October 2023 and story meetings occurred as early as May 2024, along with early availability calls to actors like [[Ian McKellen]] and [[Viggo Mortensen]] between that time and early September. By that point, the writing of the treatment was underway, followed by the first draft in January-May. After some crew hiring in August, pre-production started in early September 2025 ahead of shooting in May 2026.

==Development==
In 2022 the new administration of [[Middle-earth Enterprises]] expressed a desire to make more films, including ones "based on iconic characters, such as [[Gandalf]], [[Aragorn]], [[Gollum]], [[Galadriel]], [[Éowyn|Eowyn]] and other characters."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/lord-of-the-rings-rights-embracer-1235201442/|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings,’ ‘The Hobbit’ Movie, Games and Other Rights Holder Sold to Swedish Gaming Company Embracer|author=Georg Szalai|dated=18 August 2022|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]], [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] kept updated throughout the negotiations to extend [[New Line Cinema]]'s lease on the rights.<ref name=":4" />

Having "really enjoyed working with [[Kenji Kamiyama]], who directed ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|War of the Rohirrim]]''," [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] signed on to produce two new films: [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] denied<ref name=":22" /> rumours that this involved splitting the [[Gollum]] story,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2024/05/lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-cast-plot-everything-we-know-1235919922/|articlename=‘The Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum’: Everything We Know So Far|author=Dessi Gomez|dated=16 May 2024|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://filmstories.co.uk/news/the-lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-its-two-films-says-ian-mckellen/|articlename=The Lord Of The Rings: Hunt For Gollum {{!}} “It’s two films” says Ian McKellen|author=Ryan Lambie|dated=11 September 2024|website=Film Stories}}</ref> and at various times her and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] expressed interest in subjects varying from the [[Battle of Dale|War in the North]], Young [[Aragorn]], or certain vignettes from [[Rohan]] or [[Gondor]]'s history,<ref name=":23">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1i97ctm/the_next_film_after_the_hunt_for_gollum/|articlename=The next film after The Hunt for Gollum: Everything we know so far|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=25 January 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> but they settled on a retelling of the missing early chapters of [[The Fellowship of the Ring]], developed under the title [[The Lord of the Rings: Shadow of the Past|''Shadow of the Past'']], whose script is probably one of the other two scripts [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had been working on.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.indiewire.com/news/general-news/peter-jackson-not-retired-working-on-three-scripts-1235138316/|articlename=Peter Jackson Is Working on Three Screenplays: ‘I’m Certainly Not Retired’|author=By Rance Collins|dated=13 July 2025|website=IndieWire}}</ref>

Signing on the films was done with the intention to jump-start a new slate of ''Lord of the Rings'' prequels for [[New Line Cinema]],<ref name=":18" /><ref name=":24" /> with [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also expressing interest in making an "epic trilogy", probably about the [[Angmar conflict|Angmar War]].<ref name=":23" /> However, having developed the [[Gollum]] premise for so long, they decided to start with it. Asked about unrealized projects in 2024, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] observed that "there's a lot of that in ''The Hunt for Gollum.''"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9LdzKS584wA&t=614s|articlename=Lord of the Rings: War of the Rohirrim Interviews! Peter Jackson Role Explained|author=Brandon Davis|dated=29 October 2024|website=YouTube}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis]], who played [[Gollum]], had directed second unit on ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King|The Return of the King]]'' and ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]<ref name=":7" />'' and had since become a director in his own right, as well as narrating audiobooks of Tolkien's novels. [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] approached [[Andy Serkis|Andy]] around October 2023.<ref name=":24">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ssUmmuU-Bmk&t=76s|articlename=Andy Serkis Talks Motion Capture, Gollum, and Directing {{!}} Superhero Comic Con San Antonio 2024 Q&A|author=Freeman Coliseum|dated=24 June 2024|website=YouTube}}</ref> While developing the story, they already made availability checks to key cast and crew members.

===Writing===
Story meetings have happened at least as early as May 2024<ref name=":7" /> and by July they were about to start writing,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/comconnireland/status/1835962321211904490|articlename=Andy Serkis took to the stage at Comic Con Northern Ireland to talk all things Lord of the Rings and more!|author=@comconnireland|dated=16 September 2024|website=Twitter}}</ref> with [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] spotted at the [[Hobbiton]] set in November with writers [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] and Arty Papageorgiou, producers [[Zane Weiner]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/05/lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-release-date-1236390022/|articlename=‘Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum’ Sets Pre-Christmas 2027 Release|author=Anthony D'Alessandro|dated=8 May 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> and Carlos Ramirez Laloli.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.elfenomeno.com/info/ver/23481/comienza-el-rodaje-de-el-senor-de-los-anillos-la-caza-de-gollum-en-hobbiton|articlename=¿Comienza el rodaje de El Señor de los Anillos: La Caza de Gollum en Hobbiton?|author=Elfenomeno|dated=6 November 2024|website=Elfenomeno.com}}</ref> By December they had been in the process of writing the story treatment.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/lord-of-the-rings-war-of-the-rohirrim-arty-papageorgiou-phoebe-gittins/|articlename="Who Better for a Gollum Film Than Gollum Himself?": 'War of the Rohirrim' Writers on Working with Andy Serkis in 'The Hunt for Gollum'|author=Therese Lacson|dated=16 December 2024|website=Collider}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] later estimated they would finish writing by the middle of the year - executive Pamela Abdy since put the completion of the script at May<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/04/warner-bros-mike-de-luca-pam-abdy-courage-in-face-of-brutal-press-coverage-1236366618/|articlename=Warner Bros’ Mike De Luca & Pam Abdy: Playing Long Game, Mixing IP Like ‘Bodyguard’ Revamp & Bold Originals & Animation Despite Brutal Press|author=Mike Fleming Junior|dated=11 April 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> - and begin "scouting locations and building [sets]" with shooting due to begin towards the beginning of 2026.<ref name=":5">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.1news.co.nz/2024/12/15/exclusive-andy-serkis-philippa-boyens-on-the-hunt-for-gollum/|articlename=Exclusive: Andy Serkis, Philippa Boyens on new Lord of the Rings film|author=Abbey Wakefield|dated=15 December 2024|website=1News}}</ref> As a result, the release date for the film was ultimately delayed from 2026 to 17 December 2027.<ref name="TheDirect2027Release">{{webcite|author=Klein Felt|articleurl=https://thedirect.com/article/hunt-for-gollum-movie-lord-of-the-rings-release-official|articlename=Lord of the Rings: Hunt for Gollum Movie Gets Release Window from Andy Serkis|dated=27 Feb 2025|website=[https://thedirect.com The Direct]|accessed=27 Feb 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://variety.com/2025/film/news/lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-release-date-december-2027-1236390820/|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum’ Sets December 2027 Release Date; Warner Bros. Also Dates New ‘Evil Dead’ and M. Night Shyamalan Movies for 2026|author=Zack Sharf|dated=8 May 2025|website=Variety}}</ref>

A draft of the screenplay had been sent to de Luca and Abdy in May, probably prior to the investor meeting on the 8th, when [[Warner Bros.|Warner]]'s CEO David Zaslav announced the official release date.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://voicefilm.com/david-zaslav-announces-that-the-release-date-for-the-next-lord-of-the-rings-movie-will-be-revealed-today/|articlename=David Zaslav Announces That the Release Date for the Next ‘Lord of the Rings’ Movie Will Be Revealed Today|author=Mark|dated=8 May 2025|website=Voice Film}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.comicbasics.com/warner-ceo-david-zaslav-says-they-will-focus-more-on-their-main-ips-like-harry-potter-and-dc-in-the-future-those-belong-to-us-and-theyll-only-belong-to-us-forever/|articlename=Warner CEO David Zaslav Says They Will Focus More on Their Main IPs Like ‘Harry Potter’ and DC in the Future: “Those belong to us, and they’ll only belong to us forever.”|author=Arthur S. Poe|dated=8 May 2025|website=Comic Basics}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had since revealed that the film is due to start pre production in August<ref name=":33">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1krwz8d/andy_serkis_the_lord_of_the_rings_the_hunt_for/|articlename=Andy Serkis Panel at Fan Expo Philadelphia 2025|author=FandomWire News|dated=19 May 2025}}</ref> - when the film started hiring crew - then ammended to "late August to early September"<ref name=":18" />, with [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] ultimately arriving in [[Wellington]] circa 8 September to begin work on the film.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://metro.co.uk/2025/09/03/andy-serkis-admits-cant-escape-gollum-ahead-lord-rings-return-24066270/amp/|articlename=Andy Serkis admits he ‘can’t escape Gollum’ ahead of Lord of the Rings return|author=Sabrina Barr|dated=3 September 2025|website=Metro UK}}</ref> Serkis had left New Zealand during the holiday season, attending the premiere of "28 Years Later: The Bone Temple" before flying back to New Zealand: en rote he landed in Los Angeles.<ref name=":41">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.tmz.com/2026/01/20/andy-serkis-wants-original-lord-of-the-rings-cast-in-new-film/|articlename=LOTR' Star Andy Serkis: OG Cast Is Precious, Love 'Em For New Flick|author=Anonymous|dated=20 January 20 2026|website=TMZ}}</ref>

==Pre production==
[[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had further said preproduction will last for six months,<ref name=":27">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.comingsoon.it/cinema/news/in-un-mondo-alla-deriva-gollum-ci-salvera-la-nostra-intervista-ad-andy/n203564/|articlename=In un mondo alla deriva Gollum ci salverà: la nostra intervista ad Andy Serkis|author=Carola Proto|dated=25 June 2025|website=Coming Soon.it}}</ref> with [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] later confirming it will start filming in May<ref name=":12">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1msw9fp/the_lord_of_the_rings_the_hunt_for_gollum_starts/|articlename=The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum starts shooting in May, says Sir Ian McKellen. "I'll tell you two secrets about the casting..."|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=17 August 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> for an extended shooting period:<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-filming-update-andy-serkis/|articlename=Director Andy Serkis Offers Huge Filming Update For 'The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum' [Exclusive]|author=Chris McPherson and Steven Weintraub|dated=10 June 2025|website=Collider}}</ref> This puts the beginning of filming in [[New Zealand]] winter and, deducting the holidays, six months after [[Andy Serkis|Andy]]'s arrival. Location scouting may have taken place at Hawke's Bay as early as June<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1lis26w/a_location_scout_for_the_lord_of_the_rings_the/|articlename=A location scout for The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum seems to be snooping around Hawke's Bay, New Zealand|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=23 June 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> and later at the Waikato.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.waikatotimes.co.nz/nz-news/360837801/aliens-warriors-heroes-princesses-and-gollum-big-productions-filmed-and-possibly-coming-waikato|articlename=Aliens, warriors, heroes, princesses ... and Gollum: The big productions filmed in (and possibly coming to) the Waikato|author=Mike Mather|dated=1 October 2025|website=Waikato Times}}</ref> They had also watched the films sometime prior to November.<ref>Latino USA TV, "How Movie Monsters Are Really Made!", YouTube, 26 November 2025.</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] also spoke appreciatively of [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s penchant for behind the scenes extras,.<ref name=":33" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/gu1jj7/one_zoom_to_rule_them_all_reunited_apart_lord_of/|articlename=One Zoom to Rule Them All {{!}} Reunited Apart LORD OF THE RINGS Edition|author=Josh Gad|dated=31 May 2021|website=}}</ref> and [[Peter Jackson|Peter]] himself had since confirmed they will do "little blogs." In October, [[Andy Serkis|Andy]] revealed that they're developing prosthetics.<ref name=":34">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1og2b4p/andy_serkis_says_all_the_art_department_from_lord/|articlename=Andy Serkis says "all the art department" from Lord of the Rings are "excited to come back." They started location scouting and camera tests.|author=u/Lord_Varys92|dated=25 October 2024|website=Reddit}}</ref>

Since [[Elijah Wood]], slated to appear in the film, is on tour through to early September,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://parade.com/news/lord-of-the-rings-hobbits-25-years-later-reunion-tour|articlename=The Hobbits Are Back Together — and Their Big News Has Fans Cheering|author=Whitney Danhauer|dated=25 October 2025|website=Parade}}</ref> his scenes might be scheduled for [[New Zealand]] summer, which could suggest shooting ''in situ'' in [[Hobbiton]], presumably depicting [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] dallying outside [[Bag End]] while [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]] and [[Gandalf]] argue within, as depicted in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]''. [[Ian McKellen]] is also hoping to join the production in [[New Zealand as Middle-earth|New Zealand]] during July.<ref>The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, "There's Nothing I Enjoy More Than Acting In The Theater" - Ian McKellen EXTENDED INTERVIEW," ''YouTub''e, 5 February 2026.</ref>

===Crew===
The film, said to be "one of the most expensive feature films to be shot in [[New Zealand]]"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/new-lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-film-will-be-shot-in-nz-set-for-2027-release/3BDNB3QFKJDAVGB4ODOTQ63YLY/|articlename=New Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum film will be shot in NZ, set for 2027 release|author=Tom Rose|dated=18 June 2025|website=New Zealand Herald}}</ref> is expected to draft alums of the ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|Lord of the Rings]]'', ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|War of the Rohirrim]]'' (many of whom will have also worked on ''[[The Rings of Power]]'' Season One and other projects) working in the [[Wellington]] and greater New Zealand screen sector.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thepost.co.nz/nz-news/350274670/film-heavyweights-alight-over-lotr-comeback|articlename=Film heavyweights ‘alight’ over LOTR comeback|author=Rachel Thomas|dated=10 May 2024|website=The New Zealand Post}}</ref><ref name=":5" /> Crewing began in early August, with Wood since confirming the involvement of production designer [[Dan Hennah]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IX5NhkyQ710|articlename=Elijah Wood en Monterrey/ conferencia de la DesertCon|author=Asi SoyTv|dated=6 October 2025|website=YouTube}}</ref> and set decorator Ra Vincent might also be involved.<ref name=":34" /> Although [[Janet Brennan Croft|Janet Brennan-Croft]] acted as [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] consultant on previous films, Beppe Pezzini will fill this role for this film.<ref>Educational Media Services |University of Oxford, "Beppe Pezzini on Classics and Fantasy |Fantasy Summer School ‪@facultyofenglishoxford‬," ''YouTube'', 23 September 2025.</ref>

IMDb credits Bob Buck as ''a'' costume designer for the film: it remains to be seen if Ngila Dickson, having just wrapped ''Predator: Badlands'' with [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]], might return. Kate Hawley, who was attached to del Toro's version of the film, is unlikely to take part due to work on "Bad Bridgets."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/10/daisy-edgar-jones-emilia-jones-bad-bridgets-luckychap-1236604481/|articlename=Daisy Edgar-Jones And Emilia Jones To Star In ‘Bad Bridgets’ From LuckyChap|author=Justin Kroll|dated=31 October 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> Liz Mullane and Rachel Bullock head the New Zealand casting sweep. Both [[Wētā FX|WetaFX]] and [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]] are confirmed for the project,<ref name=":8">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt32328070/companycredits/?ref_=tt_dt_cmpy|articlename=The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum (2027)|author=Anonymous|website=IMDb}}</ref> as are [[Gino Acevedo]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.instagram.com/p/DRy30vUkme7/|articlename="Oh no!"|author=Ginoacevedofx|dated=3 December 2025|website=Instagram}}</ref> [[John Howe]] and [[Alan Lee]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://ggba.swiss/en/the-lord-of-the-rings-nature-and-switzerlands-hidden-history-a-conversation-with-john-howe/|articlename=The Lord Of The Rings, Nature and Switzerland’s Hidden History (A Conversation with John Howe)|author=Woody Wade|dated=10 December 2025|website=Greater Geneva Bern Area}}</ref> [[Peter King]] is supervising hairstyling and makeup, while IMDb also credits Joseph Letteri and Eric Saindon as Visual Effects Supervisors, and Karl Chisholm for on set special effects: all veterans of the preceding productions. In April - by which point a composer was already said to be attached to the project - [[Howard Shore]] said he was interested to "see how that all works out."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.classical-music.com/articles/howard-shore|articlename=Howard Shore: the film composer behind Hannibal Lecter and Bilbo Baggins|author=Michael Beek|dated=16 April 2025|website=Classical Music.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://en.softonic.com/articles/the-composer-of-the-soundtrack-for-the-lord-of-the-rings-made-a-cameo-in-the-movies-and-no-one-noticed#google_vignette|articlename=The composer of the soundtrack for The Lord of the Rings made a cameo in the movies and no one noticed|author=Agencias|dated=26 December 2025|website=Softonic}}</ref>

As early as October, [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] suggested that they're "doing camera tests."<ref name=":34" /> This is said to include miniature photography, with Alex Funke said to participate, even if only in an advisory position. On the live action side, although Robert Richardson had been rumoured as camerman, he will be preoccupied with Antoine Fuqua's Hannibal epic.<ref name=":34" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.worldofreel.com/blog/2025/7/23/michael-part-1-delayed-to-april-2026|articlename=‘Michael’ Delayed to April 2026|author=Jordan Ruimy|dated=23 July 2025|website=World of Reel}}</ref> While the film was in the story conference stage in July 2024, Richardson said he had "a number" of projects "on the constantly-shifting horizon of the film industry."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.filmlightcolourawards.com/colour-awards-2024/jury-colour-awards-2024/robert-richardson-cinematographer-asc-ack/|articlename=Robert Richardson, Cinematographer, ASC, ACK|author=Anonymous|dated=18 July 2024|website=Film Light Colour Awards}}</ref> Instead, the film will be lensed by James Friend.

The film is a co-production of [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s [[WingNut Films|WingNut films]] and [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]]' ''Imaginarium,'' which had already participated in producing the motion capture scenes in ''The Hobbit''. [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] will executive produce with his ''Imaginarium'' partner John Cavendish and Jackson's agent [[Ken Kamins]].<ref name="Gollum">{{webcite|author=Jennifer Maas|articleurl=https://variety.com/2024/film/news/lord-of-the-rings-movie-2026-release-warner-bros-1235997102/|articlename=Warner Bros. to Release New ‘Lord of the Rings’ Movie ‘The Hunt for Gollum’ in 2026, Peter Jackson to Produce and Andy Serkis to Direct|dated=9 May 2024|website=[https://variety.com/ Variety]|accessed=8 June 2024}}</ref> IMDb also credits studio chiefs Michael de Luca (who helped produce [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'']]), Pam Abdy and David Zaslav as executive producers<ref name=":8" /> and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] mentioned [[Warner Bros.|Warners]]' business consultant Alan Horn (who had produced ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]])'' as a collaborator, but these credits have yet to become official.<ref name=":7" />

===Cast===
With [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] due to star as [[Gollum]], approaches had been made to [[Ian McKellen|Sir Ian McKellen]]<ref name=":2">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2024/09/ian-mckellen-return-gandalf-new-the-lord-of-the-rings-films-1236075547/|articlename=Ian McKellen Reveals He’s Been Approached To Reprise His Role As Gandalf In Andy Serkis’ New ‘The Lord Of The Rings’ Films|author=Jake Kanter|dated=2 September 2024|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> and [[Viggo Mortensen]] to reprise [[Gandalf]] and [[Aragorn]], respectively. [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] said he's in talks to reprise "a little bit" of [[Gandalf]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.mirror.co.uk/3am/celebrity-news/sir-ian-mckellan-i-thought-36196617|articlename=EXCLUSIVE: Sir Ian McKellan: 'I thought I was a goner, but I'm coming back as Gandalf'|author=Marc Baker and Jackie Annett|dated=5 November 2025|website=The Mirror}}</ref> in [[New Zealand]].<ref name=":42">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thetimes.com/culture/tv-radio/article/ian-mckellen-an-ark-lowry-lord-of-the-rings-f9wc9nmdq|articlename=Ian McKellen at 86: ‘I’ve had to accept that I’m not immortal’|author=Jonathan Dean|dated=14 February 2026|website=The Times}}</ref> As of December, the contracts with [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] and [[Elijah Wood|Wood]] hadn't been finalized,<ref name=":40" /> but [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] expressed a desire to return to [[New Zealand]] for filming. [[Liv Tyler]], [[Evangeline Lilly]] and, especially, [[Orlando Bloom]] have also expressed interest in reprising their parts,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.nme.com/news/film/the-lord-of-the-rings-cast-say-they-would-jump-to-return-for-new-spin-off-movies-3853893|articlename=‘The Lord Of The Rings’ cast say they would “jump” to return for new spin-off movies|author=Damian Jones|dated=11 April 2025|website=NME}}</ref> while [[Dominic Monaghan]] expressed a desire to visit the set.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://nypost.com/2025/11/06/entertainment/dominic-monaghan-reveals-plans-for-next-lord-of-the-rings-movie/|articlename=Dominic Monaghan reveals big plans for next ‘Lord of the Rings’ movie — including possible return as Merry
By|author=Eric Todisco|dated=6 November 2025|website=New York Post}}</ref> [[Evangeline Lilly|Lilly]] had proceeded to do so, but indicated that she will have no further involvement with the project. [[Orcs]] are set to appear in the film, with [[Shane Rangi]] and [[Lawrence Makoare]] having reportedly been contacted.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/thelegacyofnerd/status/1979621220246344016|articlename=BREAKING: ‘The Hunt For Gollum’ Begins Filming in May 2026|author=@thelegacyofnerd|dated=8 October 2025|website=Twitter}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]]' comments about seeing the interiors of [[Barad-dûr|Barad Dur]] might suggest the involvement of [[Benedict Cumberbatch]].<ref name=":36">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lYYSsook-4Y|articlename=Philippa Boyens ('ESDLA: LA GUERRA DE LOS ROHIRRIM'): "Queríamos que se sintiera como algo nuevo"|author=eCartelera|dated=10 December 2024}}</ref>

[[Andy Serkis|Serkis]], [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had all spoke to [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]],<ref name=":3">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://theplaylist.net/the-war-of-the-rohirrim-philippa-boyens-on-the-new-anime-the-hunt-for-gollum-the-future-of-the-lord-of-the-rings-20241223/|articlename=‘The War Of The Rohirrim’: Philippa Boyens On The New Anime, ‘The Hunt For Gollum’ & The Future Of ‘The Lord of the Rings’|author=Rodrigo Perez|dated=23 December 2024|website=The Playlist}}</ref> who had previously said he'd be "open to it" if it makes sense for "the age I am now"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.gq-magazine.co.uk/article/viggo-mortensen-interview-2024|articlename=Viggo Mortensen re-used Aragorn's sword in new movie The Dead Don't Hurt “Because it's really good”|author=Rafael Motamayor|dated=28 May 2024|website=GQ}}</ref> but after [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] pitched it to him as "Digital make-up" they agreed he'd wait to read the script: With the approach to [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] happening sometime between June<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thetimes.com/culture/film/article/ian-mckellen-if-this-is-my-last-job-id-better-get-it-right-hadnt-i-n3t38g6tb|articlename=Ian McKellen: ‘When a script arrives, I think this might be my last job’|author=Dominic Maxwell|dated=8 June 2024|website=The Times of London}}</ref> and September,<ref name=":2" /> the approach to [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] may have taken place in mid-June, just prior to an interview in which [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] said "The script is the most important thing to me", seemingly no longer harping on the age quota.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/viggo-mortensen-lord-of-the-rings-script-feminism-1235935628/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen on Respecting Audiences, How Scripts Are Key “Unless I’m Broke,” New ‘LOTR’ Films|author=Georg Szalai|dated=30 June 2024|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] said they need to "drag" him.<ref name=":36" /> In the event, the cost of the deaging seemed too steep<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/ViewerAnon/status/1998489358849159181?s=20|articlename=I can confirm this|author=ViewerAnon|dated=9 December 2025|website=Twitter}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://3dvf.com/en/a-cult-actor-from-the-lord-of-the-rings-on-the-departure-the-question-arises-for-the-prequel-dedicated-to-gollum/#google_vignette|articlename=A Cult Actor from The Lord of the Rings on the Departure? The Question Arises for the Prequel Dedicated to Gollum|author=Quentin Couprie|dated=13 December 2025|accessed=3DVF}}</ref> and while they started looking for a younger "Strider", they ended casting [[Jamie Dornan]]. [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] had indicated he'd be interested in appearing in later film projects if they were "true to Tolkien."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.the-independent.com/arts-entertainment/films/news/viggo-mortensen-movies-interview-b2561237.html|articlename=Go to Bat with Viggo Mortensen: My films that deserve more love|author=Jacob Stolworthy|dated=7 June 2024|website=The Independent}}</ref>

While in London for ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]]'' premiere, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also "had lunch with an [[Elves|Elf]] lord" who "would fall into that story."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.instagram.com/nerdoftherings/reel/DDgKw47uxkJ/|articlename="Philippa Boyens teases an “elf lord” returning for Hunt for Gollum! "|author=Matt Graf|dated=12 December 2024|website=Instagram}}</ref> Although this could refer to [[Orlando Bloom|Bloom]] or even [[Marton Csokas]], [[Lee Pace]] was the most likely as he was shooting ''The Running Man'' in London at the time.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://people.com/glen-powell-films-running-man-reboot-37-years-after-arnold-schwarzenegger-movie-8745529|articlename=Glen Powell Films Running Man Remake in London 37 Years After Original Arnold Schwarzenegger Movie|author=Jen Juneau|dated=14 November 2024|website=People}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had since divulged that they expect "some of the cast who were originally in" ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'', as well as "some incredible new talent."<ref name=":28">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.jedinews.com/events/articles/indiana-comic-con-andy-serkis-full-panel/|articlename=Indiana Comic Con: Andy Serkis Full Panel|author=James Burns|dated=11 April 2025,|website=Jedi News}}</ref> Serkis had since reaffirrmed that he would "love the old cast" back.<ref name=":41" /> [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] had since confirmed that [[Gandalf]] and [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]], surely to be played by himself and [[Elijah Wood|Wood]], are scheduled to reappear in the piece.<ref name=":12" /> McKellen, Wood and Lee were officially announced for CinemaCon.

Casting seems to have started in November,<ref name=":40">Steve Schofield ''et al'', "25 Years of Fellowship", ''Empire'' (March 2026), pp. 46-70.</ref> with young boys auditioning for the boy [[Gollum|Smeagol]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/KnightGambit/status/2011815291198849220|articlename=Small Tidbit.....|author=Caleb Williams|dated=16 January 2026|website=Twitter}}</ref> and two of his fellow [[Stoors|Stoor]] riverfolk - a young girl and a young adult boy - in what looks like a setup for [[Gollum|Smeagol]]'s preoccupation with a birtday present. Out of the actors that originally auditioned for a younger Strider, Leo Woodall, was cast in the role of a fellow ranger, Halvard, presumably based on the character of [[Halbarad]].

Other roles auditioned for include women in their thirties and fifities: the latter is said to be Smeagol's grandmother, now confirmed as the "lead" role of Marigol, with [[Kate Winslet]] relocating to [[New Zealand]] for five months. Winslet had previously been considered, at least by the studio, for [[Éowyn|Eowyn]]. The thirties' part<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://knightedgemedia.com/2026/03/the-hunt-for-gollum-lead-female-characters-casting-are-underway-exclusive/#google_vignette|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum’ Lead Female Characters Casting Are Underway (EXCLUSIVE)|author=Caleb Williams|dated=5 March 2026|website=Knight Edge Media}}</ref> was reportedly circled by Anya Taylor-Joy. Some presume this to be [[Arwen]], but if so the quota is older than [[Liv Tyler]], who was 23 at the time of [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'']].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://medium.com/@chenngeller/on-aragorn-and-other-castings-a6e55668fce9?postPublishedType=repub|articlename=On Aragorn, Stoors and other castings|author=Chen Geller|dated=11 March 2026|website=Medium}}</ref>

==Plotline==
The exact events the film covers remain undisclosed. There's ambiguity concerning both the exact timeframe for the film, and whether it will focus more on [[Gollum]] or [[Aragorn]]. An official "blurb" for the movie reads: "The pic explores [[Aragorn]]’s adventures as a [[Rangers of the North|ranger]], specifically his quest to capture [[Gollum]] between [[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]] and [[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|Fellowship of the Ring]], tracking him to keep the [[The One Ring|Ring]]’s location from [[Sauron|Sauron."]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2026/01/box-office-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy-25th-anniversary-1236689724/|articlename=‘Lord Of The Rings’ Trilogy 25th Anniversary Event Rings Up $11M In Worldwide Box Office|author=Anthony D'Alessandro|dated=19 January 2026|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> A more extended synopsis had also been circulating:<blockquote>Before the Fellowship, one creature's obsession holds the key to Middle-earth's survival -- or its demise. In The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum, we meet young Smeagol -- an outsider drawn to trinkets and mischief -- long before The One Ring consumed him and began his tragic descent into the tortured, deceitful creature Gollum. With the ring lost and carried away by Bilbo Baggins, Gollum finds himself compelled to leave his cave in search of it. Gandalf the Grey calls upon Aragorn, still known as the ranger Strider, to track the elusive creature whose knowledge of the whereabouts of the ring could tip the balance toward the Dark Lord Sauron.
Set in the shadowed time between Bilbo's birthday disappearance and the Fellowship's formation, this perilous journey through Middle-earth's darkest corners reveals untold truths, tests the resolve of its future king, and explores the fractured soul and backstory of Gollum, one of Tolkien's most enigmatic characters.

Directed by original cast member Andy Serkis, produced by Peter Jackson, and written & produced by Fran Walsh and Phillipa Boyens -- the creative team behind the Oscar-winning trilogy -- this live-action movie bridges the beloved films with new characters, returning heroes, and a deeply engaging origin story that resets the stage for, and changes everything you know about the legendary Lord of the Rings trilogy.</blockquote>Strictly speaking, [[Aragorn]]'s hunt for [[Gollum]] begins during the events depicted in Jackson's [[The Fellowship of the Ring (2001 film)|''The Fellowship of the Ring'']], and in October, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] said the story "falls after the [[Bilbo's Farewell Party|birthday party of Bilbo]] and before the Mines Of [[Moria]]".<ref name=":22">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.empireonline.com/movies/news/lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-wont-be-two-films-second-philippa-boyens-exclusive/|articlename=The Hunt For Gollum Won’t Be Two Films, But A Second LOTR Film Is Incoming, Philippa Boyens Confirms|author=Ben Travis|dated=18 October 2024|website=Empire}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] added that the role of [[Aragorn]] is "very central" to the movie.<ref name=":36" /> Andy called the storyline "pivotal."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1md7lim/the_lord_of_the_rings_the_hunt_for_gollum_andy/|articlename=The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum - Andy Serkis says "this part of the story is pivotal"|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=30 July 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> [[Ian McKellen]] had described the plot as "[[Aragorn]] trying to find [[Gollum]] with [[Gandalf]] directing operations from the sidelines."<ref name=":42" />

However, ''a'' hunt for [[Gollum]] is begun by the [[Silvan Elves]] after Gollum first leaves the [[Misty Mountains|mountains]] in search of [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]], and in December Jackson said the film "tells us what happened to [[Gollum]] between ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' - end of [[The Hobbit (film series)|''The Hobbit'']] - and the beginning of ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]''".<ref name=":6">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/red-carpet-premiere-for-the-lord-of-the-rings-the-war-of-the-rohirrim/P3BS7U5NPS5EMFLPUV4SYSYFDU/|articlename=Red carpet premiere for The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|author=Mitchell Hageman|dated=11 December 2024|website=New Zealand Herald}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had since confirmed this timeframe: "It sits, kind of, in the timeline between ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' - between losing the [[The One Ring|Ring]] to [[Bilbo Baggins]] - and ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]''."<ref name=":18">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?t=1218&v=U-dw8DQDf90&feature=youtu.be|articlename=Kazakhstan feels like the center of the world - Andy Serkis {{!}} Interview of the Day|author=Silk Way / Qazaqstan|dated=15 July 2025|website=YouTube}}</ref> [[Dol Guldur]], the [[Nazgûl|Nazgul]] and [[Orcs]] are all said to potentially play part in the film.

[[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also alluded to other storylines: "we are finding a lot of threads of story that are surprising in there when you really go in there and examine it".<ref name=":29">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.slashfilm.com/1734018/philippa-boyens-lord-of-the-rings-war-of-the-rohirrim-exclusive-interview/|articlename=War Of The Rohirrim's Philippa Boyens Reveals Details About The Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum [Exclusive Interview]|author=Ben Pearson|dated=13 December 2024|website=/Film}}</ref> Events as varied as [[Aragorn]]'s sojourn in [[Lothlórien|Lórien]] with [[Arwen]], the fall of [[Balin's folk]], [[Boromir]]'s quest for [[Rivendell]] and much else occur concurrent to the time of the Hunt.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1iutc9r/building_bridges_so_what_happens_between_the/|articlename=Building Bridges: So, what happens between the trilogies that The Hunt for Gollum could possibly cover?|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=21 February 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> "You see the layers and layers of story that’s underneath there and how interconnected they all are", she adds.<ref name=":3" /> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] also made comments to this effect: "Some pretty interesting stuff happens that we reference in passing in [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The'' ''Lord of the Rings'']], but there’s a lot of more deep detail to it."<ref name=":6" />

[[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] adds that "We get to go to some places that we've never been before" in Middle-earth." One such place - only glimpsed in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|Fellowship of the Ring]]'' - is the interiors of [[Barad-dûr|Barad Dur]].<ref name=":36" /> Both she and Serkis alluded to new characters<ref name=":28" /><ref name=":5" /> and new dramatic situations, saying it's "surprising"<ref name=":7" /><ref name=":27" /><ref name=":29" /> and could be enjoyed be people wo don't know the novels.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.amica.it/video-post/andy-serkis-dirigero-signore-anelli-tornero-batman/|articlename=Andy Serkis, da Gollum a regista: «Dirigerò “Il Signore degli Anelli” e tornerò con Batman»|author=Emanuele Bigi|dated=27 June 2025|website=Amica}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also shared that one of the practicalities they were busy figuring out in the writing is "How does he [<nowiki/>[[Aragorn]]] pick up his scent? How does he find his trail, how does it happen?"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://nerdist.com/article/nerdist-philippa-boyens-interview-the-war-of-the-rohirrim-the-lord-of-the-rings-future/|articlename=Philippa Boyens Talks the Future of THE LORD OF THE RINGS Movies and Naming a Tolkien Character in THE WAR OF THE ROHIRRIM|author=by Rotem Rusak|dated=19 December 2024|website=Nerdist}}</ref>

==Cast==
{| class="wikitable mw-collapsible"
|- style="background: var(--tg-color-surface-2);"
!Actor!!Role
|-
|[[Andy Serkis]]||[[Gollum|Gollum & Smeagol]]<ref name="Gollum"></ref><ref name="Twitter">''Twitter'', [https://x.com/warnerbros/status/2044207974361510165 We’ve been waiting for you, precious. The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum only in theaters 17 December 2027.] by Warner Bros.</ref>
|-
|[[Ian McKellen]]
|[[Gandalf]]<ref name=":12" /><ref name="Twitter"></ref>
|-
|[[Kate Winslet]]
|[[Marigol]]<ref name="Twitter"></ref>
|-
|[[Jamie Dornan]]
|[[Aragorn|Strider]]<ref name="Twitter"></ref>
|-
|[[Leo Woodall]]
|[[Halvard]]<ref name="Twitter"></ref>
|-
|[[Lee Pace]]
|[[Thranduil]]<ref name="Twitter"></ref>
|-
|[[Elijah Wood]]
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{{Title|Italics}}

{{References}}

{{Screen}}

[[Category:Films]]

[[fi:The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum]]

The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum

2026-05-29T21:28:57Z

Chen Geller:

{{Disambig-two|the 2027 film adaptation|2009 fan film|[[The Hunt for Gollum]]}}
{{film infobox
|image = The Lord of the Rings - The Hunt for Gollum Logo.png
|caption =
|name = The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum
|director = [[Andy Serkis]]
|producer = [[Peter Jackson]] [[Fran Walsh]] [[Philippa Boyens]] [[Zane Weiner]]
|writer = [[Fran Walsh]] [[Philippa Boyens]] Phoebe Gittins Arty Papageorgiou
|narrator =
|starring = [[Andy Serkis]] [[Ian McKellen]] [[Kate Winslet]] [[Jamie Dornan]] [[Leo Woodall]]
|music =
|cinematography =
|editing =
|studio = WingNut films Imaginarium [[New Line Cinema]]<ref name=Gollum></ref>
|distributor = [[Warner Bros.|Warner Bros. Pictures]]<ref name=Gollum></ref>
|released = 17 December [[2027]]<ref name="TheDirect2027Release"/>
|runtime =
|country = [[New Zealand]]<ref name=Gollum></ref>
|language = English
|budget =
|website =
|imdb_id=32328070
|basedon=[[The Lord of the Rings]]
|production design=[[Dan Hennah]] (Production designer)}}
'''''The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum''''' is the title (originally, working title<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/09/curtis-brown-jrr-tolkien-literary-estate-deal-1236526748/|articlename=Curtis Brown To Rep J.R.R. Tolkien’s Literary Estate|author=Jesse Whittock|dated=10 September 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref>) of a forthcoming film adaptation currently in pre-production and set for a [[2027]] release, the first of a planned series of Tolkien films to be produced by [[New Line Cinema]], a division of [[Warner Bros.|Warner Brothers]].<ref name=":4">{{webcite|author=Matt Donnelly|articleurl=https://variety.com/2023/film/news/lord-of-the-rings-new-movies-warner-bros-1235533672/|articlename=New ‘Lord of the Rings’ Movies Set at Warner Bros. |dated=23 February 2023|website=[https://variety.com/ Variety]|accessed=10 June 2024}}</ref>

The film will cover [[Gollum]]'s travels after losing [[The One Ring|the Ring]] to [[Bilbo Baggins]] (as depicted in [[The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey|''An Unexpected Journey'']]), through [[Gandalf]] setting out to track the creature after [[Bilbo's Farewell Party]] (as depicted in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]'') and down to [[Gollum]] intercepting [[Fellowship of the Ring|the Fellowship]] in [[Moria|Moria.]]

It will be directed by and star [[Andy Serkis]], who played [[Gollum]] in [[Peter Jackson]]'s previous films, as well as directing second unit. [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] will produce with his co-writing team of [[Fran Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens]], who will also write the screenplay with ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]]'' scribes Phoebe Gittins and Arty Papageorgiou.

The subject of this film is a longstanding fascination of [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s who developed it quite intensly in 2008 with [[Guillermo del Toro]]. The film is in preproduction with several cast and crew members from previous films already attached, including actor [[Elijah Wood]], concept artists [[John Howe]] and [[Alan Lee]] and others.

==Early Development==
Although the film was only announced in 2023, it had a long gestation period with [[Peter Jackson]], who considered filming this subject since circa 1997, and at least as late as July 2015. During 2008, in particular, the film was in development with a plot synopsis, a tentative budget and an initial cast and crew attached, and drew the attention of further talent like [[Viggo Mortensen]], as well as the press. Elements of this proposed "bridge film" were eventually put into ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' but mostly axed during the early months of the shoot. Jackson also negotiated in 2018 about producing a show for [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon Prime]] about the related subject of the travels of young [[Aragorn]], but ended up producing ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]]'' with [[New Line Cinema]] instead.

===During ''The'' ''Lord of the Rings''===
[[Peter Jackson]] read [[The Lord of the Rings|''The Lord of the Rings'']] circa 1979, and he claims that he "always loved the concept that when [[Gandalf]] leaves [[Bag End]] he goes and joins up with [[Aragorn]] and the two of them hunt [[Gollum]] down."<ref name=":26">Peter Jackson, Philippa Boyens, Fran Walsh, "Director's Commentary", Peter Jackson, ''The Lord of the Rings trilogy'' (New Line Cinema: 2004).</ref> This piece of backstory was also expanded upon in the [[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)|radio serial]], which [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] was very familiar with. He and [[Fran Walsh]] first pitched a trilogy based on [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']] and ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'' around November 1995.<ref>Brian Sibley, Peter Jackson: A Filmmaker's Journey (London: HarperCollins, 2006), pp. 312 ff.</ref><ref>J. W Braun, ''The lord of the films : the unofficial guide to Tolkien's Middle-Earth on the big screen'' (Toronto: ECW Press, 2009), pp. 20, 63, 68-69, 195.</ref><ref>Michael Pellerin, "Completing Middle-earth," Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit'' (Warner Brothers: 2015).</ref> They may well have had the [[Gollum]] episode in mind at some time between that point and early 1997. So long as they intended to start with ''The Hobbit'' (up to early 1996), they will have been mindful of the need to connect the two novels, and while their treatment (mid 1997) doesn't seem to cover the [[Gollum]] episode, it already dramatizes the remainder of the backstory that's given in "[[The Shadow of the Past]]", "[[The Council of Elrond]]" and [[appendix B]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1j06oqh/so_what_is_the_hunt_for_gollum_really_based_on/|articlename=So, what is The Hunt for Gollum REALLY based on?|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=28 February 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> When the project expanded (September 1998) to three films, Jackson tried to finally incorporate this storyline - some eight pages' worth - but realized that he "just couldn't put [the Hunt for [[Gollum]]] into the movie".<ref name=":26" />

[[Peter Jackson|Peter]] nevertheless publicly expressed a desire to film "[[Gandalf]] and [[Aragorn]] hunting [[Gollum]], and his capture by [[Orcs]]"<ref name=":25">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://members.tripod.com/peter_jackson_online/lotr/articles/20_questions2.htm|articlename=20 QUESTIONS WITH PETER JACKSON- PART 2|author=Harry Knowles|dated=31 December 1998|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> At the time, the idea was to shoot this as additional material and add it into the extended edition: although by early 2001 he would have realized this could not be accomodated in the pickups to ''The Fellowship of the Ring'', in 2003 he would still half-jokingly talk about shooting more pickups to "fatten these films out without technically going beyond ‘[[The Lord of the Rings]]’ as the licensed property." Elsewhere in the commentary, he jokes about "spinoff" entries.<ref name=":26" /> Other ideas for this treatment included [[Tom Bombadil]]<ref name=":25" /> and the [[Lothlórien|attack on Lorien]], with the entire expansion estimated at around three hours' worth.<ref name=":26" />

By the end of 2001, The success of ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]'' emboldened [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]<ref>Kristin Thompson, T''he Frodo Franchise: The Lord of the Rings and Modern Hollywoo''d (Berkeley: University of California Press, 2007), pp. 51, 327, 338.</ref> to pursue more films (he was also in discussions to "rekindle" ''King Kong'' at the time) and he had later discussed filming a "''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|Lord of the Rings]]'' prequel", along with ''[[The Hobbit]]'', with composer [[Howard Shore]] and executive producer [[Mark Ordesky]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2006/11/19/24053-peter-jackson-and-fran-walsh-talk-the-hobbit-2/|articlename=Peter Jackson and Fran Walsh Talk THE HOBBIT|author=Xoanon|dated=19 November 2006|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref><ref name=":35">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.rhino.com/article/interview-howard-shore-the-lord-of-the-rings|articlename=INTERVIEW: Howard Shore (“The Lord of the Rings”)|author=Will Harris|dated=27 April 2018|website=Rhino}}</ref> At a later premiere, [[New Line Cinema|New Line]]'s president Robert Shaye told [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s agent [[Ken Kamins]] that they "would want to have a conversation" about the two films.<ref name=":30" /> The idea at the time was to incorporate [[Arwen]] as a female character<ref name=":10">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20230327113046/https://ew.com/article/2003/12/06/peter-jackson-mulls-rings-prequel/|articlename=Peter Jackson mulls ''Rings'' prequel|author=Gary Susman|dated=6 December 2003|website=EW}}</ref> and produce both films back-to-back "in some short order"<ref name=":30">Ian Nathan, ''Anything You Can Imagine: Peter Jackson and the Making of Middle-earth'' (London: HarperCollins, 2019), pp. 827, 835.</ref> after ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'', in order to "complete the set of films.”<ref name=":10" /> Peter was referring to these two films, when talking in the behind the scenes documentaries in 2004 about "Maybe there'll be something we can do." Actors [[Andy Serkis]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2003/dec/09/jrrtolkien|articlename=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2003/dec/09/jrrtolkien|author=Anonymous|dated=9 Dec 2003|website=The Guardian}}</ref> [[Ian McKellen]], producer Barrie Osborne<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2002/12/16/25965-ttt-benefit-with-barrie-osborne-2/|articlename=TTT Benefit with Barrie Osborne
by|author=xoanon|dated=16 December 2002|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> and concept artist Paul Lasaine all expressed interest at the time.

Also around this time, [[Andy Serkis]] goes into some detail in his book ''[[Gollum: How We Made Movie Magic|Gollum: Howe We Made Movie Magic]]'' into how he imagined Smeagol's personality and upbringing. This conception of Smeagol would become imperative for the film all those years later: <blockquote>I was interested in trying to define Gollum's class and status in the community, and had thought that, coming from the wealthiest and largest Stoor family, he would probably never have really worked a day in his life. He probably skipped school and spent time squandering money that he had stolen from his grandmother's purse. It was a matriarchy and his grandmother was the head of his family, so I wondered how we might reflect this. We decided that some sort of neckerchief, maybe made of silk and a little flamboyant, might be a good idea. I liked the idea of carrying through the drug-addict metaphor, implying that he was like a young rich kid who had always had money in his pocket and was able to experiment with whatever took his fancy, like a Middle-earth version of a young playboy or a Victorian dandy.

We also examined the idea of his curious and inquisitive nature. I always saw Sméagol as a loner, not particularly liked, a bit of a Billy-no-friends, and not very good at team sports. He would have been thought of as a bit weird, and he would have secretly dreamed up vengeful scenarios for all the other Stoor hobbits, who completely ignored him. So, to cope with being so introverted and alienated, he became a collector, obsessed with the "roots and beginnings" of things. Objects became more important than people: at least they couldn't hurt him. Physically: I gave him a stoop from constantly looking down. I imagined him to be fairly narcissistic, spending hours fascinating himself by staring at his own reflection in the water while he fished. We decided to display this obsessive behavior through shiny pau shell buttons and little trophies of fish bones tied to his belt, as if he were adorning himself with fetishlike status symbols. Although he was dysfunctional, he was not evil or malicious, just, as the Travis Bickle character says of himself in Taxi Driver, full of "morbid self-attention.<ref>Andrew Serkis, [[Gollum: How We Made Movie Magic|''Gollum: How We Made Movie Magic'']] (London: HarperCollins, 2003), p. 58.</ref> </blockquote>While talking about ''[[The Hobbit]]'' in 16 September 2006, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] said they "have thought about it from time to time" and in fact "spent most of this morning" talking about the films. They talked of how "[[Elrond]], [[Galadriel]] and [[Arwen]] could all feature"<ref name=":11" /> and "[[Gollum]]'s sneaking into [[Mordor]] and [[Aragorn]] protecting [[The Shire]]. That's what we'd do. Love to work with [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] again".<ref name=":11">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/30085|articlename=Part 5: Quint and Peter Jackson talk THE HOBBIT and a potential return to low budget horror!!!|author=Eric Vespe|dated=16 September 2006|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]], hearing this remark in 2012, said it "sounds like a lot of fun".<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2012/03/13/54232-viggo-mortensens-visit-to-boston-part-2-new-video/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen’s visit to Boston – part 2 (new video!)|author=Greendragon|dated=13 March 2012|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref> At the time, [[Peter Jackson|Peter]] had a falling-out with [[New Line Cinema]] who had tipped Sam Raimi to direct both films.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2006/11/22/926-the-new-director-of-the-hobbit-is/|articlename=Sam Raimi to Direct Hobbit Movie??|author=xoanon|dated=22 November 2006|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref>

===During ''The Hobbit''===
Since the rights to [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']] were split with [[MGM|Metro Goldwyn-Mayer]], in March 2007 [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] pitched this to CEO Harry Sloan: he had already heard of it from [[New Line Cinema]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.ign.com/articles/2006/11/14/hobbit-crown-panther-news|articlename=Hobbit, Crown, Panther News|author=Anonymous|dated=15 Nov 2006|website=IGN}}</ref> but Sloan was won over by Jackson's pitch, which was apparently very detailed.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.kristinthompson.net/blog/2008/05/19/the-hobbit-films-pj-and-fw-know-every-scene-every-moment/|articlename=The Hobbit films: PJ and FW know “every scene, every moment”|author=Kristin Thompson|dated=19 May 2008|website=Kristinthompson.net}}</ref> By contrast, Shaye later said [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] "hasn't told us too much about it."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.screendaily.com/new-line-mgm-team-for-two-hobbit-movies-with-peter-jackson/4036350.article|articlename=New Line, MGM team for two Hobbit movies with Peter Jackson|author=Jeremy Kay|dated=18 December 2007|website=Screen Daily}}</ref>

By December, both films were moving forward with a budget of $150 million each: the idea was that [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]], [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] would write and produce and the films will be shot in 2009 for release in 2010 and 2011.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/del-toro-doubles-up-hobbit-103547/|articlename=Del Toro doubles up for ‘Hobbit’|author=Borys Kit|dated=28 January 2008|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> Robert Shaye, Michael Lynne and [[Mark Ordesky]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://variety.com/2008/film/columns/shaye-kept-new-line-afloat-1117982001/|articlename=Shaye kept New Line afloat|author=Anne Thompson|dated=7 March 2008|website=Variety}}</ref> were attached as executive producers until February, when they were replaced by Toby Emmerich (previously head of production since 2001) and Carolyn Blackwood. Actor [[Ian McKellen|Ian Mckellen]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2008/mar/26/lordoftherings.jrrtolkien|articlename=Hard Hobbit to break: McKellen set for return as Gandalf|author=Anonymous|dated=26 March 2008|website=The Guardian}}</ref> assistant Matthew Dravitzky,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://if.com.au/guillermo-wants-old-buddies-to-join-him-on-the-hobbit/|articlename=Guillermo wants old buddies to join him on The Hobbit|author=Anonymous|dated=23 March 2009|website=IF FX}}</ref> composer [[Howard Shore]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/09/28/30045-howard-shore-is-working-on-hobbit-score/|articlename=Howard Shore is Working on Hobbit Score|author=28 September 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/02/24/28408-howard-shore-talks-hobbit-in-switzerland/|articlename=Howard Shore Talks ‘Hobbit’ in Switzerland|author=Calisuri|dated=24 February 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref>, [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]]<ref name=":38">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/10/22/30352-del-toro-interview-part-3-%E2%80%9Ci-love-new-zealand%E2%80%9D/|articlename=Del Toro Interview Part 3: “I Love New Zealand!”|author=Xoanon|dated=22 October 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> and [[Wētā FX|Weta FX]]<ref name=":37" /> were attached to the project. Although [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] hadn't ruled out directing - he later aired the notion of shooting second unit<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20081012042437/http://moviesblog.mtv.com/2008/10/08/guillermo-del-toro-to-fly-solo-on-hobbit-directing-duties-says-no-to-peter-jackson-assist/|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro To Fly Solo On ‘Hobbit’ Directing Duties, Says No To Peter Jackson Assist|author=Shawn Adler|dated=8 October 2008|website=MTV}}</ref><ref name=":17" /> - he soon picked [[Guillermo del Toro]] to direct.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/01/30/28331-torn-exclusive-del-toro-%e2%80%9c99-percent-certain%e2%80%9d-says-nl-insider/|articlename=TORN exclusive: Del Toro “99 percent certain” says NL insider.|author=MrCere|dated=30 January 2008|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref>

Subsequently, actors [[Andy Serkis]],<ref name=":17" /> [[Ian Holm]]<ref name=":15">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080501020820/http://www.mtv.com/movies/news/articles/1586421/story.jhtml|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro Addresses 'Hobbit' Fans' Concerns, Talks Possible Casting|author=Shawn Adler, Josh Horowitz|dated=28 April 2008|website=Premiere.com}}</ref>; concept artists [[Alan Lee]] and [[John Howe]]; prosthetics supervisor [[Gino Acevedo]]<ref name=":37">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/04/25/28747-guillermo-del-toro-chats-with-torn-about-the-hobbit-films/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro Chats with TORN About ‘The Hobbit’ Films!|author=Xoanon|dated=25 April 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> were all attached. They had approached [[Grant Major]] but he declined<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=http://www.artstars.us/grant-major/8/|articlename=Grant Major|author=Tom Lisowski|dated=14 November 2011|website=Art Stars}}</ref> and hopped onboard ''Green Lantern'' with costume designer Ngila Dickson: they were substituted by [[Dan Hennah]]<ref name=":32">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/51948|articlename=An Unexpected Journey: Quint on the set of The Hobbit Part 3 – Beginnings and Endings|author=Eric Vespe|dated=14 November 2011|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> and Kate Hawley.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.whowhatwear.com/living/who-what-wear-podcast-kate-hawley|articlename=How the Frankenstein Costume Designer Brought the Film to Life|author=Madeline Hill|dated=17 November 2025|website=Who What Wear}}</ref> Actors [[Martin Freeman]]<ref>In "The Road Back to Middle-earth", Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit'' (New Line Cinema: 2015), Philippa Boyens recalls proposing Freeman as Bilbo Baggins when she saw him at the 2003 BAFTAs.</ref> and [[Hugo Weaving]];<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.slashfilm.com/504115/guillermo-del-toro-confirms-hugo-weaving-for-the-hobbit-and-much-more/|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro Confirms Hugo Weaving For The Hobbit... And Much More|author=Brendon Connolly|dated=11 June 2009|website=Slash Film}}</ref> as well as [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]]'s regular collaborators (including artists Wayne Barlowe and Francisco Ruiz Velasco<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20081201164150/http://bilbohobbit.com/del-toro-talks-hobbit-in-live-chat/|articlename="Del Toro talks 'Hobbit' in Live Chat"|author=Alex|dated=27 November 2008|website=BilboHobbit.com}}</ref>) were also being sought beginning at this time. [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had first seen [[Lee Pace]] - which he would cast as [[Thranduil]] later - around this time, as well.

"We got really excited," said [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]], "because this second film is not a ‘tag on’, it’s not ‘filler,’ it’s an integral part of telling the story of those 50 years of history lost in the narrative".<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://theplaylist.net/60-year-period-between-hobbi-20080425/|articlename=60-Year Period Between ‘The Hobbit’ & ‘Fellowship’ For Hobbit Sequel Suddenly Gone? Or Not?|author=Rodrigo Perez|dated=25 April 2008|website=The Playlist}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.gamesradar.com/guillermo-del-toro-talks-hobbit-and-more/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro talks Hobbit and more|author=Anonymous|dated=25 April 2008|website=Total Film}}</ref> Although he had a radical new vision for the designs in the first film, <ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080915124607/http://www.premiere.com/features/4642/exclusive-guillermo-del-toro-on-hellboy-ii-page4.html|articlename=Exclusive: Guillermo del Toro on 'Hellboy II'|author=Anonymous|website=Premiere}}</ref> [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] intended to use the second film to affect a gradual change of style towards that of [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]: "We have to recreate a lot of the stuff they did on the [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|trilogy]]," he said: helpfully, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had kept the [[Bag End]] and [[Rivendell]] sets, and they set about rebuilding [[Hobbiton]].<ref name=":32" />

[[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] also rewatched the extended editions with [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]], [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] and intended to watch the making-ofs, dailies "the camera reports... everything," particularly for ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080914124349/http://www.comingsoon.net/news/nycomicconnews.php?id=44254|articlename=EXCL: Del Toro on Hellboy II and The Hobbit|author=Edward Douglas|dated=21 April 2008|website=Coming Soon.net}}</ref> The remastering of ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'' was also begun around this time. This was done because [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] felt that it "has to evolve into the lensing, the color palette, the texture palette, and the feel of the [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|trilogy]]…"<ref name=":13">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/37428|articlename=Quint and Guillermo del Toro chat about HELLBOY II, THE HOBBIT and more!!!|author=Eric Vespe|dated=12 July 2008|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> partially for this purpose, a break was to be scheduled partway through the shoot,<ref name=":31">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080712175117/http://www.ifmagazine.com/feature.asp?article=2879|articlename=GUILLERMO DEL TORO ESCAPES 'LABYRINTH' AND ENDS RIGHT BACK INTO 'HELLBOY'|author=Carl Cortez|dated=9 July 2008|website=iFMagazine}}</ref> which was estimated at over 370 days.<ref name=":31" />

[[Guillermo del Toro|Guillermo]] insisted the second film would add to the series.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wReRe8Si2aU|articlename=Guillermo del Toro: RT's Dinner & the Movies Interview Pt 5|author=OCR|dated=11 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> He said "it’s also expanding and illuminating some of the aspects of the trilogy in a slightly different way, like same characters in a different environment. I find that very attractive."<ref name=":13" /> The idea was that the first film would be a retelling of [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']], including the bulk of the [[Dol Guldur]] storyline, up to [[Smaug]]'s death: the second would wrap-up the remainder of [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']] in its first half, and concern itself with the Hunt for [[Gollum]] and other "bridging" plot threads in its second half.<ref name=":14">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20120831093447/http://moviesblog.mtv.com/2008/10/07/hobbit-films-will-be-one-continuous-journey-promises-guillermo-del-toro/|articlename='Hobbit' Films Will Be One 'Continuous Journey,' Promises Guillermo Del Toro|author=Shawn Adler|dated=7 October 2008|website=MTV}}</ref>

Although [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] predicted the second film would require the most work,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2P0dTo0yNpQ|articlename=THE HOBBIT 1 & 2 MOVIE UPDATE|author=ReelzChannel|dated=7 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> both he<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JVHzVKy_F8w|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro talks about Hobbit Movie|author=Brettmartintv|dated=7 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] showed a particular eagerness towards it, with [[Guillermo del Toro|Guillermo]] calling it a "treasure trove of possibilities."<ref name=":16">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080915084029/http://www.mtv.com/movies/news/articles/1590278/story.jhtml|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro Answers 'Hobbit' Fans' Questions About Returning 'Rings' Cast, Religion And More|author=Shawn Adler|dated=2 July 2008|website=MTV}}</ref> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] was also "really looking forward to developing Film Two. It gives us a freedom that we haven't really had on our [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] journey."<ref name=":17" /> [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] concluded that "the promise of that land is absolutely mind-boggling!"<ref name=":16" />

Referring specifically to [[Gollum]]'s part in the events, [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] said "[[Gollum]] has a rather fascinating arch to go through and his alliance to [[Shelob]] or his period of imprisonment in [[Thranduil]]'s". [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] added that "There's an awful lot of incident that happens during that 60 year gap. At this stage, we're not imagining a film that literally covers 60 years, like a bio-pic or documentary. We would figure out what happens during that 60 years, and choose one short section of time to drop in and dramatise for the screen". Both filmmakers said they agreed that "apart from extreme circumstances, we would never recast a character who appeared in the [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|LOTR trilogy]]".<ref name=":17">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080730161821/http://www.wetanz.com/holics/index.php?itemid=695&catid=2|articlename=An Unexpected Party Chat|author=Anonymous|dated=30 July 2008|website=Weta Workshop website}}</ref> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] later remarked that, in some cases, they'd sooner write around a character than recast the part.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/41848|articlename=Comic-Con '09: Peter Jackson talks to Capone about DISTRICT 9, THE HOBBIT, and the state of the film industry!!!|author="Capone"|dated=28 July 2009|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref>

As of the formulation of these comments in July, [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] said the second film is "too early"<ref name=":13" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5YoRDF12aRc|articlename=GDT the Hobbit 1|author=Garfeimao TheOneRing|dated=14 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> in its development process to know precisely what it might entail, estimating that it would take six months to formulate the storyline for the film.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.ign.com/articles/2008/07/09/exclusive-gdt-on-the-hobbit|articlename=Exclusive: GDT on The Hobbit|author=Eric Moro and Stax|dated=10 July 2008|website=IGN}}</ref> By September, however, [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] claimed they "found what reverberated."<ref name=":14" /> [[Guillermo del Toro|Guillermo]] had expressed reservations about the term "bridge film" from the outset, but by now he and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] disabused of the term completely, having come to see the films as five undifferentiated parts of a greater whole.

Although they apparently made an outline,<ref name=":15" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/10/16/30296-guillermo-del-toro-i%e2%80%99m-so-voracious-about-the-hobbit/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro: “I’m so voracious about The Hobbit!”|author=Xoanon|dated=16 October 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> it seems the film went no further than this. Up until this point, del Toro had been video-conferencing with Jackson and the other collaborators, meeting in person every three weeks.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://variety.com/2008/film/features/guillermo-del-toro-booked-thru-2017-1117991560/|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro booked thru 2017|author=Michael Fleming|dated=3 September, 2008|website=Variety}}</ref> By the time he arrived to concentrate on writing the story treatment in November 2008<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=http://newboards.theonering.net/forum/gforum/perl/gforum.cgi?post=147373;guest=501771554#147373|articlename="Hola"|author=Guillermo del Toro|dated=8 November 2008|website=The One Ring Discussion Boards}}</ref><ref>Alfio Leotta, ''Peter Jackson'' (London: Bloomsbury Publishing, 2015), p. 196.</ref> the contents of the "bridge" film were being gradually edged-out by the contents of ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]],'' to the point that by the time the completed treatment was greenlit in April 2009<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2009/08/03/32999-peter-jackson-speaks/|articlename=Peter Jackson speaks|author=MrCere|dated=3 August 2009|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref> the films could only be described as a two-part adaptation of ''[[The Hobbit]],'' albeit with elements of the bridge film "integrated''."''<ref>Anonymous, "The Hobbit: Gollum, Bilbo, del Toro and Jackson," ''Empire'', April 2009.</ref> Although [[John Howe]] apparently sent [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] some sketches,<ref name=":38" /> and [[Howard Shore]] had musical ideas,<ref>TheOneRing, Hobbit Desolation of Smaug Music Commentary Watch Along, ''YouTube'', 29 July 2020. Esp. 1:12:15. One such musical idea dates back to the composition of ''The Fellowship of the Ring:'' the flat sixth setting of the Hobbits' bassline that's heard when Gandalf glimpses Thorin's map: Howard was saving that as a "portent of an adventure" towards a potential adaptation of The Hobbit, but by the stage of discussing with del Toro he would have realized it would be applicable to the "bridge" film as well.</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/30722|articlename=ScoreKeeper Talks To Howard Shore About THE TWO TOWERS Complete Recordings, THE HOBBIT, And More!!|author=Merrick|dated=16 November 2006|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> no more work was done on the bridge film. At this time, a [[The Hunt for Gollum|fan film on the same subject was released]], followed shortly by [[Born of Hope|a fan film about Aragorn's errantries]]. The latter of this gained a measure of approbation from [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s camp.

Even so, elements of the bridge film clung to the project for a long time: in 2013 [[Philippa Boyens]] said, probably referring to the preproduction period, that "When we started structuring this trilogy we honestly thought about telling some of that. How [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]] becomes the uncle of [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] and take care of him. The story of [[Gollum]]…"<ref name=":9" /> Casting calls had been issued for the roles of [[Primula Brandybuck]] and [[Drogo Baggins]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20201024010428/http://www.movies.spoilertv.com/2010/01/hobbit-casting-call.html#ixzz0btnyJvCI|articlename=Hobbit - Official Casting Call and Plot Details|author=DarkUFO|dated=4 January 2010|website=SpoilerTV}}</ref> with Primula said to be "Prone to letting words and thoughts tumble out of her mouth without pause" while Drogo was "well known around The Shire and is a bit of a ladies man." While Caroline Grace-Cassidy was considered for [[Primula Brandybuck|Primula]], [[Ryan Gage]] was cast in the role of [[Drogo Baggins|Drogo]] and remained attached to it well into shooting, only being recast as [[Alfrid]] around May.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/cate-blanchett-revisiting-rings-role-57193/|articlename=Cate Blanchett Revisiting ‘Rings’ Role In ‘Hobbit’|author=Gregg Kilday|dated=7 December 2010|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> Although both parts were described as "leads" Boyens remembers Alfrid, itself a small role, being bigger than Drogo. The roles of [[Master Worrywort|Worrywort]] and [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]], which was originally rumoured to include him "moving to live at [[Bag End]] after the untimely drowning of [[Drogo Baggins|Drogo]] and [[Primula Brandybuck|Primula]]" were probably rewritten into their present form around that time.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=theonering.net/torwp/2014/03/25/87789-how-would-have-peter-jacksons-the-hobbit-looked-as-a-duology/|articlename=How would have Peter Jackson’s The Hobbit looked as a duology?|author=Demosthenes|dated=25 March 2014|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref>

They had scouted locations for the [[Barrow-downs|Barrow Downs]], possibly with a connection to the aforementioned "[[Aragorn]] protecting the [[The Shire|Shire]]" plot point.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://narniafans.com/2019/08/interview-with-narnia-conceptual-designer-john-howe/|articlename=Interview with Narnia Conceptual Designer John Howe|author=David Sutton|dated=18 August 2019|website=Narnia Fans.com}}</ref> More scenes were planned for the [[Dol Guldur]] story and the [[Orcs]]: they had gone as far as designing a young [[Gothmog (Lieutenant of Morgul)#Gothmog in adaptations|Gothmog]] who would participate in the concluding battle, but didn't utilize him.<ref name=":0" /> Another storyline concerned Itarille (later [[Tauriel]]) and her romance with an Elf lord of [[Rivendell]]: clearly an outgrowth of the original idea of featuring [[Arwen]] in the film. [[Aidan Turner]] seems to have read for the part of this Elf Lord. Indeed, Jackson recalled in 2015 that "We did try to figure out a way to get a cameo, even if it was a cameo, for [[Aragorn]] and actually for [[Arwen]], too: we tried to have [[Liv Tyler]] in the film".<ref name=":0" /> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] remarked in 2013 that they envisioned [[Aragorn]] being "quite young" in the film, but concluded that [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] "could have absolutely played" him at the time. "It was incredibly tempting."<ref name=":39">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TapH7wM8MdI&t=85s|articlename=Philippa Boyens ci parla delle scene tagliate dello Hobbit: la Desolazione di Smaug e di... Aragorn!|author=Badtaste|dated=11 December 2013|website=YouTube}}</ref> It's unclear when the idea finally died out: Philippa claims they "always" wanted to have him in the film, and the scene "invoking [[Aragorn]]" was scripted in early 2013, as a "homage" to their earlier plans.

[[Viggo Mortensen]] had been interested in the project since 2007.<ref name=":43">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/09/18/29885-viggo-mortensen-still-waiting-for-guillermo-del-toro%E2%80%99s-%E2%80%98hobbit%E2%80%99-call/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen Still Waiting For Guillermo Del Toro’s ‘Hobbit’ Call|author=Xoanon|dated=18 September 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref name=":44" /> Although it was reported that [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] had held conversations with him<ref name=":43" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thetimes.com/uk/law/article/hobbit-movies-meet-dire-foe-in-son-of-tolkien-lxnpmnsd2rp|articlename=Hobbit movies meet dire foe in son of Tolkien|author=John Harlow|dated=25 May 2008|website=The Times}}</ref> these appear to have not taken place before 2010. In 2008 [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] said he would "rather do it myself than see another actor finish the job for me,"<ref name=":44" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/12/17/30804-tv-watch-viggo-mortensen-on-night-talk/|articlename=TV Watch: Viggo Mortensen on ‘Night Talk’|author=Xoanon|dated=17 December 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/39305|articlename=Capone has a GOOD chat with Viggo Mortensen about politics, THE ROAD, APPALOOSA, and THE HOBBIT!!!|author=Steve Prokopy|dated=11 May 2009|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> saying "it would be fun."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://ohnotheydidnt.livejournal.com/41460224.html|articlename=Moviefone's Exclusive Viggo Mortensen Interview!|author=Anonymous|dated=25 November 2009|website=Moviefone}}</ref> Other actors from [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'']] have also expressed interest in appearing in the film, including [[Liv Tyler]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2011/03/21/42863-liv-tyler-not-contacted-for-hobbit/|articlename=Liv Tyler Not Contacted For Hobbit|author=DiveTwin|dated=21 March 2011|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> [[Cate Blanchett]],<ref name=":16" /> [[Dominic Monaghan]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.firstshowing.net/2009/dominic-monaghan-ready-to-return-for-the-hobbit-movies/|articlename=Dominic Monaghan Ready to Return for The Hobbit Movies?|author=Brandon Lee Tenney|dated=19 January 2009|website=First Showing}}</ref> [[Sean Astin]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2009/03/10/31356-astin-up-for-hobbit-if-hobbit-up-for-him/|articlename=Astin up for Hobbit if Hobbit up for him|author=Xoanon|dated=10 March 2009|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref name=":44" /> [[John Noble]] and [[Sean Bean]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.digitalspy.com/movies/a434476/sean-bean-on-the-hobbit-absence-theyre-sticklers-for-detail/|articlename=Sean Bean on 'The Hobbit' absence: 'They're sticklers for detail'|author=Emma Dibdin|dated=30 October 2012|website=Digital Spy}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://theplaylist.net/viggo-mortensen-optimistic-about-role-20090401/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen Optimistic About Role In Del Toro’s ‘Hobbit’, Project Extends To A Trilogy?|author=Simon Dang|dated=1 April 2009|website=The Playlist}}</ref> [[Christopher Lee]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://whatculture.com/film/christopher-lee-wants-sarumann-return-in-the-hobbit|articlename=Christopher Lee wants Saruman return in THE HOBBIT|author=Matt Holmes|dated=25 June 2011|website=WhatCulture}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5qGFbBNnodw&t=77s|articlename=Christopher Lee about possibly returning to Middle Earth|author="Rushblogg"|dated=12 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> [[Brad Dourif]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/09/12/29751-brad-dourif-on-returning-to-middle-earth/|articlename=Brad Dourif on Returning to Middle-earth|author=Deej|dated=12 September 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> [[John Rhys-Davies]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/the-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy-makeup-difficulties-explained-john-rhys-davies/|articlename=John Rhys-Davies Reveals Gruesome Makeup Process for Gimli in The Lord of the Rings [Exclusive]|author=Aidan Kelley and Steven Weintraub|dated=9 August 2025|website=Collider}}</ref> and [[Elijah Wood]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/11/16/30565-elijah-hobbit-appearance-concievably-possible/|articlename=Elijah – Hobbit appearance ‘concievably possible’|author=Altaira|dated=16 November 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.firstshowing.net/2008/elijah-wood-confirms-dual-hobbit-movie-details/|articlename=Elijah Wood Confirms Dual Hobbit Movie Details|author=Alex Billington|dated=11 January 2008|website=First Showing}}</ref>

Around 2010, [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] recieved an availability call<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2013/may/28/viggo-mortensen-interview|articlename=Viggo Mortensen interview: 'If I think a film's beyond me – that's a good sign'|author=Imogen Tilden|dated=28 May 2013|website=The Guardian}}</ref> from [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]: "I said sure, if [[Aragorn]] is supposed to be in the bridge story, because he’s not in [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']]."<ref name=":1">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2013/05/30/72294-viggo-turned-down-role-as-aragorn-not-so-fast/|articlename=Viggo ‘Turned Down’ Role as Aragorn? Not so fast…|author=Newsfrombree|dated=30 May 2013|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.wired.com/2012/03/viggo-mortensen-speaks-2/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen Speaks: Part 2 of 3|author=Ethan Gilsdorf|dated=11 March 2012|website=Wired.com}}</ref> Informed that they "can take certain liberties" he said he'd "love to revisit him."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/films/features/viggo-mortensen-interview-captain-fantastic-lord-of-the-rings-aragorn-hobbit-david-cronenberg-a7231826.html|articlename=Viggo Mortensen interview: 'I didn't throw Peter Jackson under the bus'|author=Jacob Stolworthy|dated=23 January 2017|website=The Independent}}</ref> However, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] later revealed that since that call, they "could think of no way of doing it".<ref name=":0" /> Having no further contact, and knowing that "[[Orlando Bloom]] and [[Cate Blanchett]] shot something,"<ref name=":44">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://viggo-works.com/?fromday=1&frommonth=6&fromyear=2006&today=25&tomonth=2&toyear=2026&order=date&page=243&selectedcat=262&ascdesc=DESC&filter=Go&m=on|articlename=Viggo Mortenson Dangerous Method Interview|author=Anonymous|dated=25 November 2011|website=Movies.com}}</ref>[[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] concluded in November 2011 that "[[Aragorn]] is half [[Elves|elf]] [sic] and also lives a couple hundred years or more and he could be in a bridge, but I have to assume it isn't going to happen".<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reuters.com/article/lifestyle/rings-actor-mortensen-unlikely-to-repeat-role-idUSTRE7AM2U9/|articlename="Rings" actor Mortensen unlikely to repeat role|author=Kurt Orzeck|dated=24 November 2011|website=Reuters}}</ref> Although he still has misgivings - "It would make sense if Aragorn was part of the story and he's not"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.scotsman.com/arts-and-culture/interview-viggo-mortensen-is-lord-of-all-things-1573949|articlename=Interview: Viggo Mortensen is lord of all things|author=Chitra Ramaswamy|dated=25 May 2013|website=The Scotsman}}</ref> - he said he would still be open to playing [[Aragorn]] "if it seemed sensible to do so".<ref name=":1" />

===After ''The Hobbit''===

Conversations about making the "bridge film" as a third instalment<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.firstshowing.net/2009/guillermo-del-toro-updates-on-the-hobbit/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro Briefly Talks More About The Hobbit Split|author=Alex Billington|dated=5 June 2009|website=First Showing}}</ref> continued well into 2010:<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://geeksofdoom.com/2009/08/19/bridge-between-the-hobbit-lord-of-the-rings-still-to-be-built-peter-jackson-to-direct-third-movie|articlename=[Updated] Bridge Between ‘The Hobbit’ & ‘Lord Of The Rings’ Still To Be Built? Peter Jackson To Direct Third Movie?|author="The Movie God"|dated=19 August 2009|website=Geeks of Doom}}</ref> In 2012, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had revealed that "a third movie has always been in discussion."<ref>Michael Pellerin, "The Clouds Burst", Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies'' (New Line Cinema: 2015).</ref> These conversations resumed - now with the film situated as a fourth movie - as [[The Hobbit (film series)|''The Hobbit'']] was winding down in 2013. Says [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]]: "There’s enough story there to make a bridge movie, you know, there’s 60 years between ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'' and a lot of things happened."<ref name=":9">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.heyuguys.com/interview-peter-jackson-the-hobbit-the-desolation-of-smaug/|articlename=The HeyUGuys Interview: The Hobbit director Peter Jackson all but rules out a return to Middle Earth|author=Stefan Pape|dated=13 December 2013|website=HeyUGuys}}</ref> In the director's commentary to ''[[The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies|The Battle of the Five Armies]]'' in 2015, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] remained open to the idea of making more films, and mused about what Jackson jokingly calls "A fictitious film 3.5" which [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] goes on to call "The Hunt for Gollum".<ref name=":0">Peter Jackson, Philippa Boyens, "Director's Commentary," Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies'' (New Line Cinema: 2015).</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] said it could include "a few other things that go on which are really interesting" like [[Saruman]]'s search for the [[The One Ring|Ring]]. She elaborates:<blockquote>''[[Aragorn]] really is one who tracks Gollum and ends up...and finds him eventually in the [[Dead Marshes]], and he's taken [[Woodland Realm|to the Elves]]. And he's taken to the Elves, and because of the kindness of the Elves - and [[Legolas]] is one of his keepers... in [[Mirkwood]], and through their kindness he actually manages to escape. Or has he escaped? Or was he let loose?''<ref name=":0" /></blockquote>[[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had kept the possibility of returning to [[Middle-earth]] open<ref name=":0" /> but [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] revealed that they "had zero expectations of going back to this."<ref name=":7">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2024/05/the-lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-peter-jackson-andy-serkis-philippa-boyens-explain-23-years-after-cannes-saved-original-trilogy-1235917510/|articlename=Peter Jackson, Andy Serkis & Philippa Boyens Explain Why They’re Returning To Middle-Earth For ‘The Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum’ 23 Years After Cannes Saved The Billion-Dollar Franchise|author=Mike Fleming Junior|dated=15 May 2024|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://uk.movies.yahoo.com/don-t-expect--the-hobbit-3--to-lead-directly-into--the-lord-of-the-rings-140402150.html|articlename=The Hobbit 3 won't lead into The Lord of the Rings|author=Tom Butler|dated=11 December 2013|website=Yahoo Entertainment UK}}</ref> Their ultimate decision to return to this premise may have been stirred, in part, by other projects: first, Jackson had seen the in-development video game ''[[Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor|Shadow of Mordor]],'' on which [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]] and others from Jackson's crew had worked, and which had nestled itself into the gap between ''[[The Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]].''<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.ign.com/articles/2014/02/20/why-lord-of-the-rings-fans-should-be-excited-for-shadow-of-mordor|articlename=Why Lord of the Rings Fans Should Be Excited for Shadow of Mordor|author=Luke Karmali|dated=20 February 2014|website=IGN}}</ref>

Shortly afterwards, when the [[Tolkien Estate]] (still nominally under [[Christopher Tolkien]]) shopped the television rights, the idea of doing a show about young [[Aragorn]] was pitched, first by Netflix, and then - at the suggestion of the Russo brothers<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-features/the-rings-of-power-showrunners-interview-season-2-1235233124/|articlename=‘The Rings of Power’ Showrunners Break Silence on Backlash, Sauron and Season 2|author=James Hibberd|dated=5 October 2022|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> - by [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon Prime Video]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=http://newboards.theonering.net/forum/gforum/perl/gforum.cgi?post=946980;sb=post_time;so=DESC;forum_view=forum_view_collapsed;guest=206510448#947231|articlename=If you will indulge me in a story|author="Uncle Iorlas"|dated=21 July 2018|website=The One Ring.net Message Boards}}</ref> Upon hearing this, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]]' mind immediately went to the period of the hunt: "If you're telling the [story of] him hunting [[Gollum]], you're getting closer to [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]]."<ref name=":21">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.fandom.com/articles/peter-jackson-lord-of-the-rings-series|articlename=Peter Jackson’s Tips For Casting Aragorn in Lord of the Rings TV Show|author=Kim Taylor-Foster|dated=4 December 2018|website=Fandom.com}}</ref> She and Jackson had also expressed interest in the potential of [[Aragorn]]'s younger days and life in [[Rivendell]]: "He's probably going to have to start young,"<ref name=":21" /> remarked Boyens, concluding that "A lot of the early [[Aragorn]] story hasn't been told."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.stuff.co.nz/entertainment/film/108970711/philippa-boyens-on-mortal-engines-hobbits-and-going-solo|articlename=Philippa Boyens on Mortal Engines, Hobbits and going solo|author=Philip Matthews|dated=16 December 2018|website=Stuff.nz}}</ref> [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortesen]] also got wind of the rumours and said he's open to reprising his role.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/viggo-mortensen-interview-falling-lord-of-the-rings/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen on Falling, Directing, and LOTR TV Show Interest|author=Christina Radish|dated=14 February 2021|website=Collider}}</ref>

Toby Emmerich and Carolyn Blackwood from [[New Line Cinema]] were brought into the fold in the hopes of cooperating on the show. In early 2018 lawyer Peter Nelson set-up "dialogue between [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon]]" to participate as executive producer.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/how-lord-rings-tv-series-landed-at-amazon-not-netflix-1099213/|articlename=Inside Amazon’s $250M ‘Lord of the Rings’ Deal: “It’s Very Much a Creature of the Times”|author=Tatiana Siegel|dated=5 April 2018|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20210308114202/https://www.herr-der-ringe-film.de/v3/de/news/tolkienfilme/news_121920.php|articlename=Exklusiv: Zu den Kulissen der HERR DER RINGE Serie, Her Der Ringe Film (archived).|author=Cirdan|dated=20 June 2018|website=Herr der Ringe.de}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.stuff.co.nz/entertainment/celebrities/108520139/sir-peter-jackson-hasnt-given-up-hope-of-making-the-dam-busters|articlename=Sir Peter Jackson hasn't given up hope of making The Dam Busters|author=James Croot|dated=12 November 2018|website=NZStuff}}</ref> Preoccupied with ''Mortal Engines'' and ''They Shall Not Grow Old'', [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] proposed in June 2018 to review the scripts and put "the creative team together."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://de.ign.com/tv/129313/interview/peter-jackson-ist-fur-das-kreative-team-hinter-der-herr-der-ringe-serie-verantwortlich|articlename=Peter Jackson ist für das kreative Team hinter der Herr der Ringe-Serie verantwortlich|author=Valentin Aschenbrenner|dated=5 June 2018|website=IGN.de}}</ref> In July, Amazon landed on [[John D. Payne]] and [[Patrick McKay]] as showrunners, and before any work could be done, a regime change in [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon Prime Video]]<ref name=":19">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/peter-jackson-amazon-lord-of-the-rings-tv-series-1235193692/|articlename=Peter Jackson Says Amazon’s ‘Lord of the Rings’ TV Series Ghosted Him|author=James Hibberd|dated=5 August 2022|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> in early 2019 resulted in [[New Line Cinema]] being demoted to a "minority licensee stakeholder."<ref name=":20">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/lord-of-the-rings-amazon-vs-warner-bros-1235337625/|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings’: Amazon, Warner Bros. Ready for Tolkien Battle|author=James Hibberd|dated=28 February 2023|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> Although the showrunners had asked to meet [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]],<ref name=":19" /> COVID prevented this from taking place.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2022/02/10-burning-questions-about-amazons-the-rings-of-power?srsltid=AfmBOopmlhLKVkCtSqkuvTTAcUtyQUICWXopTWLQq_1tu4aEf1ICrDLp|articlename=10 Burning Questions About Amazon’s The Rings of Power|author=Joanna Robinson|dated=14 February 2022|website=Vanity Fair}}</ref> While the show used a substantial number of his crew, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] were reportedly "very frustrated that so many believed they were involved with [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon]]’s show."<ref name=":20" /> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had avoided watching the show to prevent "cross-contamination."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.slashfilm.com/1693866/why-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy-screenwriter-wont-watch-the-rings-of-power/|articlename=Why One Lord Of The Rings Trilogy Screenwriter Won't Watch The Rings Of Power|author=Jaron Pak|dated=21 October 2024|website=Slash Film}}</ref> Since then, the show had left [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s home country of [[New Zealand]].

Already in 2019, the show's development had galvanized Emmerich and Blackwood to pursue an animated film with [[Middle-earth Enterprises]] (who were not involved in the show) and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]. The bridge film might have been the "CG-animated" story that [[New Line Cinema|New Line]] "had been exploring with Sir [[Peter Jackson]]" but it failed to materialize and they decided to pursue ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim]]''<ref>Daniel Falconer, ''The Art of The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim'' (Wiliam Murrow: London, 2025), pp. 9-10.</ref>. Later on, Emmerich and Blackwood were replaced by Michael de Luca and Pam Abdy, who were "striving to keep [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon]] from blurring the lines too much between" the show and the films.<ref name=":20" /> Other projects like [[Tales of the Shire: A "The Lord of the Rings" Game|''Tales of the Shire'']], the remastering of the six films to Ultra High Definition and renovations of [[Hobbiton]] were begun shortly afterwards, as well.

After this long gestation period, ''The Hunt for Gollum'' entered development once again in 2022. [[Andy Serkis]] was attached as director in October 2023 and story meetings occurred as early as May 2024, along with early availability calls to actors like [[Ian McKellen]] and [[Viggo Mortensen]] between that time and early September. By that point, the writing of the treatment was underway, followed by the first draft in January-May. After some crew hiring in August, pre-production started in early September 2025 ahead of shooting in May 2026.

==Development==
In 2022 the new administration of [[Middle-earth Enterprises]] expressed a desire to make more films, including ones "based on iconic characters, such as [[Gandalf]], [[Aragorn]], [[Gollum]], [[Galadriel]], [[Éowyn|Eowyn]] and other characters."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/lord-of-the-rings-rights-embracer-1235201442/|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings,’ ‘The Hobbit’ Movie, Games and Other Rights Holder Sold to Swedish Gaming Company Embracer|author=Georg Szalai|dated=18 August 2022|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]], [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] kept updated throughout the negotiations to extend [[New Line Cinema]]'s lease on the rights.<ref name=":4" />

Having "really enjoyed working with [[Kenji Kamiyama]], who directed ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|War of the Rohirrim]]''," [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] signed on to produce two new films: [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] denied<ref name=":22" /> rumours that this involved splitting the [[Gollum]] story,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2024/05/lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-cast-plot-everything-we-know-1235919922/|articlename=‘The Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum’: Everything We Know So Far|author=Dessi Gomez|dated=16 May 2024|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://filmstories.co.uk/news/the-lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-its-two-films-says-ian-mckellen/|articlename=The Lord Of The Rings: Hunt For Gollum {{!}} “It’s two films” says Ian McKellen|author=Ryan Lambie|dated=11 September 2024|website=Film Stories}}</ref> and at various times her and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] expressed interest in subjects varying from the [[Battle of Dale|War in the North]], Young [[Aragorn]], or certain vignettes from [[Rohan]] or [[Gondor]]'s history,<ref name=":23">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1i97ctm/the_next_film_after_the_hunt_for_gollum/|articlename=The next film after The Hunt for Gollum: Everything we know so far|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=25 January 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> but they settled on a retelling of the missing early chapters of [[The Fellowship of the Ring]], developed under the title [[The Lord of the Rings: Shadow of the Past|''Shadow of the Past'']], whose script is probably one of the other two scripts [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had been working on.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.indiewire.com/news/general-news/peter-jackson-not-retired-working-on-three-scripts-1235138316/|articlename=Peter Jackson Is Working on Three Screenplays: ‘I’m Certainly Not Retired’|author=By Rance Collins|dated=13 July 2025|website=IndieWire}}</ref>

Signing on the films was done with the intention to jump-start a new slate of ''Lord of the Rings'' prequels for [[New Line Cinema]],<ref name=":18" /><ref name=":24" /> with [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also expressing interest in making an "epic trilogy", probably about the [[Angmar conflict|Angmar War]].<ref name=":23" /> However, having developed the [[Gollum]] premise for so long, they decided to start with it. Asked about unrealized projects in 2024, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] observed that "there's a lot of that in ''The Hunt for Gollum.''"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9LdzKS584wA&t=614s|articlename=Lord of the Rings: War of the Rohirrim Interviews! Peter Jackson Role Explained|author=Brandon Davis|dated=29 October 2024|website=YouTube}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis]], who played [[Gollum]], had directed second unit on ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King|The Return of the King]]'' and ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]<ref name=":7" />'' and had since become a director in his own right, as well as narrating audiobooks of Tolkien's novels. [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] approached [[Andy Serkis|Andy]] around October 2023.<ref name=":24">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ssUmmuU-Bmk&t=76s|articlename=Andy Serkis Talks Motion Capture, Gollum, and Directing {{!}} Superhero Comic Con San Antonio 2024 Q&A|author=Freeman Coliseum|dated=24 June 2024|website=YouTube}}</ref> While developing the story, they already made availability checks to key cast and crew members.

===Writing===
Story meetings have happened at least as early as May 2024<ref name=":7" /> and by July they were about to start writing,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/comconnireland/status/1835962321211904490|articlename=Andy Serkis took to the stage at Comic Con Northern Ireland to talk all things Lord of the Rings and more!|author=@comconnireland|dated=16 September 2024|website=Twitter}}</ref> with [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] spotted at the [[Hobbiton]] set in November with writers [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] and Arty Papageorgiou, producers [[Zane Weiner]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/05/lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-release-date-1236390022/|articlename=‘Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum’ Sets Pre-Christmas 2027 Release|author=Anthony D'Alessandro|dated=8 May 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> and Carlos Ramirez Laloli.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.elfenomeno.com/info/ver/23481/comienza-el-rodaje-de-el-senor-de-los-anillos-la-caza-de-gollum-en-hobbiton|articlename=¿Comienza el rodaje de El Señor de los Anillos: La Caza de Gollum en Hobbiton?|author=Elfenomeno|dated=6 November 2024|website=Elfenomeno.com}}</ref> By December they had been in the process of writing the story treatment.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/lord-of-the-rings-war-of-the-rohirrim-arty-papageorgiou-phoebe-gittins/|articlename="Who Better for a Gollum Film Than Gollum Himself?": 'War of the Rohirrim' Writers on Working with Andy Serkis in 'The Hunt for Gollum'|author=Therese Lacson|dated=16 December 2024|website=Collider}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] later estimated they would finish writing by the middle of the year - executive Pamela Abdy since put the completion of the script at May<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/04/warner-bros-mike-de-luca-pam-abdy-courage-in-face-of-brutal-press-coverage-1236366618/|articlename=Warner Bros’ Mike De Luca & Pam Abdy: Playing Long Game, Mixing IP Like ‘Bodyguard’ Revamp & Bold Originals & Animation Despite Brutal Press|author=Mike Fleming Junior|dated=11 April 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> - and begin "scouting locations and building [sets]" with shooting due to begin towards the beginning of 2026.<ref name=":5">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.1news.co.nz/2024/12/15/exclusive-andy-serkis-philippa-boyens-on-the-hunt-for-gollum/|articlename=Exclusive: Andy Serkis, Philippa Boyens on new Lord of the Rings film|author=Abbey Wakefield|dated=15 December 2024|website=1News}}</ref> As a result, the release date for the film was ultimately delayed from 2026 to 17 December 2027.<ref name="TheDirect2027Release">{{webcite|author=Klein Felt|articleurl=https://thedirect.com/article/hunt-for-gollum-movie-lord-of-the-rings-release-official|articlename=Lord of the Rings: Hunt for Gollum Movie Gets Release Window from Andy Serkis|dated=27 Feb 2025|website=[https://thedirect.com The Direct]|accessed=27 Feb 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://variety.com/2025/film/news/lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-release-date-december-2027-1236390820/|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum’ Sets December 2027 Release Date; Warner Bros. Also Dates New ‘Evil Dead’ and M. Night Shyamalan Movies for 2026|author=Zack Sharf|dated=8 May 2025|website=Variety}}</ref>

A draft of the screenplay had been sent to de Luca and Abdy in May, probably prior to the investor meeting on the 8th, when [[Warner Bros.|Warner]]'s CEO David Zaslav announced the official release date.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://voicefilm.com/david-zaslav-announces-that-the-release-date-for-the-next-lord-of-the-rings-movie-will-be-revealed-today/|articlename=David Zaslav Announces That the Release Date for the Next ‘Lord of the Rings’ Movie Will Be Revealed Today|author=Mark|dated=8 May 2025|website=Voice Film}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.comicbasics.com/warner-ceo-david-zaslav-says-they-will-focus-more-on-their-main-ips-like-harry-potter-and-dc-in-the-future-those-belong-to-us-and-theyll-only-belong-to-us-forever/|articlename=Warner CEO David Zaslav Says They Will Focus More on Their Main IPs Like ‘Harry Potter’ and DC in the Future: “Those belong to us, and they’ll only belong to us forever.”|author=Arthur S. Poe|dated=8 May 2025|website=Comic Basics}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had since revealed that the film is due to start pre production in August<ref name=":33">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1krwz8d/andy_serkis_the_lord_of_the_rings_the_hunt_for/|articlename=Andy Serkis Panel at Fan Expo Philadelphia 2025|author=FandomWire News|dated=19 May 2025}}</ref> - when the film started hiring crew - then ammended to "late August to early September"<ref name=":18" />, with [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] ultimately arriving in [[Wellington]] circa 8 September to begin work on the film.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://metro.co.uk/2025/09/03/andy-serkis-admits-cant-escape-gollum-ahead-lord-rings-return-24066270/amp/|articlename=Andy Serkis admits he ‘can’t escape Gollum’ ahead of Lord of the Rings return|author=Sabrina Barr|dated=3 September 2025|website=Metro UK}}</ref> Serkis had left New Zealand during the holiday season, attending the premiere of "28 Years Later: The Bone Temple" before flying back to New Zealand: en rote he landed in Los Angeles.<ref name=":41">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.tmz.com/2026/01/20/andy-serkis-wants-original-lord-of-the-rings-cast-in-new-film/|articlename=LOTR' Star Andy Serkis: OG Cast Is Precious, Love 'Em For New Flick|author=Anonymous|dated=20 January 20 2026|website=TMZ}}</ref>

==Pre production==
[[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had further said preproduction will last for six months,<ref name=":27">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.comingsoon.it/cinema/news/in-un-mondo-alla-deriva-gollum-ci-salvera-la-nostra-intervista-ad-andy/n203564/|articlename=In un mondo alla deriva Gollum ci salverà: la nostra intervista ad Andy Serkis|author=Carola Proto|dated=25 June 2025|website=Coming Soon.it}}</ref> with [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] later confirming it will start filming in May<ref name=":12">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1msw9fp/the_lord_of_the_rings_the_hunt_for_gollum_starts/|articlename=The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum starts shooting in May, says Sir Ian McKellen. "I'll tell you two secrets about the casting..."|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=17 August 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> for an extended shooting period:<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-filming-update-andy-serkis/|articlename=Director Andy Serkis Offers Huge Filming Update For 'The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum' [Exclusive]|author=Chris McPherson and Steven Weintraub|dated=10 June 2025|website=Collider}}</ref> This puts the beginning of filming in [[New Zealand]] winter and, deducting the holidays, six months after [[Andy Serkis|Andy]]'s arrival. Location scouting may have taken place at Hawke's Bay as early as June<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1lis26w/a_location_scout_for_the_lord_of_the_rings_the/|articlename=A location scout for The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum seems to be snooping around Hawke's Bay, New Zealand|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=23 June 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> and later at the Waikato.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.waikatotimes.co.nz/nz-news/360837801/aliens-warriors-heroes-princesses-and-gollum-big-productions-filmed-and-possibly-coming-waikato|articlename=Aliens, warriors, heroes, princesses ... and Gollum: The big productions filmed in (and possibly coming to) the Waikato|author=Mike Mather|dated=1 October 2025|website=Waikato Times}}</ref> They had also watched the films sometime prior to November.<ref>Latino USA TV, "How Movie Monsters Are Really Made!", YouTube, 26 November 2025.</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] also spoke appreciatively of [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s penchant for behind the scenes extras,.<ref name=":33" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/gu1jj7/one_zoom_to_rule_them_all_reunited_apart_lord_of/|articlename=One Zoom to Rule Them All {{!}} Reunited Apart LORD OF THE RINGS Edition|author=Josh Gad|dated=31 May 2021|website=}}</ref> and [[Peter Jackson|Peter]] himself had since confirmed they will do "little blogs." In October, [[Andy Serkis|Andy]] revealed that they're developing prosthetics.<ref name=":34">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1og2b4p/andy_serkis_says_all_the_art_department_from_lord/|articlename=Andy Serkis says "all the art department" from Lord of the Rings are "excited to come back." They started location scouting and camera tests.|author=u/Lord_Varys92|dated=25 October 2024|website=Reddit}}</ref>

Since [[Elijah Wood]], slated to appear in the film, is on tour through to early September,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://parade.com/news/lord-of-the-rings-hobbits-25-years-later-reunion-tour|articlename=The Hobbits Are Back Together — and Their Big News Has Fans Cheering|author=Whitney Danhauer|dated=25 October 2025|website=Parade}}</ref> his scenes might be scheduled for [[New Zealand]] summer, which could suggest shooting ''in situ'' in [[Hobbiton]], presumably depicting [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] dallying outside [[Bag End]] while [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]] and [[Gandalf]] argue within, as depicted in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]''. [[Ian McKellen]] is also hoping to join the production in [[New Zealand as Middle-earth|New Zealand]] during July.<ref>The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, "There's Nothing I Enjoy More Than Acting In The Theater" - Ian McKellen EXTENDED INTERVIEW," ''YouTub''e, 5 February 2026.</ref>

===Crew===
The film, said to be "one of the most expensive feature films to be shot in [[New Zealand]]"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/new-lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-film-will-be-shot-in-nz-set-for-2027-release/3BDNB3QFKJDAVGB4ODOTQ63YLY/|articlename=New Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum film will be shot in NZ, set for 2027 release|author=Tom Rose|dated=18 June 2025|website=New Zealand Herald}}</ref> is expected to draft alums of the ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|Lord of the Rings]]'', ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|War of the Rohirrim]]'' (many of whom will have also worked on ''[[The Rings of Power]]'' Season One and other projects) working in the [[Wellington]] and greater New Zealand screen sector.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thepost.co.nz/nz-news/350274670/film-heavyweights-alight-over-lotr-comeback|articlename=Film heavyweights ‘alight’ over LOTR comeback|author=Rachel Thomas|dated=10 May 2024|website=The New Zealand Post}}</ref><ref name=":5" /> Crewing began in early August, with Wood since confirming the involvement of production designer [[Dan Hennah]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IX5NhkyQ710|articlename=Elijah Wood en Monterrey/ conferencia de la DesertCon|author=Asi SoyTv|dated=6 October 2025|website=YouTube}}</ref> and set decorator Ra Vincent might also be involved.<ref name=":34" /> Although [[Janet Brennan Croft|Janet Brennan-Croft]] acted as [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] consultant on previous films, Beppe Pezzini will fill this role for this film.<ref>Educational Media Services |University of Oxford, "Beppe Pezzini on Classics and Fantasy |Fantasy Summer School ‪@facultyofenglishoxford‬," ''YouTube'', 23 September 2025.</ref>

IMDb credits Bob Buck as ''a'' costume designer for the film: it remains to be seen if Ngila Dickson, having just wrapped ''Predator: Badlands'' with [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]], might return. Kate Hawley, who was attached to del Toro's version of the film, is unlikely to take part due to work on "Bad Bridgets."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/10/daisy-edgar-jones-emilia-jones-bad-bridgets-luckychap-1236604481/|articlename=Daisy Edgar-Jones And Emilia Jones To Star In ‘Bad Bridgets’ From LuckyChap|author=Justin Kroll|dated=31 October 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> Liz Mullane and Rachel Bullock head the New Zealand casting sweep. Both [[Wētā FX|WetaFX]] and [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]] are confirmed for the project,<ref name=":8">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt32328070/companycredits/?ref_=tt_dt_cmpy|articlename=The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum (2027)|author=Anonymous|website=IMDb}}</ref> as are [[Gino Acevedo]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.instagram.com/p/DRy30vUkme7/|articlename="Oh no!"|author=Ginoacevedofx|dated=3 December 2025|website=Instagram}}</ref> [[John Howe]] and [[Alan Lee]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://ggba.swiss/en/the-lord-of-the-rings-nature-and-switzerlands-hidden-history-a-conversation-with-john-howe/|articlename=The Lord Of The Rings, Nature and Switzerland’s Hidden History (A Conversation with John Howe)|author=Woody Wade|dated=10 December 2025|website=Greater Geneva Bern Area}}</ref> [[Peter King]] is supervising hairstyling and makeup, while IMDb also credits Joseph Letteri and Eric Saindon as Visual Effects Supervisors. In April - by which point a composer was already said to be attached to the project - [[Howard Shore]] said he was interested to "see how that all works out."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.classical-music.com/articles/howard-shore|articlename=Howard Shore: the film composer behind Hannibal Lecter and Bilbo Baggins|author=Michael Beek|dated=16 April 2025|website=Classical Music.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://en.softonic.com/articles/the-composer-of-the-soundtrack-for-the-lord-of-the-rings-made-a-cameo-in-the-movies-and-no-one-noticed#google_vignette|articlename=The composer of the soundtrack for The Lord of the Rings made a cameo in the movies and no one noticed|author=Agencias|dated=26 December 2025|website=Softonic}}</ref>

As early as October, [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] suggested that they're "doing camera tests."<ref name=":34" /> This is said to include miniature photography, with Alex Funke said to participate, even if only in an advisory position. On the live action side, although Robert Richardson had been rumoured as camerman, he will be preoccupied with Antoine Fuqua's Hannibal epic.<ref name=":34" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.worldofreel.com/blog/2025/7/23/michael-part-1-delayed-to-april-2026|articlename=‘Michael’ Delayed to April 2026|author=Jordan Ruimy|dated=23 July 2025|website=World of Reel}}</ref> While the film was in the story conference stage in July 2024, Richardson said he had "a number" of projects "on the constantly-shifting horizon of the film industry."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.filmlightcolourawards.com/colour-awards-2024/jury-colour-awards-2024/robert-richardson-cinematographer-asc-ack/|articlename=Robert Richardson, Cinematographer, ASC, ACK|author=Anonymous|dated=18 July 2024|website=Film Light Colour Awards}}</ref>

The film is a co-production of [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s [[WingNut Films|WingNut films]] and [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]]' ''Imaginarium''. [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] will executive produce with his ''Imaginarium'' partner John Cavendish and Jackson's agent [[Ken Kamins]].<ref name="Gollum">{{webcite|author=Jennifer Maas|articleurl=https://variety.com/2024/film/news/lord-of-the-rings-movie-2026-release-warner-bros-1235997102/|articlename=Warner Bros. to Release New ‘Lord of the Rings’ Movie ‘The Hunt for Gollum’ in 2026, Peter Jackson to Produce and Andy Serkis to Direct|dated=9 May 2024|website=[https://variety.com/ Variety]|accessed=8 June 2024}}</ref> IMDb also credits studio chiefs Michael de Luca (who helped produce [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'']]), Pam Abdy and David Zaslav as executive producers<ref name=":8" /> and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] mentioned [[Warner Bros.|Warners]]' business consultant Alan Horn (who had produced ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]])'' as a collaborator, but these credits have yet to become official.<ref name=":7" />

===Cast===
With [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] due to star as [[Gollum]], approaches had been made to [[Ian McKellen|Sir Ian McKellen]]<ref name=":2">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2024/09/ian-mckellen-return-gandalf-new-the-lord-of-the-rings-films-1236075547/|articlename=Ian McKellen Reveals He’s Been Approached To Reprise His Role As Gandalf In Andy Serkis’ New ‘The Lord Of The Rings’ Films|author=Jake Kanter|dated=2 September 2024|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> and [[Viggo Mortensen]] to reprise [[Gandalf]] and [[Aragorn]], respectively. [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] said he's in talks to reprise "a little bit" of [[Gandalf]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.mirror.co.uk/3am/celebrity-news/sir-ian-mckellan-i-thought-36196617|articlename=EXCLUSIVE: Sir Ian McKellan: 'I thought I was a goner, but I'm coming back as Gandalf'|author=Marc Baker and Jackie Annett|dated=5 November 2025|website=The Mirror}}</ref> in [[New Zealand]].<ref name=":42">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thetimes.com/culture/tv-radio/article/ian-mckellen-an-ark-lowry-lord-of-the-rings-f9wc9nmdq|articlename=Ian McKellen at 86: ‘I’ve had to accept that I’m not immortal’|author=Jonathan Dean|dated=14 February 2026|website=The Times}}</ref> As of December, the contracts with [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] and [[Elijah Wood|Wood]] hadn't been finalized,<ref name=":40" /> but [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] expressed a desire to return to [[New Zealand]] for filming. [[Liv Tyler]], [[Evangeline Lilly]] and, especially, [[Orlando Bloom]] have also expressed interest in reprising their parts,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.nme.com/news/film/the-lord-of-the-rings-cast-say-they-would-jump-to-return-for-new-spin-off-movies-3853893|articlename=‘The Lord Of The Rings’ cast say they would “jump” to return for new spin-off movies|author=Damian Jones|dated=11 April 2025|website=NME}}</ref> while [[Dominic Monaghan]] expressed a desire to visit the set.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://nypost.com/2025/11/06/entertainment/dominic-monaghan-reveals-plans-for-next-lord-of-the-rings-movie/|articlename=Dominic Monaghan reveals big plans for next ‘Lord of the Rings’ movie — including possible return as Merry
By|author=Eric Todisco|dated=6 November 2025|website=New York Post}}</ref> [[Evangeline Lilly|Lilly]] had proceeded to do so, but indicated that she will have no further involvement with the project. [[Orcs]] are set to appear in the film, with [[Shane Rangi]] and [[Lawrence Makoare]] having reportedly been contacted.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/thelegacyofnerd/status/1979621220246344016|articlename=BREAKING: ‘The Hunt For Gollum’ Begins Filming in May 2026|author=@thelegacyofnerd|dated=8 October 2025|website=Twitter}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]]' comments about seeing the interiors of [[Barad-dûr|Barad Dur]] might suggest the involvement of [[Benedict Cumberbatch]].<ref name=":36">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lYYSsook-4Y|articlename=Philippa Boyens ('ESDLA: LA GUERRA DE LOS ROHIRRIM'): "Queríamos que se sintiera como algo nuevo"|author=eCartelera|dated=10 December 2024}}</ref>

[[Andy Serkis|Serkis]], [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had all spoke to [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]],<ref name=":3">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://theplaylist.net/the-war-of-the-rohirrim-philippa-boyens-on-the-new-anime-the-hunt-for-gollum-the-future-of-the-lord-of-the-rings-20241223/|articlename=‘The War Of The Rohirrim’: Philippa Boyens On The New Anime, ‘The Hunt For Gollum’ & The Future Of ‘The Lord of the Rings’|author=Rodrigo Perez|dated=23 December 2024|website=The Playlist}}</ref> who had previously said he'd be "open to it" if it makes sense for "the age I am now"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.gq-magazine.co.uk/article/viggo-mortensen-interview-2024|articlename=Viggo Mortensen re-used Aragorn's sword in new movie The Dead Don't Hurt “Because it's really good”|author=Rafael Motamayor|dated=28 May 2024|website=GQ}}</ref> but after [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] pitched it to him as "Digital make-up" they agreed he'd wait to read the script: With the approach to [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] happening sometime between June<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thetimes.com/culture/film/article/ian-mckellen-if-this-is-my-last-job-id-better-get-it-right-hadnt-i-n3t38g6tb|articlename=Ian McKellen: ‘When a script arrives, I think this might be my last job’|author=Dominic Maxwell|dated=8 June 2024|website=The Times of London}}</ref> and September,<ref name=":2" /> the approach to [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] may have taken place in mid-June, just prior to an interview in which [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] said "The script is the most important thing to me", seemingly no longer harping on the age quota.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/viggo-mortensen-lord-of-the-rings-script-feminism-1235935628/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen on Respecting Audiences, How Scripts Are Key “Unless I’m Broke,” New ‘LOTR’ Films|author=Georg Szalai|dated=30 June 2024|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] said they need to "drag" him.<ref name=":36" /> In the event, the cost of the deaging seemed too steep<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/ViewerAnon/status/1998489358849159181?s=20|articlename=I can confirm this|author=ViewerAnon|dated=9 December 2025|website=Twitter}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://3dvf.com/en/a-cult-actor-from-the-lord-of-the-rings-on-the-departure-the-question-arises-for-the-prequel-dedicated-to-gollum/#google_vignette|articlename=A Cult Actor from The Lord of the Rings on the Departure? The Question Arises for the Prequel Dedicated to Gollum|author=Quentin Couprie|dated=13 December 2025|accessed=3DVF}}</ref> and while they started looking for a younger "Strider", they ended casting [[Jamie Dornan]]. [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] had indicated he'd be interested in appearing in later film projects if they were "true to Tolkien."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.the-independent.com/arts-entertainment/films/news/viggo-mortensen-movies-interview-b2561237.html|articlename=Go to Bat with Viggo Mortensen: My films that deserve more love|author=Jacob Stolworthy|dated=7 June 2024|website=The Independent}}</ref>

While in London for ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]]'' premiere, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also "had lunch with an [[Elves|Elf]] lord" who "would fall into that story."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.instagram.com/nerdoftherings/reel/DDgKw47uxkJ/|articlename="Philippa Boyens teases an “elf lord” returning for Hunt for Gollum! "|author=Matt Graf|dated=12 December 2024|website=Instagram}}</ref> Although this could refer to [[Orlando Bloom|Bloom]] or even [[Marton Csokas]], [[Lee Pace]] was the most likely as he was shooting ''The Running Man'' in London at the time.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://people.com/glen-powell-films-running-man-reboot-37-years-after-arnold-schwarzenegger-movie-8745529|articlename=Glen Powell Films Running Man Remake in London 37 Years After Original Arnold Schwarzenegger Movie|author=Jen Juneau|dated=14 November 2024|website=People}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had since divulged that they expect "some of the cast who were originally in" ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'', as well as "some incredible new talent."<ref name=":28">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.jedinews.com/events/articles/indiana-comic-con-andy-serkis-full-panel/|articlename=Indiana Comic Con: Andy Serkis Full Panel|author=James Burns|dated=11 April 2025,|website=Jedi News}}</ref> Serkis had since reaffirrmed that he would "love the old cast" back.<ref name=":41" /> [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] had since confirmed that [[Gandalf]] and [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]], surely to be played by himself and [[Elijah Wood|Wood]], are scheduled to reappear in the piece.<ref name=":12" /> McKellen, Wood and Lee were officially announced for CinemaCon.

Casting seems to have started in November,<ref name=":40">Steve Schofield ''et al'', "25 Years of Fellowship", ''Empire'' (March 2026), pp. 46-70.</ref> with young boys auditioning for the boy [[Gollum|Smeagol]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/KnightGambit/status/2011815291198849220|articlename=Small Tidbit.....|author=Caleb Williams|dated=16 January 2026|website=Twitter}}</ref> and two of his fellow [[Stoors|Stoor]] riverfolk - a young girl and a young adult boy - in what looks like a setup for [[Gollum|Smeagol]]'s preoccupation with a birtday present. Out of the actors that originally auditioned for a younger Strider, Leo Woodall, was cast in the role of a fellow ranger, Halvard, presumably based on the character of [[Halbarad]].

Other roles auditioned for include women in their thirties and fifities: the latter is said to be Smeagol's grandmother, now confirmed as the "lead" role of Marigol, with [[Kate Winslet]] relocating to [[New Zealand]] for five months. Winslet had previously been considered, at least by the studio, for [[Éowyn|Eowyn]]. The thirties' part<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://knightedgemedia.com/2026/03/the-hunt-for-gollum-lead-female-characters-casting-are-underway-exclusive/#google_vignette|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum’ Lead Female Characters Casting Are Underway (EXCLUSIVE)|author=Caleb Williams|dated=5 March 2026|website=Knight Edge Media}}</ref> was reportedly circled by Anya Taylor-Joy. Some presume this to be [[Arwen]], but if so the quota is older than [[Liv Tyler]], who was 23 at the time of [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'']].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://medium.com/@chenngeller/on-aragorn-and-other-castings-a6e55668fce9?postPublishedType=repub|articlename=On Aragorn, Stoors and other castings|author=Chen Geller|dated=11 March 2026|website=Medium}}</ref>

==Plotline==
The exact events the film covers remain undisclosed. There's ambiguity concerning both the exact timeframe for the film, and whether it will focus more on [[Gollum]] or [[Aragorn]]. An official "blurb" for the movie reads: "The pic explores [[Aragorn]]’s adventures as a [[Rangers of the North|ranger]], specifically his quest to capture [[Gollum]] between [[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]] and [[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|Fellowship of the Ring]], tracking him to keep the [[The One Ring|Ring]]’s location from [[Sauron|Sauron."]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2026/01/box-office-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy-25th-anniversary-1236689724/|articlename=‘Lord Of The Rings’ Trilogy 25th Anniversary Event Rings Up $11M In Worldwide Box Office|author=Anthony D'Alessandro|dated=19 January 2026|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> A more extended synopsis had also been circulating:<blockquote>Before the Fellowship, one creature's obsession holds the key to Middle-earth's survival -- or its demise. In The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum, we meet young Smeagol -- an outsider drawn to trinkets and mischief -- long before The One Ring consumed him and began his tragic descent into the tortured, deceitful creature Gollum. With the ring lost and carried away by Bilbo Baggins, Gollum finds himself compelled to leave his cave in search of it. Gandalf the Grey calls upon Aragorn, still known as the ranger Strider, to track the elusive creature whose knowledge of the whereabouts of the ring could tip the balance toward the Dark Lord Sauron.
Set in the shadowed time between Bilbo's birthday disappearance and the Fellowship's formation, this perilous journey through Middle-earth's darkest corners reveals untold truths, tests the resolve of its future king, and explores the fractured soul and backstory of Gollum, one of Tolkien's most enigmatic characters.

Directed by original cast member Andy Serkis, produced by Peter Jackson, and written & produced by Fran Walsh and Phillipa Boyens -- the creative team behind the Oscar-winning trilogy -- this live-action movie bridges the beloved films with new characters, returning heroes, and a deeply engaging origin story that resets the stage for, and changes everything you know about the legendary Lord of the Rings trilogy.</blockquote>Strictly speaking, [[Aragorn]]'s hunt for [[Gollum]] begins during the events depicted in Jackson's [[The Fellowship of the Ring (2001 film)|''The Fellowship of the Ring'']], and in October, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] said the story "falls after the [[Bilbo's Farewell Party|birthday party of Bilbo]] and before the Mines Of [[Moria]]".<ref name=":22">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.empireonline.com/movies/news/lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-wont-be-two-films-second-philippa-boyens-exclusive/|articlename=The Hunt For Gollum Won’t Be Two Films, But A Second LOTR Film Is Incoming, Philippa Boyens Confirms|author=Ben Travis|dated=18 October 2024|website=Empire}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] added that the role of [[Aragorn]] is "very central" to the movie.<ref name=":36" /> Andy called the storyline "pivotal."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1md7lim/the_lord_of_the_rings_the_hunt_for_gollum_andy/|articlename=The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum - Andy Serkis says "this part of the story is pivotal"|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=30 July 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> [[Ian McKellen]] had described the plot as "[[Aragorn]] trying to find [[Gollum]] with [[Gandalf]] directing operations from the sidelines."<ref name=":42" />

However, ''a'' hunt for [[Gollum]] is begun by the [[Silvan Elves]] after Gollum first leaves the [[Misty Mountains|mountains]] in search of [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]], and in December Jackson said the film "tells us what happened to [[Gollum]] between ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' - end of [[The Hobbit (film series)|''The Hobbit'']] - and the beginning of ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]''".<ref name=":6">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/red-carpet-premiere-for-the-lord-of-the-rings-the-war-of-the-rohirrim/P3BS7U5NPS5EMFLPUV4SYSYFDU/|articlename=Red carpet premiere for The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|author=Mitchell Hageman|dated=11 December 2024|website=New Zealand Herald}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had since confirmed this timeframe: "It sits, kind of, in the timeline between ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' - between losing the [[The One Ring|Ring]] to [[Bilbo Baggins]] - and ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]''."<ref name=":18">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?t=1218&v=U-dw8DQDf90&feature=youtu.be|articlename=Kazakhstan feels like the center of the world - Andy Serkis {{!}} Interview of the Day|author=Silk Way / Qazaqstan|dated=15 July 2025|website=YouTube}}</ref> [[Dol Guldur]], the [[Nazgûl|Nazgul]] and [[Orcs]] are all said to potentially play part in the film.

[[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also alluded to other storylines: "we are finding a lot of threads of story that are surprising in there when you really go in there and examine it".<ref name=":29">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.slashfilm.com/1734018/philippa-boyens-lord-of-the-rings-war-of-the-rohirrim-exclusive-interview/|articlename=War Of The Rohirrim's Philippa Boyens Reveals Details About The Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum [Exclusive Interview]|author=Ben Pearson|dated=13 December 2024|website=/Film}}</ref> Events as varied as [[Aragorn]]'s sojourn in [[Lothlórien|Lórien]] with [[Arwen]], the fall of [[Balin's folk]], [[Boromir]]'s quest for [[Rivendell]] and much else occur concurrent to the time of the Hunt.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1iutc9r/building_bridges_so_what_happens_between_the/|articlename=Building Bridges: So, what happens between the trilogies that The Hunt for Gollum could possibly cover?|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=21 February 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> "You see the layers and layers of story that’s underneath there and how interconnected they all are", she adds.<ref name=":3" /> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] also made comments to this effect: "Some pretty interesting stuff happens that we reference in passing in [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The'' ''Lord of the Rings'']], but there’s a lot of more deep detail to it."<ref name=":6" />

[[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] adds that "We get to go to some places that we've never been before" in Middle-earth." One such place - only glimpsed in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|Fellowship of the Ring]]'' - is the interiors of [[Barad-dûr|Barad Dur]].<ref name=":36" /> Both she and Serkis alluded to new characters<ref name=":28" /><ref name=":5" /> and new dramatic situations, saying it's "surprising"<ref name=":7" /><ref name=":27" /><ref name=":29" /> and could be enjoyed be people wo don't know the novels.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.amica.it/video-post/andy-serkis-dirigero-signore-anelli-tornero-batman/|articlename=Andy Serkis, da Gollum a regista: «Dirigerò “Il Signore degli Anelli” e tornerò con Batman»|author=Emanuele Bigi|dated=27 June 2025|website=Amica}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also shared that one of the practicalities they were busy figuring out in the writing is "How does he [<nowiki/>[[Aragorn]]] pick up his scent? How does he find his trail, how does it happen?"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://nerdist.com/article/nerdist-philippa-boyens-interview-the-war-of-the-rohirrim-the-lord-of-the-rings-future/|articlename=Philippa Boyens Talks the Future of THE LORD OF THE RINGS Movies and Naming a Tolkien Character in THE WAR OF THE ROHIRRIM|author=by Rotem Rusak|dated=19 December 2024|website=Nerdist}}</ref>

==Cast==
{| class="wikitable mw-collapsible"
|- style="background: var(--tg-color-surface-2);"
!Actor!!Role
|-
|[[Andy Serkis]]||[[Gollum|Gollum & Smeagol]]<ref name="Gollum"></ref><ref name="Twitter">''Twitter'', [https://x.com/warnerbros/status/2044207974361510165 We’ve been waiting for you, precious. The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum only in theaters 17 December 2027.] by Warner Bros.</ref>
|-
|[[Ian McKellen]]
|[[Gandalf]]<ref name=":12" /><ref name="Twitter"></ref>
|-
|[[Kate Winslet]]
|[[Marigol]]<ref name="Twitter"></ref>
|-
|[[Jamie Dornan]]
|[[Aragorn|Strider]]<ref name="Twitter"></ref>
|-
|[[Leo Woodall]]
|[[Halvard]]<ref name="Twitter"></ref>
|-
|[[Lee Pace]]
|[[Thranduil]]<ref name="Twitter"></ref>
|-
|[[Elijah Wood]]
|[[Frodo Baggins]]<ref name=":12" /><ref name="Twitter"></ref>
|}

{{Title|Italics}}

{{References}}

{{Screen}}

[[Category:Films]]

[[fi:The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum]]

The Music of the Lord of the Rings Films (composition)

2026-04-21T15:31:18Z

Chen Geller:

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{{Disambig-two|the music composition for the Lord of the Rings films|book about the composition for The Lord of the Rings trilogy|[[The Music of the Lord of the Rings Films]]}}Howard Shore's compositions for ''The Lord of the Rings'' and ''The Hobbit'', together with work by Howard, Plan 9, David Long and Stephen Gallagher for ''The War of the Rohirrim'', ''The Rings of Power'' Season One and other projects represent a musico-dramatic oeuvre covering about 24 hours of music. This music is based on folk-like melodies, often stepwise; triadic harmony (though not generally stable in terms of key) and massed orchestrations, often ornamented by worldly instruments outside the orchestral replete.

The compositions include:

#[[:Category:The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power (Season One: Amazon Original Series Soundtrack)|The Rings of Power season one]]: Only the opening titles ([[Howard Shore]]) and source songs (Plan 9 and David Long).
#[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]] ([[Stephen Gallagher]], David Long using themes by Howard Shore and Plan 9)
#[[:Category:The Hobbit (film series) soundtracks|The Hobbit film trilogy (soundtracks)]], including the announcement trailer (Shore, Plan 9, Long, Gallagher ''et al'')
#[[:Category:The Lord of the Rings (film series) soundtracks|The Lord of the Rings film trilogy (soundtracks)]], including the second Return of the King trailer (Shore, Plan 9, Long ''et al'')
#Additional pieces for the concert stage (Howard Shore) or ''in situ'' for the Hobbiton set (Plan 9 and David Long).

==Orchestration==
Howard's orchestra varies in size between different pieces. Many instruments are used to colour certain narrative elements and related themes. Taken in whole, and together with instruments utilized by Plan 9 and David Long, it comprises:

'''Strings''': At least 16 first violins (concertmaster doubling hardinfelle, double violin), 16 second violins, 12 violas, 10 violoncelli, 8 double basses. 2 harps (one doubling celtic harp).

'''Woodwinds''': 4 flutes (doubling alto flute, piccoli, recorder, wood flute, tin whistle, low whistle, shakuhachi, dizi, nay), 4 oboes (one doubling cor anglais and heckelphone), 4 clarinets (one doubling bass clarinet and contrabass clarinet) and 3 bassoons (one doubling contrabassoon and contraforte). Also putorino, Rhaita (doubling rauschpfeife), 2 shawms, 2 crumhorns, dulcian.

'''Brass''': At least seven horns in F (doubling Wagner ''tuben''), eight trumpets (doubling rotary-valve trumpets), seven trombones (four tenor-bass and three bass trombones) and two tubas (doubling contrabass tuba). Also 20 didgeridoos, pukea, cow horn, tibetan horn.

'''Keyboards''': one grand piano (doubling upright piano, celesta, harpsichord, clavichord), synthesizer, grand pipe organ.

'''Percussion:''' Two Timpanists. At least seven players on bass drum, snare drums, side-drums (or field drums), toms and bass drum kit, triangle, glockenspiel, gong bass drum, tambourine, taiko drums (three sizes: large, medium and small), cymbals (including a splash cymbal cut into ribbons, antique cymbals, crotales), tubular bells, mark tree, carillon, tamtams, bossed gongs, woodblocks, temple blocks, log drums, slit drum, dudun drum, waterphone, shakers (including eggshakers, cabasa, caxixi and jingles), tibetan singing bowls, goblet drum, friction drum, frame drum, transceleste, marimba, 2 bodhrain, bell plates, anvil, "prepared" piano, castanets, tuned artillery shells, cans, wind machine.

"'''Hobbit band'''": 3 guitars (6 and 12-string, including bass guitar, doubling mandolin, caipira viola, lute, theorbo), 2 bagpipes (highland bapipes, doubling uileann pipes), 2 accordions (mussette, doubling concertina and harmonium), 1 hammered dulcimer (doubling cimbalom), hurdy-gurdy, banjo (doubling banjolele), euphonium.

'''Gamelan''': 1 kempul (doubling gong ageng), 1 kendhang, 4 saron players, 3 gender players (doubling slenthem), 4 kenong players (doubling kethuk), 2 bonang players, 1 gambang. Also doubling rebab, finger cymbals, ceng cengs, hyōshigi, kine, japanese cymbals, monochord, tanpura, sarangi (doubling dilruba).

'''Choir:''' 60 boys, at least 100 men and women, soloists (tenors, baritone, bass, soprano, treble).

==Themes==
The score relies on a large number of recurring associative themes (also known as ''Leitmotive'' or "Leading musical motives"). These appear independent of each other, in two more non-adjacent scenes. Most of these run through the entire series and lend it a sense of musical cohesion. These themes, which also develop according to the dramatic situation, are loosely divided into "family groups" and further delineated by associative keys and tone colour. They are as follows:

{| class="wikitable sortable"
!#
!Name
!Description
|-
|1
|'''"Impediment" theme'''
|This theme is a chromatic arpeggio (A minor: 1-3-5-♭6), sequenced a flat sixth apart. It is usually harmonized in minor triads a flat sixth apart (sometimes retrograded), and this sonority also appears on its own. It is introduced in the ''Rings of Power'' titles, where it is transformed as an F Lydian arpeggio (F: 1-3-♯4-5) over chords a minor third apart. The chords then appear in ''The War of the Rohirrim'' to depict the antagonists: Gm: iii-i depicting Freca, then G♭m: ♭vi-i under Wulf. The definitive theme appears throughout the live-action films, always representing impediment.
|-
|2
|'''Scales'''
|This is one of the basic devices Howard uses throughout the scores. Scalar motion may depict the Hobbits (usually as C: 1-2-3 starting on a quaver) but since scalar motion is inherent in many themes, it is used more generally in the scores, in any key or modality.
In more dangerous situation, Howard uses clusters or chromatic scales.
|-
|3
|'''Walking Songs'''
|There are two walking songs repeated in the scores: Plan 9 and David Long's "This Wandering Day" and Fran Walsh's "The Road Goes Ever On." The latter always appears with the Hobbits' theme.
|-
|4
|'''The Ring'''
|This theme is based on the rising and falling minor second. It is stated in strings in a chromaticised F minor, then in A♭ minor, all harmonized in minor triads a minor second apart (F minor to E minor).
Henceforth, all themes based on minor seconds (usually rising and falling) will depict Sauron and his forces. This rising and falling kernel is also used by itself to depict the forces of evil.
|-
|5
|'''Eowyn and Theoden'''
|This theme, voiced in open chords, depicts Eowyn, particularly in her relationship to Theoden.
|-
|6
|'''Rohan'''
|This major theme is usually set in A Dorian and played by either ''hardingfelle'' or high brass. It has several detachable parts:
*'''Rhythm''': The opening unison quavers evoke galloping horse hooves.
*'''Melody''': This rises a minor third, then proceeds stepwise along the Dorian mode. In the fullest statements, the consequent phrase concludes with a plagal cadence. In the Pelennor fields, this is reshaped into driving triplets, and these then appear on their own. A countermelody emphasizes the falling and rising major second. Later, the melody is sometimes altered to begin on a major third or even perfect fourth.
*'''Chords:''' in keeping with the Dorian setting, the theme is usually harmonized in A Dorian: i-IV but in the fullest statements this is expanded to i-VII-III-IV.
Henceforth, all the themes associated with mankind will be modal, usually incorporating a prominent leap into the melodic contour.
|-
|7
|'''Eowyn'''
|Eowyn's main theme is first hinted at in Hera's music. The theme leaps a fifth then proceeds stepwise over C Lydian: I-II-iii. Eowyn's first two scenes feature a similar progression under a scale, the perfect fifth ironed out. When she rebukes Grima, this theme which had since taken to the minor mode, regains the perfect fifth. Gallagher's score features other themes unique to it:
*The secondary theme leaps a perfect fifth and major sixth, then subsides in a stepwise figure. It mostly represents Helm and his sons.
*Olwyn is represented by a lyrical idea in thirds.
*Another idea in major and minor seconds represents Hera's relationship to Helm.
|-
|8
|'''Ring (Chords)'''
|This theme has three separable components, both representing the Ringwraiths but also danger more generally:

*Rhythm: two paired crotchets
*Chords: This verticalizes the Ring [4] to produce a minor triad with an added ninth. The resolving, minor plagal cadence may also appear by itself.
*Accompaniment: This idea leaps a minor sixth then falls down a minor scale.
|-
|9
|'''Horns'''
|Leaps ranging from a minor third to a perfect fifth appear throughout the scores, either in the score or as horn sound effects. Again, since these intervals are shared between multiple themes, they can be used in various contexts. Howard also frequently uses open fifths.
|-
|10
|'''Gondor'''
|This theme shares the Dorian setting, but leaps a perfect fifth (recalling Eowyn [5, 7], who will end up in Gondor) on D. Later, Howard will set it in rotary-valve trumpets.
|-
|11
|'''Rohan lament'''
|Versions of this lament (composed by plan 9 and David Long) appear both for Helm (in ''The War of the Rohirirm'') and for Theodred (in ''The Two Towers'').
|-
|12
|'''Nature'''
|This theme begins with a major-mode transformation of the impediment figure (over A minor: i-VI-i) and continues into chromatically rising chords. This second part is sometimes used on its own and, in the most extroverted statements, is embellished with unison brass triplets. Both parts are varied for other themes of the natural world. This theme first appears under the letter Gandalf sends to Hera, then appears through the bulk of the cycle to depict nature. In the end of ''The Two Towers'', it parallels the charge out of Helm's Deep with the concurrent Ent attack, and from this point on the theme becomes temporarily associated with the Rohirrim.
|-
|13
|'''Saruman and the Orcs'''
|This theme first appears retrograded, as a lyrical triple-time woodwind idea for Saruman's appearance in ''The War of the Rohirrim''. It later assumes its definitive 5/4 setting in trombones. Notice that it reorganizes the pitches of the Ring [4, 8], but now the seasawing minor seconds fall and rise. Later, the theme appears for Saruman's Uruks - the company of Uruks that chase the Fellowship are scored with a harmonized form of the theme's second phrase - but also for Orcs in general.
|-
|14
|'''The Hobbits (main theme)'''
|This theme, along with the Ring [4] is the nearest the series has to a main theme. It is almost always set in D pentatonic or C pentatonic, usually in strings, solo clarinet or tin whistle: this latter instrument is replaced by flute in ''The Return of the King''. It is again in detachable parts:
*'''First phrase''': This rises through four scale degrees, then falls back down. It is typically harmonized in D: I-IV-I-V.
*'''Second phrase''': By sequencing the initial stepwise motif upwards and harmonizing it with D: vii-IV-V-I, this part of the theme depicts the Shire as "the place that makes your heart swell when you think about it."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.woodzie.org/lotr/expansive.htm|articlename=Musical Themes in "The Lord of the Rings"|author=Eric Rawlins|dated=17 July 2006|website=Woodzie}}</ref>
*'''Accompaniment''': the first part is often accompanied by this bumptious outline in fifths and fourths. Howard omits this when a more sobering effect is called for, but he also uses it on its own.
|-
|15
|'''The Ring (fragment)'''
|Howard derives several fragments from the Ring that appear on their own:
*Ascending second: Both in ''An Unexpected Journey'' and ''The Fellowship of the Ring'', Bilbo blows smoke rings to the sound of a tritone gliding into the fifth. This recreates the rising minor second that opens the ring [4] but over a major chord: it returns after the Ring's destruction when characters recall it, reaffirming that the Ring is indeed gone. The figure does also appear in the minor as a more pointed allusion to the Ring throughout the quest.
*Chords: Howard also harmonizes this motion as minor triads a minor second apart, or as a minor triad resolving to a major triad: this latter gesture concludes the prologue of ''Fellowship of the Ring'' (E♭: i-I) and both Weathertop (on album) and the walls of Moria are revealed to the sound of fanfares derived from this gesture.
|-
|16
|'''Bilbo Baggins, first theme'''
|This theme reshapes the Hobbits' theme to depict Bilbo Baggins. In the announcement trailer, only its first phrase is heard, but in ''An Unexpected Journey'' it is sometimes extended into a second phrase which, with its melodic leaps and horn scoring hints at Bilbo's more outgoing, "Tookish" side. This phrase is later used on its own.
|-
|17
|'''The Company'''
|This theme is first sung by Thorin and company (over string clusters [2] in the trailer, ''a-cappella'' in the film), but then appears orchestrally. The most extrovert statements are preceded by a heroic variant of Bilbo's second theme [20] and use [18] as a countermelody. At the end of ''An Unexpected Journey,'' it is transformed into the Song of the Lonely Mountain. After this, as the quest loses its swashbuckling sheen, the theme is no longer heard. Its harmony (triads a major second apart) is shared between all the ''melodic'' Dwarven themes.
|-
|18
|'''First Dwarven theme (Thorin):'''
|The stepwise nature of this theme depicts the influence Bilbo will play in Thorin's life. As in the announcement trailer, it is often (but not consistently) heard as a countermelody for [17]. The theme is not, however, Thorin's theme in ''strictu sensu'': it scores most of the establishing montage of Erebor, and several scenes of the company at large. Again, notice the "Dwarven" Am-G harmony.
|-
|19
|'''Second Dwarven theme, first form'''
|This theme is used more generally for the Dwarves (it's called "The House of Durin" in Howard's sketches). This first form, heard over the opening titles of ''An Unexpected Journey'', combines the contour of the definitive theme with the pitches of the Ring fragment [15]. It also appears during the eagle rescue (only on album) and when the Dwarves reunite in Erebor after Smaug's attack.
|-
|20
|'''Bilbo Baggins, second theme'''
|This theme (A-B-C♯-E-E-G♯-G♯-A-E-C♯-E-D) also appears in the opening titles of ''An Unexpected Journey''. It is also heard, heroically in horns, when Bilbo rescues Thorin.
|-
|21
|'''First tragic theme (transcendant)'''
|This theme first appears during the opening shots of ''An Unexpected Journey'': this creates a sense of bookends with an identical statement in the Grey Havens, when Gandalf says farewel to the Hobbits. It also laments Gandalf's death (Doug Adams calls it "Gandalf's farewells") and is embedded into the farewell from Lorien. But it also appears during the final scenes on the slopes of Mount Doom. It is a chord progression atypical of the rest of the score: A♭: vi-IV-I-V. This results in the top voices rising and falling a minor second (cf. [4]) but then falling another major second. Combinations of rising and falling major and minor seconds, as well as minor scales, unite all the themes that depict Sauron's influence on Middle-earth (also [1]).
|-
|22
|'''The Journey Back'''
|This theme, first appearing over the map transition to Erebor, again creates bookends with the map transition from Minas Tirith back to the Shire in ''The Return of the King''. Appearing throughout the denoument of the film, it depicts the journey back from Mordor. It is a rising scale harmonized in chromatic mediants.
|-
|23
|'''Third Dwarven theme (Erebor)'''
|This theme is three rising horncalls outlining an A Aeolian scale: 1-3, 1-4, 1-5. It subsides in a descending, syncopated pattern that is later also used on its own. Again, it is not Erebor's theme in ''stricto sensu'': statements of it appear for the company, and for Thorin (it is played diegetically for his obsequies), as well as for the Iron Hill Dwarves. Henceforth, non-melodic Dwarven music will be characterized by its intervallic nature, often parallel fifths.
|-
|24
|'''Arkenstone, first theme'''
|In keeping with the intervallic Dwarven style, this theme begins on an open fifth, but then clusters in the chorus [2]. It depicts the mysterious aspect of the stone, but also appears when Gandalf hands Thorin the map and the key: the means towards finding the Arkenstone.
|-
|25
|'''Arkenstone, second theme'''
|This syncopated, B minor string figure first appears with [24] but they become increasingly independent as the score continues. In The Battle of the Five Armies, this idea often appears unresolved to depict Thorin's mounting obsession to retrieve the stone.
|-
|26
|'''Woodland Elves'''
|This D Phrygian theme depicts the Woodland Elves as closer to Men, but the emphasis on the third degree in the harmony gives it an Elven sheen. Henceforth, Elven themes will be characterized by more "advanced" harmony than the rest of Middle-earth: mediant and chromatic mediant harmony, whole tone scales, chromatic lines, seventh chords and so forth.
|-
|27
|'''Smaug, first theme'''
|This theme is in three parts:
*'''Melody''': The F Phrygian Dominant setting denotes the old age of the Dragon. Henceforth, everything old in Middle earth (Galadriel, Sauron) will be depicted by this mode. The theme emphasizes the rising and falling minor second [4] and augmented second inherent to this mode.
*'''Chords''': This progression (F: I-i-I) sequences [15] to depict the Dragon's breath.
*'''Accompaniment''': The theme is accompanied by semiquavers in Gamelan. The ensemble sometimes doubles the melody inharmonically, and lends its texture to the treasure hoard sequence.
|-
|28
|'''Dwarvish Wanderers'''
|This scalar figure bemoans the Dwarves' downfall and loss of their homeland. It is also heard when Thorin is struck down by Azog in ''An Unexpected Journey'', and during their arrival to the Hidden Door. It is often combined with a "Dwarven" form of the Impediment arpeggio [1].
|-
|29
|'''Hobbit party music'''
|This Plan 9 tune embellishes the Hobbits' diatonic harmonies with some light chromaticism. It is heard briefly in the Old Took's birthday, and in extenso during Bilbo's Farewell Party.
|-
|30
|'''Hobbits (mysterious variant)'''
|This augments the Shire's accompaniment [14.3] to the contour of the Impediment theme. It depicts many of the early scenes of ''An Unexpected Journey'', and returns in ''Fellowship of the Ring'' when Gandalf glimpses Thorin's map.
|-
|31
|'''Hobbits (folk variant)'''
|This version mostly appears for scenes in Hobbiton, but also in the cornfield in ''Fellowship of the Ring'' and, slow and retrograded, in the concert piece ''Ironfoot''. Notice that, on the theme's first appearance, it concludes with a "fiddle fanfare" as Bilbo realizes it's the day of the farewell party: another statement of the theme concluding with the same fanfare will score the erecting of the sign to the party in ''Fellowship of the Ring''. It is in two parts:
*Melody: this is a staccato version of the Hobbits theme.
*Accompaniment: This "Um pa-pah" rhyhtm is later used on its own and with other themes. The theme is also accompanied by a tapping on the bodhrain drums which also appears with other themes.
|-
|32
|'''Smeagol'''
|This theme, which brings out the pitiful Smeagol side of Gollum's character, is first alluded to when the chords of the second Shire phrase [14.2] turn minor.
|-
|33
|'''First Playful motif'''
|This elides the first pitch of [14.3] and sequences it to create a rhyhtmic figure in perfect fourths that skips the first beat of the measure. It often appears with [32] but both also appear in their own.
|-
|34
|'''Hobbits (Playful variant)'''
|This combines two separable elements: a chromatic sequence of the accompaniment [31.2] and a playful form of the original [14]. The full combination only appears in The Two Towers, but the bassline appears more often.
|-
|35
|'''Gandalf the Grey'''
|This wry figure in minor thirds and fourths depicts Gandalf the Grey throughout ''The Hobbit''. It does not appear in ''Fellowship of the Ring,'' where Gandalf's demise is imminent.
|-
|36
|'''First playful motif (first variant)'''
|This melds [31.2] and [14.3] into a driving figure. It is variously associated with Gandalf's fireworks (in ''An Unexpected Journey'' and ''Fellowship of the Ring''), his Smaug-like firework (the opening credits of ''The Desolation of Smaug'' anticipating ''Fellowship of the Ring'') and the mischief of Bilbo (sneaking out of the Farewell Party) and Merry and Pippin, in the cornfield. This latter statement is reprised in the closing credits.
|-
|37
|'''Fourth Dwarven theme (Dwarrowdelf)'''
|This theme, which will usher the Fellowship into the 21st hall of Dwarrowdelf, is first hinted at when the Dwarves introduce themselves to Bilbo, and again when they are introduced to Beorn. Both these scenes feature a 3-4-5 rise concluding on an open fifth. In ''Fellowship of the Ring,'' this is elaborated into a aeolian melody similar to [19], which also appears when the Cave Troll is slain.
|-
|38
|'''Fussy Bilbo'''
|This waltzing, D minor theme contains the same pitches as the Ring, but depicts Bilbo's out-of-sorts mannerism around the Dwarves. Later, it is applied to the Company in general, as when they emerge into Bard's house.
|-
|39
|'''Smaug (second theme)'''
|This retrogrades Smaug's original motif, then ascends chromatically: the effect is more subtly sinister and will also depict Thorin's Dragon Sickness, usually in more discordant string settings. Again, accompanied by major-minor triads built on F and semiquaver figures on Gamelan.
|-
|40
|'''Fifth Dwarven theme (The Company)'''
|This theme, which appears when Dwalin and Gandalf talk about Thorin's absence, repeats during the Hidden Door sequence and when the Dwarves retreat before Azog's forces in ''The Battle of the Five Armies''. It is elaborated upon in the concert piece "The Dwarf Lords." As originally stated, it takes the melodic Dwarven harmonies and turns them major: A-G.
|-
|41
|'''Hobbits, kinetic version'''
|This sequences the initial 1-2-3 rise of the Hobbits [14.1] over canonical imitation of the accompaniment [14.3] in quavers and semiquavers. It depicts Bilbo rushing out of his door, and Merry and Pippin rushing through the cornfield.
|-
|42
|'''Moria danger motif'''
|Two figures depict the dangers of Moria: a minor scale voices in parallel fifths, and a perfect fifth dropping to the tritone.
|-
|43
|'''Battle with Azog'''
|A similar figure in parallel fourths depicts the battle of Azanulbizar. It returns for the confrontation with Azog in the ''Battle of the Five Armies''.
|-
|44
|'''First danger motif (Azog form)'''
|This theme is a pair of descending thirds, therefore a melodic form of the Ring chords. Here, they are major thirds an augmented second apart, thus outlining the Phrygian Dominant mode of Sauron. Azog's form concludes with a chromatic "barb" evoking his crude prosthetic arm. But it also appears for Azog's pack, Bolg and later the army he leads to the Erebor valley.
|-
|45
|'''Second tragic theme'''
|After the battle of Azanulbizar, this theme appears after Thorin's, answering his rising scale with a falling scale that accomodates upon itself. In doing so, it falls a major second, then falls and rises a minor one. This will appear increasingly by itself in ''The Battle of the Five Armies,'' always depicting death and tragedy (for instance, when Legolas speaks about his mother's death). In Fellowship of the Ring, the notes turn into a figure that rises and drops a minor second, then falls and rises a major second. This always depicts the suffering incurred by the War of the Ring.
|-
|46
|'''Wizards'''
|Another falling minor scale figure depicts the five Wizards. Naturally, it mostly appears with Gandalf, as when he arrives at Goblintown or during his parting with Bilbo in ''An Unexpected Journey''. But it also appears with Radagast.
|-
|47
|'''Radagast'''
|This nervous melody in major and minor seconds, only appears on album. But its accompaniments are heard in the film during Radagast's scenes, as well as when Bilbo escapes Goblintown.
|-
|48
|'''Mirkwood'''
|This line also alternates major and mind seconds. It depicts the shadow falling over Mirkwood. In The Desolation of Smaug, it becomes the definitive Mirkwood theme, reshaping [45]. This almost depicts the Elven Road, becoming gradually masked by the texture which features clusters, aleatoric figures, bowed cymbals, portamenti and sprechstimme vocals. Similar textures will appear in other places in the scores, always in relation to confusion and danger.
|-
|49
|'''First danger motif (Necromancer form)'''
|The major thirds an augmented second apart are here played slower, without the chromatic "barb" characteristic of Azog. It depicts Dol Guldur and the Necromancer.
|-
|50
|'''Mirkwood spiders, first theme'''
|This theme is based on an eight-note tone row, accompanied by clusters. Both also appear in ''The Desolation of Smaug''. Henceforth, all spider music will be atonal, although Denethor merits similar music in the most intense moments.
|-
|51
|'''Mountain Trolls'''
|This theme, in waltz time, recalls Bilbo's fussy theme, but instead arpeggiates a triad with an added tritone. It thus relates to the later Cave Troll, whose represented by a variant of the Moria music which is also echoed when Gollum brings Frodo rabbits.
|-
|52
|'''Hobbits (developed)'''
|Two developments of the Hobbits theme depict the Hobbits' personal growth, loss of innoncence, discovery of compassion and so forth:

*A fuller version of the original theme, the harmony filled in to D: I-iii-IV-I-IV-V.
*A melodic development of [14.2] with a gruppeto figure similar to [4]. It depicts Bilbo's act of compassion towards Gollum, but also scenes that depict the growing maturity and worldliness of the Hobbits in ''Fellowship of the Ring'' and ''The Two Towers.''
|-
|53
|'''Second danger motif (first form)'''
|This is another rhythmic figure that skips the first beat, but here outlining a minor scale. It has a more dynamic effect than [49].
|-
|54
|'''Main evil theme'''
|This adapts the Ring [4] to the Phrygian Dominant setting of the dragon. Its definitive form is set in muted trumpets and rhaita. Here, ''cor anglais'' imitates the rhaita. In ''The Battle of the Five Armies'', a pipe organ produces a similarly reedy sound.
|-
|55
|'''First Orc theme (Warg riders)'''
|This driving, descending minor scale figure depicts Azog company, especially the Warg riders. It appears all through The Hobbit, and then resurfaces in The Two Towers are a descending cluster which first depicts Saruman's warg riders. Afterwards, it continues to represent the artfulness of the Orc armies.
|-
|56
|'''Lothlorien or Galadriel'''
|This theme is also characterized by the F Phrygian Dominant mode. It's brassy appearance for Elrond's company attacking Yazneg's Orcs creates a parallel with the arrival of Haldir's Elves to Helm's Deep (heralded by the same rendition of [9]). The theme also appears in guises that emphasize the pitches of [45], inherent in the theme, or changed to double harmonic minor. When Frodo is struck by a vision of Galadriel in Shelob's lair, the theme is shifted into standard Phrygian mode.
|-
|57
|'''Rivendell, main theme'''
|This theme changes the impediment theme [1] to A major. It is rhythmically altered and overlaid with a melody based on the same pitches. The theme is typically set in female choir and harp over tolling chimes.
|-
|58
|'''Rivendell, second theme'''
|Two figures depict the interaction of Elrond and Thorin: a diegetic piece that plays as the Dwarves dine at Elrond's table (this appears in the orchestra, in a martial guise, when Elrond gallops into Rivendell to the Dwarves' chagrin) and a combination of the Rivendell arpeggios and Erebor horncalls.
|-
|59
|'''First danger motif (Sauron form)'''
|At the sight of Sauron's mural, the descending thirds turn into minor thirds a minor second apart. This version will continue into The Lord of the Rings. During the Minas Morgul scene, it is inverted into rising thirds.
|-
|60
|'''Second Dwarven theme (definitive)'''
|This theme now acquires its definitive pitches and tonality. Like Thorin's theme, it ascends but more resolutely in thirds spanning an octave. It then restarts on the low A but only reaches up the seventh scale degree. Notice that Thorin and his line are associated with A minor, as compared to Elrond's chromaticized A major.
|-
|61
|'''Goblins'''
|This theme in low brass over a hammering pattern that shifts time signatures (circling 7/5). It appears in all the goblin scenes and, on album, for their reappearance in ''The Battle of the Five Armies''. Going forward, rhythmic themes particularly in odd time signatures, will be associated with Orcs.
|-
|62
|'''Gollum'''
|This theme is in major and minor seconds played tremolando on cimbalom. This compares the spindly quality of Gollum, in his more menacing persona, with the hammered dulcimer that often plays [34]. In the early scenes of ''The Two Towers'', this figure is sequenced up so that it spans two chromatically interlocking fifths: this is similar to the music of Loge, the god of deception, in Wagner's Ring, a similarity that will become important later in the score.
|-
|63
|'''Fishing Song'''
|Gollum sings this song in ''An Unexpected Journey'', ''The Two Towers'' and ''The Return of the King''. In the latter, Gollum sings another song in a same vein, when he gloats over Frodo caught in Shelob's web.
|-
|64
|'''Smeagol (variant)'''
|The interaction of Smeagol's theme and the Ring produces several variants: one first appears when Galadriel mentions a "Nameless Fear." Much later, Gollum's song emerges out of this process: notice that it is adumbrated by the orchestra beginning in his interaction with Faramir.
|-
|65
|'''Eagles'''
|A variant of the Nature theme hails the eagles in ''An Unexpected Journey'' and ''The Battle of the Five Armies''. The album features another idea that looks forward to the eagles rescuing Sam and Frodo from Mount Doom.
|-
|66
|'''Second Gondor theme (developed)'''
|This variant, in E minor, appears in the film when Thorin embraces Frodo. This parallels the climax of ''The Return of the King'' when Barad dur collapses. It is a transformation of a Gondorian theme that appears in ''Fellowship of the Ring''. It will also appear in Aragorn's coronation in E major.
|-
|67
|'''Third danger motif'''
|Two figures combine the contour of Saruman's theme [13] with the Ringwraiths [8.3]:

*Rising figure of [8.3] in the rhythm of [13]. This, first heard in An Unexpected Journey but only on album, will depict the Orc armies that besiege Minas Tirith.
*A combination of the rhythm [8.1] with [13]. This first depicts Merry and Pippin marched along Ugluk's company, then Frodo and Sam marched disguised in Mordor.
|-
|68
|'''Impediment (variant)'''
|Howard sometimes sequences the (inverted) impediment chords up or down. This is often combined with other themes, especially the Hobbit accompaniments. This occurs, namely, for both scenes in Bree but also in other contexts.
|-
|69
|'''Beorn'''
|Yet another variant of the Nature theme depicts Beorn and his lands. Now the Am: i-VI chords depict the tread of the bear's feet.
|-
|70
|'''Ring chords (second form)'''
|The chord is redressed as a sinister, but less overtly threatening soprano solo. It relates to the Ringwraiths entombed in the High Fells. In the film it also appears in Dol Guldur. Later, it is transformed into a rising line built on the same chords, now depicting Mordor's strident power.
|-
|71
|'''White gems'''
|this theme relates the Woodland Elves to Mirkwood via the minor sixth. Since the gems were fashioned for Thranduil's wife, the appearance of this theme when Gandalf sees her statue at the Elven gate is apposite.
|-
|72
|'''Legolas'''
|Legolas is associated with an up-tempo version of the Woodland realm theme, but also with string figurations that then adorn the Fellowship theme when he defeats a Mumak in The Return of the King.
|-
|73
|'''Tauriel'''
|This theme is based on a figure that concludes the Woodland realm theme.
|-
|74
|'''Woodland Guards'''
|Since Tauriel is the head of the guard, slow, lyrical versions of this theme acts as her secondary theme. Again, the Woodland Elves are set in "human" scales, in this case natural minor.
|-
|75
|'''Impediment (Thranduil form)'''
|This arpeggio idea contrasts Thranduil's covetousness with Elrond's wisdom, and compares him with similar attributes of Thorin's.
|-
|76
|'''Tauriel and Kili'''
|This theme begins with a duet for flute (a variant on Tauriel's theme) and oboe (answering with a variant of Thorin's theme). This is followed by a choral theme which incorporates the tragic theme [45], harmonized in "Elven" mediant chords and elaborated with a Dwarven open fifth.
|-
|77
|'''Assertive Bilbo'''
|Beginning as a "Dwarven" version of Bilbo's fussy theme, applying more to the Dwarves' bewilderment at their own rescue, this becomes the theme of the self-actualized Bilbo who smuggles the Arkenstone to Dale in ''The Battle of the Five Armies''. It also depicts his return to the Shire as a changed person. It is mirrored in "Dwarven" forms of the Hobbit accompaniment figures that accompany the inebriated Gimli in ''The Return of the King'': one last ode to Dwarven music.
|-
|78
|'''Bard'''
|starting on a minor third and perfect fourth, this theme plays on a similarity to Erebor. The Dwarves hope Bard will bring them nearer to the mountain. It is usually accompanied by a strummed pattern B♭ minor: i-#vi.
|-
|79
|'''Laketown'''
|This theme combines figures similar to Gondor (leaping a perfect fifth on D Dorian, then descending stepwise) and Rohan (semiquaver figure evoking rowing).
|-
|80
|'''Politicians of Laketown'''
|This clavichord theme, constantly modulating, relates the Master of Laketown and his aide Alfrid to the forces of corruption that represent Sauron's influence on Middle earth. Alfrid tends to be accompanied with just a fragment of the unabridged theme. The theme also appears retrograded when Thorin and Company are brought before the Master.
|-
|81
|'''Bard's family'''
|First appearing briefly when Bard arrives home, this is a diatonic transformation of the Master's music, similar to Bilbo's music.
|-
|82
|'''Black Arrow'''
|This theme first scores Girion who shares the opening pitches of Bard, his descendent. It depicts the Black Arrow that will slay Smaug.
|-
|83
|'''Thrain'''
|Thrain is depicted in his deranged form by another danger motif. When he returns to his senses, it is replaced by a slow version of Erebor, punctuated by a harp arpeggio.
|-
|84
|'''Second danger motif (second form)'''
|still skipping the first beat, this theme now appears in any number of forms. These can be sequenced up, down or at pitch.
*'''Ascending scale:''' This is similar to the first form.
*'''Clustering:''' repeated note, then adding a scale degree on each subsequent measure.
*'''Rising and falling:''' This most aggressive form uses the opening notes of the Ring, rising and falling a minor second.
|-
|85
|'''Evil (second form)'''
|This rhythmic augmentation of the original theme is another theme that depicts Sauron at force. Once he is driven out of Dol Guldur, it is deferred until ''The Return of the King'' where it depicts the Witch King emerging from Dol Guldur.
|-
|86
|'''Arwen'''
|This theme, which later introduces Arwen in Fellowship of the Ring and again in The Return of the King, first appears in the minor when Tauriel heals Kili. This parallels Arwen healing Frodo. It is a Phrygian line harmonized in F: I-iii.
|-
|87
|'''Smaug's death'''
|This combines all of Smaug's themes. It depicts his flight to Laketown, and his death. Afterwards, Smaug's theme is appropriated by the deranged Thorin.
|-
|88
|'''Bard the hero'''
|This more heroic theme depicts Bard's new role as the leader of the exiled Lakemen.
|-
|89
|'''Gundabad'''
|This theme also features the rising and falling minor second. Notice the doubling by twenty didgeridoos.
|-
|90
|'''Orcs'''
|The Gundabad theme is always accompanied by five-four beat. This is reshaped for Saruman's Uruks (percussion in five beats, usually accented on the first and third). Sauron's Orcs are depicted by more hectic forms of the same idea (accents varying randomly across the line).
|-
|91
|'''The Ring chords (transformed)'''
|This idea depicts other characters becoming touched by darkness. It is in two parts:
*'''Rising:''' This inverts a triad with brass adding a ninth to recreate the Ring chord. This appears during the fight in Dol Guldur and Galadriel banishing Sauron. It is hinted at when the Fellowship glimpse Caras Galadhon, and repeats when Galadriel appears wraith-like to Frodo.
*'''Falling:''' the two big statements then descend down F minor arpeggios as Galadriel reels back from her episode. This also depicts Bilbo reeling from his Gollum-like episode.
|-
|92
|'''Dwarf warriors'''
|The minor sixth of this idea makes this a Dwarven counterpart of the Elvish warrior theme. It is accompanied by unpitched "grunts" from the Dwarven chorus, a texture that already appeared in the Rings of Power opening titles, and will appear again in Moria.
|-
|93
|'''Mithril shirt'''
|This quartal melody depicts the shirt (which was fashioned for an Elven prince). It appears when Thorin gives it Bilbo, and when Bilbo gives it to Frodo.
|-
|94
|'''Iron Hill Dwarves'''
|This theme is similar to the other major-moded Dwarven theme. The tattoo-like accompaniment evokes the riding of the Dwarven cavalry, and later appears on its own with the chariot.
|-
|95
|'''Tragic theme (transformed)'''
|This reharmonizes the original theme [45] to depict valour and death on the battlefield. It ushers the conflict between Dwarves and Elves, then the offensive against the Orcs, and returns during the sequence where Gandalf and Pippin save Denethor, and the following skirmish in Pelennor.
|-
|96
|'''War Beasts'''
|Azog's horn is answered by this bestial motif, depicting the Trolls and Ogres he fields to the battle.
|-
|97
|'''The Fellowship'''
|This theme harmonizes a down-and-up figure in major seconds in D: I-♭III-I and extending it to a nine note phrase. All themes emphasizing a motion of major seconds (usually down and up, concluding on a quaver) will be related to the Fellowship, and this kernel will also appear by itself.
|-
|98
|'''Third tragic theme'''
|This theme, in rising minor seconds an augmented second apart, contrasts Elendil and Isildur's fall with Boromir's, and later Denethor's.
|-
|99
|'''Seduction of the Ring'''
|This is another variant of the Ring, in a standard minor mode and usually sung by boy choir. In The Return of the King, it is doubled by female choir to depict Smeagol's seduction.
|-
|100
|'''Journey there'''
|This theme reshapes the impediment arpeggio melodically. It depicts the journey to Mordor.
|-
|101
|'''Third danger motif'''
|This percussion quaver figure is the most overtly martial of the danger motifs. It depicts the turncoat Saruman overpowering Gandalf, then the forces Sauron fields in Osgiliath and during the Haradrim attack. It returns for the Mount Doom scene.
|-
|102
|'''Strider'''
|This figure leaps a perfect fourth, then ascends another step. It thus reorders the pitches of Gondor.
|-
|103
|'''Tragic theme (Gondor form)'''
|This embellishes the theme by appending a perfect fifth. It appears with Boromir's first meeting with Aragorn, then scenes of Arwen envisioning Aragorn's mortality and leaving Rivendell.
|-
|104
|'''Diminishment of the Elves'''
|This theme for the scene in Gilraen's grave, brings the Phrygian Dominant setting of Lothlorien to Rivendell. It also repeats when Aragorn parts with Arwen.
|-
|105
|'''"Dangerous passes"'''
|This C minor theme depicts members of the Fellowship traversing difficult terrain: Caradhras, the approach to the walls of Moria and – on album – the secret stair.
|-
|106
|'''"Elvish pledge"'''
|This theme parallels the alliance of Celebrimbor and Narvi (as objectified in the Doors of Durin) with that of Haldir and Aragorn, when he shows up at Helm's Deep. It is a sequence of chords outlining a whole-tone scale.
|-
|107
|'''Hobbits (Heroic variant)'''
|This begins as the rhythm of the second phrase of the Fellowship, first heard in the Mazarbul chamber. Its last appearance, ahead of Sam's battle with Shelob, transforms into figure unique to this fight out of which emerges a heroic form the original Hobbits theme as he galivants around Cirith Ungol. The chords will return in the Mount Doom scenes.
|-
|108
|'''Durin's Bane'''
|By doubling the Moria theme at the octave, Howard Shore creates a sequence of power chords which depict the Balrog in Fellowship of the Ring and again in the opening scene of The Two Towers.
|-
|109
|'''Secondary Gondor theme'''
|This is a more lyrical depiction of Gondor. Triumphant forms depict the reforged Anduril.
|-
|110
|'''Aragorn'''
|This figure, which sometimes start with the original Strider theme, sequences the opening three notes of the Fellowship upward.
|-
|111
|'''Fourth tragic theme'''
|This theme laments Boromir's death, and returns with every reminiscence of his death. It is also alluded to in scenes with Theoden and the dying Frodo.
|-
|112
|'''Impediment theme (third variant)'''
|This figure compares Frodo and Sam being stuck in the beginning of The Two Towers, and Merry and Pippin near the end of The Two Towers.
|-
|113
|'''Fourth danger motif'''
|This is a rhythmic variant of the third three notes of the Ringwraiths' accompaniment. In the skirmish with the Southrons in Ithilien (and later in the invasion of Osgiliath) is reduced to a minor third.
|-
|114
|'''Rohan (fragment)'''
|This sequences the galloping quavers so the first pitch is a unison, and the second is raised with every iteration. It appears in both early scenes with Eomer, and a similar style of writing is harkened when Aragorn arrives at Helm's Deep, when he rides out with Theoden and when Eomer is ordered to muster the Rohirrim.
|-
|115
|'''The Fellowship in Rohan'''
|This leaps a fifth and continues in the countermelody of Rohan, which is based on the Fellowship pitches. It depicts the growing allegiance of the members of the Fellowship and the Rohirrim through The Two Towers. In The Return of the King, this figure is transformed to depict Merry in his new role as squire of Rohan. Although this figure originally leapt a fifth, it is last harkened to when Merry strikes the Witch King with a rarely-heard major sixth.
|-
|116
|'''The Ents'''
|This theme has two components: major triads a tritone apart, then a tremolando line in bass marimba and contrabassoon voiced in open chords a tritone apart.
|-
|117
|'''Gandalf the White'''
|This is another transformation of the original nature. It introduces the reborn Gandalf in Fangorn, at Helm's Deep and reprised in the credits.
|-
|118
|'''"Small stones"'''
|These chords (initially F# minor – G major – F# minor – A minor) depict Merry and Pippins effect on Treebeard. Later it assumes a form redolent of Treebeard's tritone progression. It is last recalled in The Return of the King when Gandalf and Pippin have a quiet moment, but this can only be heard on album.
|-
|119
|'''The White rider'''
|This reshaping of the Fellowship theme turns Gandalf, always astride Shadowfax, into "Saruman as he should have been." After the siege of Gondor, this theme is transformed into reiterated falling and rising major seconds, which eventually become an important component of the Grey Havens scene.
|-
|120
|'''The Fate of the Ring'''
|Two figures depict the future of the Ring:

*This reharmonizes [45] in D major, thereby altering the Ring's theme major. It foreshadows the destruction of the Ring.
*Combination of the various Ring themes, first in canonic imitation, then as a single melodic variant of the evil theme. This foresadows an eventuality in which the Ring returns to its master.
|-
|121
|'''Grima'''
|This theme, always in C minor and sometimes in the "Orcish" 5/4, is a dark counterpart to [7] (in the same tonality) and [114], presenting one static pitch and one rising pitch: minor third, tritone, fifth, and concluding with a minor sixth dropping back into the fifth. It accompanies all of Grima's scene since Gandalf's arrival at Meduseld and is even hinted at when he stabs Saruman.
|-
|122
|'''Eowyn and Aragorn'''
|Eowyn's attraction to Aragorn is scored with this F Lydian theme. Notice the "sighing" appoggiaturas.
|-
|123
|'''Arwen and Aragorn'''
|an E Phrygian reshaping of Aragorn's theme, accompanied by the Rivendell arpeggio and redolent of sighing appoggiaturas.
|-
|124
|'''Second Orc theme'''
|Two devices depict the Orc siege: a bollero-like rhyhtm, and a reiterated rhyhtm over third-related chords
|-
|125
|'''Gondor (transformed)'''
|This version of Gondor, which replaces the descending final notes with Aragorn's ascending notes, is first heard in the Return of the King trailer. On album, it was hinted in an alternate version of the Fellowship prologue where another ascending version of the theme appeared in D major. Otherwise, this thematic complex - which appears in Gandalf's ascent to Minas Tirith, and in the Pelennor fields (theatrical cut) - is always heard in D minor until Aragorn's coronation. Notice that the original descending phrase also appears in the major, but only on album.
|-
|126
|'''Shire (transformed)'''
|throughout The Return of the King, the Shire music and the Fellowship's become mingled. This initiates a process that culminates in the final Shire scenes: the melody is still the same, but the accompaniment had been reduced to thirds. When Sam returns home, this returns with a transformed melodic line, still in D major. A second transformation occurs at the very end of the fan credits: the perfect cadence on A major complements the A minor-A5 resolution of the Rings of Power titles.
|-
|127
|'''Dead Men of Dunharrow'''
|This bitonal idea features a bassline similar to Gondor, while the top voices cluster. When the ghosts lend aid on the Pelennor fields, the clusters resolve diatonically.
|-
|128
|'''Denethor and Faramir'''
|The confrontation between Faramir and Denethor, and Faramir's subsequent march to certain death are scored with this variant of [67].
|-
|129
|'''Shelob'''
|Another near tone-row. It is later spun into a pair of octatonic quadruple figures.
|-
|130
|'''Valinor'''
|The theme of the song "Into the West" appears when Gandalf describes Valinor to Pippin, when Sam hoists Frodo on his shoulders and at the conclusion of the Grey Havens scene.
|}

[[Category:Music]]
<references />

The Music of the Lord of the Rings Films (composition)

2026-04-21T14:12:36Z

Chen Geller:

{{cleanup}}
{{Disambig-two|the music composition for the Lord of the Rings films|book about the composition for The Lord of the Rings trilogy|[[The Music of the Lord of the Rings Films]]}}Howard Shore's compositions for ''The Lord of the Rings'' and ''The Hobbit'', together with work by Howard, Plan 9, David Long and Stephen Gallagher for ''The War of the Rohirrim'', ''The Rings of Power'' Season One and other projects represent a musico-dramatic oeuvre covering about 24 hours of music. This music is based on folk-like melodies, often stepwise; triadic harmony (though not generally stable in terms of key) and massed orchestrations, often ornamented by worldly instruments outside the orchestral replete.

The compositions include:

#[[:Category:The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power (Season One: Amazon Original Series Soundtrack)|The Rings of Power season one]]: Only the opening titles ([[Howard Shore]]) and source songs (Plan 9 and David Long).
#[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]] ([[Stephen Gallagher]], David Long using themes by Howard Shore and Plan 9)
#[[:Category:The Hobbit (film series) soundtracks|The Hobbit film trilogy (soundtracks)]], including the announcement trailer (Shore, Plan 9, Long, Gallagher ''et al'')
#[[:Category:The Lord of the Rings (film series) soundtracks|The Lord of the Rings film trilogy (soundtracks)]], including the second Return of the King trailer (Shore, Plan 9, Long ''et al'')
#Additional pieces for the concert stage (Howard Shore) or ''in situ'' for the Hobbiton set (Plan 9 and David Long).

==Orchestration==
Howard's orchestra varies in size between different pieces. Many instruments are used to colour certain narrative elements and related themes. Taken in whole, and together with instruments utilized by Plan 9 and David Long, it comprises:

'''Strings''': At least 16 first violins (concertmaster doubling hardinfelle, double violin), 16 second violins, 12 violas, 10 violoncelli, 8 double basses. 2 harps (one doubling celtic harp).

'''Woodwinds''': 4 flutes (doubling alto flute, piccoli, recorder, wood flute, tin whistle, low whistle, shakuhachi, dizi, nay), 4 oboes (one doubling cor anglais and heckelphone), 4 clarinets (one doubling bass clarinet and contrabass clarinet) and 3 bassoons (one doubling contrabassoon and contraforte). Also putorino, Rhaita (doubling rauschpfeife), 2 shawms, 2 crumhorns, dulcian.

'''Brass''': At least seven horns in F (doubling Wagner ''tuben''), eight trumpets (doubling rotary-valve trumpets), seven trombones (four tenor-bass and three bass trombones) and two tubas (doubling contrabass tuba). Also 20 didgeridoos, pukea, cow horn, tibetan horn.

'''Keyboards''': one grand piano (doubling upright piano, celesta, harpsichord, clavichord), synthesizer, grand pipe organ.

'''Percussion:''' Two Timpanists. At least seven players on bass drum, snare drums, side-drums (or field drums), toms and bass drum kit, triangle, glockenspiel, gong bass drum, tambourine, taiko drums (three sizes: large, medium and small), cymbals (including a splash cymbal cut into ribbons, antique cymbals, crotales), tubular bells, mark tree, carillon, tamtams, bossed gongs, woodblocks, temple blocks, log drums, slit drum, dudun drum, waterphone, shakers (including eggshakers, cabasa, caxixi and jingles), tibetan singing bowls, goblet drum, friction drum, frame drum, transceleste, marimba, 2 bodhrain, bell plates, anvil, "prepared" piano, castanets, tuned artillery shells, cans, wind machine.

"'''Hobbit band'''": 3 guitars (6 and 12-string, including bass guitar, doubling mandolin, caipira viola, lute, theorbo), 2 bagpipes (highland bapipes, doubling uileann pipes), 2 accordions (mussette, doubling concertina and harmonium), 1 hammered dulcimer (doubling cimbalom), hurdy-gurdy, banjo (doubling banjolele), euphonium.

'''Gamelan''': 1 kempul (doubling gong ageng), 1 kendhang, 4 saron players, 3 gender players (doubling slenthem), 4 kenong players (doubling kethuk), 2 bonang players, 1 gambang. Also doubling rebab, finger cymbals, ceng cengs, hyōshigi, kine, japanese cymbals, monochord, tanpura, sarangi (doubling dilruba).

'''Choir:''' 60 boys, at least 100 men and women, soloists (tenors, baritone, bass, soprano, treble).

==Themes==
The score relies on a large number of recurring associative themes (also known as ''Leitmotive'' or "Leading musical motives"). These appear independent of each other, in two more non-adjacent scenes. Most of these run through the entire series and lend it a sense of musical cohesion. These themes, which also develop according to the dramatic situation, are loosely divided into "family groups" and further delineated by associative keys and tone colour. They are as follows:

{| class="wikitable sortable"
!#
!Name
!Description
|-
|1
|'''"Impediment" theme'''
|This theme is a chromatic arpeggio (A minor: 1-3-5-♭6), sequenced a flat sixth apart. It is usually harmonized in minor triads a flat sixth apart (sometimes retrograded), and this sonority also appears on its own. It is introduced in the ''Rings of Power'' titles, where it is transformed as an F Lydian arpeggio (F: 1-3-♯4-5) over chords a minor third apart. The chords then appear in ''The War of the Rohirrim'' to depict the antagonists: Gm: iii-i depicting Freca, then G♭m: ♭vi-i under Wulf. The definitive theme appears throughout the live-action films, always representing impediment.
|-
|2
|'''Scales'''
|This is one of the basic devices Howard uses throughout the scores. Scalar motion may depict the Hobbits (usually as C: 1-2-3 starting on a quaver) but since scalar motion is inherent in many themes, it is used more generally in the scores, in any key or modality.
In more dangerous situation, Howard uses clusters or chromatic scales.
|-
|3
|'''Walking Songs'''
|There are two walking songs repeated in the scores: Plan 9 and David Long's "This Wandering Day" and Fran Walsh's "The Road Goes Ever On." The latter always appears with the Hobbits' theme.
|-
|4
|'''The Ring'''
|This theme is based on the rising and falling minor second. It is stated in strings in a chromaticised F minor, then in A♭ minor, all harmonized in minor triads a minor second apart (F minor to E minor).
Henceforth, all themes based on minor seconds (usually rising and falling) will depict Sauron and his forces. This rising and falling kernel is also used by itself to depict the forces of evil.
|-
|5
|'''Eowyn and Theoden'''
|This theme, voiced in open chords, depicts Eowyn, particularly in her relationship to Theoden.
|-
|6
|'''Rohan'''
|This major theme is usually set in A Dorian and played by either ''hardingfelle'' or high brass. It has several detachable parts:
*'''Rhythm''': The opening unison quavers evoke galloping horse hooves.
*'''Melody''': This rises a minor third, then proceeds stepwise along the Dorian mode. In the fullest statements, the consequent phrase concludes with a plagal cadence. In the Pelennor fields, this is reshaped into driving triplets, and these then appear on their own. A countermelody emphasizes the falling and rising major second. Later, the melody is sometimes altered to begin on a major third or even perfect fourth.
*'''Chords:''' in keeping with the Dorian setting, the theme is usually harmonized in A Dorian: i-IV but in the fullest statements this is expanded to i-VII-III-IV.
Henceforth, all the themes associated with mankind will be modal, usually incorporating a prominent leap into the melodic contour.
|-
|7
|'''Eowyn'''
|Eowyn's main theme is first hinted at in Hera's music. The theme leaps a fifth then proceeds stepwise over C Lydian: I-II-iii. Eowyn's first two scenes feature a similar progression under a scale, the perfect fifth ironed out. When she rebukes Grima, this theme which had since taken to the minor mode, regains the perfect fifth. Gallagher's score features other themes unique to it:
*The secondary theme leaps a perfect fifth and major sixth, then subsides in a stepwise figure. It mostly represents Helm and his sons.
*Olwyn is represented by a lyrical idea in thirds.
*Another idea in major and minor seconds represents Hera's relationship to Helm.
|-
|8
|'''Ring (Chords)'''
|This theme has three separable components, both representing the Ringwraiths but also danger more generally:

*Rhythm: two paired crotchets
*Chords: This verticalizes the Ring [4] to produce a minor triad with an added ninth. The resolving, minor plagal cadence may also appear by itself.
*Accompaniment: This idea leaps a minor sixth then falls down a minor scale.
|-
|9
|'''Horns'''
|Leaps ranging from a minor third to a perfect fifth appear throughout the scores, either in the score or as horn sound effects. Again, since these intervals are shared between multiple themes, they can be used in various contexts. Howard also frequently uses open fifths.
|-
|10
|'''Gondor'''
|This theme shares the Dorian setting, but leaps a perfect fifth (recalling Eowyn [5, 7], who will end up in Gondor) on D. Later, Howard will set it in rotary-valve trumpets.
|-
|11
|'''Rohan lament'''
|Versions of this lament (composed by plan 9 and David Long) appear both for Helm (in ''The War of the Rohirirm'') and for Theodred (in ''The Two Towers'').
|-
|12
|'''Nature'''
|This theme begins with a major-mode transformation of the impediment figure (over A minor: i-VI-i) and continues into chromatically rising chords. This second part is sometimes used on its own and, in the most extroverted statements, is embellished with unison brass triplets. Both parts are varied for other themes of the natural world. This theme first appears under the letter Gandalf sends to Hera, then appears through the bulk of the cycle to depict nature. In the end of ''The Two Towers'', it parallels the charge out of Helm's Deep with the concurrent Ent attack, and from this point on the theme becomes temporarily associated with the Rohirrim.
|-
|13
|'''Saruman and the Orcs'''
|This theme first appears retrograded, as a lyrical triple-time woodwind idea for Saruman's appearance in ''The War of the Rohirrim''. It later assumes its definitive 5/4 setting in trombones. Notice that it reorganizes the pitches of the Ring [4, 8], but now the seasawing minor seconds fall and rise. Later, the theme appears for Saruman's Uruks - the company of Uruks that chase the Fellowship are scored with a harmonized form of the theme's second phrase - but also for Orcs in general.
|-
|14
|'''The Hobbits (main theme)'''
|This theme, along with the Ring [4] is the nearest the series has to a main theme. It is almost always set in D pentatonic or C pentatonic, usually in strings, solo clarinet or tin whistle: this latter instrument is replaced by flute in ''The Return of the King''. It is again in detachable parts:
*'''First phrase''': This rises through four scale degrees, then falls back down. It is typically harmonized in D: I-IV-I-V.
*'''Second phrase''': By sequencing the initial stepwise motif upwards and harmonizing it with D: vii-IV-V-I, this part of the theme depicts the Shire as "the place that makes your heart swell when you think about it."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.woodzie.org/lotr/expansive.htm|articlename=Musical Themes in "The Lord of the Rings"|author=Eric Rawlins|dated=17 July 2006|website=Woodzie}}</ref>
*'''Accompaniment''': the first part is often accompanied by this bumptious outline in fifths and fourths. Howard omits this when a more sobering effect is called for, but he also uses it on its own.
|-
|15
|'''The Ring (fragment)'''
|Howard derives several fragments from the Ring that appear on their own:
*Ascending second: Both in ''An Unexpected Journey'' and ''The Fellowship of the Ring'', Bilbo blows smoke rings to the sound of a tritone gliding into the fifth. This recreates the rising minor second that opens the ring [4] but over a major chord: it returns after the Ring's destruction when characters recall it, reaffirming that the Ring is indeed gone. The figure does also appear in the minor as a more pointed allusion to the Ring throughout the quest.
*Chords: Howard also harmonizes this motion as minor triads a minor second apart, or as a minor triad resolving to a major triad: this latter gesture concludes the prologue of ''Fellowship of the Ring'' (E♭: i-I) and both Weathertop (on album) and the walls of Moria are revealed to the sound of fanfares derived from this gesture.
|-
|16
|'''Bilbo Baggins, first theme'''
|This theme reshapes the Hobbits' theme to depict Bilbo Baggins. In the announcement trailer, only its first phrase is heard, but in ''An Unexpected Journey'' it is sometimes extended into a second phrase which, with its melodic leaps and horn scoring hints at Bilbo's more outgoing, "Tookish" side. This phrase is later used on its own.
|-
|17
|'''The Company'''
|This theme is first sung by Thorin and company (over string clusters [2] in the trailer, ''a-cappella'' in the film), but then appears orchestrally. The most extrovert statements are preceded by a heroic variant of Bilbo's second theme [20] and use [18] as a countermelody. At the end of ''An Unexpected Journey,'' it is transformed into the Song of the Lonely Mountain. After this, as the quest loses its swashbuckling sheen, the theme is no longer heard. Its harmony (triads a major second apart) is shared between all the ''melodic'' Dwarven themes.
|-
|18
|'''First Dwarven theme (Thorin):'''
|The stepwise nature of this theme depicts the influence Bilbo will play in Thorin's life. As in the announcement trailer, it is often (but not consistently) heard as a countermelody for [17]. The theme is not, however, Thorin's theme in ''strictu sensu'': it scores most of the establishing montage of Erebor, and several scenes of the company at large. Again, notice the "Dwarven" Am-G harmony.
|-
|19
|'''Second Dwarven theme, first form'''
|This theme is used more generally for the Dwarves (it's called "The House of Durin" in Howard's sketches). This first form, heard over the opening titles of ''An Unexpected Journey'', combines the contour of the definitive theme with the pitches of the Ring fragment [15]. It also appears during the eagle rescue (only on album) and when the Dwarves reunite in Erebor after Smaug's attack.
|-
|20
|'''Bilbo Baggins, second theme'''
|This theme (A-B-C♯-E-E-G♯-G♯-A-E-C♯-E-D) also appears in the opening titles of ''An Unexpected Journey''. It is also heard, heroically in horns, when Bilbo rescues Thorin.
|-
|21
|'''First tragic theme (transcendant)'''
|This theme first appears during the opening shots of ''An Unexpected Journey'': this creates a sense of bookends with an identical statement in the Grey Havens, when Gandalf says farewel to the Hobbits. It also laments Gandalf's death (Doug Adams calls it "Gandalf's farewells") and is embedded into the farewell from Lorien. But it also appears during the final scenes on the slopes of Mount Doom. It is a chord progression atypical of the rest of the score: A♭: vi-IV-I-V. This results in the top voices rising and falling a minor second (cf. [4]) but then falling another major second. Combinations of rising and falling major and minor seconds, as well as minor scales, unite all the themes that depict Sauron's influence on Middle-earth (also [1]).
|-
|22
|'''The Journey Back'''
|This theme, first appearing over the map transition to Erebor, again creates bookends with the map transition from Minas Tirith back to the Shire in ''The Return of the King''. Appearing throughout the denoument of the film, it depicts the journey back from Mordor. It is a rising scale harmonized in chromatic mediants.
|-
|23
|'''Third Dwarven theme (Erebor)'''
|This theme is three rising horncalls outlining an A Aeolian scale: 1-3, 1-4, 1-5. It subsides in a descending, syncopated pattern that is later also used on its own. Again, it is not Erebor's theme in ''stricto sensu'': statements of it appear for the company, and for Thorin (it is played diegetically for his obsequies), as well as for the Iron Hill Dwarves. Henceforth, non-melodic Dwarven music will be characterized by its intervallic nature, often parallel fifths.
|-
|24
|'''Arkenstone, first theme'''
|In keeping with the intervallic Dwarven style, this theme begins on an open fifth, but then clusters in the chorus [2]. It depicts the mysterious aspect of the stone, but also appears when Gandalf hands Thorin the map and the key: the means towards finding the Arkenstone.
|-
|25
|'''Arkenstone, second theme'''
|This syncopated, B minor string figure first appears with [24] but they become increasingly independent as the score continues. In The Battle of the Five Armies, this idea often appears unresolved to depict Thorin's mounting obsession to retrieve the stone.
|-
|26
|'''Woodland Elves'''
|This D Phrygian theme depicts the Woodland Elves as closer to Men, but the emphasis on the third degree in the harmony gives it an Elven sheen. Henceforth, Elven themes will be characterized by more "advanced" harmony than the rest of Middle-earth: mediant and chromatic mediant harmony, whole tone scales, chromatic lines, seventh chords and so forth.
|-
|27
|'''Smaug, first theme'''
|This theme is in three parts:
*'''Melody''': The F Phrygian Dominant setting denotes the old age of the Dragon. Henceforth, everything old in Middle earth (Galadriel, Sauron) will be depicted by this mode. The theme emphasizes the rising and falling minor second [4] and augmented second inherent to this mode.
*'''Chords''': This progression (F: I-i-I) sequences [15] to depict the Dragon's breath.
*'''Accompaniment''': The theme is accompanied by semiquavers in Gamelan. The ensemble sometimes doubles the melody inharmonically, and lends its texture to the treasure hoard sequence.
|-
|28
|'''Dwarvish Wanderers'''
|This scalar figure bemoans the Dwarves' downfall and loss of their homeland. It is also heard when Thorin is struck down by Azog in ''An Unexpected Journey'', and during their arrival to the Hidden Door. It is often combined with a "Dwarven" form of the Impediment arpeggio [1].
|-
|29
|'''Hobbit party music'''
|This Plan 9 tune embellishes the Hobbits' diatonic harmonies with some light chromaticism. It is heard briefly in the Old Took's birthday, and in extenso during Bilbo's Farewell Party.
|-
|30
|'''Hobbits (mysterious variant)'''
|This augments the Shire's accompaniment [14.3] to the contour of the Impediment theme. It depicts many of the early scenes of ''An Unexpected Journey'', and returns in ''Fellowship of the Ring'' when Gandalf glimpses Thorin's map.
|-
|31
|'''Hobbits (folk variant)'''
|This version mostly appears for scenes in Hobbiton, but also in the cornfield in ''Fellowship of the Ring'' and, slow and retrograded, in the concert piece ''Ironfoot''. Notice that, on the theme's first appearance, it concludes with a "fiddle fanfare" as Bilbo realizes it's the day of the farewell party: another statement of the theme concluding with the same fanfare will score the erecting of the sign to the party in ''Fellowship of the Ring''. It is in two parts:
*Melody: this is a staccato version of the Hobbits theme.
*Accompaniment: This "Um pa-pah" rhyhtm is later used on its own and with other themes. The theme is also accompanied by a tapping on the bodhrain drums which also appears with other themes.
|-
|32
|'''Smeagol'''
|This theme, which brings out the pitiful Smeagol side of Gollum's character, is first alluded to when the chords of the second Shire phrase [14.2] turn minor.
|-
|33
|'''First Playful motif'''
|This elides the first pitch of [14.3] and sequences it to create a rhyhtmic figure in perfect fourths that skips the first beat of the measure. It often appears with [32] but both also appear in their own.
|-
|34
|'''Hobbits (Playful variant)'''
|This combines two separable elements: a chromatic sequence of the accompaniment [31.2] and a playful form of the original [14]. The full combination only appears in The Two Towers, but the bassline appears more often.
|-
|35
|'''Gandalf the Grey'''
|This wry figure in minor thirds and fourths depicts Gandalf the Grey throughout ''The Hobbit''. It does not appear in ''Fellowship of the Ring,'' where Gandalf's demise is imminent.
|-
|36
|'''First playful motif (first variant)'''
|This melds [31.2] and [14.3] into a driving figure. It is variously associated with Gandalf's fireworks (in ''An Unexpected Journey'' and ''Fellowship of the Ring''), his Smaug-like firework (the opening credits of ''The Desolation of Smaug'' anticipating ''Fellowship of the Ring'') and the mischief of Bilbo (sneaking out of the Farewell Party) and Merry and Pippin, in the cornfield. This latter statement is reprised in the closing credits.
|-
|37
|'''Fourth Dwarven theme (Dwarrowdelf)'''
|This theme, which will usher the Fellowship into the 21st hall of Dwarrowdelf, is first hinted at when the Dwarves introduce themselves to Bilbo, and again when they are introduced to Beorn. Both these scenes feature a 3-4-5 rise concluding on an open fifth. In ''Fellowship of the Ring,'' this is elaborated into a aeolian melody similar to [19], which also appears when the Cave Troll is slain.
|-
|38
|'''Fussy Bilbo'''
|This waltzing, D minor theme contains the same pitches as the Ring, but depicts Bilbo's out-of-sorts mannerism around the Dwarves. Later, it is applied to the Company in general, as when they emerge into Bard's house.
|-
|39
|'''Smaug (second theme)'''
|This retrogrades Smaug's original motif, then ascends chromatically: the effect is more subtly sinister and will also depict Thorin's Dragon Sickness, usually in more discordant string settings. Again, accompanied by major-minor triads built on F and semiquaver figures on Gamelan.
|-
|40
|'''Fifth Dwarven theme (The Company)'''
|This theme, which appears when Dwalin and Gandalf talk about Thorin's absence, repeats during the Hidden Door sequence and when the Dwarves retreat before Azog's forces in ''The Battle of the Five Armies''. It is elaborated upon in the concert piece "The Dwarf Lords." As originally stated, it takes the melodic Dwarven harmonies and turns them major: A-G.
|-
|41
|'''Hobbits, kinetic version'''
|This sequences the initial 1-2-3 rise of the Hobbits [14.1] over canonical imitation of the accompaniment [14.3] in quavers and semiquavers. It depicts Bilbo rushing out of his door, and Merry and Pippin rushing through the cornfield.
|-
|42
|'''Moria danger motif'''
|Two figures depict the dangers of Moria: a minor scale voices in parallel fifths, and a perfect fifth dropping to the tritone.
|-
|43
|'''Battle with Azog'''
|A similar figure in parallel fourths depicts the battle of Azanulbizar. It returns for the confrontation with Azog in the ''Battle of the Five Armies''.
|-
|44
|'''First danger motif (Azog form)'''
|This theme is a pair of descending thirds, therefore a melodic form of the Ring chords. Here, they are major thirds an augmented second apart, thus outlining the Phrygian Dominant mode of Sauron. Azog's form concludes with a chromatic "barb" evoking his crude prosthetic arm. But it also appears for Azog's pack, Bolg and later the army he leads to the Erebor valley.
|-
|45
|'''Second tragic theme'''
|After the battle of Azanulbizar, this theme appears after Thorin's, answering his rising scale with a falling scale that accomodates upon itself. In doing so, it falls a major second, then falls and rises a minor one. This will appear increasingly by itself in ''The Battle of the Five Armies,'' always depicting death and tragedy (for instance, when Legolas speaks about his mother's death). In Fellowship of the Ring, the notes turn into a figure that rises and drops a minor second, then falls and rises a major second. This always depicts the suffering incurred by the War of the Ring.
|-
|46
|'''Wizards'''
|Another falling minor scale figure depicts the five Wizards. Naturally, it mostly appears with Gandalf, as when he arrives at Goblintown or during his parting with Bilbo in ''An Unexpected Journey''. But it also appears with Radagast.
|-
|47
|'''Radagast'''
|This nervous melody in major and minor seconds, only appears on album. But its accompaniments are heard in the film during Radagast's scenes, as well as when Bilbo escapes Goblintown.
|-
|48
|'''Mirkwood'''
|This line also alternates major and mind seconds. It depicts the shadow falling over Mirkwood. In The Desolation of Smaug, it becomes the definitive Mirkwood theme, reshaping [45]. This almost depicts the Elven Road, becoming gradually masked by the texture which features clusters, aleatoric figures, bowed cymbals, portamenti and sprechstimme vocals. Similar textures will appear in other places in the scores, always in relation to confusion and danger.
|-
|49
|'''First danger motif (Necromancer form)'''
|The major thirds an augmented second apart are here played slower, without the chromatic "barb" characteristic of Azog. It depicts Dol Guldur and the Necromancer.
|-
|50
|'''Mirkwood spiders, first theme'''
|This theme is based on an eight-note tone row, accompanied by clusters. Both also appear in ''The Desolation of Smaug''. Henceforth, all spider music will be atonal, although Denethor merits similar music in the most intense moments.
|-
|51
|'''Mountain Trolls'''
|This theme, in waltz time, recalls Bilbo's fussy theme, but instead arpeggiates a triad with an added tritone. It thus relates to the later Cave Troll, whose represented by a variant of the Moria music which is also echoed when Gollum brings Frodo rabbits.
|-
|52
|'''Hobbits (developed)'''
|Two developments of the Hobbits theme depict the Hobbits' personal growth, loss of innoncence, discovery of compassion and so forth:

*A fuller version of the original theme, the harmony filled in to D: I-iii-IV-I-IV-V.
*A melodic development of [14.2] with a gruppeto figure similar to [4]. It depicts Bilbo's act of compassion towards Gollum, but also scenes that depict the growing maturity and worldliness of the Hobbits in ''Fellowship of the Ring'' and ''The Two Towers.''
|-
|53
|'''Second danger motif (first form)'''
|This is another rhythmic figure that skips the first beat, but here outlining a minor scale. It has a more dynamic effect than [49].
|-
|54
|'''Main evil theme'''
|This adapts the Ring [4] to the Phrygian Dominant setting of the dragon. Its definitive form is set in muted trumpets and rhaita. Here, ''cor anglais'' imitates the rhaita. In ''The Battle of the Five Armies'', a pipe organ produces a similarly reedy sound.
|-
|55
|'''First Orc theme (Warg riders)'''
|This driving, descending minor scale figure depicts Azog company, especially the Warg riders. It appears all through The Hobbit, and then resurfaces in The Two Towers are a descending cluster which first depicts Saruman's warg riders. Afterwards, it continues to represent the artfulness of the Orc armies.
|-
|56
|'''Lothlorien or Galadriel'''
|This theme is also characterized by the F Phrygian Dominant mode. It's brassy appearance for Elrond's company attacking Yazneg's Orcs creates a parallel with the arrival of Haldir's Elves to Helm's Deep (heralded by the same rendition of [9]). The theme also appears in guises that emphasize the pitches of [45], inherent in the theme, or changed to double harmonic minor. When Frodo is struck by a vision of Galadriel in Shelob's lair, the theme is shifted into standard Phrygian mode.
|-
|57
|'''Rivendell, main theme'''
|This theme changes the impediment theme [1] to A major. It is rhythmically altered and overlaid with a melody based on the same pitches. The theme is typically set in female choir and harp over tolling chimes.
|-
|58
|'''Rivendell, second theme'''
|Two figures depict the interaction of Elrond and Thorin: a diegetic piece that plays as the Dwarves dine at Elrond's table (this appears in the orchestra, in a martial guise, when Elrond gallops into Rivendell to the Dwarves' chagrin) and a combination of the Rivendell arpeggios and Erebor horncalls.
|-
|59
|'''First danger motif (Sauron form)'''
|At the sight of Sauron's mural, the descending thirds turn into minor thirds a minor second apart. This version will continue into The Lord of the Rings. During the Minas Morgul scene, it is inverted into rising thirds.
|-
|60
|'''Second Dwarven theme (definitive)'''
|This theme now acquires its definitive pitches and tonality. Like Thorin's theme, it ascends but more resolutely in thirds spanning an octave. It then restarts on the low A but only reaches up the seventh scale degree. Notice that Thorin and his line are associated with A minor, as compared to Elrond's chromaticized A major.
|-
|61
|'''Goblins'''
|This theme in low brass over a hammering pattern that shifts time signatures (circling 7/5). It appears in all the goblin scenes and, on album, for their reappearance in ''The Battle of the Five Armies''. Going forward, rhythmic themes particularly in odd time signatures, will be associated with Orcs.
|-
|62
|'''Gollum'''
|This theme is in major and minor seconds played tremolando on cimbalom. This compares the spindly quality of Gollum, in his more menacing persona, with the hammered dulcimer that often plays [34]. In the early scenes of ''The Two Towers'', this figure is sequenced up so that it spans two chromatically interlocking fifths: this is similar to the music of Loge, the god of deception, in Wagner's Ring, a similarity that will become important later in the score.
|-
|63
|'''Fishing Song'''
|Gollum sings this song in ''An Unexpected Journey'', ''The Two Towers'' and ''The Return of the King''. In the latter, Gollum sings another song in a same vein, when he gloats over Frodo caught in Shelob's web.
|-
|64
|'''Smeagol (variant)'''
|The interaction of Smeagol's theme and the Ring produces several variants: one first appears when Galadriel mentions a "Nameless Fear." Much later, Gollum's song emerges out of this process: notice that it is adumbrated by the orchestra beginning in his interaction with Faramir.
|-
|65
|'''Eagles'''
|A variant of the Nature theme hails the eagles in ''An Unexpected Journey'' and ''The Battle of the Five Armies''. The album features another idea that looks forward to the eagles rescuing Sam and Frodo from Mount Doom.
|-
|66
|'''Second Gondor theme (developed)'''
|This variant, in E minor, appears in the film when Thorin embraces Frodo. This parallels the climax of ''The Return of the King'' when Barad dur collapses. It is a transformation of a Gondorian theme that appears in ''Fellowship of the Ring''. It will also appear in Aragorn's coronation in E major.
|-
|67
|'''Third danger motif'''
|Two figures combine the contour of Saruman's theme [13] with the Ringwraiths [8.3]:

*Rising figure of [8.3] in the rhythm of [13]. This, first heard in An Unexpected Journey but only on album, will depict the Orc armies that besiege Minas Tirith.
*A combination of the rhythm [8.1] with [13]. This first depicts Merry and Pippin marched along Ugluk's company, then Frodo and Sam marched disguised in Mordor.
|-
|68
|'''Impediment (variant)'''
|Howard sometimes sequences the (inverted) impediment chords up or down. This is often combined with other themes, especially the Hobbit accompaniments. This occurs, namely, for both scenes in Bree but also in other contexts.
|-
|69
|'''Beorn'''
|Yet another variant of the Nature theme depicts Beorn and his lands. Now the Am: i-VI chords depict the tread of the bear's feet.
|-
|70
|'''Ring chords (second form)'''
|The chord is redressed as a sinister, but less overtly threatening soprano solo. It relates to the Ringwraiths entombed in the High Fells. In the film it also appears in Dol Guldur. Later, it is transformed into a rising line built on the same chords, now depicting Mordor's strident power.
|-
|71
|'''White gems'''
|this theme relates the Woodland Elves to Mirkwood via the minor sixth. Since the gems were fashioned for Thranduil's wife, the appearance of this theme when Gandalf sees her statue at the Elven gate is apposite.
|-
|72
|'''Legolas'''
|Legolas is associated with an up-tempo version of the Woodland realm theme, but also with string figurations that then adorn the Fellowship theme when he defeats a Mumak in The Return of the King.
|-
|73
|'''Tauriel'''
|This theme is based on a figure that concludes the Woodland realm theme.
|-
|74
|'''Woodland Guards'''
|Since Tauriel is the head of the guard, slow, lyrical versions of this theme acts as her secondary theme. Again, the Woodland Elves are set in "human" scales, in this case natural minor.
|-
|75
|'''Impediment (Thranduil form)'''
|This arpeggio idea contrasts Thranduil's covetousness with Elrond's wisdom, and compares him with similar attributes of Thorin's.
|-
|76
|'''Tauriel and Kili'''
|This theme begins with a duet for flute (a variant on Tauriel's theme) and oboe (answering with a variant of Thorin's theme). This is followed by a choral theme which incorporates the tragic theme [45], harmonized in "Elven" mediant chords and elaborated with a Dwarven open fifth.
|-
|77
|'''Assertive Bilbo'''
|Beginning as a "Dwarven" version of Bilbo's fussy theme, applying more to the Dwarves' bewilderment at their own rescue, this becomes the theme of the self-actualized Bilbo who smuggles the Arkenstone to Dale in ''The Battle of the Five Armies''. It also depicts his return to the Shire as a changed person. It is mirrored in "Dwarven" forms of the Hobbit accompaniment figures that accompany the inebriated Gimli in ''The Return of the King'': one last ode to Dwarven music.
|-
|78
|'''Bard'''
|starting on a minor third and perfect fourth, this theme plays on a similarity to Erebor. The Dwarves hope Bard will bring them nearer to the mountain. It is usually accompanied by a strummed pattern B♭ minor: i-#vi.
|-
|79
|'''Laketown'''
|This theme combines figures similar to Gondor (leaping a perfect fifth on D Dorian, then descending stepwise) and Rohan (semiquaver figure evoking rowing).
|-
|80
|'''Politicians of Laketown'''
|This clavichord theme, constantly modulating, relates the Master of Laketown and his aide Alfrid to the forces of corruption that represent Sauron's influence on Middle earth. Alfrid tends to be accompanied with just a fragment of the unabridged theme. The theme also appears retrograded when Thorin and Company are brought before the Master.
|-
|81
|'''Bard's family'''
|First appearing briefly when Bard arrives home, this is a diatonic transformation of the Master's music, similar to Bilbo's music.
|-
|82
|'''Black Arrow'''
|This theme first scores Girion who shares the opening pitches of Bard, his descendent. It depicts the Black Arrow that will slay Smaug.
|-
|83
|'''Thrain'''
|Thrain is depicted in his deranged form by another danger motif. When he returns to his senses, it is replaced by a slow version of Erebor, punctuated by a harp arpeggio.
|-
|84
|'''Second danger motif (second form)'''
|still skipping the first beat, this theme now appears in any number of forms. These can be sequenced up, down or at pitch.
*'''Ascending scale:''' This is similar to the first form.
*'''Clustering:''' repeated note, then adding a scale degree on each subsequent measure.
*'''Rising and falling:''' This most aggressive form uses the opening notes of the Ring, rising and falling a minor second.
|-
|85
|'''Evil (second form)'''
|This rhythmic augmentation of the original theme is another theme that depicts Sauron at force. Once he is driven out of Dol Guldur, it is deferred until ''The Return of the King'' where it depicts the Witch King emerging from Dol Guldur.
|-
|86
|'''Arwen'''
|This theme, which later introduces Arwen in Fellowship of the Ring and again in The Return of the King, first appears in the minor when Tauriel heals Kili. This parallels Arwen healing Frodo. It is a Phrygian line harmonized in F: I-iii.
|-
|87
|'''Smaug's death'''
|This combines all of Smaug's themes. It depicts his flight to Laketown, and his death. Afterwards, Smaug's theme is appropriated by the deranged Thorin.
|-
|88
|'''Bard the hero'''
|This more heroic theme depicts Bard's new role as the leader of the exiled Lakemen.
|-
|89
|'''Gundabad'''
|This theme also features the rising and falling minor second. Notice the doubling by twenty didgeridoos.
|-
|90
|'''Orcs'''
|The Gundabad theme is always accompanied by five-four beat. This is reshaped for Saruman's Uruks (percussion in five beats, usually accented on the first and third). Sauron's Orcs are depicted by more hectic forms of the same idea (accents varying randomly across the line).
|-
|91
|'''The Ring chords (transformed)'''
|This idea depicts other characters becoming touched by darkness. It is in two parts:
*'''Rising:''' This inverts a triad with brass adding a ninth to recreate the Ring chord. This appears during the fight in Dol Guldur and Galadriel banishing Sauron. It is hinted at when the Fellowship glimpse Caras Galadhon, and repeats when Galadriel appears wraith-like to Frodo.
*'''Falling:''' the two big statements then descend down F minor arpeggios as Galadriel reels back from her episode. This also depicts Bilbo reeling from his Gollum-like episode.
|-
|92
|'''Dwarf warriors'''
|The minor sixth of this idea makes this a Dwarven counterpart of the Elvish warrior theme. It is accompanied by unpitched "grunts" from the Dwarven chorus, a texture that already appeared in the Rings of Power opening titles, and will appear again in Moria.
|-
|93
|'''Mithril shirt'''
|This quartal melody depicts the shirt (which was fashioned for an Elven prince). It appears when Thorin gives it Bilbo, and when Bilbo gives it to Frodo.
|-
|94
|'''Iron Hill Dwarves'''
|This theme is similar to the other major-moded Dwarven theme. The tattoo-like accompaniment evokes the riding of the Dwarven cavalry, and later appears on its own with the chariot.
|-
|95
|'''Tragic theme (transformed)'''
|This reharmonizes the original theme [45] to depict valour and death on the battlefield. It ushers the conflict between Dwarves and Elves, then the offensive against the Orcs, and returns during the sequence where Gandalf and Pippin save Denethor, and the following skirmish in Pelennor.
|-
|96
|'''War Beasts'''
|Azog's horn is answered by this bestial motif, depicting the Trolls and Ogres he fields to the battle.
|-
|97
|'''The Fellowship'''
|This theme harmonizes a down-and-up figure in major seconds in D: I-♭III-I and extending it to a nine note phrase. All themes emphasizing a motion of major seconds (usually down and up, concluding on a quaver) will be related to the Fellowship, and this kernel will also appear by itself.
|-
|98
|'''Third tragic theme'''
|This theme, in rising minor seconds an augmented second apart, contrasts Elendil and Isildur's fall with Boromir's, and later Denethor's.
|-
|99
|'''Seduction of the Ring'''
|This is another variant of the Ring, in a standard minor mode and usually sung by boy choir. In The Return of the King, it is doubled by female choir to depict Smeagol's seduction.
|-
|100
|'''Journey there'''
|This theme reshapes the impediment arpeggio melodically. It depicts the journey to Mordor.
|-
|101
|'''Third danger motif'''
|This percussion quaver figure is the most overtly martial of the danger motifs. It depicts the turncoat Saruman overpowering Gandalf, then the forces Sauron fields in Osgiliath and during the Haradrim attack. It returns for the Mount Doom scene.
|-
|102
|'''Strider'''
|This figure leaps a perfect fourth, then ascends another step. It thus reorders the pitches of Gondor.
|-
|103
|'''Tragic theme (Gondor form)'''
|This embellishes the theme by appending a perfect fifth. It appears with Boromir's first meeting with Aragorn, then scenes of Arwen envisioning Aragorn's mortality and leaving Rivendell.
|-
|104
|'''Diminishment of the Elves'''
|This theme for the scene in Gilraen's grave, brings the Phrygian Dominant setting of Lothlorien to Rivendell. It also repeats when Aragorn parts with Arwen.
|-
|105
|'''"Dangerous passes"'''
|This C minor theme depicts members of the Fellowship traversing difficult terrain: Caradhras, the approach to the walls of Moria and – on album – the secret stair.
|-
|106
|'''"Elvish pledge"'''
|This theme parallels the alliance of Celebrimbor and Narvi (as objectified in the Doors of Durin) with that of Haldir and Aragorn, when he shows up at Helm's Deep. It is a sequence of chords outlining a whole-tone scale.
|-
|107
|'''Hobbits (Heroic variant)'''
|This begins as the rhythm of the second phrase of the Fellowship, first heard in the Mazarbul chamber. Its last appearance, ahead of Sam's battle with Shelob, transforms into figure unique to this fight out of which emerges a heroic form the original Hobbits theme as he galivants around Cirith Ungol. The chords will return in the Mount Doom scenes.
|-
|108
|'''Durin's Bane'''
|By doubling the Moria theme at the octave, Howard Shore creates a sequence of power chords which depict the Balrog in Fellowship of the Ring and again in the opening scene of The Two Towers.
|-
|109
|'''Secondary Gondor theme'''
|This is a more lyrical depiction of Gondor. Triumphant forms depict the reforged Anduril.
|-
|110
|'''Aragorn'''
|This figure, which sometimes start with the original Strider theme, sequences the opening three notes of the Fellowship upward.
|-
|111
|'''Fourth tragic theme'''
|This theme laments Boromir's death, and returns with every reminiscence of his death. It is also alluded to in scenes with Theoden and the dying Frodo.
|-
|112
|'''Impediment theme (third variant)'''
|This figure compares Frodo and Sam being stuck in the beginning of The Two Towers, and Merry and Pippin near the end of The Two Towers.
|-
|113
|'''Fourth danger motif'''
|This is a rhythmic variant of the third three notes of the Ringwraiths' accompaniment. In the skirmish with the Southrons in Ithilien (and later in the invasion of Osgiliath) is reduced to a minor third.
|-
|114
|'''Rohan (fragment)'''
|This sequences the galloping quavers so the first pitch is a unison, and the second is raised with every iteration. It appears in both early scenes with Eomer, and a similar style of writing is harkened when Aragorn arrives at Helm's Deep, when he rides out with Theoden and when Eomer is ordered to muster the Rohirrim.
|-
|115
|'''The Fellowship in Rohan'''
|This leaps a fifth and continues in the countermelody of Rohan, which is based on the Fellowship pitches. It depicts the growing allegiance of the members of the Fellowship and the Rohirrim through The Two Towers. In The Return of the King, this figure is transformed to depict Merry in his new role as squire of Rohan. Although this figure originally leapt a fifth, it is last harkened to when Merry strikes the Witch King with a rarely-heard major sixth.
|-
|116
|'''The Ents'''
|This theme has two components: major triads a tritone apart, then a tremolando line in bass marimba and contrabassoon voiced in open chords a tritone apart.
|-
|117
|'''Gandalf the White'''
|This is another transformation of the original nature. It introduces the reborn Gandalf in Fangorn, at Helm's Deep and reprised in the credits.
|-
|118
|'''"Small stones"'''
|These chords (initially F# minor – G major – F# minor – A minor) depict Merry and Pippins effect on Treebeard. Later it assumes a form redolent of Treebeard's tritone progression. It is last recalled in The Return of the King when Gandalf and Pippin have a quiet moment, but this can only be heard on album.
|-
|119
|'''The White rider'''
|This reshaping of the Fellowship theme turns Gandalf, always astride Shadowfax, into "Saruman as he should have been." After the siege of Gondor, this theme is transformed into reiterated falling and rising major seconds, which eventually become an important component of the Grey Havens scene.
|-
|120
|'''The Fate of the Ring'''
|Two figures depict the future of the Ring:

*This reharmonizes [45] in D major, thereby altering the Ring's theme major. It foreshadows the destruction of the Ring.
*Combination of the various Ring themes, first in canonic imitation, then as a single melodic variant of the evil theme. This foresadows an eventuality in which the Ring returns to its master.
|-
|121
|'''Grima'''
|This theme, always in C minor and sometimes in the "Orcish" 5/4, is a dark counterpart to [134] in presenting one static pitch and one rising pitch: minor third, tritone, fifth, and concluding with a minor sixth dropping back into the fifth. It accompanies all of Grima's scene since Gandalf's arrival at Meduseld and is even hinted at when he stabs Saruman.
|-
|122
|'''Eowyn and Aragorn'''
|Eowyn's attraction to Aragorn is scored with this F Lydian theme. Notice the "sighing" appoggiaturas.
|-
|123
|'''Arwen and Aragorn'''
|an E Phrygian reshaping of Aragorn's theme, accompanied by the Rivendell arpeggio and redolent of sighing appoggiaturas.
|-
|124
|'''Second Orc theme'''
|Two devices depict the Orc siege: a bollero-like rhyhtm, and a reiterated rhyhtm over third-related chords
|-
|125
|'''Gondor (transformed)'''
|This version of Gondor, which replaces the descending final notes with Aragorn's ascending notes, is first heard in the Return of the King trailer. On album, it was hinted in an alternate version of the Fellowship prologue where another ascending version of the theme appeared in D major. Otherwise, this thematic complex - which appears in Gandalf's ascent to Minas Tirith, and in the Pelennor fields (theatrical cut) - is always heard in D minor until Aragorn's coronation. Notice that the original descending phrase also appears in the major, but only on album.
|-
|126
|'''Shire (transformed)'''
|throughout The Return of the King, the Shire music and the Fellowship's become mingled. This initiates a process that culminates in the final Shire scenes: the melody is still the same, but the accompaniment had been reduced to thirds. When Sam returns home, this returns with a transformed melodic line, still in D major. A second transformation occurs at the very end of the fan credits: the perfect cadence on A major complements the A minor-A5 resolution of the Rings of Power titles.
|-
|127
|'''Dead Men of Dunharrow'''
|This bitonal idea features a bassline similar to Gondor, while the top voices cluster. When the ghosts lend aid on the Pelennor fields, the clusters resolve diatonically.
|-
|128
|'''Denethor and Faramir'''
|The confrontation between Faramir and Denethor, and Faramir's subsequent march to certain death are scored with this variant of [67].
|-
|129
|'''Shelob'''
|Another near tone-row. It is later spun into a pair of octatonic quadruple figures.
|-
|130
|'''Valinor'''
|The theme of the song "Into the West" appears when Gandalf describes Valinor to Pippin, when Sam hoists Frodo on his shoulders and at the conclusion of the Grey Havens scene.
|}

[[Category:Music]]
<references />

The Music of the Lord of the Rings Films (composition)

2026-04-21T13:49:20Z

Chen Geller:

{{cleanup}}
{{Disambig-two|the music composition for the Lord of the Rings films|book about the composition for The Lord of the Rings trilogy|[[The Music of the Lord of the Rings Films]]}}Howard Shore's compositions for ''The Lord of the Rings'' and ''The Hobbit'', together with work by Howard, Plan 9, David Long and Stephen Gallagher for ''The War of the Rohirrim'', ''The Rings of Power'' Season One and other projects represent a musico-dramatic oeuvre covering about 24 hours of music. This music is based on folk-like melodies, often stepwise; triadic harmony (though not generally stable in terms of key) and massed orchestrations, often ornamented by worldly instruments outside the orchestral replete.

The compositions include:

#[[:Category:The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power (Season One: Amazon Original Series Soundtrack)|The Rings of Power season one]]: Only the opening titles ([[Howard Shore]]) and source songs (Plan 9 and David Long).
#[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]] ([[Stephen Gallagher]], David Long using themes by Howard Shore and Plan 9)
#[[:Category:The Hobbit (film series) soundtracks|The Hobbit film trilogy (soundtracks)]], including the announcement trailer (Shore, Plan 9, Long, Gallagher ''et al'')
#[[:Category:The Lord of the Rings (film series) soundtracks|The Lord of the Rings film trilogy (soundtracks)]], including the second Return of the King trailer (Shore, Plan 9, Long ''et al'')
#Additional pieces for the concert stage (Howard Shore) or ''in situ'' for the Hobbiton set (Plan 9 and David Long).

==Orchestration==
Howard's orchestra varies in size between different pieces. Many instruments are used to colour certain narrative elements and related themes. Taken in whole, and together with instruments utilized by Plan 9 and David Long, it comprises:

'''Strings''': At least 16 first violins (concertmaster doubling hardinfelle, double violin), 16 second violins, 12 violas, 10 violoncelli, 8 double basses. 2 harps (one doubling celtic harp).

'''Woodwinds''': 4 flutes (doubling alto flute, piccoli, recorder, wood flute, tin whistle, low whistle, shakuhachi, dizi, nay), 4 oboes (one doubling cor anglais and heckelphone), 4 clarinets (one doubling bass clarinet and contrabass clarinet) and 3 bassoons (one doubling contrabassoon and contraforte). Also putorino, Rhaita (doubling rauschpfeife), 2 shawms, 2 crumhorns, dulcian.

'''Brass''': At least seven horns in F (doubling Wagner ''tuben''), eight trumpets (doubling rotary-valve trumpets), seven trombones (four tenor-bass and three bass trombones) and two tubas (doubling contrabass tuba). Also 20 didgeridoos, pukea, cow horn, tibetan horn.

'''Keyboards''': one grand piano (doubling upright piano, celesta, harpsichord, clavichord), synthesizer, grand pipe organ.

'''Percussion:''' Two Timpanists. At least seven players on bass drum, snare drums, side-drums (or field drums), toms and bass drum kit, triangle, glockenspiel, gong bass drum, tambourine, taiko drums (three sizes: large, medium and small), cymbals (including a splash cymbal cut into ribbons, antique cymbals, crotales), tubular bells, mark tree, carillon, tamtams, bossed gongs, woodblocks, temple blocks, log drums, slit drum, dudun drum, waterphone, shakers (including eggshakers, cabasa, caxixi and jingles), tibetan singing bowls, goblet drum, friction drum, frame drum, transceleste, marimba, 2 bodhrain, bell plates, anvil, "prepared" piano, castanets, tuned artillery shells, cans, wind machine.

"'''Hobbit band'''": 3 guitars (6 and 12-string, including bass guitar, doubling mandolin, caipira viola, lute, theorbo), 2 bagpipes (highland bapipes, doubling uileann pipes), 2 accordions (mussette, doubling concertina and harmonium), 1 hammered dulcimer (doubling cimbalom), hurdy-gurdy, banjo (doubling banjolele), euphonium.

'''Gamelan''': 1 kempul (doubling gong ageng), 1 kendhang, 4 saron players, 3 gender players (doubling slenthem), 4 kenong players (doubling kethuk), 2 bonang players, 1 gambang. Also doubling rebab, finger cymbals, ceng cengs, hyōshigi, kine, japanese cymbals, monochord, tanpura, sarangi (doubling dilruba).

'''Choir:''' 60 boys, at least 100 men and women, soloists (tenors, baritone, bass, soprano, treble).

==Themes==
The score relies on a large number of recurring associative themes (also known as ''Leitmotive'' or "Leading musical motives"). These appear independent of each other, in two more non-adjacent scenes. Most of these run through the entire series and lend it a sense of musical cohesion. These themes, which also develop according to the dramatic situation, are loosely divided into "family groups" and further delineated by associative keys and tone colour. They are as follows:

{| class="wikitable sortable"
!#
!Name
!Description
|-
|1
|'''"Impediment" theme'''
|This theme is a chromatic arpeggio (A minor: 1-3-5-♭6), sequenced a flat sixth apart. It is usually harmonized in minor triads a flat sixth apart (sometimes retrograded), and this sonority also appears on its own. It is introduced in the ''Rings of Power'' titles, where it is transformed as an F Lydian arpeggio (F: 1-3-♯4-5) over chords a minor third apart. The chords then appear in ''The War of the Rohirrim'' to depict the antagonists: Gm: iii-i depicting Freca, then G♭m: ♭vi-i under Wulf. The definitive theme appears throughout the live-action films, always representing impediment.
|-
|2
|'''Scales'''
|This is one of the basic devices Howard uses throughout the scores. Scalar motion may depict the Hobbits (usually as C: 1-2-3 starting on a quaver) but since scalar motion is inherent in many themes, it is used more generally in the scores, in any key or modality.
In more dangerous situation, Howard uses clusters or chromatic scales.
|-
|3
|'''Walking Songs'''
|There are two walking songs repeated in the scores: Plan 9 and David Long's "This Wandering Day" and Fran Walsh's "The Road Goes Ever On." The latter always appears with the Hobbits' theme.
|-
|4
|'''The Ring'''
|This theme is based on the rising and falling minor second. It is stated in strings in a chromaticised F minor, then in A♭ minor, all harmonized in minor triads a minor second apart (F minor to E minor).
Henceforth, all themes based on minor seconds (usually rising and falling) will depict Sauron and his forces. This rising and falling kernel is also used by itself to depict the forces of evil.
|-
|5
|'''Eowyn and Theoden'''
|This theme, voiced in open chords, depicts Eowyn, particularly in her relationship to Theoden.
|-
|6
|'''Rohan'''
|This major theme is usually set in A Dorian and played by either ''hardingfelle'' or high brass. It has several detachable parts:
*'''Rhythm''': The opening unison quavers evoke galloping horse hooves.
*'''Melody''': This rises a minor third, then proceeds stepwise along the Dorian mode. In the fullest statements, the consequent phrase concludes with a plagal cadence. In the Pelennor fields, this is reshaped into driving triplets, and these then appear on their own. A countermelody emphasizes the falling and rising major second. Later, the melody is sometimes altered to begin on a major third or even perfect fourth.
*'''Chords:''' in keeping with the Dorian setting, the theme is usually harmonized in A Dorian: i-IV but in the fullest statements this is expanded to i-VII-III-IV.
Henceforth, all the themes associated with mankind will be modal, usually incorporating a prominent leap into the melodic contour.
|-
|7
|'''Eowyn'''
|Eowyn's main theme is first hinted at in Hera's music. The theme leaps a fifth then proceeds stepwise over C Lydian: I-II-iii. Eowyn's first two scenes feature a similar progression under a scale, the perfect fifth ironed out. When she rebukes Grima, this theme which had since taken to the minor mode, regains the perfect fifth. Gallagher's score features other themes unique to it:
*The secondary theme leaps a perfect fifth and major sixth, then subsides in a stepwise figure. It mostly represents Helm and his sons.
*Olwyn is represented by a lyrical idea in thirds.
*Another idea in major and minor seconds represents Hera's relationship to Helm.
|-
|8
|'''Ring (Chords)'''
|This theme has three separable components, both representing the Ringwraiths but also danger more generally:

*Rhythm: two paired crotchets
*Chords: This verticalizes the Ring [4] to produce a minor triad with an added ninth. The resolving, minor plagal cadence may also appear by itself.
*Accompaniment: This idea leaps a minor sixth then falls down a minor scale.
|-
|9
|'''Horns'''
|Leaps ranging from a minor third to a perfect fifth appear throughout the scores, either in the score or as horn sound effects. Again, since these intervals are shared between multiple themes, they can be used in various contexts. Howard also frequently uses open fifths.
|-
|10
|'''Gondor'''
|This theme shares the Dorian setting, but leaps a perfect fifth (recalling Eowyn [5, 7], who will end up in Gondor) on D. Later, Howard will set it in rotary-valve trumpets.
|-
|11
|'''Rohan lament'''
|Versions of this lament (composed by plan 9 and David Long) appear both for Helm (in ''The War of the Rohirirm'') and for Theodred (in ''The Two Towers'').
|-
|12
|'''Nature'''
|This theme begins with a major-mode transformation of the impediment figure (over A minor: i-VI-i) and continues into chromatically rising chords. This second part is sometimes used on its own and, in the most extroverted statements, is embellished with unison brass triplets. Both parts are varied for other themes of the natural world. This theme first appears under the letter Gandalf sends to Hera, then appears through the bulk of the cycle to depict nature. In the end of ''The Two Towers'', it parallels the charge out of Helm's Deep with the concurrent Ent attack, and from this point on the theme becomes temporarily associated with the Rohirrim.
|-
|13
|'''Saruman and the Orcs'''
|This theme first appears retrograded, as a lyrical triple-time woodwind idea for Saruman's appearance in ''The War of the Rohirrim''. It later assumes its definitive 5/4 setting in trombones. Notice that it reorganizes the pitches of the Ring [4, 8], but now the seasawing minor seconds fall and rise. Later, the theme appears for Saruman's Uruks - the company of Uruks that chase the Fellowship are scored with a harmonized form of the theme's second phrase - but also for Orcs in general.
|-
|14
|'''The Hobbits (main theme)'''
|This theme, along with the Ring [4] is the nearest the series has to a main theme. It is almost always set in D pentatonic or C pentatonic, usually in strings, solo clarinet or tin whistle: this latter instrument is replaced by flute in ''The Return of the King''. It is again in detachable parts:
*'''First phrase''': This rises through four scale degrees, then falls back down. It is typically harmonized in D: I-IV-I-V.
*'''Second phrase''': By sequencing the initial stepwise motif upwards and harmonizing it with D: vii-IV-V-I, this part of the theme depicts the Shire as "the place that makes your heart swell when you think about it."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.woodzie.org/lotr/expansive.htm|articlename=Musical Themes in "The Lord of the Rings"|author=Eric Rawlins|dated=17 July 2006|website=Woodzie}}</ref>
*'''Accompaniment''': the first part is often accompanied by this bumptious outline in fifths and fourths. Howard omits this when a more sobering effect is called for, but he also uses it on its own.
|-
|15
|'''The Ring (fragment)'''
|Howard derives several fragments from the Ring that appear on their own:
*Ascending second: Both in ''An Unexpected Journey'' and ''The Fellowship of the Ring'', Bilbo blows smoke rings to the sound of a tritone gliding into the fifth. This recreates the rising minor second that opens the ring [4] but over a major chord: it returns after the Ring's destruction when characters recall it, reaffirming that the Ring is indeed gone. The figure does also appear in the minor as a more pointed allusion to the Ring throughout the quest.
*Chords: Howard also harmonizes this motion as minor triads a minor second apart, or as a minor triad resolving to a major triad: this latter gesture concludes the prologue of ''Fellowship of the Ring'' (E♭: i-I) and both Weathertop (on album) and the walls of Moria are revealed to the sound of fanfares derived from this gesture.
|-
|16
|'''Bilbo Baggins, first theme'''
|This theme reshapes the Hobbits' theme to depict Bilbo Baggins. In the announcement trailer, only its first phrase is heard, but in ''An Unexpected Journey'' it is sometimes extended into a second phrase which, with its melodic leaps and horn scoring hints at Bilbo's more outgoing, "Tookish" side. This phrase is later used on its own.
|-
|17
|'''The Company'''
|This theme is first sung by Thorin and company (over string clusters [2] in the trailer, ''a-cappella'' in the film), but then appears orchestrally. The most extrovert statements are preceded by a heroic variant of Bilbo's second theme [20] and use [18] as a countermelody. At the end of ''An Unexpected Journey,'' it is transformed into the Song of the Lonely Mountain. After this, as the quest loses its swashbuckling sheen, the theme is no longer heard. Its harmony (triads a major second apart) is shared between all the ''melodic'' Dwarven themes.
|-
|18
|'''First Dwarven theme (Thorin):'''
|The stepwise nature of this theme depicts the influence Bilbo will play in Thorin's life. As in the announcement trailer, it is often (but not consistently) heard as a countermelody for [17]. The theme is not, however, Thorin's theme in ''strictu sensu'': it scores most of the establishing montage of Erebor, and several scenes of the company at large. Again, notice the "Dwarven" Am-G harmony.
|-
|19
|'''Second Dwarven theme, first form'''
|This theme is used more generally for the Dwarves (it's called "The House of Durin" in Howard's sketches). This first form, heard over the opening titles of ''An Unexpected Journey'', combines the contour of the definitive theme with the pitches of the Ring fragment [15]. It also appears during the eagle rescue (only on album) and when the Dwarves reunite in Erebor after Smaug's attack.
|-
|20
|'''Bilbo Baggins, second theme'''
|This theme (A-B-C♯-E-E-G♯-G♯-A-E-C♯-E-D) also appears in the opening titles of ''An Unexpected Journey''. It is also heard, heroically in horns, when Bilbo rescues Thorin.
|-
|21
|'''First tragic theme (transcendant)'''
|This theme first appears during the opening shots of ''An Unexpected Journey'': this creates a sense of bookends with an identical statement in the Grey Havens, when Gandalf says farewel to the Hobbits. It also laments Gandalf's death (Doug Adams calls it "Gandalf's farewells") and is embedded into the farewell from Lorien. But it also appears during the final scenes on the slopes of Mount Doom. It is a chord progression atypical of the rest of the score: A♭: vi-IV-I-V. This results in the top voices rising and falling a minor second (cf. [4]) but then falling another major second. Combinations of rising and falling major and minor seconds, as well as minor scales, unite all the themes that depict Sauron's influence on Middle-earth (also [1]).
|-
|22
|'''The Journey Back'''
|This theme, first appearing over the map transition to Erebor, again creates bookends with the map transition from Minas Tirith back to the Shire in ''The Return of the King''. Appearing throughout the denoument of the film, it depicts the journey back from Mordor. It is a rising scale harmonized in chromatic mediants.
|-
|23
|'''Third Dwarven theme (Erebor)'''
|This theme is three rising horncalls outlining an A Aeolian scale: 1-3, 1-4, 1-5. It subsides in a descending, syncopated pattern that is later also used on its own. Again, it is not Erebor's theme in ''stricto sensu'': statements of it appear for the company, and for Thorin (it is played diegetically for his obsequies), as well as for the Iron Hill Dwarves. Henceforth, non-melodic Dwarven music will be characterized by its intervallic nature, often parallel fifths.
|-
|24
|'''Arkenstone, first theme'''
|In keeping with the intervallic Dwarven style, this theme begins on an open fifth, but then clusters in the chorus [2]. It depicts the mysterious aspect of the stone, but also appears when Gandalf hands Thorin the map and the key: the means towards finding the Arkenstone.
|-
|25
|'''Arkenstone, second theme'''
|This syncopated, B minor string figure first appears with [24] but they become increasingly independent as the score continues. In The Battle of the Five Armies, this idea often appears unresolved to depict Thorin's mounting obsession to retrieve the stone.
|-
|26
|'''Woodland Elves'''
|This D Phrygian theme depicts the Woodland Elves as closer to Men, but the emphasis on the third degree in the harmony gives it an Elven sheen. Henceforth, Elven themes will be characterized by more "advanced" harmony than the rest of Middle-earth: mediant and chromatic mediant harmony, whole tone scales, chromatic lines, seventh chords and so forth.
|-
|27
|'''Smaug, first theme'''
|This theme is in three parts:
*'''Melody''': The F Phrygian Dominant setting denotes the old age of the Dragon. Henceforth, everything old in Middle earth (Galadriel, Sauron) will be depicted by this mode. The theme emphasizes the rising and falling minor second [4] and augmented second inherent to this mode.
*'''Chords''': This progression (F: I-i-I) sequences [15] to depict the Dragon's breath.
*'''Accompaniment''': The theme is accompanied by semiquavers in Gamelan. The ensemble sometimes doubles the melody inharmonically, and lends its texture to the treasure hoard sequence.
|-
|28
|'''Dwarvish Wanderers'''
|This scalar figure bemoans the Dwarves' downfall and loss of their homeland. It is also heard when Thorin is struck down by Azog in ''An Unexpected Journey'', and during their arrival to the Hidden Door. It is often combined with a "Dwarven" form of the Impediment arpeggio [1].
|-
|29
|'''Hobbit party music'''
|This Plan 9 tune embellishes the Hobbits' diatonic harmonies with some light chromaticism. It is heard briefly in the Old Took's birthday, and in extenso during Bilbo's Farewell Party.
|-
|30
|'''Hobbits (mysterious variant)'''
|This augments the Shire's accompaniment [14.3] to the contour of the Impediment theme. It depicts many of the early scenes of ''An Unexpected Journey'', and returns in ''Fellowship of the Ring'' when Gandalf glimpses Thorin's map.
|-
|31
|'''Hobbits (folk variant)'''
|This version mostly appears for scenes in Hobbiton, but also in the cornfield in ''Fellowship of the Ring'' and, slow and retrograded, in the concert piece ''Ironfoot''. Notice that, on the theme's first appearance, it concludes with a "fiddle fanfare" as Bilbo realizes it's the day of the farewell party: another statement of the theme concluding with the same fanfare will score the erecting of the sign to the party in ''Fellowship of the Ring''. It is in two parts:
*Melody: this is a staccato version of the Hobbits theme.
*Accompaniment: This "Um pa-pah" rhyhtm is later used on its own and with other themes. The theme is also accompanied by a tapping on the bodhrain drums which also appears with other themes.
|-
|32
|'''Smeagol'''
|This theme, which brings out the pitiful Smeagol side of Gollum's character, is first alluded to when the chords of the second Shire phrase [14.2] turn minor.
|-
|33
|'''First Playful motif'''
|This elides the first pitch of [14.3] and sequences it to create a rhyhtmic figure in perfect fourths that skips the first beat of the measure. It often appears with [32] but both also appear in their own.
|-
|34
|'''Hobbits (Playful variant)'''
|This combines two separable elements: a chromatic sequence of the accompaniment [31.2] and a playful form of the original [14]. The full combination only appears in The Two Towers, but the bassline appears more often.
|-
|35
|'''Gandalf the Grey'''
|This wry figure in minor thirds and fourths depicts Gandalf the Grey throughout ''The Hobbit''. It does not appear in ''Fellowship of the Ring,'' where Gandalf's demise is imminent.
|-
|36
|'''First playful motif (first variant)'''
|This melds [31.2] and [14.3] into a driving figure. It is variously associated with Gandalf's fireworks (in ''An Unexpected Journey'' and ''Fellowship of the Ring''), his Smaug-like firework (the opening credits of ''The Desolation of Smaug'' anticipating ''Fellowship of the Ring'') and the mischief of Bilbo (sneaking out of the Farewell Party) and Merry and Pippin, in the cornfield. This latter statement is reprised in the closing credits.
|-
|37
|'''Fourth Dwarven theme (Dwarrowdelf)'''
|This theme, which will usher the Fellowship into the 21st hall of Dwarrowdelf, is first hinted at when the Dwarves introduce themselves to Bilbo, and again when they are introduced to Beorn. Both these scenes feature a 3-4-5 rise concluding on an open fifth. In ''Fellowship of the Ring,'' this is elaborated into a aeolian melody similar to [19], which also appears when the Cave Troll is slain.
|-
|38
|'''Fussy Bilbo'''
|This waltzing, D minor theme contains the same pitches as the Ring, but depicts Bilbo's out-of-sorts mannerism around the Dwarves. Later, it is applied to the Company in general, as when they emerge into Bard's house.
|-
|39
|'''Smaug (second theme)'''
|This retrogrades Smaug's original motif, then ascends chromatically: the effect is more subtly sinister and will also depict Thorin's Dragon Sickness, usually in more discordant string settings. Again, accompanied by major-minor triads built on F and semiquaver figures on Gamelan.
|-
|40
|'''Fifth Dwarven theme (The Company)'''
|This theme, which appears when Dwalin and Gandalf talk about Thorin's absence, repeats during the Hidden Door sequence and when the Dwarves retreat before Azog's forces in ''The Battle of the Five Armies''. It is elaborated upon in the concert piece "The Dwarf Lords." As originally stated, it takes the melodic Dwarven harmonies and turns them major: A-G.
|-
|41
|'''Hobbits, kinetic version'''
|This sequences the initial 1-2-3 rise of the Hobbits [14.1] over canonical imitation of the accompaniment [14.3] in quavers and semiquavers. It depicts Bilbo rushing out of his door, and Merry and Pippin rushing through the cornfield.
|-
|42
|'''Moria danger motif'''
|Two figures depict the dangers of Moria: a minor scale voices in parallel fifths, and a perfect fifth dropping to the tritone.
|-
|43
|'''Battle with Azog'''
|A similar figure in parallel fourths depicts the battle of Azanulbizar. It returns for the confrontation with Azog in the ''Battle of the Five Armies''.
|-
|44
|'''First danger motif (Azog form)'''
|This theme is a pair of descending thirds, therefore a melodic form of the Ring chords. Here, they are major thirds an augmented second apart, thus outlining the Phrygian Dominant mode of Sauron. Azog's form concludes with a chromatic "barb" evoking his crude prosthetic arm. But it also appears for Azog's pack, Bolg and later the army he leads to the Erebor valley.
|-
|45
|'''Second tragic theme'''
|After the battle of Azanulbizar, this theme appears after Thorin's, answering his rising scale with a falling scale that accomodates upon itself. In doing so, it falls a major second, then falls and rises a minor one. This will appear increasingly by itself in ''The Battle of the Five Armies,'' always depicting death and tragedy (for instance, when Legolas speaks about his mother's death). In Fellowship of the Ring, the notes turn into a figure that rises and drops a minor second, then falls and rises a major second. This always depicts the suffering incurred by the War of the Ring.
|-
|46
|'''Wizards'''
|Another falling minor scale figure depicts the five Wizards. Naturally, it mostly appears with Gandalf, as when he arrives at Goblintown or during his parting with Bilbo in ''An Unexpected Journey''. But it also appears with Radagast.
|-
|47
|'''Radagast'''
|This nervous melody in major and minor seconds, only appears on album. But its accompaniments are heard in the film during Radagast's scenes, as well as when Bilbo escapes Goblintown.
|-
|48
|'''Mirkwood'''
|This line also alternates major and mind seconds. It depicts the shadow falling over Mirkwood. In The Desolation of Smaug, it becomes the definitive Mirkwood theme, reshaping [45]. This almost depicts the Elven Road, becoming gradually masked by the texture which features clusters, aleatoric figures, bowed cymbals, portamenti and sprechstimme vocals. Similar textures will appear in other places in the scores, always in relation to confusion and danger.
|-
|49
|'''First danger motif (Necromancer form)'''
|The major thirds an augmented second apart are here played slower, without the chromatic "barb" characteristic of Azog. It depicts Dol Guldur and the Necromancer.
|-
|50
|'''Mirkwood spiders, first theme'''
|This theme is based on an eight-note tone row, accompanied by clusters. Both also appear in ''The Desolation of Smaug''. Henceforth, all spider music will be atonal, although Denethor merits similar music in the most intense moments.
|-
|51
|'''Mountain Trolls'''
|This theme, in waltz time, recalls Bilbo's fussy theme, but instead arpeggiates a triad with an added tritone. It thus relates to the later Cave Troll, whose represented by a variant of the Moria music which is also echoed when Gollum brings Frodo rabbits.
|-
|52
|'''Hobbits (developed)'''
|Two developments of the Hobbits theme depict the Hobbits' personal growth, loss of innoncence, discovery of compassion and so forth:

*A fuller version of the original theme, the harmony filled in to D: I-iii-IV-I-IV-V.
*A melodic development of [14.2] with a gruppeto figure similar to [4]. It depicts Bilbo's act of compassion towards Gollum, but also scenes that depict the growing maturity and worldliness of the Hobbits in ''Fellowship of the Ring'' and ''The Two Towers.''
|-
|53
|'''Second danger motif (first form)'''
|This is another rhythmic figure that skips the first beat, but here outlining a minor scale. It has a more dynamic effect than [49].
|-
|54
|'''Main evil theme'''
|This adapts the Ring [4] to the Phrygian Dominant setting of the dragon. Its definitive form is set in muted trumpets and rhaita. Here, ''cor anglais'' imitates the rhaita. In ''The Battle of the Five Armies'', a pipe organ produces a similarly reedy sound.
|-
|55
|'''First Orc theme (Warg riders)'''
|This driving, descending minor scale figure depicts Azog company, especially the Warg riders. It appears all through The Hobbit, and then resurfaces in The Two Towers are a descending cluster which first depicts Saruman's warg riders. Afterwards, it continues to represent the artfulness of the Orc armies.
|-
|56
|'''Lothlorien or Galadriel'''
|This theme is also characterized by the F Phrygian Dominant mode. It's brassy appearance for Elrond's company attacking Yazneg's Orcs creates a parallel with the arrival of Haldir's Elves to Helm's Deep (heralded by the same rendition of [9]). The theme also appears in guises that emphasize the pitches of [45], inherent in the theme, or changed to double harmonic minor. When Frodo is struck by a vision of Galadriel in Shelob's lair, the theme is shifted into standard Phrygian mode.
|-
|57
|'''Rivendell, main theme'''
|This theme changes the impediment theme [1] to A major. It is rhythmically altered and overlaid with a melody based on the same pitches. The theme is typically set in female choir and harp over tolling chimes.
|-
|58
|'''Rivendell, second theme'''
|Two figures depict the interaction of Elrond and Thorin: a diegetic piece that plays as the Dwarves dine at Elrond's table (this appears in the orchestra, in a martial guise, when Elrond gallops into Rivendell to the Dwarves' chagrin) and a combination of the Rivendell arpeggios and Erebor horncalls.
|-
|59
|'''First danger motif (Sauron form)'''
|At the sight of Sauron's mural, the descending thirds turn into minor thirds a minor second apart. This version will continue into The Lord of the Rings. During the Minas Morgul scene, it is inverted into rising thirds.
|-
|60
|'''Second Dwarven theme (definitive)'''
|This theme now acquires its definitive pitches and tonality. Like Thorin's theme, it ascends but more resolutely in thirds spanning an octave. It then restarts on the low A but only reaches up the seventh scale degree. Notice that Thorin and his line are associated with A minor, as compared to Elrond's chromaticized A major.
|-
|61
|'''Goblins'''
|This theme in low brass over a hammering pattern that shifts time signatures (circling 7/5). It appears in all the goblin scenes and, on album, for their reappearance in ''The Battle of the Five Armies''. Going forward, rhythmic themes particularly in odd time signatures, will be associated with Orcs.
|-
|62
|'''Gollum'''
|This theme is in major and minor seconds played tremolando on cimbalom. This compares the spindly quality of Gollum, in his more menacing persona, with the hammered dulcimer that often plays [34]. In the early scenes of ''The Two Towers'', this figure is sequenced up so that it spans two chromatically interlocking fifths: this is similar to the music of Loge, the god of deception, in Wagner's Ring, a similarity that will become important later in the score.
|-
|63
|'''Fishing Song'''
|Gollum sings this song in ''An Unexpected Journey'', ''The Two Towers'' and ''The Return of the King''. In the latter, Gollum sings another song in a same vein, when he gloats over Frodo caught in Shelob's web.
|-
|64
|'''Smeagol (variant)'''
|The interaction of Smeagol's theme and the Ring produces several variants: one first appears when Galadriel mentions a "Nameless Fear." Much later, Gollum's song emerges out of this process: notice that it is adumbrated by the orchestra beginning in his interaction with Faramir.
|-
|65
|'''Eagles'''
|A variant of the Nature theme hails the eagles in ''An Unexpected Journey'' and ''The Battle of the Five Armies''. The album features another idea that looks forward to the eagles rescuing Sam and Frodo from Mount Doom.
|-
|66
|'''Second Gondor theme (developed)'''
|This variant, in E minor, appears in the film when Thorin embraces Frodo. This parallels the climax of ''The Return of the King'' when Barad dur collapses. It is a transformation of a Gondorian theme that appears in ''Fellowship of the Ring''. It will also appear in Aragorn's coronation in E major.
|-
|67
|'''Third danger motif'''
|Two figures combine the contour of Saruman's theme [13] with the Ringwraiths [8.3]:

* Rising figure of [8.3] in the rhythm of [13]. This, first heard in An Unexpected Journey but only on album, will depict the Orc armies that besiege Minas Tirith.
* A combination of the rhythm [8.1] with [13]. This first depicts Merry and Pippin marched along Ugluk's company, then Frodo and Sam marched disguised in Mordor.
|-
|68
|'''Impediment (variant)'''
|Howard sometimes sequences the (inverted) impediment chords up or down. This is often combined with other themes, especially the Hobbit accompaniments. This occurs, namely, for both scenes in Bree but also in other contexts.
|-
|69
|'''Beorn'''
|Yet another variant of the Nature theme depicts Beorn and his lands. Now the Am: i-VI chords depict the tread of the bear's feet.
|-
|70
|'''Mirkwood, second theme'''
|This falling figure also depicts Mirkwood separately from the original theme.
|-
|71
|'''Ring chords (second form)'''
|The chord is redressed as a sinister, but less overtly threatening soprano solo. It relates to the Ringwraiths entombed in the High Fells. In the film it also appears in Dol Guldur. Later, it is transformed into a rising line built on the same chords, now depicting Mordor's strident power.
|-
|72
|'''White gems'''
|this theme relates the Woodland Elves to Mirkwood via the minor sixth. Since the gems were fashioned for Thranduil's wife, the appearance of this theme when Gandalf sees her statue at the Elven gate is apposite.
|-
|73
|'''Spiders, second theme'''
|This descending figure, which first appears when Bilbo plays with the cobwebs, also returns during the scene at the Spiders' nest.
|-
|74
|'''Legolas'''
|Legolas is associated with an up-tempo version of the Woodland realm theme, but also with string figurations that then adorn the Fellowship theme when he defeats a Mumak in The Return of the King.
|-
|75
|'''Tauriel'''
|This theme is based on a figure that concludes the Woodland realm theme.
|-
|76
|'''Woodland Guards'''
|Since Tauriel is the head of the guard, slow, lyrical versions of this theme acts as her secondary theme. Again, the Woodland Elves are set in "human" scales, in this case natural minor.
|-
|77
|'''Impediment (Thranduil form)'''
|This arpeggio idea contrasts Thranduil's covetousness with Elrond's wisdom, and compares him with similar attributes of Thorin's.
|-
|78
|'''Tauriel and Kili'''
|This theme begins with a duet for flute (a variant on Tauriel's theme) and oboe (answering with a variant of Thorin's theme). This is followed by a choral theme which incorporates the tragic theme [45], harmonized in "Elven" mediant chords and elaborated with a Dwarven open fifth.
|-
|79
|'''Assertive Bilbo'''
|Beginning as a "Dwarven" version of Bilbo's fussy theme, applying more to the Dwarves' bewilderment at their own rescue, this becomes the theme of the self-actualized Bilbo who smuggles the Arkenstone to Dale in ''The Battle of the Five Armies''. It also depicts his return to the Shire as a changed person. It is mirrored in "Dwarven" forms of the Hobbit accompaniment figures that accompany the inebriated Gimli in ''The Return of the King'': one last ode to Dwarven music.
|-
|80
|'''Bard'''
|starting on a minor third and perfect fourth, this theme plays on a similarity to Erebor. The Dwarves hope Bard will bring them nearer to the mountain. It is usually accompanied by a strummed pattern B♭ minor: i-#vi.
|-
|81
|'''Laketown'''
|This theme combines figures similar to Gondor (leaping a perfect fifth on D Dorian, then descending stepwise) and Rohan (semiquaver figure evoking rowing).
|-
|82
|'''Politicians of Laketown'''
|This clavichord theme, constantly modulating, relates the Master of Laketown and his aide Alfrid to the forces of corruption that represent Sauron's influence on Middle earth. Alfrid tends to be accompanied with just a fragment of the unabridged theme. The theme also appears retrograded when Thorin and Company are brought before the Master.
|-
|83
|'''Bard's family'''
|First appearing briefly when Bard arrives home, this is a diatonic transformation of the Master's music, similar to Bilbo's music.
|-
|84
|'''Black Arrow'''
|This theme first scores Girion who shares the opening pitches of Bard, his descendent. It depicts the Black Arrow that will slay Smaug.
|-
|85
|'''Thrain'''
|Thrain is depicted in his deranged form by another danger motif. When he returns to his senses, it is replaced by a slow version of Erebor, punctuated by a harp arpeggio.
|-
|86
|'''Second danger motif (second form)'''
|still skipping the first beat, this theme now appears in any number of forms. These can be sequenced up, down or at pitch.
*'''Ascending scale:''' This is similar to the first form.
*'''Clustering:''' repeated note, then adding a scale degree on each subsequent measure.
*'''Rising and falling:''' This most aggressive form uses the opening notes of the Ring, rising and falling a minor second.
|-
|87
|'''Evil (second form)'''
|This rhythmic augmentation of the original theme is another theme that depicts Sauron at force. Once he is driven out of Dol Guldur, it is deferred until ''The Return of the King'' where it depicts the Witch King emerging from Dol Guldur.
|-
|88
|'''Arwen'''
|This theme, which later introduces Arwen in Fellowship of the Ring and again in The Return of the King, first appears in the minor when Tauriel heals Kili. This parallels Arwen healing Frodo. It is a Phrygian line harmonized in F: I-iii.
|-
|89
|'''Smaug's death'''
|This combines all of Smaug's themes. It depicts his flight to Laketown, and his death. Afterwards, Smaug's theme is appropriated by the deranged Thorin.
|-
|90
|'''Bard the hero'''
|This more heroic theme depicts Bard's new role as the leader of the exiled Lakemen.
|-
|91
|'''Gundabad'''
|This theme also features the rising and falling minor second. Notice the doubling by twenty didgeridoos.
|-
|92
|'''Orcs'''
|The Gundabad theme is always accompanied by five-four beat. This is reshaped for Saruman's Uruks (percussion in five beats, usually accented on the first and third). Sauron's Orcs are depicted by more hectic forms of the same idea (accents varying randomly across the line).
|-
|93
|'''The Ring chords (transformed)'''
|This idea depicts other characters becoming touched by darkness. It is in two parts:
*'''Rising:''' This inverts a triad with brass adding a ninth to recreate the Ring chord. This appears during the fight in Dol Guldur and Galadriel banishing Sauron. It is hinted at when the Fellowship glimpse Caras Galadhon, and repeats when Galadriel appears wraith-like to Frodo.
*'''Falling:''' the two big statements then descend down F minor arpeggios as Galadriel reels back from her episode. This also depicts Bilbo reeling from his Gollum-like episode.
|-
|94
|'''Dwarf warriors'''
|The minor sixth of this idea makes this a Dwarven counterpart of the Elvish warrior theme. It is accompanied by unpitched "grunts" from the Dwarven chorus, a texture that already appeared in the Rings of Power opening titles, and will appear again in Moria.
|-
|95
|'''Mithril shirt'''
|This quartal melody depicts the shirt (which was fashioned for an Elven prince). It appears when Thorin gives it Bilbo, and when Bilbo gives it to Frodo.
|-
|96
|'''Iron Hill Dwarves'''
|This theme is similar to the other major-moded Dwarven theme. The tattoo-like accompaniment evokes the riding of the Dwarven cavalry, and later appears on its own with the chariot.
|-
|97
|'''Tragic theme (transformed)'''
|This reharmonizes the original theme [45] to depict valour and death on the battlefield. It ushers the conflict between Dwarves and Elves, then the offensive against the Orcs, and returns during the sequence where Gandalf and Pippin save Denethor, and the following skirmish in Pelennor.
|-
|98
|'''War Beasts'''
|Azog's horn is answered by this bestial motif, depicting the Trolls and Ogres he fields to the battle.
|-
|99
|'''The Fellowship'''
|This theme harmonizes a down-and-up figure in major seconds in D: I-♭III-I and extending it to a nine note phrase. All themes emphasizing a motion of major seconds (usually down and up, concluding on a quaver) will be related to the Fellowship, and this kernel will also appear by itself.
|-
|100
|'''Third tragic theme'''
|This theme, in rising minor seconds an augmented second apart, contrasts Elendil and Isildur's fall with Boromir's, and later Denethor's.
|-
|101
|'''Seduction of the Ring'''
|This is another variant of the Ring, in a standard minor mode and usually sung by boy choir. In The Return of the King, it is doubled by female choir to depict Smeagol's seduction.
|-
|102
|'''Journey there'''
|This theme reshapes the impediment arpeggio melodically. It depicts the journey to Mordor.
|-
|103
|'''Third danger motif'''
|This percussion quaver figure is the most overtly martial of the danger motifs. It depicts the turncoat Saruman overpowering Gandalf, then the forces Sauron fields in Osgiliath and during the Haradrim attack. It returns for the Mount Doom scene.
|-
|104
|'''Strider'''
|This figure leaps a perfect fourth, then ascends another step. It thus reorders the pitches of Gondor.
|-
|105
|'''Tragic theme (Gondor form)'''
|This embellishes the theme by appending a perfect fifth. It appears with Boromir's first meeting with Aragorn, then scenes of Arwen envisioning Aragorn's mortality and leaving Rivendell.
|-
|106
|'''Diminishment of the Elves'''
|This theme for the scene in Gilraen's grave, brings the Phrygian Dominant setting of Lothlorien to Rivendell. It also repeats when Aragorn parts with Arwen.
|-
|107
|'''"Dangerous passes"'''
|This C minor theme depicts members of the Fellowship traversing difficult terrain: Caradhras, the approach to the walls of Moria and – on album – the secret stair.
|-
|108
|'''"Elvish pledge"'''
|This theme parallels the alliance of Celebrimbor and Narvi (as objectified in the Doors of Durin) with that of Haldir and Aragorn, when he shows up at Helm's Deep. It is a sequence of chords outlining a whole-tone scale.
|-
|109
|'''Hobbits (Heroic variant)'''
|This begins as the rhythm of the second phrase of the Fellowship, first heard in the Mazarbul chamber. Its last appearance, ahead of Sam's battle with Shelob, transforms into figure unique to this fight out of which emerges a heroic form the original Hobbits theme as he galivants around Cirith Ungol. The chords will return in the Mount Doom scenes.
|-
|110
|'''Durin's Bane'''
|By doubling the Moria theme at the octave, Howard Shore creates a sequence of power chords which depict the Balrog in Fellowship of the Ring and again in the opening scene of The Two Towers.
|-
|111
|'''Secondary Gondor theme'''
|This is a more lyrical depiction of Gondor. Triumphant forms depict the reforged Anduril.
|-
|112
|'''Aragorn'''
|This figure, which sometimes start with the original Strider theme, sequences the opening three notes of the Fellowship upward.
|-
|113
|'''Fourth tragic theme'''
|This theme laments Boromir's death, and returns with every reminiscence of his death. It is also alluded to in scenes with Theoden and the dying Frodo.
|-
|114
|'''Impediment theme (third variant)'''
|This figure compares Frodo and Sam being stuck in the beginning of The Two Towers, and Merry and Pippin near the end of The Two Towers.
|-
|115
|'''Fourth danger motif'''
|This is a rhythmic variant of the third three notes of the Ringwraiths' accompaniment. In the skirmish with the Southrons in Ithilien (and later in the invasion of Osgiliath) is reduced to a minor third.
|-
|116
|'''Rohan (fragment)'''
|This sequences the galloping quavers so the first pitch is a unison, and the second is raised with every iteration. It appears in both early scenes with Eomer, and a similar style of writing is harkened when Aragorn arrives at Helm's Deep, when he rides out with Theoden and when Eomer is ordered to muster the Rohirrim.
|-
|117
|'''The Fellowship in Rohan'''
|This leaps a fifth and continues in the countermelody of Rohan, which is based on the Fellowship pitches. It depicts the growing allegiance of the members of the Fellowship and the Rohirrim through The Two Towers. In The Return of the King, this figure is transformed to depict Merry in his new role as squire of Rohan. Although this figure originally leapt a fifth, it is last harkened to when Merry strikes the Witch King with a rarely-heard major sixth.
|-
|118
|'''The Ents'''
|This theme has two components: major triads a tritone apart, then a tremolando line in bass marimba and contrabassoon voiced in open chords a tritone apart.
|-
|119
|'''Gandalf the White'''
|This is another transformation of the original nature. It introduces the reborn Gandalf in Fangorn, at Helm's Deep and reprised in the credits.
|-
|120
|'''"Small stones"'''
|These chords (initially F# minor – G major – F# minor – A minor) depict Merry and Pippins effect on Treebeard. Later it assumes a form redolent of Treebeard's tritone progression. It is last recalled in The Return of the King when Gandalf and Pippin have a quiet moment, but this can only be heard on album.
|-
|121
|'''The White rider'''
|This reshaping of the Fellowship theme turns Gandalf, always astride Shadowfax, into "Saruman as he should have been." After the siege of Gondor, this theme is transformed into reiterated falling and rising major seconds, which eventually become an important component of the Grey Havens scene.
|-
|123
|'''The Fate of the Ring'''
|Two figures depict the future of the Ring:

*This reharmonizes [45] in D major, thereby altering the Ring's theme major. It foreshadows the destruction of the Ring.
*Combination of the various Ring themes, first in canonic imitation, then as a single melodic variant of the evil theme. This foresadows an eventuality in which the Ring returns to its master.
|-
|124
|'''Grima'''
|This theme, always in C minor and sometimes in the "Orcish" 5/4, is a dark counterpart to [134] in presenting one static pitch and one rising pitch: minor third, tritone, fifth, and concluding with a minor sixth dropping back into the fifth. It accompanies all of Grima's scene since Gandalf's arrival at Meduseld and is even hinted at when he stabs Saruman.
|-
|125
|'''Eowyn and Aragorn'''
|Eowyn's attraction to Aragorn is scored with this F Lydian theme. Notice the "sighing" appoggiaturas.
|-
|126
|'''Arwen and Aragorn'''
|an E Phrygian reshaping of Aragorn's theme, accompanied by the Rivendell arpeggio and redolent of sighing appoggiaturas.
|-
|127
|'''Second Orc theme'''
|Two devices depict the Orc siege: a bollero-like rhyhtm, and a reiterated rhyhtm over third-related chords
|-
|128
|'''Gondor (transformed)'''
|This version of Gondor, which replaces the descending final notes with Aragorn's ascending notes, is first heard in the Return of the King trailer. On album, it was hinted in an alternate version of the Fellowship prologue where another ascending version of the theme appeared in D major. Otherwise, this thematic complex - which appears in Gandalf's ascent to Minas Tirith, and in the Pelennor fields (theatrical cut) - is always heard in D minor until Aragorn's coronation. Notice that the original descending phrase also appears in the major, but only on album.
|-
|129
|'''Shire (transformed)'''
|throughout The Return of the King, the Shire music and the Fellowship's become mingled. This initiates a process that culminates in the final Shire scenes: the melody is still the same, but the accompaniment had been reduced to thirds. When Sam returns home, this returns with a transformed melodic line, still in D major. A second transformation occurs at the very end of the fan credits: the perfect cadence on A major complements the A minor-A5 resolution of the Rings of Power titles.
|-
|130
|'''Dead Men of Dunharrow'''
|This bitonal idea features a bassline similar to Gondor, while the top voices cluster. When the ghosts lend aid on the Pelennor fields, the clusters resolve diatonically.
|-
|131
|'''Denethor and Faramir'''
|The confrontation between Faramir and Denethor, and Faramir's subsequent march to certain death are scored with this variant of [67].
|-
|132
|'''Shelob'''
|Another near tone-row. It is later spun into a pair of octatonic quadruple figures.
|-
|133
|'''Valinor'''
|The theme of the song "Into the West" appears when Gandalf describes Valinor to Pippin, when Sam hoists Frodo on his shoulders and at the conclusion of the Grey Havens scene.
|}

[[Category:Music]]
<references />

The Music of the Lord of the Rings Films (composition)

2026-04-21T12:05:44Z

Chen Geller:

{{cleanup}}
{{Disambig-two|the music composition for the Lord of the Rings films|book about the composition for The Lord of the Rings trilogy|[[The Music of the Lord of the Rings Films]]}}Howard Shore's compositions for ''The Lord of the Rings'' and ''The Hobbit'', together with work by Howard, Plan 9, David Long and Stephen Gallagher for ''The War of the Rohirrim'', ''The Rings of Power'' Season One and other projects represent a musico-dramatic oeuvre covering about 24 hours of music. This music is based on folk-like melodies, often stepwise; triadic harmony (though not generally stable in terms of key) and massed orchestrations, often ornamented by worldly instruments outside the orchestral replete.

The compositions include:

#[[:Category:The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power (Season One: Amazon Original Series Soundtrack)|The Rings of Power season one]]: Only the opening titles ([[Howard Shore]]) and source songs (Plan 9 and David Long).
#[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]] ([[Stephen Gallagher]], David Long using themes by Howard Shore and Plan 9)
#[[:Category:The Hobbit (film series) soundtracks|The Hobbit film trilogy (soundtracks)]], including the announcement trailer (Shore, Plan 9, Long, Gallagher ''et al'')
#[[:Category:The Lord of the Rings (film series) soundtracks|The Lord of the Rings film trilogy (soundtracks)]], including the second Return of the King trailer (Shore, Plan 9, Long ''et al'')
#Additional pieces for the concert stage (Howard Shore) or ''in situ'' for the Hobbiton set (Plan 9 and David Long).

==Orchestration==
Howard's orchestra varies in size between different pieces. Many instruments are used to colour certain narrative elements and related themes. Taken in whole, and together with instruments utilized by Plan 9 and David Long, it comprises:

'''Strings''': At least 16 first violins (concertmaster doubling hardinfelle, double violin), 16 second violins, 12 violas, 10 violoncelli, 8 double basses. 2 harps (one doubling celtic harp).

'''Woodwinds''': 4 flutes (doubling alto flute, piccoli, recorder, wood flute, tin whistle, low whistle, shakuhachi, dizi, nay), 4 oboes (one doubling cor anglais and heckelphone), 4 clarinets (one doubling bass clarinet and contrabass clarinet) and 3 bassoons (one doubling contrabassoon and contraforte). Also putorino, Rhaita (doubling rauschpfeife), 2 shawms, 2 crumhorns, dulcian.

'''Brass''': At least seven horns in F (doubling Wagner ''tuben''), eight trumpets (doubling rotary-valve trumpets), seven trombones (four tenor-bass and three bass trombones) and two tubas (doubling contrabass tuba). Also 20 didgeridoos, pukea, cow horn, tibetan horn.

'''Keyboards''': one grand piano (doubling upright piano, celesta, harpsichord, clavichord), synthesizer, grand pipe organ.

'''Percussion:''' Two Timpanists. At least seven players on bass drum, snare drums, side-drums (or field drums), toms and bass drum kit, triangle, glockenspiel, gong bass drum, tambourine, taiko drums (three sizes: large, medium and small), cymbals (including a splash cymbal cut into ribbons, antique cymbals, crotales), tubular bells, mark tree, carillon, tamtams, bossed gongs, woodblocks, temple blocks, log drums, slit drum, dudun drum, waterphone, shakers (including eggshakers, cabasa, caxixi and jingles), tibetan singing bowls, goblet drum, friction drum, frame drum, transceleste, marimba, 2 bodhrain, bell plates, anvil, "prepared" piano, castanets, tuned artillery shells, cans, wind machine.

"'''Hobbit band'''": 3 guitars (6 and 12-string, including bass guitar, doubling mandolin, caipira viola, lute, theorbo), 2 bagpipes (highland bapipes, doubling uileann pipes), 2 accordions (mussette, doubling concertina and harmonium), 1 hammered dulcimer (doubling cimbalom), hurdy-gurdy, banjo (doubling banjolele), euphonium.

'''Gamelan''': 1 kempul (doubling gong ageng), 1 kendhang, 4 saron players, 3 gender players (doubling slenthem), 4 kenong players (doubling kethuk), 2 bonang players, 1 gambang. Also doubling rebab, finger cymbals, ceng cengs, hyōshigi, kine, japanese cymbals, monochord, tanpura, sarangi (doubling dilruba).

'''Choir:''' 60 boys, at least 100 men and women, soloists (tenors, baritone, bass, soprano, treble).

==Themes==
The score relies on a large number of recurring associative themes (also known as ''Leitmotive'' or "Leading musical motives"). These appear independent of each other, in two more non-adjacent scenes. Most of these run through the entire series and lend it a sense of musical cohesion. These themes, which also develop according to the dramatic situation, are loosely divided into "family groups" and further delineated by associative keys and tone colour. They are as follows:

{| class="wikitable sortable"
!#
!Name
!Description
|-
|1
|'''"Impediment" theme'''
|This theme is a chromatic arpeggio (A minor: 1-3-5-♭6), sequenced a flat sixth apart. It is usually harmonized in minor triads a flat sixth apart (sometimes retrograded), and this sonority also appears on its own. It is introduced in the ''Rings of Power'' titles, where it is transformed as an F Lydian arpeggio (F: 1-3-♯4-5) over chords a minor third apart. The chords then appear in ''The War of the Rohirrim'' to depict the antagonists: Gm: iii-i depicting Freca, then G♭m: ♭vi-i under Wulf. The definitive theme appears throughout the live-action films, always representing impediment.
|-
|2
|'''Scales'''
|This is one of the basic devices Howard uses throughout the scores. Scalar motion may depict the Hobbits (usually as C: 1-2-3 starting on a quaver) but since scalar motion is inherent in many themes, it is used more generally in the scores, in any key or modality.
In more dangerous situation, Howard uses clusters or chromatic scales.
|-
|3
|'''Walking Songs'''
|There are two walking songs in the score: Plan 9 and David Long's "This Wandering Day" and Fran Walsh's "The Road Goes Ever On." The latter always appears with the Hobbits' theme.
|-
|4
|'''The Ring'''
|This theme is based on the rising and falling minor second. It is stated in strings in a chromaticised F minor, then in A♭ minor, all harmonized in minor triads a minor second apart (F minor to E minor).
|-
|5
|'''Eowyn and Theoden'''
|This theme, voiced in open chords, depicts Eowyn, particularly in her relationship to Theoden.
|-
|6
|'''Rohan'''
|This major theme is usually set in A Dorian and played by either ''hardingfelle'' or high brass. It has several detachable parts:
*'''Rhythm''': The opening unison quavers evoke galloping horse hooves.
*'''Melody''': This rises a minor third, then proceeds stepwise along the Dorian mode. In the fullest statements, the consequent phrase concludes with a plagal cadence. In the Pelennor fields, this is reshaped into driving triplets, and these then appear on their own. A countermelody emphasizes the falling and rising major second [3b]. Later, the melody is sometimes altered to begin on a major third or even perfect fourth.
*'''Chords:''' in keeping with the Dorian setting, the theme is usually harmonized in A Dorian: i-IV but in the fullest statements this is expanded to i-VII-III-IV.
Henceforth, all the themes associated with mankind will be modal, usually incorporating a prominent leap into the melodic contour.
|-
|7
|'''Eowyn'''
|Eowyn's main theme is first hinted at in Hera's music. The theme leaps a fifth then proceeds stepwise over C Lydian: I-II-iii. Eowyn's first two scenes feature a similar progression under a scale, the perfect fifth ironed out. When she rebukes Grima, this theme which had since taken to the minor mode, regains the perfect fifth. Gallagher's score features other themes unique to it:
*The secondary theme leaps a perfect fifth and major sixth, then subsides in a stepwise figure. It mostly represents Helm and his sons.
*Olwyn is represented by a lyrical idea in thirds.
*Another idea in major and minor seconds represents Hera's relationship to Helm.
|-
|8
|'''Ring (Chords)'''
|This theme has three separable components, both representing the Ringwraiths but also danger more generally:

*Rhythm: two paired crotchets
*Chords: This verticalizes the Ring [4] to produce a minor triad with an added ninth. The resolving, minor plagal cadence may also appear by itself.
*Accompaniment: This idea leaps a minor sixth then falls down a minor scale.
|-
|9
|'''Horns'''
|Leaps ranging from a minor third to a perfect fifth appear throughout the scores, either in the score or as horn sound effects. Again, since these intervals are shared between multiple themes, they can be used in various contexts. Howard also frequently uses open fifths.
|-
|10
|'''Gondor'''
|This theme shares the Dorian setting, but leaps a perfect fifth (recalling Eowyn [5, 7], who will end up in Gondor) on D. Later, Howard will set it in rotary-valve trumpets.
|-
|11
|'''Rohan lament'''
|Versions of this lament (composed by plan 9 and David Long) appear both for Helm (in ''The War of the Rohirirm'') and for Theodred (in ''The Two Towers'').
|-
|12
|'''Nature'''
|This theme begins with a major-mode transformation of the impediment figure (over A minor: i-VI-i) and continues into chromatically rising chords. This second part is sometimes used on its own and, in the most extroverted statements, is embellished with unison brass triplets. Both parts are varied for other themes of the natural world. This theme first appears under the letter Gandalf sends to Hera, then appears through the bulk of the cycle to depict nature. In the end of ''The Two Towers'', it parallels the charge out of Helm's Deep with the concurrent Ent attack, and from this point on the theme becomes temporarily associated with the Rohirrim.
|-
|13
|'''Saruman or Orcs'''
|This theme first appears retrograded, as a lyrical triple-time woodwind idea for Saruman's appearance in ''The War of the Rohirrim''. It later assumes its definitive 5/4 setting in trombones. Notice that it reorganizes the pitches of the Ring [4, 8b], but now the seasawing minor seconds rise and fall. Later, the theme appears for Saruman's Uruks - the company of Uruks that chase the Fellowship are scored with a harmonized form of the theme's second phrase - but also for Orcs in general.
|-
|14
|'''The Hobbits (main theme)'''
|This theme, along with the Ring [4] is the nearest the series has to a main theme. It is almost always set in D pentatonic or C pentatonic, usually in strings, solo clarinet or tin whistle: this latter instrument is replaced by flute in ''The Return of the King''. It is again in detachable parts:
*'''First phrase''': This rises through four scale degrees, then falls back down. It is typically harmonized in D: I-IV-I-V.
*'''Second phrase''': By sequencing the initial stepwise motif upwards and harmonizing it with D: vii-IV-V-I, this part of the theme depicts the Shire as "the place that makes your heart swell when you think about it."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.woodzie.org/lotr/expansive.htm|articlename=Musical Themes in "The Lord of the Rings"|author=Eric Rawlins|dated=17 July 2006|website=Woodzie}}</ref>
*'''Accompaniment''': the first part is often accompanied by this bumptious outline in fifths and fourths. Howard omits this when a more sobering effect is called for, but he also uses it on its own.
|-
|15
|'''The Ring (fragment)'''
|Howard derives several fragments from the Ring that appear on their own:
*Ascending second: Both in ''An Unexpected Journey'' and ''The Fellowship of the Ring'', Bilbo blows smoke rings to the sound of a tritone gliding into the fifth. This recreates the rising minor second that opens the ring [4] but over a major chord: it returns after the Ring's destruction when characters recall it, reaffirming that the Ring is indeed gone. The figure does also appear in the minor as a more pointed allusion to the Ring throughout the quest.
*Chords: Howard also harmonizes this motion as minor triads a minor second apart, or as a minor triad resolving to a major triad: this latter gesture concludes the prologue of ''Fellowship of the Ring'' (E♭: i-I) and both Weathertop (on album) and the walls of Moria are revealed to the sound of fanfares derived from this gesture.
|-
|16
|'''Bilbo Baggins, first theme'''
|This theme reshapes the Hobbits' theme to depict Bilbo Baggins. In the announcement trailer, only its first phrase is heard, but in ''An Unexpected Journey'' it is sometimes extended into a second phrase which, with its melodic leaps and horn scoring hints at Bilbo's more outgoing, "Tookish" side. This phrase is later used on its own.
|-
|17
|'''The Company'''
|This theme is first sung by Thorin and company (over string clusters [4] in the trailer, ''a-cappella'' in the film), but then appears orchestrally. At the end of ''An Unexpected Journey,'' it is transformed into the Song of the Lonely Mountain. After this, as the quest loses its swashbuckling sheen, the theme is no longer heard. Its harmony (triads a major second apart) is shared between all the ''melodic'' Dwarven themes.
|-
|18
|'''First Dwarven theme (Thorin):'''
|The stepwise nature of this theme depicts the influence Bilbo will play in Thorin's life. As in the announcement trailer, it is often (but not consistently) heard as a countermelody for [17]. The theme is not, however, Thorin's theme in ''strictu sensu'': it scores most of the establishing montage of Erebor, and several scenes of the company at large. Again, notice the "Dwarven" Am-G harmony.
|-
|19
|'''Second Dwarven theme, first form'''
|This theme is used more generally for the Dwarves (it's called "The House of Durin" in Howard's sketches). This first form, heard over the opening titles of ''An Unexpected Journey'', combines the contour of the definitive theme with the pitches of the Ring fragment [17]. It also appears during the eagle resuce (only on album) and when the Dwarves reunite in Erebor after Smaug's attack.
|-
|20
|'''Bilbo Baggins, second theme'''
|This theme (A-B-C♯-E-E-G♯-G♯-A-E-C♯-E-D) also appears in the opening titles of ''An Unexpected Journey''. It is also heard, heroically in horns, when Bilbo rescues Thorin.
|-
|21
|'''First tragic theme (transcendant)'''
|This theme first appears during the opening shots of ''An Unexpected Journey'': this creates a sense of bookends with an identical statement in the Grey Havens, when Gandalf says farewel to the Hobbits. It also laments Gandalf's death (Doug Adams calls it "Gandalf's farewells") and is embedded into the farewell from Lorien. But it also appears during the final scenes on the slopes of Mount Doom. It is a chord progression atypical of the rest of the score: A♭: vi-IV-I-V. This results in the top voices rising and falling a minor second (cf. [3]) but then falling another major second. Combinations of rising and falling major and minor seconds, as well as minor scales, unite all the themes that depict Sauron's influence on Middle-earth (also [1]).
|-
|22
|'''The Journey Back'''
|This theme, first appearing over the map transition to Erebor, again creates bookends with the map transition from Minas Tirith back to the Shire in ''The Return of the King''. Appearing throughout the denoument of the film, it depicts the journey back from Mordor. It is a rising scale harmonized in chromatic mediants.
|-
|23
|'''Third Dwarven theme (Erebor)'''
|This theme is three rising horncalls outlining an A Aeolian scale: 1-3, 1-4, 1-5. It subsides in a descending, syncopated pattern that is later also used on its own. Again, it is not Erebor's theme in ''stricto sensu'': statements of it appear for the company, and for Thorin (it is played diegetically for his obsequies), as well as for the Iron Hill Dwarves. Henceforth, non-melodic Dwarven music will be characterized by its intervallic nature, often parallel fifths.
|-
|24
|'''Arkenstone, first theme'''
|In keeping with the intervallic Dwarven style, this theme begins on an open fifth, but then clusters in the chorus [2]. It depicts the mysterious aspect of the stone, but also appears when Gandalf hands Thorin the map and the key: the means towards finding the Arkenstone.
|-
|25
|'''Arkenstone, second theme'''
|This syncopated, B minor string figure first appears with [24] but they become increasingly independent as the score continues. In The Battle of the Five Armies, this idea often appears unresolved to depict Thorin's mounting obsession to retrieve the stone.
|-
|26
|'''Woodland Elves'''
|This D Phrygian theme depicts the Woodland Elves as closer to Men, but the emphasis on the third degree in the harmony gives it an Elven sheen. Henceforth, Elven themes will be characterized by more "advanced" harmony than the rest of Middle-earth: mediant and chromatic mediant harmony, whole tone scales, chromatic lines, seventh chords and so forth.
|-
|27
|'''Smaug, first theme'''
|This theme is in three parts:
*'''Melody''': The F Phrygian Dominant setting denotes the old age of the Dragon. Henceforth, everything old in Middle earth (Galadriel, Sauron) will be depicted by this mode. The theme emphasizes the rising and falling minor second [4] and augmented second inherent to this mode.
*'''Chords''': This progression (F: I-i-I) sequences [15] to depict the Dragon's breath.
*'''Accompaniment''': The theme is accompanied by semiquavers in Gamelan. The ensemble sometimes doubles the melody inharmonically, and lends its texture to the treasure hoard sequence.
|-
|28
|'''Dwarvish Wanderers'''
|This scalar figure bemoans the Dwarves' downfall and loss of their homeland. It is also heard when Thorin is struck down by Azog in ''An Unexpected Journey'', and during their arrival to the Hidden Door. It is often combined with a "Dwarven" form of the Impediment arpeggio [1].
|-
|29
|'''Hobbit party music'''
|This Plan 9 tune embellishes the Hobbits' diatonic harmonies with some light chromaticism. It is heard briefly in the Old Took's birthday, and in extenso during Bilbo's Farewell Party.
|-
|30
|'''Hobbits (mysterious variant)'''
|This augments the Shire's accompaniment [16.3] to the contour of the Impediment theme. It depicts many of the early scenes of ''An Unexpected Journey'', and returns in ''Fellowship of the Ring'' when Gandalf glimpses Thorin's map.
|-
|31
|'''Hobbits (folk variant)'''
|This version mostly appears for scenes in Hobbiton, but also in the cornfield in ''Fellowship of the Ring'' and, slow and retrograded, in the concert piece ''Ironfoot''. Notice that, on the theme's first appearance, it concludes with a "fiddle fanfare" as Bilbo realizes it's the day of the farewell party: another statement of the theme concluding with the same fanfare will score the erecting of the sign to the party in ''Fellowship of the Ring''. It is in two parts:
*Melody: this is a staccato version of the Hobbits theme.
*Accompaniment: This "Um pa-pah" rhyhtm is later used on its own and with other themes. The theme is also accompanied by a tapping on the bodhrain drums which also appears with other themes.
|-
|32
|'''Smeagol'''
|This theme, which brings out the pitiful Smeagol side of Gollum's character, is first alluded to when the chords of the second Shire phrase [14.2] turn minor.
|-
|33
|'''First Playful motif'''
|This elides the first pitch of [14.3] and sequences it to create a rhyhtmic figure in perfect fourths that skips the first beat of the measure. It often appears with [32] but both also appear in their own.
|-
|34
|'''Hobbits (Playful variant)'''
|This combines two separable elements: a chromatic sequence of the accompaniment to [32] and a playful form of the original [14]. The full combination only appears in The Two Towers, but the bassline appears more often.
|-
|35
|'''Gandalf the Grey'''
|This wry figure in minor thirds and fourths depicts Gandalf the Grey throughout ''The Hobbit''. It does not appear in ''Fellowship of the Ring,'' where Gandalf's demise is imminent.
|-
|36
|'''First playful motif (first variant)'''
|This melds [34] and [14.3] into a driving figure. It is variously associated with Gandalf's fireworks (in ''An Unexpected Journey'' and ''Fellowship of the Ring''), his Smaug-like firework (the opening credits of ''The Desolation of Smaug'' anticipating ''Fellowship of the Ring'') and the mischief of Bilbo (sneaking out of the Farewell Party) and Merry and Pippin, in the cornfield. This latter statement is reprised in the closing credits.
|-
|37
|'''Fourth Dwarven theme (Dwarrowdelf)'''
|This theme, which will usher the Fellowship into the 21st hall of Dwarrowdelf, is first hinted at when the Dwarves introduce themselves to Bilbo, and again when they are introduced to Beorn. Both these scenes feature a 3-4-5 rise concluding on an open fifth. In ''Fellowship of the Ring,'' this is elaborated into a aeolian melody similar to [21], which also appears when the Cave Troll is slain.
|-
|38
|'''Fussy Bilbo'''
|This waltzing, D minor theme contains the same pitches as the Ring, but depicts Bilbo's out-of-sorts mannerism around the Dwarves. Later, it is applied to the Company in general, as when they emerge into Bard's house.
|-
|39
|'''Smaug (second theme)'''
|This retrogrades Smaug's original motif, then ascends chromatically: the effect is more subtly sinister and will also depict Thorin's Dragon Sickness, usually in more discordant string settings. Again, accompanied by major-minor triads built on F and semiquaver figures on Gamelan.
|-
|40
|'''Fifth Dwarven theme (The Company)'''
|This theme, which appears when Dwalin and Gandalf talk about Thorin's absence, repeats during the Hidden Door sequence and when the Dwarves retreat before Azog's forces in ''The Battle of the Five Armies''. It is elaborated upon in the concert piece "The Dwarf Lords." As originally stated, it takes the melodic Dwarven harmonies and turns them major: A-G.
|-
|41
|'''Hobbits, kinetic version'''
|This sequences the initial 1-2-3 rise of the Hobbits [14.1] over canonical imitation of the accompaniment [14.3] in quavers and semiquavers. It depicts Bilbo rushing out of his door, and Merry and Pippin rushing through the cornfield.
|-
|42
|'''Moria danger motif'''
|Two figures depict the dangers of Moria: a minor scale voices in parallel fifths, and a perfect fifth dropping to the tritone.
|-
|43
|'''Battle with Azog'''
|A similar figure in parallel fourths depicts the battle of Azanulbizar. It returns for the confrontation with Azog in the ''Battle of the Five Armies''.
|-
|44
|'''First danger motif (Azog form)'''
|This theme is a pair of descending thirds, therefore a melodic form of the Ring chords. Here, they are major thirds an augmented second apart, thus outlining the Phrygian Dominant mode of Sauron. Azog's form concludes with a chromatic "barb" evoking his crude prosthetic arm. But it also appears for Azog's pack, Bolg and later the army he leads to the Erebor valley.
|-
|45
|'''Second tragic theme'''
|After the battle of Azanulbizar, this theme appears after Thorin's, answering his rising scale with a falling scale that accomodates upon itself. In doing so, it falls a major second, then falls and rises a minor one. This will appear increasingly by itself in ''The Battle of the Five Armies,'' always depicting death and tragedy (for instance, when Legolas speaks about his mother's death). In Fellowship of the Ring, the notes turn into a figure that rises and drops a minor second, then falls and rises a major second. This always depicts the suffering incurred by the War of the Ring.
|-
|46
|'''Wizards'''
|Another falling minor scale figure depicts the five Wizards. Naturally, it mostly appears with Gandalf, as when he arrives at Goblintown or during his parting with Bilbo in ''An Unexpected Journey''. But it also appears with Radagast.
|-
|47
|'''Radagast'''
|This nervous melody in major and minor seconds, only appears on album. But its accompaniments are heard in the film during Radagast's scenes, as well as when Bilbo escapes Goblintown.
|-
|48
|'''Mirkwood'''
|This line also alternates major and mind seconds. It depicts the shadow falling over Mirkwood. In The Desolation of Smaug, it becomes the definitive Mirkwood theme, reshaping [46]. This almost depicts the Elven Road, becoming gradually masked by the texture which features clusters, aleatoric figures, bowed cymbals, portamenti and sprechstimme vocals. Similar textures will appear in other places in the scores, always in relation to confusion and danger.
|-
|49
|'''First danger motif (Necromancer form)'''
|The major thirds an augmented second apart are here played slower, without the chromatic "barb" characteristic of Azog. It depicts Dol Guldur and the Necromancer.
|-
|50
|'''Mirkwood spiders, first theme'''
|This theme is based on an eight-note tone row, accompanied by clusters. Both also appear in ''The Desolation of Smaug''. Henceforth, all spider music will be atonal, although Denethor merits similar music in the most intense moments.
|-
|51
|'''Mountain Trolls'''
|This theme, in waltz time, recalls Bilbo's fussy theme, but instead arpeggiates a triad with an added tritone. It thus relates to the later Cave Troll, whose represented by a variant of the Moria music which is also echoed when Gollum brings Frodo rabbits.
|-
|52
|'''Hobbits (developed)'''
|Two developments of the Hobbits theme depict the Hobbits' personal growth, loss of innoncence, discovery of compassion and so forth:

*A fuller version of the original theme, the harmony filled in to D: I-iii-IV-I-IV-V.
*A melodic development of [16.2] with a gruppeto figure similar to [6]. It depicts Bilbo's act of compassion towards Gollum, but also scenes that depict the growing maturity and worldliness of the Hobbits in ''Fellowship of the Ring'' and ''The Two Towers.''
|-
|53
|'''Second danger motif (first form)'''
|This is another rhythmic figure that skips the first beat, but here outlining a minor scale. It has a more dynamic effect than [50].
|-
|54
|'''Main evil theme'''
|This adapts the Ring [4] to the Phrygian Dominant setting of the dragon. Its definitive form is set in muted trumpets and rhaita. Here, cor anglais imitates the rhaita. In ''The Battle of the Five Armies'', a pipe organ produces a similarly reedy sound.
|-
|55
|'''First Orc theme (Warg riders)'''
|This driving, descending minor scale figure depicts Azog company, especially the Warg riders. It appears all through The Hobbit, and then resurfaces in The Two Towers are a descending cluster which first depicts Saruman's warg riders. Afterwards, it continues to represent the artfulness of the Orc armies.
|-
|56
|'''Lothlorien or Galadriel'''
|This theme is also characterized by the F Phrygian Dominant mode. It's brassy appearance for Elrond's company attacking Yazneg's Orcs creates a parallel with the arrival of Haldir's Elves to Helm's Deep (heralded by the same rendition of [9]). The theme also appears in guises that emphasize the pitches of [46], inherent in the theme, or changed to double harmonic minor. When Frodo is struck by a vision of Galadriel in Shelob's lair, the theme is shifted into standard Phrygian mode.
|-
|57
|'''Rivendell, main theme'''
|This theme changes the impediment theme [1] to A major. It is rhythmically altered and overlaid with a melody based on the same pitches. The theme is typically set in female choir and harp over tolling chimes.
|-
|58
|'''Rivendell, second theme'''
|Two figures depict the interaction of Elrond and Thorin: a diegetic piece that plays as the Dwarves dine at Elrond's table (this appears in the orchestra, in a martial guise, when Elrond gallops into Rivendell to the Dwarves' chagrin) and a combination of the Rivendell arpeggios and Erebor horncalls.
|-
|59
|'''First danger motif (Sauron form)'''
|At the sight of Sauron's mural, the descending thirds turn into minor thirds a minor second apart. This version will continue into The Lord of the Rings. During the Minas Morgul scene, it is inverted into rising thirds.
|-
|60
|'''Second Dwarven theme (definitive)'''
|This theme now acquires its definitive pitches and tonality. Like Thorin's theme, it ascends but more resolutely in thirds spanning an octave. It then restarts on the low A but only reaches up the seventh scale degree. Notice that Thorin and his line are associated with A minor, as compared to Elrond's chromaticized A major.
|-
|61
|'''Goblins'''
|This theme in low brass over a hammering pattern that shifts time signatures (circling 7/5). It appears in all the goblin scenes and, on album, for their reappearance in ''The Battle of the Five Armies''. Going forward, rhythmic themes particularly in odd time signatures, will be associated with Orcs.
|-
|62
|'''Gollum'''
|This theme is in major and minor seconds played tremolando on cimbalom. This compares the spindly quality of Gollum, in his more menacing persona, with the hammered dulcimer that often plays [36]. In the early scenes of ''The Two Towers'', this figure is sequenced up so that it spans two chromatically interlocking fifths: this is similar to the music of Loge, the god of deception, in Wagner's Ring, a similarity that will become important later in the score.
|-
|63
|'''Fishing Song'''
|Gollum sings this song in ''An Unexpected Journey'', ''The Two Towers'' and ''The Return of the King''. In the latter, Gollum sings another song in a same vein, when he gloats over Frodo caught in Shelob's web.
|-
|64
|'''Smeagol (variant)'''
|The interaction of Smeagol's theme and the Ring produces several variants: one first appears when Galadriel mentions a "Nameless Fear." Much later, Gollum's song emerges out of this process: notice that it is adumbrated by the orchestra beginning in his interaction with Faramir.
|-
|65
|'''Eagles'''
|A variant of the Nature theme hails the eagles in ''An Unexpected Journey'' and ''The Battle of the Five Armies''. The album features another idea that looks forward to the eagles rescuing Sam and Frodo from Mount Doom.
|-
|66
|'''Second Gondor theme (developed)'''
|This variant, in E minor, appears in the film when Thorin embraces Frodo. This parallels the climax of ''The Return of the King'' when Barad dur collapses. It is a transformation of a Gondorian theme that appears in ''Fellowship of the Ring''.
|-
|67
|'''Third danger motif'''
|This theme appears in ''An Unexpected Journey'' only on album. It shares the contour of Saruman's theme [15] and will resurface in ''The Return of the King'' to depict the Orc armies attacking Gondor.
|-
|68
|'''Impediment (variant)'''
|Howard sometimes sequences the impediment chords, inverted, up. This is often combined with other themes, especially the Hobbit accompaniments. This occurs, namely, for both scenes in Bree but also in other contexts.
|-
|69
|'''Beorn'''
|Yet another variant of the Nature theme depicts Beorn and his lands. Now the Am: i-VI chords depict the tread of the bear's feet.
|-
|70
|'''Mirkwood, second theme'''
|This falling figure also depicts Mirkwood separately from the original theme.
|-
|71
|'''Ring chords (second form)'''
|The chord is redressed as a sinister, but less overtly threatening soprano solo. It relates to the Ringwraiths entombed in the High Fells. In the film it also appears in Dol Guldur. Later, it is transformed into a rising line built on the same chords, now depicting Mordor's strident power. Later, the accompaniment figure is also altered into an ascending form.
|-
|72
|'''White gems'''
|this theme relates the Woodland Elves to Mirkwood via the minor sixth. Since the gems were fashioned for Thranduil's wife, the appearance of this theme when Gandalf sees her statue at the Elven gate is apposite.
|-
|73
|'''Spiders, second theme'''
|This descending figure, which first appears when Bilbo plays with the cobwebs, also returns during the scene at the Spiders' nest.
|-
|74
|'''Legolas'''
|Legolas is associated with an up-tempo version of the Woodland realm theme, but also with string figurations that then adorn the Fellowship theme when he defeats a Mumak in The Return of the King.
|-
|75
|'''Tauriel'''
|This theme is based on a figure that concludes the Woodland realm theme.
|-
|76
|'''Woodland Guards'''
|Since Tauriel is the head of the guard, slow, lyrical versions of this theme acts as her secondary theme. Again, the Woodland Elves are set in "human" scales, in this case natural minor.
|-
|77
|'''Impediment (Thranduil form)'''
|This arpeggio idea contrasts Thranduil's covetousness with Elrond's wisdom, and compares him with similar attributes of Thorin's.
|-
|78
|'''Tauriel and Kili'''
|This theme begins with a duet for flute (a variant on Tauriel's theme) and oboe (answering with a variant of Thorin's theme). This is followed by a choral theme which incorporates the tragic theme, harmonized in "Elven" mediant chords and elaborated with a Dwarven open fifth.
|-
|79
|'''Assertive Bilbo'''
|Beginning as a "Dwarven" version of Bilbo's fussy theme, applying more to the Dwarves' bewilderment at their own rescue, this becomes the theme of the self-actualized Bilbo who smuggles the Arkenstone to Dale in ''The Battle of the Five Armies''. It also depicts his return to the Shire as a changed person. It is mirrored in "Dwarven" forms of the Hobbit accompaniment figures that accompany the inebriated Gimli in ''The Return of the King'': one last ode to Dwarven music.
|-
|80
|'''Bard'''
|starting on a minor third and perfect fourth, this theme plays on a similarity to Erebor. The Dwarves hope Bard will bring them nearer to the mountain. It is usually accompanied by a strummed pattern B♭ minor: i-#vi.
|-
|81
|'''Laketown'''
|This theme combines figures similar to Gondor (leaping a perfect fifth on D Dorian, then descending stepwise) and Rohan (semiquaver figure evoking rowing).
|-
|82
|'''Politicians of Laketown'''
|This clavichord theme, constantly modulating, relates the Master of Laketown and his aide Alfrid to the forces of corruption that represent Sauron's influence on Middle earth. Alfrid tends to be accompanied with just a fragment of the unabridged theme. The theme also appears retrograded when Thorin and Company are brought before the Master.
|-
|83
|'''Bard's family'''
|First appearing briefly when Bard arrives home, this is a diatonic transformation of the Master's music, similar to Bilbo's music.
|-
|84
|'''Black Arrow'''
|This theme first scores Girion who shares the opening pitches of Bard, his descendent. It depicts the Black Arrow that will slay Smaug.
|-
|85
|'''Thrain'''
|Thrain is depicted in his deranged form by another danger motif. When he returns to his senses, it is replaced by a slow version of Erebor, punctuated by a harp arpeggio.
|-
|86
|'''Second danger motif (second form)'''
|still skipping the first beat, this theme now appears in any number of forms. These can be sequenced up, down or at pitch.
*'''Ascending scale:''' This is similar to the first form.
*'''Clustering:''' repeated note, then adding a scale degree on each subsequent measure.
*'''Rising and falling:''' This most aggressive form uses the opening notes of the Ring, rising and falling a minor second.
|-
|87
|'''Evil (second form)'''
|This rhythmic augmentation of the original theme is another theme that depicts Sauron at force. Once he is driven out of Dol Guldur, it is deferred until ''The Return of the King'' where it depicts the Witch King emerging from Dol Guldur.
|-
|88
|'''Arwen'''
|This theme, which later introduces Arwen in Fellowship of the Ring and again in The Return of the King, first appears in the minor when Tauriel heals Kili. This parallels Arwen healing Frodo. It is a Phrygian line harmonized in F: I-iii.
|-
|89
|'''Smaug's death'''
|This combines all of Smaug's themes. It depicts his flight to Laketown, and his death. Afterwards, Smaug's theme is appropriated by the deranged Thorin.
|-
|90
|'''Bard the hero'''
|This more heroic theme depicts Bard's new role as the leader of the exiled Lakemen.
|-
|91
|'''Gundabad'''
|This theme also features the rising and falling minor second. Notice the doubling by twenty didgeridoos.
|-
|92
|'''Orcs'''
|The Gundabad theme is always accompanied by five-four beat. This is reshaped for Saruman's Uruks (percussion in five beats, usually accented on the first and third). Sauron's Orcs are depicted by more hectic forms of the same idea (accents varying randomly across the line).
|-
|93
|'''The Ring chords (transformed)'''
|This idea depicts other characters becoming touched by darkness. It is in two parts:
*'''Rising:''' This inverts a triad with brass adding a ninth to recreate the Ring chord. This appears during the fight in Dol Guldur and Galadriel banishing Sauron. It is hinted at when the Fellowship glimpse Caras Galadhon, and repeats when Galadriel appears wraith-like to Frodo.
*'''Falling:''' the two big statements then descending F minor arpeggios as Galadriel reels back from her episode. This also depicts Bilbo reeling from his Gollum-like episode.
|-
|94
|'''Dwarf warriors'''
|The minor sixth of this idea makes this a Dwarven counterpart of the Elvish warrior theme. It is accompanied by unpitched "grunts" from the Dwarven chorus, a texture that already appeared in the Rings of Power opening titles, and will appear again in Moria.
|-
|95
|'''Mithril shirt'''
|This quartal melody depicts the shirt (which was fashioned for an Elven prince). It appears when Thorin gives it Bilbo, and when Bilbo gives it to Frodo.
|-
|96
|'''Iron Hill Dwarves'''
|This theme is similar to the other major-moded Dwarven theme. The tattoo-like accompaniment evokes the riding of the Dwarven cavalry, and later appears on its own with the chariot.
|-
|97
|'''Tragic theme (transformed)'''
|This reharmonizes the original theme to depict valour and death on the battlefield. It ushers the conflict between Dwarves and Elves, then the offensive against the Orcs, and returns during the sequence where Gandalf and Pippin save Denethor, and the following skirmish in Pelennor.
|-
|98
|'''War Beasts'''
|Azog's horn is answered by this bestial motif, depicting the Trolls and Ogres he fields to the battle.
|-
|99
|'''The Fellowship'''
|This theme harmonizes the down-and-up figure [3b] in D: I-♭III-I and extending it to a nine note phrase. All themes emphasizing [3b] will be associated with the Fellowship.
|-
|100
|'''Third tragic theme'''
|This theme, in rising minor seconds an augmented second apart, contrasts Elendil and Isildur's fall with Boromir's, and later Denethor's.
|-
|101
|'''Seduction of the Ring'''
|This is another variant of the Ring, in a standard minor mode and usually sung by boy choir. In The Return of the King, it is doubled by female choir to depict Smeagol's seduction.
|-
|102
|'''Journey there'''
|This theme reshapes the impediment arpeggio melodically. It depicts the journey to Mordor.
|-
|103
|'''Third danger motif'''
|This percussion quaver figure is the most overtly martial of the danger motifs. It depicts the turncoat Saruman overpowering Gandalf, then the forces Sauron fields in Osgiliath and during the Haradrim attack. It returns for the Mount Doom scene.
|-
|104
|'''Strider'''
|This figure leaps a perfect fourth, then ascends another step. It thus reorders the pitches of Gondor.
|-
|105
|'''Tragic theme (Gondor form)'''
|This embellishes the theme by appending a perfect fifth. It appears with Boromir's first meeting with Aragorn, then scenes of Arwen envisioning Aragorn's mortality and leaving Rivendell.
|-
|106
|'''Diminishment of the Elves'''
|This theme for the scene in Gilraen's grave, brings the Phrygian Dominant setting of Lothlorien to Rivendell. It also repeats when Aragorn parts with Arwen.
|-
|107
|'''"Dangerous passes"'''
|This C minor theme depicts members of the Fellowship traversing difficult terrain: Caradhras, the approach to the walls of Moria and – on album – the secret stair.
|-
|108
|'''"Elvish pledge"'''
|This theme parallels the alliance of Celebrimbor and Narvi (as objectified in the Doors of Durin) with that of Haldir and Aragorn, when he shows up at Helm's Deep. It is a sequence of chords outlining a whole-tone scale.
|-
|109
|'''Fellowship (fragment)'''
|This is the rhythm of the second phrase of the Fellowship. It appears in the Mazarbul chamber as they prepare to fight the Orcs. It is implied in the end of the Warg scene, the attack on Osgiliath, and restated in Sam's confrontation with Shelob.
|-
|110
|'''Durin's Bane'''
|By doubling the Moria theme at the octave, Howard Shore creates a sequence of power chords which depict the Balrog in Fellowship of the Ring and again in the opening scene of The Two Towers.
|-
|111
|'''Secondary Gondor theme'''
|This is a more lyrical depiction of Gondor. Triumphant forms depict the reforged Anduril.
|-
|112
|'''Aragorn'''
|This figure starts with the Strider theme, and sequences the opening three notes of the Fellowship upward.
|-
|113
|'''Fourth tragic theme'''
|This theme laments Boromir's death, and returns with every reminiscence of his death. It is also alluded to in scenes with Theoden and the dying Frodo.
|-
|114
|'''Impediment theme (third variant)'''
|This figure compares Frodo and Sam being stuck in the beginning of The Two Towers, and Merry and Pippin near the end of The Two Towers.
|-
|115
|'''Fourth danger motif'''
|This is a rhythmic variant of the third three notes of the Ringwraiths' accompaniment. In the skirmish with the Southrons in Ithilien (and later in the invasion of Osgiliath) is reduced to a minor third.
|-
|116
|'''Rohan (fragment)'''
|This sequences the galloping quavers so the first pitch is a unison, and the second is raised with every iteration. It appears in both early scenes with Eomer, and a similar style of writing is harkened when Aragorn arrives at Helm's Deep, when he rides out with Theoden and when Eomer is ordered to muster the Rohirrim.
|-
|117
|'''The Fellowship in Rohan'''
|This leaps a fifth and continues in the countermelody of Rohan, which is based on the Fellowship pitches. It depicts the growing allegiance of the members of the Fellowship and the Rohirrim through The Two Towers.
|-
|118
|'''The Ents'''
|This theme has two components: major triads a tritone apart, then a tremolando line in bass marimba and contrabassoon voiced in open chords a tritone apart.
|-
|119
|'''Gandalf the White'''
|This is another transformation of the original nature. It introduces the reborn Gandalf in Fangorn, at Helm's Deep and reprised in the credits.
|-
|120
|'''"Small stones"'''
|These chords (initially F# minor – G major – F# minor – A minor) depict Merry and Pippins effect on Treebeard. Later it assumes a form redolent of Treebeard's tritone progression. It is last recalled in The Return of the King when Gandalf and Pippin have a quiet moment, but this can only be heard on album.
|-
|121
|'''The White rider'''
|This reshaping of the Fellowship theme turns Gandalf, always astride Shadowfax, into "Saruman as he should have been."
|-
|123
|'''The Fate of the Ring'''
|Two figures depict the future of the Ring:

* This reharmonizes [47] in D major, thereby altering the Ring's theme major. It foreshadows the destruction of the Ring.
* Combination of the various Ring themes, first in canonic imitation, then as a single melodic variant of the evil theme. This foresadows an eventuality in which the Ring returns to its master.
|-
|124
|'''Grima'''
|This theme, always in C minor and sometimes in the "Orcish" 5/4, is a dark counterpart to [134] in presenting one static pitch and one rising pitch: minor third, tritone, fifth, and concluding with a minor sixth dropping back into the fifth. It accompanies all of Grima's scene since Gandalf's arrival at Meduseld and is even hinted at when he stabs Saruman.
|-
|125
|'''Eowyn and Aragorn'''
|Eowyn's attraction to Aragorn is scored with this F Lydian theme. Notice the "sighing" appoggiaturas.
|-
|126
|'''Arwen and Aragorn'''
|an E Phrygian reshaping of Aragorn's theme, accompanied by the Rivendell arpeggio and redolent of sighing appoggiaturas.
|-
|127
|'''Second Orc theme'''
|Two devices depict the Orc siege: a bollero-like rhyhtm, and a reiterated rhyhtm over third-related chords
|-
|128
|'''Gondor (transformed)'''
|This version of Gondor, which replaces the descending final notes with Aragorn's ascending notes, is first heard in the Return of the King trailer. On album, it was hinted in an alternate version of the Fellowship prologue where another ascending version of the theme appeared in D major. Otherwise, this thematic complex - which appears in Gandalf's ascent to Minas Tirith, and in the Pelennor fields (theatrical cut) - is always heard in D minor until Aragorn's coronation. Notice that the original descending phrase also appears in the major, but only on album.
|-
|129
|'''Shire (transformed)'''
|throughout The Return of the King, the Shire music and the Fellowship's become mingled. This initiates a process that culminates in the final Shire scenes: the melody is still the same, but the accompaniment had been reduced to thirds. When Sam returns home, this returns with a transformed melodic line, still in D major.
|-
|130
|'''Dead Men of Dunharrow'''
|This bitonal idea features a bassline similar to Gondor, while the top voices cluster. When the ghosts lend aid on the Pelennor fields, the clusters resolve diatonically.
|-
|131
|'''Meriadoc, squire of Rohan'''
|This theme leaps a perfect fifth like Eowyn's and proceeds in the contour of the second phrase of the Fellowship. It later returns when Merry confesses his doubts to Eowyn. When he stabs the Witch King, the opening leap is recalled, but extended to a major sixth.
|-
|132
|'''Denethor and Faramir'''
|The confrontation between Faramir and Denethor, and Faramir's subsequent march to certain death are scored with this variant of [74].
|-
|133
|'''Shelob'''
|Another near tone-row. It is later spun into a pair of octatonic quadruple figures.
|-
|134
|'''Valinor'''
|The theme of the song "Into the West" appears when Gandalf describes Valinor to Pippin, when Sam hoists Frodo on his shoulders and at the conclusion of the Grey Havens scene.
|-
|135
|'''Hobbits (heroic form)'''
|This theme is spun out of the figure that depicts Sam's fight with Shelob. It later depicts Sam galivanting through Cirith Ungol. Its harmonies depict him hoisting Frodo on his shoulders, and pulling him up from the crack of doom.
|-
|136
|'''Magic Fire'''
|This figure homages Wagner's Loge theme (the interlocking falling fifths) in a form that most closely recalls the fires that guard Brunnhilde's enchanted sleep at the end of Valkyrie.
|}

[[Category:Music]]
<references />

The Music of the Lord of the Rings Films (composition)

2026-04-20T17:07:38Z

Chen Geller:

{{cleanup}}
{{Disambig-two|the music composition for the Lord of the Rings films|book about the composition for The Lord of the Rings trilogy|[[The Music of the Lord of the Rings Films]]}}Howard Shore's compositions for ''The Lord of the Rings'' and ''The Hobbit'', together with work by Howard, Plan 9, David Long and Stephen Gallagher for ''The War of the Rohirrim'', ''The Rings of Power'' Season One and other projects represent a musico-dramatic oeuvre covering about 24 hours of music. This music is based on folk-like melodies, often stepwise; triadic harmony (though not generally stable in terms of key) and massed orchestrations, often ornamented by worldly instruments outside the orchestral replete.

The compositions include:

#[[:Category:The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power (Season One: Amazon Original Series Soundtrack)|The Rings of Power season one]]: Only the opening titles ([[Howard Shore]]) and source songs (Plan 9 and David Long).
#[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]] ([[Stephen Gallagher]], David Long using themes by Howard Shore and Plan 9)
#[[:Category:The Hobbit (film series) soundtracks|The Hobbit film trilogy (soundtracks)]], including the announcement trailer (Shore, Plan 9, Long, Gallagher ''et al'')
#[[:Category:The Lord of the Rings (film series) soundtracks|The Lord of the Rings film trilogy (soundtracks)]], including the second Return of the King trailer (Shore, Plan 9, Long ''et al'')
#Additional pieces for the concert stage (Howard Shore) or ''in situ'' for the Hobbiton set (Plan 9 and David Long).

==Orchestration==
Howard's orchestra varies in size between different pieces. Many instruments are used to colour certain narrative elements and related themes. Taken in whole, and together with instruments utilized by Plan 9 and David Long, it comprises:

'''Strings''': At least 16 first violins (concertmaster doubling hardinfelle, double violin), 16 second violins, 12 violas, 10 violoncelli, 8 double basses. 2 harps (one doubling celtic harp).

'''Woodwinds''': 4 flutes (doubling alto flute, piccoli, recorder, wood flute, tin whistle, low whistle, shakuhachi, dizi, nay), 4 oboes (one doubling cor anglais and heckelphone), 4 clarinets (one doubling bass clarinet and contrabass clarinet) and 3 bassoons (one doubling contrabassoon and contraforte). Also putorino, Rhaita (doubling rauschpfeife), 2 shawms, 2 crumhorns, dulcian.

'''Brass''': At least seven horns in F (doubling Wagner ''tuben''), eight trumpets (doubling rotary-valve trumpets), seven trombones (four tenor-bass and three bass trombones) and two tubas (doubling contrabass tuba). Also 20 didgeridoos, pukea, cow horn, tibetan horn.

'''Keyboards''': one grand piano (doubling upright piano, celesta, harpsichord, clavichord), synthesizer, grand pipe organ.

'''Percussion:''' Two Timpanists. At least seven players on bass drum, snare drums, side-drums (or field drums), toms and bass drum kit, triangle, glockenspiel, gong bass drum, tambourine, taiko drums (three sizes: large, medium and small), cymbals (including a splash cymbal cut into ribbons, antique cymbals, crotales), tubular bells, mark tree, carillon, tamtams, bossed gongs, woodblocks, temple blocks, log drums, slit drum, dudun drum, waterphone, shakers (including eggshakers, cabasa, caxixi and jingles), tibetan singing bowls, goblet drum, friction drum, frame drum, transceleste, marimba, 2 bodhrain, bell plates, anvil, "prepared" piano, castanets, tuned artillery shells, cans, wind machine.

"'''Hobbit band'''": 3 guitars (6 and 12-string, including bass guitar, doubling mandolin, caipira viola, lute, theorbo), 2 bagpipes (highland bapipes, doubling uileann pipes), 2 accordions (mussette, doubling concertina and harmonium), 1 hammered dulcimer (doubling cimbalom), hurdy-gurdy, banjo (doubling banjolele), euphonium.

'''Gamelan''': 1 kempul (doubling gong ageng), 1 kendhang, 4 saron players, 3 gender players (doubling slenthem), 4 kenong players (doubling kethuk), 2 bonang players, 1 gambang. Also doubling rebab, finger cymbals, ceng cengs, hyōshigi, kine, japanese cymbals, monochord, tanpura, sarangi (doubling dilruba).

'''Choir:''' 60 boys, at least 100 men and women, soloists (tenors, baritone, bass, soprano, treble).

==Themes==
The score relies on a large number of recurring associative themes (also known as ''Leitmotive'' or "Leading musical motives"). These appear independent of each other, in two more non-adjacent scenes. Most of these run through the entire series and lend it a sense of musical cohesion. These themes, which also develop according to the dramatic situation, are loosely divided into "family groups" and further delineated by associative keys and tone colour. They are as follows:

{| class="wikitable sortable"
!#
!Name
!Description
|-
|1
|'''"Impediment" theme'''
|This theme is a chromatic arpeggio (A minor: 1-3-5-♭6), sequenced a flat sixth apart. It is usually harmonized in minor triads a flat sixth apart (sometimes retrograded), and this sonority also appears on its own. It is introduced in the ''Rings of Power'' titles, where it is transformed as an F Lydian arpeggio (F: 1-3-♯4-5) over chords a minor third apart. The chords then appear in ''The War of the Rohirrim'' to depict the antagonists: Gm: iii-i depicting Freca, then G♭m: ♭vi-i under Wulf. The definitive theme appears throughout the live-action films, always representing impediment.
|-
|2
|'''Scales'''
|This is one of the basic devices Howard uses throughout the scores. Scalar motion may depict the Hobbits (usually as C: 1-2-3 starting on a quaver) but since scalar motion is inherent in many themes, it is used more generally in the scores, in any key or modality.
In more dangerous situation, Howard uses clusters or chromatic scales.
|-
|3
|'''Walking Songs'''
|There are two walking songs in the score: Plan 9 and David Long's "This Wandering Day" and Fran Walsh's "The Road Goes Ever On." The latter always appears with the Hobbits' theme.
|-
|4
|'''The Ring'''
|This theme is based on the rising and falling minor second. It is stated in strings in a chromaticised F minor, than in A♭ minor, all harmonized in minor triads a minor second apart (F minor to E minor).
|-
|5
|'''Eowyn and Theoden'''
|This theme, voiced in open chords, depicts Eowyn, particularly in her relationship to Theoden.
|-
|6
|'''Rohan:'''
|This major theme is usually set in A Dorian and played by either ''hardingfelle'' or high brass. It has several detachable parts:
*'''Rhythm''': The opening unison quavers evoke galloping horse hooves.
*'''Melody''': This rises a minor third, then proceeds stepwise along the Dorian mode. In the fullest statements, the consequent phrase concludes with a plagal cadence. In the Pelennor fields, this is reshaped into driving triplets, and these then appear on their own. A countermelody emphasizes the falling and rising major second [3b]. Later, the melody is sometimes altered to begin on a major third or even perfect fourth.
*'''Chords:''' in keeping with the Dorian setting, the theme is usually harmonized in A Dorian: i-IV but in the fullest statements this is expanded to i-VII-III-IV.
Henceforth, all the themes associated with mankind will be modal, usually incorporating a prominent leap into the melodic contour.
|-
|7
|'''Eowyn:'''
|Eowyn's main theme is first hinted at in Hera's music. The theme leaps a fifth then proceeds stepwise over C Lydian: I-II-iii. Eowyn's first two scenes feature a similar progression under a scale, the perfect fifth ironed out. When she rebukes Grima, this theme which had since taken to the minor mode, regains the perfect fifth. Gallagher's score features other themes unique to it:
*The secondary theme leaps a perfect fifth and major sixth, then subsides in a stepwise figure. It mostly represents Helm and his sons.
*Olwyn is represented by a lyrical idea in thirds.
*Another idea in major and minor seconds represents Hera's relationship to Helm.
|-
|8
|'''Ring (Chord)'''
|This theme has two separable components, both representing the Ringwraiths but also danger more generally:

* The rhythm of two paired crotchets
* A chord that verticalizes the Ring, producing a minor chord with an added ninth, usually resolving in a minor plagal cadence.
|-
|9
|'''Horns'''
|Leaps ranging from a minor third to a perfect fifth appear throughout the scores, either in the score or as horn sound effects. Again, since these intervals are shared between multiple themes, they can be used in various contexts. Howard also frequently uses open fifths.
|-
|10
|'''Gondor'''
|This theme shares the Dorian setting, but leaps a perfect fifth (recalling Eowyn [5, 7], who will end up in Gondor) on D. Later, Howard will set it in rotary-valve trumpets.
|-
|11
|'''Rohan lament'''
|Versions of this lament (composed by plan 9 and David Long) appear both for Helm (in ''The War of the Rohirirm'') and for Theodred (in ''The Two Towers'').
|-
|12
|'''Nature'''
|This theme begins with a major-mode transformation of the impediment figure (over A minor: i-VI-i) and continues into chromatically rising chords. This second part is sometimes used on its own and, in the most extroverted statements, is embellished with unison brass triplets. Both parts are varied for other themes of the natural world. This theme first appears under the letter Gandalf sends to Hera, then appears through the bulk of the cycle to depict nature. In the end of ''The Two Towers'', it parallels the charge out of Helm's Deep with the concurrent Ent attack, and from this point on the theme becomes temporarily associated with the Rohirrim.
|-
|13
|'''Saruman or Orcs'''
|This theme first appears retrograded, as a lyrical triple-time woodwind idea for Saruman's appearance in ''The War of the Rohirrim''. It later assumes its definitive 5/4 setting in trombones. Notice that it reorganizes the pitches of the Ring [4, 8b], but now the seasawing minor seconds rise and fall. Later, the theme appears for Saruman's Uruks - the company of Uruks that chase the Fellowship are scored with a harmonized form of the theme's second phrase - but also for Orcs in general.
|-
|14
|'''The Hobbits (main theme)'''
|This theme, along with the Ring [4] is the nearest the series has to a main theme. It is almost always set in D pentatonic or C pentatonic, usually in strings, solo clarinet or tin whistle: this latter instrument is replaced by flute in ''The Return of the King''. It is again in detachable parts:
*'''First phrase''': This rises through four scale degrees, then falls back down. It is typically harmonized in D: I-IV-I-V.
*'''Second phrase''': By sequencing the initial stepwise motif upwards and harmonizing it with D: vii-IV-V-I, this part of the theme depicts the Shire as "the place that makes your heart swell when you think about it."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.woodzie.org/lotr/expansive.htm|articlename=Musical Themes in "The Lord of the Rings"|author=Eric Rawlins|dated=17 July 2006|website=Woodzie}}</ref>
*'''Accompaniment''': the first part is often accompanied by this bumptious outline in fifths and fourths. Howard omits this when a more sobering effect is called for, but he also uses it on its own.
|-
|15
|'''The Ring (fragment)'''
|Howard derives several fragments from the Ring that appear on their own:
*Ascending second: Both in ''An Unexpected Journey'' and ''The Fellowship of the Ring'', Bilbo blows smoke rings to the sound of a tritone gliding into the fifth. This recreates the rising minor second that opens the ring [4] but over a major chord: it returns after the Ring's destruction when characters recall it, reaffirming that the Ring is indeed gone. The figure does also appear in the minor as a more pointed allusion to the Ring throughout the quest.
*Chords: Howard also harmonizes this motion as minor triads a minor second apart, or as a minor triad resolving to a major triad: this latter gesture concludes the prologue of ''Fellowship of the Ring'' (E♭: i-I) and both Weathertop (on album) and the walls of Moria are revealed to the sound of fanfares derived from this gesture.
|-
|16
|'''Bilbo Baggins, first theme'''
|This theme reshapes the Hobbits' theme to depict Bilbo Baggins. In the announcement trailer, only its first phrase is heard, but in ''An Unexpected Journey'' it is sometimes extended into a second phrase which, with its melodic leaps and horn scoring hints at Bilbo's more outgoing, "Tookish" side. This phrase is later used on its own.
|-
|17
|'''The Company, main theme'''
|This theme is first sung by Thorin and company (over string clusters [4] in the trailer, ''a-cappella'' in the film), but then appears orchestrally. At the end of ''An Unexpected Journey,'' it is transformed into the Song of the Lonely Mountain. After this, as the quest loses its swashbuckling sheen, the theme is no longer heard. Its harmony (triads a major second apart) is shared between all the ''melodic'' Dwarven themes.
|-
|18
|'''First Dwarven theme (Thorin):'''
|The stepwise nature of this theme depicts the influence Bilbo will play in Thorin's life. As in the announcement trailer, it is often (but not consistently) heard as a countermelody for [17]. The theme is not, however, Thorin's theme in ''strictu sensu'': it scores most of the establishing montage of Erebor, and several scenes of the company at large. Again, notice the "Dwarven" Am-G harmony.
|-
|19
|'''Second Dwarven theme, first form'''
|This theme is used more generally for the Dwarves (it's called "The House of Durin" in Howard's sketches). This first form, heard over the opening titles of ''An Unexpected Journey'', combines the contour of the definitive theme with the pitches of the Ring fragment [17]. It also appears during the eagle resuce (only on album) and when the Dwarves reunite in Erebor after Smaug's attack.
|-
|20
|'''Bilbo Baggins, second theme'''
|This theme (A-B-C♯-E-E-G♯-G♯-A-E-C♯-E-D) also appears in the opening titles of ''An Unexpected Journey''. It is also heard, heroically in horns, when Bilbo rescues Thorin.
|-
|21
|'''First tragic theme (transcendant)'''
|This theme first appears during the opening shots of ''An Unexpected Journey'': this creates a sense of bookends with an identical statement in the Grey Havens, when Gandalf says farewel to the Hobbits. It also laments Gandalf's death (Doug Adams calls it "Gandalf's farewells") and is embedded into the farewell from Lorien. But it also appears during the final scenes on the slopes of Mount Doom. It is a chord progression atypical of the rest of the score: A♭: vi-IV-I-V. This results in the top voices rising and falling a minor second (cf. [3]) but then falling another major second. Combinations of rising and falling major and minor seconds, as well as minor scales, unite all the themes that depict Sauron's influence on Middle-earth (also [1]).
|-
|22
|'''The Journey Back'''
|This theme, first appearing over the map transition to Erebor, again creates bookends with the map transition from Minas Tirith back to the Shire in ''The Return of the King''. Appearing throughout the denoument of the film, it depicts the journey back from Mordor. It is a rising scale harmonized in chromatic mediants.
|-
|23
|'''Third Dwarven theme (Erebor)'''
|This theme is three rising horncalls outlining an A Aeolian scale: 1-3, 1-4, 1-5. It subsides in a descending, syncopated pattern that is later also used on its own. Again, it is not Erebor's theme in ''stricto sensu'': statements of it appear for the company, and for Thorin (it is played diegetically for his obsequies), as well as for the Iron Hill Dwarves. Henceforth, non-melodic Dwarven music will be characterized by its intervallic nature, often parallel fifths.
|-
|24
|'''Arkenstone, first theme'''
|In keeping with the intervallic Dwarven style, this theme begins on an open fifth, but then clusters in the chorus [2]. It depicts the mysterious aspect of the stone, but also appears when Gandalf hands Thorin the map and the key: the means towards finding the Arkenstone.
|-
|25
|'''Arkenstone, second theme'''
|This syncopated, B minor string figure first appears with [24] but they become increasingly independent as the score continues. In The Battle of the Five Armies, this idea often appears unresolved to depict Thorin's mounting obsession to retrieve the stone.
|-
|26
|'''Woodland Elves'''
|This D Phrygian theme depicts the Woodland Elves as closer to Men, but the emphasis on the third degree in the harmony gives it an Elven sheen. Henceforth, Elven themes will be characterized by more "advanced" harmony than the rest of Middle-earth: mediant and chromatic mediant harmony, whole tone scales, chromatic lines, seventh chords and so forth.
|-
|27
|'''Smaug, first theme'''
|This theme is in three parts:
*'''Melody''': The F Phrygian Dominant setting denotes the old age of the Dragon. Henceforth, everything old in Middle earth (Galadriel, Sauron) will be depicted by this mode. The theme emphasizes the rising and falling minor second [4] and augmented second inherent to this mode.
*'''Chords''': This progression (F: I-i-I) sequences [15] to depict the Dragon's breath.
*'''Accompaniment''': The theme is accompanied by semiquavers in Gamelan. The ensemble sometimes doubles the melody inharmonically, and lends its texture to the treasure hoard sequence.
|-
|28
|'''Dwarvish Wanderers'''
|This scalar figure bemoans the Dwarves' downfall and loss of their homeland. It is also heard when Thorin is struck down by Azog in ''An Unexpected Journey'', and during their arrival to the Hidden Door.
|-
|29
|'''Impediment (Dwarven form)'''
|This form of the Impediment arpeggio relates that the Dwarves blame the Elves for their misfortune. It is also heard when, in surveying the Troll hoard, they are reminded of the hoard in Erebor.
|-
|30
|'''Hobbit party music'''
|This Plan 9 tune embellishes the Hobbits' diatonic harmonies with some light chromaticism. It is heard briefly in the Old Took's birthday, and in extenso during Bilbo's Farewell Party.
|-
|31
|'''Hobbits (mysterious variant)'''
|This augments the Shire's accompaniment [16.3] to the contour of the Impediment theme. It depicts many of the early scenes of ''An Unexpected Journey'', and returns in ''Fellowship of the Ring'' when Gandalf glimpses Thorin's map.
|-
|32
|'''Hobbits (folk variant)'''
|This version mostly appears for scenes in Hobbiton, but also in the cornfield in ''Fellowship of the Ring'' and, slow and retrograded, in the concert piece ''Ironfoot''. Notice that, on the theme's first appearance, it concludes with a "fiddle fanfare" as Bilbo realizes it's the day of the farewell party: another statement of the theme concluding with the same fanfare will score the erecting of the sign to the party in ''Fellowship of the Ring''. It is in two parts:
*Melody: this is a staccato version of the Hobbits theme.
*Accompaniment: This "Um pa-pah" rhyhtm is later used on its own and with other themes. The theme is also accompanied by a tapping on the bodhrain drums which also appears with other themes.
|-
|33
|'''Smeagol'''
|This theme, which brings out the pitiful Smeagol side of Gollum's character, is first alluded to when the chords of the second Shire phrase [14.2] turn minor.
|-
|34
|'''First Playful motif'''
|This elides the first pitch of [14.3] and sequences it to create a rhyhtmic figure in perfect fourths that skips the first beat of the measure. It often appears with [32] but both also appear in their own.
|-
|35
|'''Hobbits (Playful variant)'''
|This combines two separable elements: a chromatic sequence of the accompaniment to [32] and a playful form of the original [14]. The full combination only appears in The Two Towers, but the bassline appears more often.
|-
|36
|'''Gandalf the Grey'''
|This wry figure in minor thirds and fourths depicts Gandalf the Grey throughout ''The Hobbit''. It does not appear in ''Fellowship of the Ring,'' where Gandalf's demise is imminent.
|-
|37
|'''First playful motif (first variant)'''
|This melds [32] and [14.3] into a driving figure. It is variously associated with Gandalf's fireworks (in ''An Unexpected Journey'' and ''Fellowship of the Ring''), his Smaug-like firework (the opening credits of ''The Desolation of Smaug'' anticipating ''Fellowship of the Ring'') and the mischief of Bilbo (sneaking out of the Farewell Party) and Merry and Pippin, in the cornfield. This latter statement is reprised in the closing credits.
|-
|38
|'''Fourth Dwarven theme (Dwarrowdelf)'''
|This theme, which will usher the Fellowship into the 21st hall of Dwarrowdelf, is first hinted at when the Dwarves introduce themselves to Bilbo, and again when they are introduced to Beorn. Both these scenes feature a 3-4-5 rise concluding on an open fifth. In ''Fellowship of the Ring,'' this is elaborated into a aeolian melody similar to [21], which also appears when the Cave Troll is slain.
|-
|39
|'''Fussy Bilbo'''
|This waltzing, D minor theme contains the same pitches as the Ring, but depicts Bilbo's out-of-sorts mannerism around the Dwarves. Later, it is applied to the Company in general, as when they emerge into Bard's house.
|-
|40
|'''Smaug (second theme)'''
|This retrogrades Smaug's original motif, then ascends chromatically: the effect is more subtly sinister and will also depict Thorin's Dragon Sickness, usually in more discordant string settings. Again, accompanied by major-minor triads built on F and semiquaver figures on Gamelan.
|-
|41
|'''Fifth Dwarven theme (The Company)'''
|This theme, which appears when Dwalin and Gandalf talk about Thorin's absence, repeats during the Hidden Door sequence and when the Dwarves retreat before Azog's forces in ''The Battle of the Five Armies''. It is elaborated upon in the concert piece "The Dwarf Lords." As originally stated, it takes the melodic Dwarven harmonies and turns them major: A-G.
|-
|42
|'''Hobbits, kinetic version'''
|This sequences the initial 1-2-3 rise of the Hobbits [14.1] over canonical imitation of the accompaniment [14.3] in quavers and semiquavers. It depicts Bilbo rushing out of his door, and Merry and Pippin rushing through the cornfield.
|-
|43
|'''Moria danger motif'''
|Two figures depict the dangers of Moria: a minor scale voices in parallel fifths, and a perfect fifth dropping to the tritone.
|-
|44
|'''Battle with Azog'''
|A similar figure in parallel fourths depicts the battle of Azanulbizar. It returns for the confrontation with Azog in the ''Battle of the Five Armies''.
|-
|45
|'''First danger motif (Azog form)'''
|This theme is a pair of descending thirds, therefore a melodic form of the Ring chords. Here, they are major thirds an augmented second apart, thus outlining the Phrygian Dominant mode of Sauron. Azog's form concludes with a chromatic "barb" evoking his crude prosthetic arm. But it also appears for Azog's pack, Bolg and later the army he leads to the Erebor valley.
|-
|46
|'''Second tragic theme'''
|After the battle of Azanulbizar, this theme appears after Thorin's, answering his rising scale with a falling scale that accomodates upon itself. In doing so, it falls a major second, then falls and rises a minor one. This will appear increasingly by itself in ''The Battle of the Five Armies,'' always depicting death and tragedy (for instance, when Legolas speaks about his mother's death). In Fellowship of the Ring, the notes turn into a figure that rises and drops a minor second, then falls and rises a major second. This always depicts the suffering incurred by the War of the Ring.
|-
|47
|'''Wizards'''
|Another falling minor scale figure depicts the five Wizards. Naturally, it mostly appears with Gandalf, as when he arrives at Goblintown or during his parting with Bilbo in ''An Unexpected Journey''. But it also appears with Radagast.
|-
|48
|'''Radagast'''
|This nervous melody in major and minor seconds, only appears on album. But its accompaniments are heard in the film during Radagast's scenes, as well as when Bilbo escapes Goblintown.
|-
|49
|'''Mirkwood'''
|This line also alternates major and mind seconds. It depicts the shadow falling over Mirkwood. In The Desolation of Smaug, it becomes the definitive Mirkwood theme, reshaping [46]. This almost depicts the Elven Road, becoming gradually masked by the texture which features clusters, aleatoric figures, bowed cymbals, portamenti and sprechstimme vocals. Similar textures will appear in other places in the scores, always in relation to confusion and danger.
|-
|50
|'''First danger motif (Necromancer form)'''
|The major thirds an augmented second apart are here played slower, without the chromatic "barb" characteristic of Azog. It depicts Dol Guldur and the Necromancer.
|-
|51
|'''Mirkwood spiders, first theme'''
|This theme is based on an eight-note tone row, accompanied by clusters. Both also appear in ''The Desolation of Smaug''. Henceforth, all spider music will be atonal, although Denethor merits similar music in the most intense moments.
|-
|52
|'''Mountain Trolls'''
|This theme, in waltz time, recalls Bilbo's fussy theme, but instead arpeggiates a triad with an added tritone. It thus relates to the later Cave Troll, whose represented by a variant of the Moria music which is also echoed when Gollum brings Frodo rabbits.
|-
|53
|'''Hobbits (developed)'''
|Two developments of the Hobbits theme depict the Hobbits' personal growth, loss of innoncence, discovery of compassion and so forth:

*A fuller version of the original theme, the harmony filled in to D: I-iii-IV-I-IV-V.
*A melodic development of [16.2] with a gruppeto figure similar to [6]. It depicts Bilbo's act of compassion towards Gollum, but also scenes that depict the growing maturity and worldliness of the Hobbits in ''Fellowship of the Ring'' and ''The Two Towers.''
|-
|54
|'''Second danger motif (first form)'''
|This is another rhythmic figure that skips the first beat, but here outlining a minor scale. It has a more dynamic effect than [50].
|-
|55
|'''Main evil theme'''
|This adapts the Ring [4] to the Phrygian Dominant setting of the dragon. Its definitive form is set in muted trumpets and rhaita. Here, cor anglais imitates the rhaita. In ''The Battle of the Five Armies'', a pipe organ produces a similarly reedy sound.
|-
|56
|'''First Orc theme (Warg riders)'''
|This driving, descending minor scale figure depicts Azog company, especially the Warg riders. It appears all through The Hobbit, and then resurfaces in The Two Towers are a descending cluster which first depicts Saruman's warg riders. Afterwards, it continues to represent the artfulness of the Orc armies.
|-
|57
|'''Lothlorien or Galadriel'''
|This theme is also characterized by the F Phrygian Dominant mode. It's brassy appearance for Elrond's company attacking Yazneg's Orcs creates a parallel with the arrival of Haldir's Elves to Helm's Deep (heralded by the same rendition of [9]). The theme also appears in guises that emphasize the pitches of [46], inherent in the theme, or changed to double harmonic minor. When Frodo is struck by a vision of Galadriel in Shelob's lair, the theme is shifted into standard Phrygian mode.
|-
|58
|'''Rivendell, main theme'''
|This theme changes the impediment theme [1] to A major. It is rhythmically altered and overlaid with a melody based on the same pitches. The theme is typically set in female choir and harp over tolling chimes.
|-
|60
|'''Rivendell, second theme'''
|Two figures depict the interaction of Elrond and Thorin: a diegetic piece that plays as the Dwarves dine at Elrond's table (this appears in the orchestra, in a martial guise, when Elrond gallops into Rivendell to the Dwarves' chagrin) and a combination of the Rivendell arpeggios and Erebor horncalls.
|-
|61
|'''Second danger motif (Sauron form)'''
|At the sight of Sauron's mural, the descending thirds turn into minor thirds a minor second apart. This version will continue into The Lord of the Rings. During the Minas Morgul scene, it is inverted into rising thirds.
|-
|62
|'''Second Dwarven theme (definitive)'''
|This theme now acquires its definitive pitches and tonality. Like Thorin's theme, it ascends but more resolutely in thirds spanning an octave. It then restarts on the low A but only reaches up the seventh scale degree. Notice that Thorin and his line are associated with A minor, as compared to Elrond's chromaticized A major.
|-
|63
|'''Goblins'''
|This theme in low brass over a hammering pattern that shifts time signatures (circling 7/5). It appears in all the goblin scenes and, on album, for their reappearance in ''The Battle of the Five Armies''. Going forward, rhythmic themes particularly in odd time signatures, will be associated with Orcs.
|-
|64
|'''Gollum'''
|This theme is in major and minor seconds played tremolando on cimbalom. This compares the spindly quality of Gollum, in his more menacing persona, with the hammered dulcimer that often plays [36]. In the early scenes of ''The Two Towers'', this figure is sequenced up so that it spans two chromatically interlocking fifths: this is similar to the music of Loge, the god of deception, in Wagner's Ring, a similarity that will become important later in the score.
|-
|65
|'''Fishing Song'''
|Gollum sings this song in ''An Unexpected Journey'', ''The Two Towers'' and ''The Return of the King''. In the latter, Gollum sings another song in a same vein, when he gloats over Frodo caught in Shelob's web.
|-
|66
|'''Smeagol (variant)'''
|The interaction of Smeagol's theme and the Ring produces several variants: one first appears when Galadriel mentions a "Nameless Fear." Much later, Gollum's song emerges out of this process: notice that it is adumbrated by the orchestra beginning in his interaction with Faramir.
|-
|67
|'''Eagles'''
|A variant of the Nature theme hails the eagles in ''An Unexpected Journey'' and ''The Battle of the Five Armies''. The album features another idea that looks forward to the eagles rescuing Sam and Frodo from Mount Doom.
|-
|68
|'''Second Gondor theme (developed)'''
|This variant, in E minor, appears in the film when Thorin embraces Frodo. This parallels the climax of ''The Return of the King'' when Barad dur collapses. It is a transformation of a Gondorian theme that appears in ''Fellowship of the Ring''.
|-
|69
|'''Third danger motif (first form)'''
|This theme appears in ''An Unexpected Journey'' only on album. It shares the contour of Saruman's theme [15] and will resurface in ''The Return of the King'' to depict the Orc armies attacking Gondor.
|-
|70
|'''Impediment (variant)'''
|Howard sometimes sequences the impediment chords, inverted, up. This is often combined with other themes, especially the Hobbit accompaniments. This occurs, namely, for both scenes in Bree but also in other contexts.
|-
|71
|'''Beorn'''
|Yet another variant of the Nature theme depicts Beorn and his lands. Now the Am: i-VI chords depict the tread of the bear's feet.
|-
|72
|'''Mirkwood, second theme'''
|This falling figure also depicts Mirkwood separately from the original theme.
|-
|73
|'''Ring "chord" (second form)'''
|The chord is redressed as a sinister, but less overtly threatening soprano solo. It relates to the Ringwraiths entombed in the High Fells. In the film it also appears in Dol Guldur. Later, it is transformed into a rising line built on the same chords, now depicting Mordor's strident power.
|-
|74
|'''White gems'''
|this theme relates the Woodland Elves to Mirkwood via the minor sixth. Since the gems were fashioned for Thranduil's wife, the appearance of this theme when Gandalf sees her statue at the Elven gate is apposite.
|-
|75
|'''Spiders, second theme'''
|This descending figure, which first appears when Bilbo plays with the cobwebs, also returns during the scene at the Spiders' nest.
|-
|76
|'''Legolas'''
|Legolas is associated with an up-tempo version of the Woodland realm theme, but also with string figurations that then adorn the Fellowship theme when he defeats a Mumak in The Return of the King.
|-
|77
|'''Tauriel'''
|This theme is based on a figure that concludes the Woodland realm theme.
|-
|78
|'''Woodland Guards'''
|Since Tauriel is the head of the guard, slow, lyrical versions of this theme acts as her secondary theme. Again, the Woodland Elves are set in "human" scales, in this case natural minor.
|-
|79
|'''Impediment (Thranduil form)'''
|This arpeggio idea contrasts Thranduil's covetousness with Elrond's wisdom, and compares him with similar attributes of Thorin's.
|-
|80
|'''Tauriel and Kili'''
|This theme begins with a duet for flute (a variant on Tauriel's theme) and oboe (answering with a variant of Thorin's theme). This is followed by a choral theme which incorporates the tragic theme, harmonized in "Elven" mediant chords and elaborated with a Dwarven open fifth.
|-
|81
|'''Assertive Bilbo'''
|Beginning as a "Dwarven" version of Bilbo's fussy theme, applying more to the Dwarves' bewilderment at their own rescue, this becomes the theme of the self-actualized Bilbo who smuggles the Arkenstone to Dale in ''The Battle of the Five Armies''. It also depicts his return to the Shire as a changed person. It is mirrored in "Dwarven" forms of the Hobbit accompaniment figures that accompany the inebriated Gimli in ''The Return of the King'': one last ode to Dwarven music.
|-
|82
|'''Bard, first theme'''
|starting on a minor third and perfect fourth, this theme plays on a similarity to Erebor. The Dwarves hope Bard will bring them nearer to the mountain.
|-
|83
|'''Bard, second theme'''
|This chordal device alternates B♭ minor and G minor. It appears in several scenes of Bard's, often but not always with [82].
|-
|84
|'''Laketown'''
|This theme combines figures similar to Gondor (leaping a perfect fifth on D Dorian, then descending stepwise) and Rohan (semiquaver figure evoking rowing).
|-
|85
|'''Politicians of Laketown'''
|This clavichord theme, constantly modulating, relates the Master of Laketown and his aide Alfrid to the forces of corruption that represent Sauron's influence on Middle earth. Alfrid tends to be accompanied with just a fragment of the unabridged theme. The theme also appears retrograded when Thorin and Company are brought before the Master.
|-
|86
|'''Bard's family'''
|First appearing briefly when Bard arrives home, this is a diatonic transformation of the Master's music, similar to Bilbo's music.
|-
|87
|'''Black Arrow'''
|This theme first scores Girion who shares the opening pitches of Bard, his descendent. It depicts the Black Arrow that will slay Smaug.
|-
|88
|'''Third danger motif (second form)'''
|This form ascends through the Phrygian Dominant scale, then curls upon itself. Again, this more emphatic, swelling form is then suppressed until ''The Return of the King''.
|-
|89
|'''Thrain'''
|Thrain is depicted in his deranged form by another danger motif. When he returns to his senses, it is replaced by a slow version of Erebor, punctuated by a harp arpeggio.
|-
|90
|'''Second danger motif (second form)'''
|still skipping the first beat, this theme now appears in any number of forms. These can be sequenced up, down or at pitch.
*'''Ascending scale:''' This is similar to the first form.
*'''Clustering:''' repeated note, then adding a scale degree on each subsequent measure.
*'''Rising and falling:''' This most aggressive form uses the opening notes of the Ring, rising and falling a minor second.
|-
|91
|'''Third danger motif (third form)'''
|This form, which will be the most frequent, leaps a minor sixth, then falls down the minor scale.
|-
|92
|'''Evil (second form)'''
|This rhythmic augmentation of the original theme is another theme that depicts Sauron at force. Once he is driven out of Dol Guldur, it is deferred until ''The Return of the King'' where it depicts the Witch King emerging from Dol Guldur.
|-
|93
|'''Arwen'''
|This theme, which later introduces Arwen in Fellowship of the Ring and again in The Return of the King, first appears in the minor when Tauriel heals Kili. This parallels Arwen healing Frodo. It is a Phrygian line harmonized in F: I-iii.
|-
|94
|'''Smaug's death'''
|This combines all of Smaug's themes. It depicts his flight to Laketown, and his death. Afterwards, Smaug's theme is appropriated by the deranged Thorin.
|-
|95
|'''Bard, third theme'''
|This more heroic theme depicts Bard's new role as the leader of the exiled Lakemen.
|-
|96
|'''Gundabad'''
|This theme also features the rising and falling minor second. Notice the doubling by twenty didgeridoos.
|-
|97
|'''Orcs'''
|The Gundabad theme is always accompanied by five-four beat. This is reshaped for Saruman's Uruks (percussion in five beats, usually accented on the first and third). Sauron's Orcs are depicted by more hectic forms of the same idea (accents varying randomly across the line).
|-
|98
|'''The Ring (chord, transformed)'''
|This idea depicts other characters becoming touched by darkness. It is in two parts:
*'''Rising:''' This inverts a triad with brass adding a ninth to recreate the Ring chord. This appears during the fight in Dol Guldur and Galadriel banishing Sauron. It is hinted at when the Fellowship glimpse Caras Galadhon, and repeats when Galadriel appears wraith-like to Frodo.
*'''Falling:''' the two big statements then descending F minor arpeggios as Galadriel reels back from her episode. This also depicts Bilbo reeling from his Gollum-like episode.
|-
|99
|'''Dwarf warriors'''
|The minor sixth of this idea makes this a Dwarven counterpart of the Elvish warrior theme. It is accompanied by unpitched "grunts" from the Dwarven chorus, a texture that already appeared in the Rings of Power opening titles, and will appear again in Moria.
|-
|100
|'''Mithril shirt'''
|This quartal melody depicts the shirt (which was fashioned for an Elven prince). It appears when Thorin gives it Bilbo, and when Bilbo gives it to Frodo.
|-
|101
|'''Iron Hill Dwarves'''
|This theme is similar to the other major-moded Dwarven theme. The tattoo-like accompaniment evokes the riding of the Dwarven cavalry, and later appears on its own with the chariot.
|-
|102
|'''Tragic theme (transformed)'''
|This reharmonizes the original theme to depict valour and death on the battlefield. It ushers the conflict between Dwarves and Elves, then the offensive against the Orcs, and returns during the sequence where Gandalf and Pippin save Denethor, and the following skirmish in Pelennor.
|-
|103
|'''War Beasts'''
|Azog's horn is answered by this bestial motif, depicting the Trolls and Ogres he fields to the battle.
|-
|104
|'''The Fellowship'''
|This theme harmonizes the down-and-up figure [3b] in D: I-♭III-I and extending it to a nine note phrase. All themes emphasizing [3b] will be associated with the Fellowship.
|-
|105
|'''Third tragic theme'''
|This theme, in rising minor seconds an augmented second apart, contrasts Elendil and Isildur's fall with Boromir's, and later Denethor's.
|-
|106
|'''Seduction of the Ring'''
|This is another variant of the Ring, in a standard minor mode and usually sung by boy choir. In The Return of the King, it is doubled by female choir to depict Smeagol's seduction.
|-
|107
|'''Journey there'''
|This theme reshapes the impediment arpeggio melodically. It depicts the journey to Mordor.
|-
|108
|'''Fourth danger motif'''
|This percussion quaver figure is the most overtly martial of the danger motifs. It depicts the turncoat Saruman overpowering Gandalf, then the forces Sauron fields in Osgiliath and during the Haradrim attack. It returns for the Mount Doom scene.
|-
|109
|'''Strider'''
|This figure leaps a perfect fourth, then ascends another step. It thus reorders the pitches of Gondor.
|-
|110
|'''Tragic theme (Gondor form)'''
|This embellishes the theme by appending a perfect fifth. It appears with Boromir's first meeting with Aragorn, then scenes of Arwen envisioning Aragorn's mortality and leaving Rivendell.
|-
|111
|'''Diminishment of the Elves'''
|This theme for the scene in Gilraen's grave, brings the Phrygian Dominant setting of Lothlorien to Rivendell. It also repeats when Aragorn parts with Arwen.
|-
|112
|'''"Dangerous passes"'''
|This C minor theme depicts members of the Fellowship traversing difficult terrain: Caradhras, the approach to the walls of Moria and – on album – the secret stair.
|-
|113
|'''"Elvish pledge"'''
|This theme parallels the alliance of Celebrimbor and Narvi (as objectified in the Doors of Durin) with that of Haldir and Aragorn, when he shows up at Helm's Deep. It is a sequence of chords outlining a whole-tone scale.
|-
|114
|'''Fellowship (fragment)'''
|This is the rhythm of the second phrase of the Fellowship. It appears in the Mazarbul chamber as they prepare to fight the Orcs. It is implied in the end of the Warg scene, the attack on Osgiliath, and restated in Sam's confrontation with Shelob.
|-
|115
|'''Durin's Bane'''
|By doubling the Moria theme at the octave, Howard Shore creates a sequence of power chords which depict the Balrog in Fellowship of the Ring and again in the opening scene of The Two Towers.
|-
|116
|'''Secondary Gondor theme'''
|This is a more lyrical depiction of Gondor. Triumphant forms depict the reforged Anduril.
|-
|117
|'''Aragorn'''
|This figure starts with the Strider theme, and sequences the opening three notes of the Fellowship upward.
|-
|118
|'''Fourth tragic theme'''
|This theme laments Boromir's death, and returns with every reminiscence of his death. It is also alluded to in scenes with Theoden and the dying Frodo.
|-
|119
|'''Impediment theme (third variant)'''
|This figure compares Frodo and Sam being stuck in the beginning of The Two Towers, and Merry and Pippin near the end of The Two Towers.
|-
|120
|'''Fourth danger motif (fourth form)'''
|This reduces the figure to the opening minor sixth and falling second. In the skirmish with the Haradrim troops it is reduced to a minor third, and this form returns in the attack on Osgiliath.
|-
|121
|'''Saruman or Orcs (second form)'''
|This combines the rhythm of the Ring chord with the contour of the Uruk theme. It appears when Merry and Pippin are marched along with the Uruks, then when a disguised Frodo and Sam are.
|-
|122
|'''Rohan (fragment)'''
|This sequences the galloping quavers so the first pitch is a unison, and the second is raised with every iteration. It appears in both early scenes with Eomer, and a similar style of writing is harkened when Aragorn arrives at Helm's Deep, when he rides out with Theoden and when Eomer is ordered to muster the Rohirrim.
|-
|123
|'''The Fellowship in Rohan'''
|This leaps a fifth and continues in the countermelody of Rohan, which is based on the Fellowship pitches. It depicts the growing allegiance of the members of the Fellowship and the Rohirrim through The Two Towers.
|-
|124
|'''The Ents'''
|This theme has two components: major triads a tritone apart, then a tremolando line in bass marimba and contrabassoon voiced in open chords a tritone apart.
|-
|125
|'''Gandalf the White'''
|This is another transformation of the original nature. It introduces the reborn Gandalf in Fangorn, at Helm's Deep and reprised in the credits.
|-
|126
|'''"Small stones"'''
|These chords (initially F# minor – G major – F# minor – A minor) depict Merry and Pippins effect on Treebeard. Later it assumes a form redolent of Treebeard's tritone progression. It is last recalled in The Return of the King when Gandalf and Pippin have a quiet moment, but this can only be heard on album.
|-
|127
|'''The White rider'''
|This reshaping of the Fellowship theme turns Gandalf, always astride Shadowfax, into "Saruman as he should have been."
|-
|128
|'''The Fate of the Ring'''
|This reharmonizes [47] in D major. It thus turns the Ring's theme major. The basic shape reappears throughout The Return of the King as a melodic continuation of [47] and [4]. When Barad dur collapses, it becomes a fanfare, harmonized by the Fellowship chords, signaling Sauron's demise. This creates a harmonic resolution to Sauron's disonant minor second.
|-
|129
|'''Grima'''
|This theme, always in C minor and sometimes in the "Orcish" 5/4, is a dark counterpart to [134] in presenting one static pitch and one rising pitch: minor third, tritone, fifth, and concluding with a minor sixth dropping back into the fifth. It accompanies all of Grima's scene since Gandalf's arrival at Meduseld and is even hinted at when he stabs Saruman.
|-
|130
|'''Eowyn and Aragorn'''
|Eowyn's attraction to Aragorn is scored with this F Lydian theme. Notice the "sighing" appoggiaturas.
|-
|131
|'''Arwen and Aragorn'''
|an E Phrygian reshaping of Aragorn's theme, accompanied by the Rivendell arpeggio and redolent of sighing appoggiaturas.
|-
|132
|'''Second Orc theme'''
|Two devices depict the Orc siege: a bollero-like rhyhtm, and a reiterated rhyhtm over third-related chords
|-
|133
|'''Gondor (transformed)'''
|This version of Gondor, which replaces the descending final notes with Aragorn's ascending notes, is first heard in the Return of the King trailer. On album, it was hinted in an alternate version of the Fellowship prologue where another ascending version of the theme appeared in D major. Otherwise, this thematic complex - which appears in Gandalf's ascent to Minas Tirith, and in the Pelennor fields (theatrical cut) - is always heard in D minor until Aragorn's coronation. Notice that the original descending phrase also appears in the major, but only on album.
|-
|134
|'''The Ring (second form)'''
|This begins as a canon based on the Ring theme and the seduction theme, when Smeagol and Deagol fight. Afterwards, the Ring theme and the main evil theme are fused into a sinister Ab Phrygian Dominant theme. In the Cracks of Doom, this theme appears in two voices over the seduction theme.
|-
|135
|'''Shire (transformed)'''
|throughout The Return of the King, the Shire music and the Fellowship's become mingled. This initiates a process that culminates in the final Shire scenes: the melody is still the same, but the accompaniment had been reduced to thirds. When Sam returns home, this returns with a transformed melodic line, still in D major.
|-
|136
|'''Dead Men of Dunharrow'''
|This bitonal idea features a bassline similar to Gondor, while the top voices cluster. When the ghosts lend aid on the Pelennor fields, the clusters resolve diatonically.
|-
|137
|'''Meriadoc, squire of Rohan'''
|This theme leaps a perfect fifth like Eowyn's and proceeds in the contour of the second phrase of the Fellowship. It later returns when Merry confesses his doubts to Eowyn. When he stabs the Witch King, the opening leap is recalled, but extended to a major sixth.
|-
|138
|'''Denethor and Faramir'''
|The confrontation between Faramir and Denethor, and Faramir's subsequent march to certain death are scored with this variant of [74].
|-
|139
|'''Shelob'''
|Another near tone-row. It is later spun into a pair of octatonic quadruple figures.
|-
|140
|'''Valinor'''
|The theme of the song "Into the West" appears when Gandalf describes Valinor to Pippin, when Sam hoists Frodo on his shoulders and at the conclusion of the Grey Havens scene.
|-
|141
|'''Hobbits (heroic form)'''
|This theme is spun out of the figure that depicts Sam's fight with Shelob. It later depicts Sam galivanting through Cirith Ungol. Its harmonies depict him hoisting Frodo on his shoulders, and pulling him up from the crack of doom.
|-
|142
|'''Magic Fire'''
|This figure homages Wagner's Loge theme (the interlocking falling fifths) in a form that most closely recalls the fires that guard Brunnhilde's enchanted sleep at the end of Valkyrie.
|}

[[Category:Music]]
<references />

The Music of the Lord of the Rings Films (composition)

2026-04-19T16:31:39Z

Chen Geller:

{{cleanup}}
{{Disambig-two|the music composition for the Lord of the Rings films|book about the composition for The Lord of the Rings trilogy|[[The Music of the Lord of the Rings Films]]}}Howard Shore's compositions for ''The Lord of the Rings'' and ''The Hobbit'', together with work by Howard, Plan 9, David Long and Stephen Gallagher for ''The War of the Rohirrim'', ''The Rings of Power'' Season One and other projects represent a musico-dramatic oeuvre covering about 24 hours of music. This music is based on folk-like melodies, often stepwise; triadic harmony (though not generally stable in terms of key) and massed orchestrations, often ornamented by worldly instruments outside the orchestral replete.

The compositions include:

#[[:Category:The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power (Season One: Amazon Original Series Soundtrack)|The Rings of Power season one]]: Only the opening titles ([[Howard Shore]]) and source songs (Plan 9 and David Long).
#[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]] ([[Stephen Gallagher]], David Long using themes by Howard Shore and Plan 9)
#[[:Category:The Hobbit (film series) soundtracks|The Hobbit film trilogy (soundtracks)]], including the announcement trailer (Shore, Plan 9, Long, Gallagher ''et al'')
#[[:Category:The Lord of the Rings (film series) soundtracks|The Lord of the Rings film trilogy (soundtracks)]], including the second Return of the King trailer (Shore, Plan 9, Long ''et al'')
#Additional pieces for the concert stage (Howard Shore) or ''in situ'' for the Hobbiton set (Plan 9 and David Long).

==Orchestration==
Howard's orchestra varies in size between different pieces. Many instruments are used to colour certain narrative elements and related themes. Taken in whole, and together with instruments utilized by Plan 9 and David Long, it comprises:

'''Strings''': At least 16 first violins (concertmaster doubling hardinfelle, double violin), 16 second violins, 12 violas, 10 violoncelli, 8 double basses. 2 harps (one doubling celtic harp).

'''Woodwinds''': 4 flutes (doubling alto flute, piccoli, recorder, wood flute, tin whistle, low whistle, shakuhachi, dizi, nay), 4 oboes (one doubling cor anglais and heckelphone), 4 clarinets (one doubling bass clarinet and contrabass clarinet) and 3 bassoons (one doubling contrabassoon and contraforte). Also putorino, Rhaita (doubling rauschpfeife), 2 shawms, 2 crumhorns, dulcian.

'''Brass''': At least seven horns in F (doubling Wagner ''tuben''), eight trumpets (doubling rotary-valve trumpets), seven trombones (four tenor-bass and three bass trombones) and two tubas (doubling contrabass tuba). Also 20 didgeridoos, pukea, cow horn, tibetan horn.

'''Keyboards''': one grand piano (doubling upright piano, celesta, harpsichord, clavichord), synthesizer, grand pipe organ.

'''Percussion:''' Two Timpanists. At least seven players on bass drum, snare drums, side-drums (or field drums), toms and bass drum kit, triangle, glockenspiel, gong bass drum, tambourine, taiko drums (three sizes: large, medium and small), cymbals (including a splash cymbal cut into ribbons, antique cymbals, crotales), tubular bells, mark tree, carillon, tamtams, bossed gongs, woodblocks, temple blocks, log drums, slit drum, dudun drum, waterphone, shakers (including eggshakers, cabasa, caxixi and jingles), tibetan singing bowls, goblet drum, friction drum, frame drum, transceleste, marimba, 2 bodhrain, bell plates, anvil, "prepared" piano, castanets, tuned artillery shells, cans, wind machine.

"'''Hobbit band'''": 3 guitars (6 and 12-string, including bass guitar, doubling mandolin, caipira viola, lute, theorbo), 2 bagpipes (highland bapipes, doubling uileann pipes), 2 accordions (mussette, doubling concertina and harmonium), 1 hammered dulcimer (doubling cimbalom), hurdy-gurdy, banjo (doubling banjolele), euphonium.

'''Gamelan''': 1 kempul (doubling gong ageng), 1 kendhang, 4 saron players, 3 gender players (doubling slenthem), 4 kenong players (doubling kethuk), 2 bonang players, 1 gambang. Also doubling rebab, finger cymbals, ceng cengs, hyōshigi, kine, japanese cymbals, monochord, tanpura, sarangi (doubling dilruba).

'''Choir:''' 60 boys, at least 100 men and women, soloists (tenors, baritone, bass, soprano, treble).

==Themes==
The score relies on a large number of recurring associative themes (also known as ''Leitmotive'' or "Leading musical motives"). These appear independent of each other, in two more non-adjacent scenes. Most of these run through the entire series and lend it a sense of musical cohesion. These themes, which also develop according to the dramatic situation, are loosely divided into "family groups" and further delineated by associative keys and tone colour. They are as follows:

{| class="wikitable sortable"
!#
!Name
!Description
|-
|1
|'''"Impediment" theme'''
|This theme is a chromatic arpeggio (A minor: 1-3-5-♭6), sequenced a flat sixth apart. It is usually harmonized in minor triads a flat sixth apart (sometimes retrograded), and this sonority also appears on its own. It is introduced in the ''Rings of Power'' titles, where it is transformed as an F Lydian arpeggio (F: 1-3-♯4-5) over chords a minor third apart. The chords then appear in ''The War of the Rohirrim'' to depict the antagonists: Gm: iii-i Freca, then G♭m: ♭vi-i under Wulf. The definitive theme appears throughout the live-action films, always representing impediment.
|-
|2
|'''Scales'''
|This is one of the basic devices Howard uses throughout the scores. Scalar motion may depict the Hobbits (usually as C: 1-2-3 starting on a quaver) but since scalar motion is inherent in many themes, it is used more generally in the scores, in any key or modality. Later, chromatic scales also begin appearing.
|-
|4
|'''Cluster'''
|This is a version of [2] which stacks the pitches to create a tone pyramid. It is used as a danger figure throughout, until it is resolved diatonically when Frodo awakes in Minas Tirith.
|-
|5
|'''"This Wandering Day"'''
|This walking song by Plan 9 and David Long is reprised a few times. Its diatonicism looks forward to the music of the Hobbits at large. All the themes associated with the Hobbits are diatonic or pentatonic, usually stepwise.
|-
|6
|'''The Ring'''
|This theme is based on the rising and falling minor second. It is stated in strings in a chromaticised F minor, than in A♭ minor, all harmonized in minor triads a minor second apart (F minor to E minor).
|-
|7
|'''Eowyn and Theoden'''
|This theme, voiced in open chords, depicts Eowyn, particularly in her relationship to Theoden.
|-
|8
|'''Rohan:'''
|This major theme is usually set in A Dorian and played by either ''hardingfelle'' or high brass. It has several detachable parts:
*'''Rhythm''': The opening unison quavers evoke galloping horse hooves.
*'''Melody''': This rises a minor third, then proceeds stepwise along the Dorian mode. In the fullest statements, the consequent phrase concludes with a plagal cadence. In the Pelennor fields, this is reshaped into driving triplets, and these then appear on their own. A countermelody emphasizes the falling and rising major second [3b]. Later, the melody is sometimes altered to begin on a major third or even perfect fourth.
*'''Chords:''' in keeping with the Dorian setting, the theme is usually harmonized in A Dorian: i-IV but in the fullest statements this is expanded to i-VII-III-IV.
Henceforth, all the themes associated with mankind will be modal, usually incorporating a prominent leap into the melodic contour.
|-
|9
|'''Eowyn:'''
|Eowyn's main theme is first hinted at in Hera's music. The theme leaps a fifth then proceeds stepwise over C Lydian: I-II-iii. Eowyn's first two scenes feature a similar progression under a scale, the perfect fifth ironed out. When she rebukes Grima, this theme which had since taken to the minor mode, regains the perfect fifth. Gallagher's score features other themes unique to it:
*The secondary theme leaps a perfect fifth and major sixth, then subsides in a stepwise figure. It mostly represents Helm and his sons.
*Olwyn is represented by a lyrical idea in thirds.
*Another idea in major and minor seconds represents Hera's relationship to Helm.
|-
|10
|'''First danger motif'''
|These paired, accented crotchets appear when Wulf confronts Helm. Later, they lend their rhyhtm to the Ring chord, mostly to depict the Ringwraiths, but these crotchets are also used on their own as a danger motif throughout.
|-
|11
|'''Horns'''
|Leaps ranging from a minor third to a perfect fifth appear throughout the scores, either in the score or as horn sound effects. Again, since these intervals are shared between multiple themes, they can be used in various contexts. Howard also frequently uses open fifths.
|-
|12
|'''Gondor'''
|This theme shares the Dorian setting, but leaps a perfect fifth (recalling Eowyn [7, 9], who will end up in Gondor) on D. Later, Howard will set it in rotary-valve trumpets.
|-
|13
|'''Rohan lament'''
|Versions of this lament (composed by plan 9 and David Long) appear both for Helm (in ''The War of the Rohirirm'') and for Theodred (in ''The Two Towers'').
|-
|14
|'''Nature'''
|This theme begins with a major-mode transformation of the impediment figure (over A minor: i-VI-i) and continues into chromatically rising chords. This second part is sometimes used on its own and, in the most extroverted statements, is embellished with unison brass triplets. Both parts are varied for other themes of the natural world. This theme first appears under the letter Gandalf sends to Hera, then appears through the bulk of the cycle to depict nature. In the end of ''The Two Towers'', it parallels the charge out of Helm's Deep with the concurrent Ent attack, and from this point on the theme becomes temporarily associated with the Rohirrim.
|-
|15
|'''Saruman or Orcs'''
|This theme first appears retrograded, as a lyrical triple-time woodwind idea for Saruman's appearance in ''The War of the Rohirrim''. It later assumes its definitive 5/4 setting in trombones. Notice that it reorganizes the pitches of the Ring [6], but now the seasawing minor seconds rise and fall. Later, the theme appears for Saruman's Uruks - the company of Uruks that chase the Fellowship are scored with a harmonized form of the theme's second phrase - but also for Orcs in general.
|-
|16
|'''The Hobbits (main theme)'''
|This theme, along with the Ring [6] is the nearest the series has to a main theme. It is almost always set in D pentatonic or C pentatonic, usually in strings, solo clarinet or tin whistle: this latter instrument is replaced by flute in ''The Return of the King''. It is again in detachable parts:
*'''First phrase''': This rises through four scale degrees, then falls back down. It is typically harmonized in D: I-IV-I-V.
*'''Second phrase''': By sequencing the initial stepwise motif upwards and harmonizing it with D: vii-IV-V-I, this part of the theme depicts the Shire as "the place that makes your heart swell when you think about it."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.woodzie.org/lotr/expansive.htm|articlename=Musical Themes in "The Lord of the Rings"|author=Eric Rawlins|dated=17 July 2006|website=Woodzie}}</ref>
*'''Accompaniment''': the first part is often accompanied by this bumptious outline in fifths and fourths. Howard omits this when a more sobering effect is called for, but he also uses it on its own.
|-
|17
|'''The Ring (fragment)'''
|Howard derives several fragments from the Ring that appear on their own:
*Ascending second: Both in ''An Unexpected Journey'' and ''The Fellowship of the Ring'', Bilbo blows smoke rings to the sound of a tritone gliding into the fifth. This recreates the rising major second that opens the ring [6] but over a major chord: it returns after the Ring's destruction when characters recall it, reaffirming that the Ring is indeed gone. The figure does also appear in the minor as a more pointed allusion to the Ring throughout the quest.
*Chords: Howard also harmonizes this motion as minor triads a minor second apart, or as a minor triad resolving to a major triad: this latter gesture concludes the prologue of ''Fellowship of the Ring'' (E♭: i-I) and both Weathertop (on album) and the walls of Moria are revealed to the sound of fanfares derived from this gesture.
|-
|18
|'''Bilbo Baggins, first theme'''
|This theme reshapes the Hobbits' theme to depict Bilbo Baggins. In the announcement trailer, only its first phrase is heard, but in ''An Unexpected Journey'' it is sometimes extended into a second phrase which, with its melodic leaps and horn scoring hints at Bilbo's more outgoing, "Tookish" side. This phrase is later used on its own.
|-
|19
|'''The Company, main theme'''
|This theme is first sung by Thorin and company (over string clusters [4] in the trailer, ''a-cappella'' in the film), but then appears orchestrally. At the end of ''An Unexpected Journey,'' it is transformed into the Song of the Lonely Mountain. After this, as the quest loses its swashbuckling sheen, the theme is no longer heard. Its harmony (triads a major second apart) is shared between all the ''melodic'' Dwarven themes.
|-
|20
|'''First Dwarven theme (Thorin):'''
|The stepwise nature of this theme depicts the influence Bilbo will play in Thorin's life. As in the announcement trailer, it is often heard as a countermelody for [19]. The theme is not, however, Thorin's theme in ''strictu sensu'': it scores most of the establishing montage of Erebor, and several scenes of the company at large. Again, notice the "Dwarven" Am-G harmony.
|-
|21
|'''Second Dwarven theme, first form'''
|This theme is used more generally for the Dwarves (it's called "The House of Durin" in Howard's sketches). This first form, heard over the opening titles of ''An Unexpected Journey'', combines the contour of the definitive theme with the pitches of the Ring fragment [17]. It also appears during the eagle resuce (only on album) and when the Dwarves reunite in Erebor after Smaug's attack.
|-
|22
|'''Bilbo Baggins, second theme'''
|This theme (A-B-C♯-E-E-G♯-G♯-A-E-C♯-E-D) also appears in the opening titles of ''An Unexpected Journey''. It is also heard, heroically in horns, when Bilbo rescues Thorin.
|-
|23
|'''First tragic theme (transcendant)'''
|This theme first appears during the opening shots of ''An Unexpected Journey'': this creates a sense of bookends with an identical statement in the Grey Havens, when Gandalf says farewel to the Hobbits. It also laments Gandalf's death (Doug Adams calls it "Gandalf's farewells") and is embedded into the farewell from Lorien. But it also appears during the final scenes on the slopes of Mount Doom. It is a chord progression atypical of the rest of the score: A♭: vi-IV-I-V. This results in the top voices rising and falling a minor second (cf. [3]) but then falling another major second. Combinations of rising and falling major and minor seconds, as well as minor scales, unite all the themes that depict Sauron's influence on Middle-earth (also [1]).
|-
|24
|'''The Journey Back'''
|This theme, first appearing over the map transition to Erebor, again creates bookends with the map transition from Minas Tirith back to the Shire in ''The Return of the King''. Appearing throughout the denoument of the film, it depicts the journey back from Mordor. It is a rising scale harmonized in chromatic mediants.
|-
|25
|'''Third Dwarven theme (Erebor)'''
|This theme is three rising horncalls outlining an A Aeolian scale: 1-3, 1-4, 1-5. It subsides in a descending, syncopated pattern that is later also used on its own. Again, it is not Erebor's theme in ''stricto sensu'': statements of it appear for the company, and for Thorin (it is played diegetically for his obsequies), as well as for the Iron Hill Dwarves. Henceforth, non-melodic Dwarven music will be characterized by its intervallic nature, often parallel fifths.
|-
|26
|'''Arkenstone, first theme'''
|In keeping with the intervallic Dwarven style, this theme begins on an open fifth, but then clusters in the chorus [4]. It depicts the mysterious aspect of the stone, but also appears when Gandalf hands Thorin the map and the key: the means towards finding the Arkenstone.
|-
|27
|'''Arkenstone, second theme'''
|This syncopated, B minor string figure first appears with [26] but they become increasingly independent as the score continues. In The Battle of the Five Armies, this idea often appears unresolved to depict Thorin's mounting obsession to retrieve the stone.
|-
|28
|'''Woodland Elves:'''
|This D Phrygian theme depicts the Woodland Elves as closer to Men, but the emphasis on the third degree in the harmony gives it an Elven sheen. Henceforth, Elven themes will be characterized by more "advanced" harmony than the rest of Middle-earth: mediant and chromatic mediant harmony, whole tone scales, chromatic lines, seventh chords and so forth.
|-
|29
|'''Smaug, first theme'''
|This theme is in three parts:
*'''Melody''': The F Phrygian Dominant setting denotes the old age of the Dragon. Henceforth, everything old in Middle earth (Galadriel, Sauron) will be depicted by this mode. The theme emphasizes the rising and falling minor second [6] and augmented second inherent to this mode.
*'''Chords''': This progression (F: I-i-I) sequences [17] to depict the Dragon's breath.
*'''Accompaniment''': The theme is accompanied by semiquavers in Gamelan. The ensemble sometimes doubles the melody inharmonically, and lends its texture to the treasure hoard sequence.
|-
|30
|'''Dwarvish Wanderers'''
|This scalar figure bemoans the Dwarves' downfall and loss of their homeland. It is also heard when Thorin is struck down by Azog in ''An Unexpected Journey'', and during their arrival to the Hidden Door.
|-
|31
|'''Impediment (Dwarven form)'''
|This form of the Impediment arpeggio relates that the Dwarves blame the Elves for their misfortune. It is also heard when, in surveying the Troll hoard, they are reminded of the hoard in Erebor.
|-
|32
|'''Hobbit party music'''
|This Plan 9 tune embellishes the Hobbits' diatonic harmonies with some light chromaticism. It is heard briefly in the Old Took's birthday, and in extenso during Bilbo's Farewell Party.
|-
|33
|'''Hobbits (mysterious variant)'''
|This augments the Shire's accompaniment [16.3] to the contour of the Impediment theme. It depicts many of the early scenes of ''An Unexpected Journey'', and returns in ''Fellowship of the Ring'' when Gandalf glimpses Thorin's map.
|-
|34
|'''Hobbits (folk variant)'''
|This version mostly appears for scenes in Hobbiton, but also in the cornfield in ''Fellowship of the Ring'' and, slow and retrograded, in the concert piece ''Ironfoot''. Notice that, on the theme's first appearance, it concludes with a "fiddle fanfare" as Bilbo realizes it's the day of the farewell party: another statement of the theme concluding with the same fanfare will score the erecting of the sign to the party in ''Fellowship of the Ring''. It is in two parts:
*Melody: this is a staccato version of the Hobbits theme.
*Accompaniment: This "Um pa-pah" rhyhtm is later used on its own and with other themes. The theme is also accompanied by a tapping on the bodhrain drums which also appears with other themes.
|-
|35
|'''Smeagol'''
|This theme, which brings out the pitiful Smeagol side of Gollum's character, is first alluded to when the chords of the second Shire phrase [16.2] turn minor.
|-
|36
|'''First Playful motif'''
|This elides the first pitch of [16.3] and sequences it to create a rhyhtmic figure in perfect fourths that skips the first beat of the measure. It often appears with [34] but both also appear in their own.
|-
|37
|'''Second playful motif'''
|The accompaniment of the folksy Hobbit theme sometimes appears in a cadential form (Doug Adams calls this the "Hobbit end-cap." This is gradually sequenced in a chromatic progression that comes to depict the lighter moments of the Hobbits (especially Merry and Pippin) in ''The Two Towers'' and ''The Return of the King''.
|-
|38
|'''Gandalf the Grey'''
|This wry figure in minor thirds and fourths depicts Gandalf the Grey throughout ''The Hobbit''. It does not appear in ''Fellowship of the Ring,'' where Gandalf's demise is imminent.
|-
|39
|'''First playful motif (first variant)'''
|This melds [36] and [16.3] into a driving figure. It is variously associated with Gandalf's fireworks (in ''An Unexpected Journey'' and ''Fellowship of the Ring''), his Smaug-like firework (the opening credits of ''The Desolation of Smaug'' anticipating ''Fellowship of the Ring'') and the mischief of Bilbo (sneaking out of the Farewell Party) and Merry and Pippin, in the cornfield. This latter statement is reprised in the closing credits.
|-
|40
|'''The Ring (chord, first form)'''
|Gandalf peering threateningly into Bilbo's window merits a triad with an added ninth. Minor triads with an added ninth also appear in the Warg and Goblin scenes. These chords verticalize the Ring, and tend to resolve as a minor plagal cadence (D minor: vi-i). Combined with the rhythm [10] these depict the Ringwraiths, but not only: they appear for Azog (film only), Saruman, Sauron himself, and the Orc armies.
|-
|41
|'''Fourth Dwarven theme (Dwarrowdelf)'''
|This theme, which will usher the Fellowship into the 21st hall of Dwarrowdelf, is first hinted at when the Dwarves introduce themselves to Bilbo, and again when they are introduced to Beorn. Both these scenes feature a 3-4-5 rise concluding on an open fifth. In ''Fellowship of the Ring,'' this is elaborated into a aeolian melody similar to [21], which also appears when the Cave Troll is slain.
|-
|42
|'''Fussy Bilbo'''
|This waltzing, D minor theme contains the same pitches as the Ring, but depicts Bilbo's out-of-sorts mannerism around the Dwarves. Later, it is applied to the Company in general, as when they emerge into Bard's house.
|-
|43
|'''Smaug (second theme)'''
|This retrogrades Smaug's original motif, then ascends chromatically: the effect is more subtly sinister and will also depict Thorin's Dragon Sickness, usually in more discordant string settings. Again, accompanied by major-minor triads built on F and semiquaver figures on Gamelan.
|-
|44
|'''Fifth Dwarven theme (The Company)'''
|This theme, which appears when Dwalin and Gandalf talk about Thorin's absence, repeats during the Hidden Door sequence and when the Dwarves retreat before Azog's forces in ''The Battle of the Five Armies''. It is elaborated upon in the concert piece "The Dwarf Lords." As originally stated, it takes the melodic Dwarven harmonies and turns them major: A-G.
|-
|45
|'''Hobbits, kinetic version'''
|This sequences the initial 1-2-3 rise of the Hobbits [16.1] over canonical imitation of the accompaniment [16.3] in quavers and semiquavers. It depicts Bilbo rushing out of his door, and Merry and Pippin rushing through the cornfield.
|-
|46
|'''The Company, second theme'''
|a more robust, "Dwarven" form of Bilbo's second theme. This appears when Bilbo sets out with the company and when Kili attempts to rescue him from the Trolls, for example. It is elaborated upon in the concert piece "Erebor."
|-
|47
|'''First Moria danger motif'''
|This theme, appearing in the Battle of Azanulbizar, takes a Dwarven perfect fifth and reduces it to a tritone. It appears in the later Moria scenes of ''The Fellowship of the Ring'' and Gandalf falling after the Balrog in ''The Two Towers''.
|-
|48
|'''Battle with Azog'''
|A similar figure in parallel fourths depicts the battle of Azanulbizar. It returns for the confrontation with Azog in the ''Battle of the Five Armies''.
|-
|49
|'''Second danger motif (Azog form)'''
|This theme is a pair of descending thirds, therefore a melodic form of the Ring chords. Here, they are major thirds an augmented second apart, thus outlining the Phrygian Dominant mode of Sauron. Azog's form concludes with a chromatic "barb" evoking his crude prosthetic arm. But it also appears for Azog's pack, Bolg and later the army he leads to the Erebor valley.
|-
|50
|'''Second tragic theme'''
|After the battle of Azanulbizar, this theme appears after Thorin's, answering his rising scale with a falling scale that accomodates upon itself. In doing so, it falls a major second, then falls and rises a minor one. This will appear increasingly by itself in ''The Battle of the Five Armies,'' always depicting death and tragedy (for instance, when Legolas speaks about his mother's death). In Fellowship of the Ring, the notes turn into a figure that rises and drops a minor second, then falls and rises a major second. This always depicts the suffering incurred by the War of the Ring.
|-
|51
|'''Wizards'''
|Another falling minor scale figure depicts the five Wizards. Naturally, it mostly appears with Gandalf, as when he arrives at Goblintown or during his parting with Bilbo in ''An Unexpected Journey''. But it also appears with Radagast.
|-
|52
|'''Radagast'''
|This nervous melody in major and minor seconds, only appears on album. But its accompaniments are heard in the film during Radagast's scenes, as well as when Bilbo escapes Goblintown.
|-
|53
|'''Mirkwood'''
|This line also alternates major and mind seconds. It depicts the shadow falling over Mirkwood. In The Desolation of Smaug, it becomes the definitive Mirkwood theme, reshaping [50]. This almost depicts the Elven Road, becoming gradually masked by the texture which features clusters, aleatoric figures, bowed cymbals, portamenti and sprechstimme vocals. Similar textures will appear in other places in the scores, always in relation to confusion and danger.
|-
|54
|'''Second danger motif (Necromancer form)'''
|The major thirds an augmented second apart are here played slower, without the chromatic "barb" characteristic of Azog. It depicts Dol Guldur and the Necromancer.
|-
|55
|'''Mirkwood spiders, first theme'''
|This theme is based on an eight-note tone row, accompanied by clusters. Both also appear in ''The Desolation of Smaug''. Henceforth, all spider music will be atonal, although Denethor merits similar music in the most intense moments.
|-
|56
|'''Mountain Trolls'''
|This theme, in waltz time, recalls Bilbo's fussy theme, but instead arpeggiates a triad with an added flat sixth. It thus relates to the later Cave Troll (a variant of [47] also repeated in the scene where Gollum brings rabbits to Frodo).
|-
|58
|'''Hobbits (developed)'''
|Two developments of the Hobbits theme depict the Hobbits' personal growth, loss of innoncence, discovery of compassion and so forth:

*A fuller version of the original theme, the harmony filled in to D: I-iii-IV-I-IV-V.
*A melodic development of [16.2] with a gruppeto figure similar to [6]. It depicts Bilbo's act of compassion towards Gollum, but also scenes that depict the growing maturity and worldliness of the Hobbits in ''Fellowship of the Ring'' and ''The Two Towers.''
|-
|59
|'''Third danger motif (first form)'''
|This is another rhythmic figure that skips the first beat, but here outlining a minor scale. It has a more dynamic effect than [54].
|-
|60
|'''Main evil theme'''
|This adapts the Ring [6] to the Phrygian Dominant setting of the dragon. Its definitive form is set in muted trumpets and rhaita. Here, cor anglais imitates the rhaita. In ''The Battle of the Five Armies'', a pipe organ produces a similarly reedy sound.
|-
|61
|'''First Orc theme (Warg riders)'''
|This driving, descending minor scale figure depicts Azog company, especially the Warg riders. It appears all through The Hobbit, and then resurfaces in The Two Towers are a descending cluster which first depicts Saruman's warg riders. Afterwards, it continues to represent the artfulness of the Orc armies.
|-
|62
|'''Lothlorien or Galadriel'''
|This theme is also characterized by the F Phrygian Dominant mode. It's brassy appearance for Elrond's company attacking Yazneg's Orcs creates a parallel with the arrival of Haldir's Elves to Helm's Deep (heralded by the same rendition of [11]). The theme also appears in guises that emphasize the pitches of [50], inherent in the theme, or changed to double harmonic minor. When Frodo is struck by a vision of Galadriel in Shelob's lair, the theme is shifted into standard Phrygian mode.
|-
|63
|'''Rivendell, main theme'''
|This theme changes the impediment theme [1] to A major. It is rhythmically altered and overlaid with a melody based on the same pitches. The theme is typically set in female choir and harp over tolling chimes.
|-
|64
|'''Rivendell, second theme'''
|This theme first appears in a martial guise when Elrond's riders stride into Rivendell, inadvertently antagonizing the Dwarves. It is soon repeated diegetically on wood flute, lute, theorbo and harp.
|-
|65
|'''Erebor-Rivendell hybrid'''
|This puts Rivendell's arpeggios in the low, "dwarven" strings and the Erebor horncalls in the high "Elven" choir. It ostensibly depicts the moonlight revealing the moon runes, then the Hidden Door. But it also appears when Thorin lingers over the defeated Azog. The same pride that almost stopped him from giving the map to Elrond, will be his downfall as Gandalf warned.
|-
|66
|'''Second danger motif (Sauron form)'''
|At the sight of Sauron's mural, the descending thirds turn into minor thirds a minor second apart. This version will continue into The Lord of the Rings. During the Minas Morgul scene, it is inverted into rising thirds.
|-
|67
|'''Second Dwarven theme (definitive)'''
|This theme now acquires its definitive pitches and tonality. Like Thorin's theme, it ascends but more resolutely in thirds spanning an octave. It then restarts on the low A but only reaches up the seventh scale degree. Notice that Thorin and his line are associated with A minor, as compared to Elrond's chromaticized A major.
|-
|68
|'''Goblins'''
|This theme in low brass over a hammering pattern that shifts time signatures (circling 7/5). It appears in all the goblin scenes and, on album, for their reappearance in ''The Battle of the Five Armies''. Going forward, rhythmic themes particularly in odd time signatures, will be associated with Orcs.
|-
|69
|'''Gollum'''
|This theme is in major and minor seconds played tremolando on cimbalom. This compares the spindly quality of Gollum, in his more menacing persona, with the hammered dulcimer that often plays [36]. In the early scenes of ''The Two Towers'', this figure is sequenced up so that it spans two chromatically interlocking fifths: this is similar to the music of Loge, the god of deception, in Wagner's Ring, a similarity that will become important later in the score.
|-
|70
|'''Fishing Song'''
|Gollum sings this song in ''An Unexpected Journey'', ''The Two Towers'' and ''The Return of the King''. In the latter, Gollum sings another song in a same vein, when he gloats over Frodo caught in Shelob's web.
|-
|71
|'''Smeagol (variant)'''
|The riddle scene in ''An Unexpected Journey'' begins combining Smeagol's theme [35] with that of the Ring [6]. This relationship is further explored in ''The Two Towers'', and in effect culminates in Gollum's Song (itself prefigured in the sewer scenes).
|-
|72
|'''Eagles'''
|A variant of the Nature theme hails the eagles in ''An Unexpected Journey'' and ''The Battle of the Five Armies''. The album features another idea that looks forward to the eagles rescuing Sam and Frodo from Mount Doom.
|-
|73
|'''Second Gondor theme (developed)'''
|This variant, in E minor, appears in the film when Thorin embraces Frodo. This parallels the climax of ''The Return of the King'' when Barad dur collapses. It is a transformation of a Gondorian theme that appears in ''Fellowship of the Ring''.
|-
|74
|'''Fourth danger motif (first form)'''
|This theme appears in ''An Unexpected Journey'' only on album. It shares the contour of Saruman's theme [15] and will resurface in ''The Return of the King'' to depict the Orc armies attacking Gondor.
|-
|75
|'''Impediment (variant)'''
|Howard sometimes sequences the impediment chords, inverted, up. This is often combined with other themes, especially the Hobbit accompaniments. This occurs, namely, for both scenes in Bree but also in other contexts.
|-
|76
|'''Beorn'''
|Yet another variant of the Nature theme depicts Beorn and his lands. Now the Am: i-VI chords depict the tread of the bear's feet.
|-
|77
|'''Mirkwood, second theme'''
|This falling figure also depicts Mirkwood separately from the original theme.
|-
|78
|'''Ring "chord" (second form)'''
|The chord is redressed as a sinister, but less overtly threatening soprano solo. It relates to the Ringwraiths entombed in the High Fells. In the film it also appears in Dol Guldur. Later, it is transformed into a rising line built on the same chords, now depicting Mordor's strident power.
|-
|79
|'''White gems'''
|this theme relates the Woodland Elves to Mirkwood via the minor sixth. Since the gems were fashioned for Thranduil's wife, the appearance of this theme when Gandalf sees her statue at the Elven gate is apposite.
|-
|80
|'''Spiders, second theme'''
|This descending figure, which first appears when Bilbo plays with the cobwebs, also returns during the scene at the Spiders' nest.
|-
|81
|'''Legolas'''
|Legolas is associated with an up-tempo version of the Woodland realm theme, but also with string figurations that then adorn the Fellowship theme when he defeats a Mumak in The Return of the King.
|-
|82
|'''Tauriel'''
|This theme is based on a figure that concludes the Woodland realm theme.
|-
|83
|'''Woodland Guards'''
|Since Tauriel is the head of the guard, slow, lyrical versions of this theme acts as her secondary theme. Again, the Woodland Elves are set in "human" scales, in this case natural minor.
|-
|84
|'''Impediment (Thranduil form)'''
|This arpeggio idea contrasts Thranduil's covetousness with Elrond's wisdom, and compares him with similar attributes of Thorin's.
|-
|85
|'''Tauriel and Kili'''
|This theme begins with a duet for flute (a variant on Tauriel's theme) and oboe (answering with a variant of Thorin's theme). This is followed by a choral theme which incorporates the tragic theme, harmonized in "Elven" mediant chords and elaborated with a Dwarven open fifth.
|-
|86
|'''Assertive Bilbo'''
|Beginning as a "Dwarven" version of Bilbo's fussy theme, applying more to the Dwarves' bewilderment at their own rescue, this becomes the theme of the self-actualized Bilbo who smuggles the Arkenstone to Dale in ''The Battle of the Five Armies''. It also depicts his return to the Shire as a changed person. It is mirrored in "Dwarven" forms of the Hobbit accompaniment figures that accompany the inebriated Gimli in ''The Return of the King'': one last ode to Dwarven music.
|-
|87
|'''Bard, first theme'''
|starting on a minor third and perfect fourth, this theme plays on a similarity to Erebor. The Dwarves hope Bard will bring them nearer to the mountain.
|-
|88
|'''Bard, second theme'''
|This chordal device alternates B♭ minor and G minor. It appears in several scenes of Bard's, often but not always with [87].
|-
|89
|'''Laketown'''
|This theme combines figures similar to Gondor (leaping a perfect fifth on D Dorian, then descending stepwise) and Rohan (semiquaver figure evoking rowing).
|-
|90
|'''Politicians of Laketown'''
|This clavichord theme, constantly modulating, relates the Master of Laketown and his aide Alfrid to the forces of corruption that represent Sauron's influence on Middle earth. Alfrid tends to be accompanied with just a fragment of the unabridged theme. The theme also appears retrograded when Thorin and Company are brought before the Master.
|-
|91
|'''Bard's family'''
|First appearing briefly when Bard arrives home, this is a diatonic transformation of the Master's music, similar to Bilbo's music.
|-
|92
|'''Black Arrow'''
|This theme first scores Girion who shares the opening pitches of Bard, his descendent. It depicts the Black Arrow that will slay Smaug.
|-
|93
|'''Fourth danger motif (second form)'''
|This form ascends through the Phrygian Dominant scale, then curls upon itself. Again, this more emphatic, swelling form is then suppressed until ''The Return of the King''.
|-
|94
|'''Thrain'''
|Thrain is depicted in his deranged form by another danger motif. When he returns to his senses, it is replaced by a slow version of Erebor, punctuated by a harp arpeggio.
|-
|95
|'''Third danger motif (second form)'''
|still skipping the first beat, this theme now appears in any number of forms. These can be sequenced up, down or at pitch.
*'''Ascending scale:''' This is similar to the first form.
*'''Clustering:''' repeated note, then adding a scale degree on each subsequent measure.
*'''Rising and falling:''' This most aggressive form uses the opening notes of the Ring [3a], rising and falling a minor second.
|-
|96
|'''Fourth danger motif (third form)'''
|This form, which will be the most frequent, leaps a minor sixth, then falls down the minor scale.
|-
|97
|'''Evil (second form)'''
|This rhythmic augmentation of the original theme is another theme that depicts Sauron at force. Once he is driven out of Dol Guldur, it is deferred until ''The Return of the King'' where it depicts the Witch King emerging from Dol Guldur.
|-
|98
|'''Arwen'''
|This theme, which later introduces Arwen in Fellowship of the Ring and again in The Return of the King, first appears in the minor when Tauriel heals Kili. This parallels Arwen healing Frodo. It is a Phrygian line harmonized in F: I-iii.
|-
|99
|'''Smaug's death'''
|This combines all of Smaug's themes. It depicts his flight to Laketown, and his death. Afterwards, Smaug's theme is appropriated by the deranged Thorin.
|-
|100
|'''Bard, third theme'''
|This more heroic theme depicts Bard's new role as the leader of the exiled Lakemen.
|-
|101
|'''Gundabad'''
|This theme also features the rising and falling minor second. Notice the doubling by twenty didgeridoos.
|-
|102
|'''Orcs'''
|The Gundabad theme is always accompanied by five-four beat. This is reshaped for Saruman's Uruks (percussion in five beats, usually accented on the first and third). Sauron's Orcs are depicted by more hectic forms of the same idea (accents varying randomly across the line).
|-
|103
|'''The Ring (chord, transformed)'''
|This idea depicts other characters becoming touched by darkness. It is in two parts:
*'''Rising:''' This inverts a triad with brass adding a ninth to recreate the Ring chord. This appears during the fight in Dol Guldur and Galadriel banishing Sauron. It is hinted at when the Fellowship glimpse Caras Galadhon, and repeats when Galadriel appears wraith-like to Frodo.
*'''Falling:''' the two big statements then descending F minor arpeggios as Galadriel reels back from her episode. This also depicts Bilbo reeling from his Gollum-like episode.
|-
|104
|'''Dwarf warriors'''
|The minor sixth of this idea makes this a Dwarven counterpart of the Elvish warrior theme. It is accompanied by unpitched "grunts" from the Dwarven chorus, a texture that already appeared in the Rings of Power opening titles, and will appear again in Moria.
|-
|105
|'''Mithril shirt'''
|This quartal melody depicts the shirt (which was fashioned for an Elven prince). It appears when Thorin gives it Bilbo, and when Bilbo gives it to Frodo.
|-
|106
|'''Iron Hill Dwarves'''
|This theme is similar to the other major-moded Dwarven theme. The tattoo-like accompaniment evokes the riding of the Dwarven cavalry, and later appears on its own with the chariot.
|-
|107
|'''Tragic theme (transformed)'''
|This reharmonizes the original theme to depict valour and death on the battlefield. It ushers the conflict between Dwarves and Elves, then the offensive against the Orcs, and returns during the sequence where Gandalf and Pippin save Denethor, and the following skirmish in Pelennor.
|-
|108
|'''War Beasts'''
|Azog's horn is answered by this bestial motif, depicting the Trolls and Ogres he fields to the battle.
|-
|109
|'''The Fellowship'''
|This theme harmonizes the down-and-up figure [3b] in D: I-♭III-I and extending it to a nine note phrase. All themes emphasizing [3b] will be associated with the Fellowship.
|-
|110
|'''Third tragic theme'''
|This theme, in rising minor seconds an augmented second apart, contrasts Elendil and Isildur's fall with Boromir's, and later Denethor's.
|-
|111
|'''Impediment (second variant)'''
|This depicts the "Nameless fear" Galadriel mentions. It is reprised in Bag End and in The Two Towers.
|-
|112
|'''Walking Song'''
|Another diatonic song reintroduces Gandalf into the Shire, then ushers Bilbo away from it.
|-
|113
|'''Seduction of the Ring'''
|This is another variant of the Ring, in a standard minor mode and usually sung by boy choir. In The Return of the King, it is doubled by female choir to depict Smeagol's seduction.
|-
|114
|'''Journey there'''
|This theme reshapes the impediment arpeggio melodically. It depicts the journey to Mordor.
|-
|115
|'''Fifth danger motif'''
|This percussion quaver figure is the most overtly martial of the danger motifs. It depicts the turncoat Saruman overpowering Gandalf, then the forces Sauron fields in Osgiliath and during the Haradrim attack. It returns for the Mount Doom scene.
|-
|116
|'''Strider'''
|This figure leaps a perfect fourth, then ascends another step. It thus reorders the pitches of Gondor.
|-
|118
|'''Mount Doom'''
|This aggressive, augmented form of the Impediment theme depicts both scenes set at the cracks of Doom.
|-
|119
|'''Tragic theme (Gondor form)'''
|This embellishes the theme by appending a perfect fifth. It appears with Boromir's first meeting with Aragorn, then scenes of Arwen envisioning Aragorn's mortality and leaving Rivendell.
|-
|121
|'''Diminishment of the Elves'''
|This theme for the scene in Gilraen's grave, brings the Phrygian Dominant setting of Lothlorien to Rivendell. It also repeats when Aragorn parts with Arwen.
|-
|122
|'''"Dangerous passes"'''
|This C minor theme depicts members of the Fellowship traversing difficult terrain: Caradhras, the approach to the walls of Moria and – on album – the secret stair.
|-
|123
|'''"Elvish pledge"'''
|This theme parallels the alliance of Celebrimbor and Narvi (as objectified in the Doors of Durin) with that of Haldir and Aragorn, when he shows up at Helm's Deep. It is a sequence of chords outlining a whole-tone scale.
|-
|124
|'''Second Moria danger motif'''
|This is a rising minor scale in parallel fifths. It first appears when the Doors crack open. Later, it assumes a more menacing form. In the film, it also appears when Legolas espies the Warg riders over the brow.
|-
|125
|'''Fellowship (fragment)'''
|This is the rhythm of the second phrase of the Fellowship. It appears in the Mazarbul chamber as they prepare to fight the Orcs. It is implied in the end of the Warg scene, the attack on Osgiliath, and restated in Sam's confrontation with Shelob.
|-
|126
|'''Durin's Bane'''
|By doubling the Moria theme at the octave, Howard Shore creates a sequence of power chords which depict the Balrog in Fellowship of the Ring and again in the opening scene of The Two Towers.
|-
|127
|'''Secondary Gondor theme'''
|This is a more lyrical depiction of Gondor. Triumphant forms depict the reforged Anduril.
|-
|128
|'''Aragorn'''
|This figure starts with the Strider theme, and sequences the opening three notes of the Fellowship [3b] upward.
|-
|129
|'''Fourth tragic theme'''
|This theme laments Boromir's death, and returns with every reminiscence of his death. It is also alluded to in scenes with Theoden and the dying Frodo.
|-
|130
|'''Impediment theme (third variant)'''
|This figure compares Frodo and Sam being stuck in the beginning of The Two Towers, and Merry and Pippin near the end of The Two Towers.
|-
|131
|'''Fourth danger motif (fourth form)'''
|This reduces the figure to the opening minor sixth and falling second. In the skirmish with the Haradrim troops it is reduced to a minor third, and this form returns in the attack on Osgiliath.
|-
|132
|'''First danger motive (second form)'''
|This combines the rhythm of the original danger motif with the contour of the Uruk theme. It appears when Merry and Pippin are marched along with the Uruks, then when a disguised Frodo and Sam are.
|-
|133
|'''Rohan (fragment)'''
|This sequences the galloping quavers so the first pitch is a unison, and the second is raised with every iteration. It appears in both early scenes with Eomer, and a similar style of writing is harkened when Aragorn arrives at Helm's Deep, when he rides out with Theoden and when Eomer is ordered to muster the Rohirrim.
|-
|134
|'''The Fellowship in Rohan'''
|This leaps a fifth and continues in the countermelody of Rohan, which is based on the Fellowship pitches. It depicts the growing allegiance of the members of the Fellowship and the Rohirrim through The Two Towers.
|-
|135
|'''The Ents'''
|This theme has two components: major triads a tritone apart, then a tremolando line in bass marimba and contrabassoon voiced in open chords a tritone apart.
|-
|136
|'''Gandalf the White'''
|This is another transformation of the original nature. It introduces the reborn Gandalf in Fangorn, at Helm's Deep and reprised in the credits.
|-
|137
|'''"Small stones"'''
|These chords (initially F# minor – G major – F# minor – A minor) depict Merry and Pippins effect on Treebeard. Later it assumes a form redolent of Treebeard's tritone progression. It is last recalled in The Return of the King when Gandalf and Pippin have a quiet moment, but this can only be heard on album.
|-
|138
|'''The White rider'''
|This reshaping of the Fellowship theme turns Gandalf, always astride Shadowfax, into "Saruman as he should have been."
|-
|139
|'''Hobbits (playful form)'''
|This first takes the form of a nocturne as Treebeard puts the Hobbits, sound asleep, in Wellinghall. It is transformed by the Fellowship chords and appears in the subsequent scenes in The Two Towers.
|-
|140
|'''The Fate of the Ring'''
|This reharmonizes [50] in D major. It thus turns the Ring's theme major. The basic shape reappears throughout The Return of the King as a melodic continuation of [50] and [6]. When Barad dur collapses, it becomes a fanfare, harmonized by the Fellowship chords, signaling Sauron's demise. This creates a harmonic resolution to Sauron's disonant minor second.
|-
|141
|'''Grima'''
|This theme, always in C minor and sometimes in the "Orcish" 5/4, is a dark counterpart to [134] in presenting one static pitch and one rising pitch: minor third, tritone, fifth, and concluding with a minor sixth dropping back into the fifth. It accompanies all of Grima's scene since Gandalf's arrival at Meduseld and is even hinted at when he stabs Saruman.
|-
|143
|'''Eowyn and Aragorn'''
|Eowyn's attraction to Aragorn is scored with this F Lydian theme. Notice the "sighing" appoggiaturas.
|-
|144
|'''Arwen and Aragorn'''
|an E Phrygian reshaping of Aragorn's theme, accompanied by the Rivendell arpeggio and redolent of sighing appoggiaturas.
|-
|146
|'''Second Orc theme'''
|Two devices depict the Orc siege: a bollero-like rhyhtm, and a reiterated rhyhtm over third-related chords
|-
|147
|'''Gondor (transformed)'''
|This version of Gondor, which replaces the descending final notes with Aragorn's ascending notes, is first heard in the Return of the King trailer. On album, it was hinted in an alternate version of the Fellowship prologue where another ascending version of the theme appeared in D major. Otherwise, this thematic complex - which appears in Gandalf's ascent to Minas Tirith, and in the Pelennor fields (theatrical cut) - is always heard in D minor until Aragorn's coronation. Notice that the original descending phrase also appears in the major, but only on album.
|-
|148
|'''The Ring (second form)'''
|This begins as a canon based on the Ring theme and the seduction theme, when Smeagol and Deagol fight. Afterwards, the Ring theme and the main evil theme are fused into a sinister Ab Phrygian Dominant theme. In the Cracks of Doom, this theme appears in two voices over the seduction theme.
|-
|149
|'''Shire (transformed)'''
|throughout The Return of the King, the Shire music and the Fellowship's become mingled. This initiates a process that culminates in the final Shire scenes: the melody is still the same, but the accompaniment had been reduced to thirds. When Sam returns home, this returns with a transformed melodic line, still in D major.
|-
|150
|'''Dead Men of Dunharrow'''
|This bitonal idea features a bassline similar to Gondor, while the top voices cluster. When the ghosts lend aid on the Pelennor fields, the clusters resolve diatonically.
|-
|151
|'''Meriadoc, squire of Rohan'''
|This theme leaps a perfect fifth like Eowyn's and proceeds in the contour of the second phrase of the Fellowship. It later returns when Merry confesses his doubts to Eowyn. When he stabs the Witch King, the opening leap is recalled, but extended to a major sixth.
|-
|152
|'''Denethor and Faramir'''
|The confrontation between Faramir and Denethor, and Faramir's subsequent march to certain death are scored with this variant of [74].
|-
|153
|'''There and back again (variant)'''
|this sequences the original motif in pitch. It underscores much of the Grey Havens scene.
|-
|154
|'''Shelob'''
|Another near tone-row. It is later spun into a pair of octatonic quadruple figures.
|-
|155
|'''Valinor'''
|The theme of the song "Into the West" appears when Gandalf describes Valinor to Pippin, when Sam hoists Frodo on his shoulders and at the conclusion of the Grey Havens scene.
|-
|156
|'''Hobbits (heroic form)'''
|This theme is spun out of the figure that depicts Sam's fight with Shelob. It later depicts Sam galivanting through Cirith Ungol. Its harmonies depict him hoisting Frodo on his shoulders, and pulling him up from the crack of doom.
|-
|157
|'''Magic Fire'''
|This figure homages Wagner's Loge theme (the interlocking falling fifths) in a form that most closely recalls the fires that guard Brunnhilde's enchanted sleep at the end of Valkyrie.
|-
|158
|'''Bilbo's Song'''
|This final transformation of the Shire, at the very end of the credits, recalls Bilbo's return to Bag End in The Battle of the Five Armies. Notice that the last stanza concludes with a perfect A major cadence: this resolves the A minor-A5 resolution of the Rings of Power titles. The cycle is now complete.
|}

[[Category:Music]]
<references />

The Lord of the Rings: Shadow of the Past

2026-04-18T16:06:08Z

Chen Geller:

{{film infobox
| name=The Lord of the Rings: Shadow of the Past
| image=
| caption=
| director=
| writer=[[Philippa Boyens]], [[Stephen Colbert]], and [[Peter McGee]]
| screenplay=
| basedon=[[The Lord of the Rings]]
| producer=[[Peter Jackson]], [[Philippa Boyens]], [[Fran Walsh]]
| starring=
| narrator=
| cinematography=
| editing=
| music=
| animator=
| production design=
| studio=WingNut films, New Line Cinema
| distributor=Warner Brothers
| released=
| runtime=
| country=New Zealand
| language=English
| budget=
| gross=
| website=
| imdb_id=
}}
'''The Lord of the Rings: Shadow of the Past''' is an upcoming film written by [[Philippa Boyens]], [[Stephen Colbert]], and [[Peter McGee]].<ref name=":0">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://medium.com/@chenngeller/the-lord-of-the-rings-the-shadow-of-the-past-really-5997dcb01bd1|articlename=“The Lord of the Rings: The Shadow of the Past? Really?!”|author=Chen Geller|dated=29 March 2026|website=Medium}}</ref>

Stephen Colbert, a lifelong fan of Tolkien's novel and [[Peter Jackson]]'s adaptations, had first appeared in cameo capacity in ''[[The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug|The Desolation of Smaug]],'' and went on to host panels promoting the films. In one such panel for ''[[The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies|The Battle of the Five Armies]]'', he made an inquiry about omissions like [[Tom Bombadil]]. Off of this familarity with the filmmakers he was also able to produce a short spoof with Peter and his team, and was emboldened to pursue the idea of interpolating the missing chapters of ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]'' back into the body of the films. This idea, which he worked up with his older son Peter McGee, was pitched to [[Peter Jackson]] around the time that ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum|The Hunt for Gollum]]'' entered active development. Years prior, [[Peter Jackson]] had considered trying to adapt some of the content of those chapters: they considered giving [[Tom Bombadil]] a brief appearance in [[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|''The Fellowship of the Ring'']] - or adding his part in pickups - and discussed relocating the [[Barrow-downs|Barrow downs]] to ''[[The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey|An Unexpected Journey]]''.<ref name=":0" />

After Colbert's pitch, they worked on it together before it was greenlit by [[New Line Cinema]] in 2026. The idea, which is probably one of three screenplays [[Peter Jackson|Peter]] was working on at the time of writing ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum|The Hunt for Gollum]]'', is probably intended to go into production shortly after [[Andy Serkis|Andy]]'s film. In an interview, concept artist [[Alan Lee]] spoke about there being "so much else happening" in Wellington besides ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum|The Hunt for Gollum]]'', presumably referring to this project. [[Sean Astin]] and perhaps [[Billy Boyd]] are already said to have been contacted to make an appearance, and even [[Viggo Mortensen]] (who will not feature in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum|The Hunt for Gollum]]'') said he would be interested in appearing in a later film.<ref name=":0" />

It is unclear what precisely this film would cover. Colbert claims his intent is to be "totally faithful" to the contents of the six missing chapters and to the existing films. But the synopsis speaks of the three remaining Hobbits retracing the first part of their journey, around the time that according to the chronology of the novel they will have met [[Aragorn|King Elessar]] on the [[Brandywine Bridge|Brandywine bridge]]. Meanwhile, [[Elanor Gardner|Elanor Gamgee]] is said to "a long-buried secret and is determined to uncover why the [[War of the Ring]] was very nearly lost before it even began." This latter notion seems to allude to any number of mortal dangers that the [[Frodo Baggins|Ringbearer]] had faced in the early phases of the journey covered in the respective chapters.<ref name=":0" />

==External links==
*[https://x.com/warnerbros/status/2036654308557500560?s=20 Original announcement] for [[Tolkien Reading Day]] [[2026]].

[[Category:The Lord of the Rings (film series)]]
[[de:The Lord of the Rings: Shadow of the Past]]
[[fi:The Lord of the Rings: Shadow of the Past]]

The Lord of the Rings: Shadow of the Past

2026-04-17T21:10:51Z

Chen Geller:

{{film infobox
| name=The Lord of the Rings: Shadow of the Past
| image=
| caption=
| director=
| writer=[[Philippa Boyens]], [[Stephen Colbert]], and [[Peter McGee]]
| screenplay=
| basedon=
| producer=
| starring=
| narrator=
| cinematography=
| editing=
| music=
| animator=
| production design=
| studio=
| distributor=
| released=
| runtime=
| country=
| language=English
| budget=
| gross=
| website=
| imdb_id=
}}
'''The Lord of the Rings: Shadow of the Past''' is an upcoming film written by [[Philippa Boyens]], [[Stephen Colbert]], and [[Peter McGee]].

Stephen Colbert, a lifelong fan of Tolkien's novel and Peter's Jacksons adaptations, had first appeared in cameo capacity in ''The Desolation of Smaug,'' and went on to host panels promoting the films. In one such panel for The Battle of the Five Armies, he made an inquiry about omissions like Tom Bombadil. Off of this familarity with the filmmakers he was also able to produce a short spoof with Peter and his team, and was emboldened to pursue the idea of interpolating the missing chapters of ''The Fellowship of the Ring'' back into the body of the films. This idea, which he worked up with his older son, was pitched to Peter Jackson around the time that The Hunt for Gollum entered development. Years prior, Peter Jackson had considered trying to adapt some of the content of those chapters: they considered giving Tom Bombadil a brief appearance in The Fellowship of the Ring - or adding his part in pickups - and discussed relocating the Barrow downs to An Unexpected Journey.

After Colbert's pitch, they worked on it together before it was greenlit by New Line Cinema in 2026. The idea, which is probably one of three screenplays Peter was working on at the time of writing The Hunt for Gollum, is probably intended to go into production shortly after Andy's film. In an interview, concept artist Alan Lee spoke about there being "so much else happening" in Wellington besides The Hunt for Gollum, presumably referring to this project. Sean Astin and perhaps Billy Boyd are already said to have been contacted to make an appearance, and even Viggo Mortensen (who will not feature in The Hunt for Gollum) said he would be interested in appearing in a later film.

It is unclear what precisely this film would cover. Colbert claims his intent is to be "totally faithful" to the contents of the six missing chapters and to the existing films. But the synopsis speaks of the three remaining Hobbits retracing the first part of their journey, around the time that according to the chronology of the novel they will have met King Elessar on the Brandywine bridge. Meanwhile, Elanor Gamgee is said to "a long-buried secret and is determined to uncover why the War of the Ring was very nearly lost before it even began." This latter notion seems to allude to any number of mortal dangers that the Ringbearer had faced in the early phases of the journey covered in the respective chapters.

==External links==
*[https://x.com/warnerbros/status/2036654308557500560?s=20 Original announcement] for [[Tolkien Reading Day]] [[2026]].

[[Category:The Lord of the Rings (film series)]]
[[de:The Lord of the Rings: Shadow of the Past]]
[[fi:The Lord of the Rings: Shadow of the Past]]

The Lord of the Rings: Shadow of the Past

2026-04-17T21:02:30Z

Chen Geller: Added more substance to the description. Will add citations soon.

{{film infobox
| name=The Lord of the Rings: Shadow of the Past
| image=
| caption=
| director=
| writer=[[Philippa Boyens]], [[Stephen Colbert]], and [[Peter McGee]]
| screenplay=
| basedon=
| producer=
| starring=
| narrator=
| cinematography=
| editing=
| music=
| animator=
| production design=
| studio=
| distributor=
| released=
| runtime=
| country=
| language=English
| budget=
| gross=
| website=
| imdb_id=
}}
'''The Lord of the Rings: Shadow of the Past''' is an upcoming film written by [[Philippa Boyens]], [[Stephen Colbert]], and [[Peter McGee]].

Stephen Colbert, a lifelong fan of Tolkien's novel and Peter's Jacksons adaptations, had first appeared in cameo capacity in ''The Desolation of Smaug''. Off of this, he was able to produce a short spoof with Peter and his team, and was emboldened to pursue the idea of interpolating the missing chapters of ''The Fellowship of the Ring'' back into the body of the films. This idea, which he worked up with his older son, was pitched to Peter Jackson around the time that The Hunt for Gollum entered development. Years prior, Peter Jackson had considered trying to adapt some of the content of those chapters: they considered giving Tom Bombadil a brief appearance in The Fellowship of the Ring and discussed relocating the Barrow downs to An Unexpected Journey. They had also considering filming the Tom Bombadil chapters in the pickups.

After Colbert's pitch, they worked on it together before it was greenlit by New Line Cinema in 2026. The idea, which is probably one of three screenplays Peter was working on at the time of writing The Hunt for Gollum, is probably intended to go into production shortly after Andy's film. In an interview, concept artist Alan Lee spoke about there being "so much else happening" in Wellington besides The Hunt for Gollum, presumably referring to this project. Sean Astin and perhaps Billy Boyd are already said to have been contacted to make an appearance, and even Viggo Mortensen (who will not feature in The Hunt for Gollum) said he would be interested in appearing in a later film.

It is unclear what precisely this film would cover. Colbert claims his intent is to be "totally faithful" to the contents of the six missing chapters and to the existing films. But the synopsis speaks of the three remaining Hobbits retracing the first part of their journey, around the time that according to the chronology of the novel they will have met King Elessar on the Brandywine bridge. Meanwhile, Elanor Gamgee is said to "a long-buried secret and is determined to uncover why the War of the Ring was very nearly lost before it even began." This latter notion seems to allude to any number of mortal dangers that the Ringbearer had faced in the early phases of the journey covered in the respective chapters.

==External links==
*[https://x.com/warnerbros/status/2036654308557500560?s=20 Original announcement] for [[Tolkien Reading Day]] [[2026]].

[[Category:The Lord of the Rings (film series)]]
[[de:The Lord of the Rings: Shadow of the Past]]
[[fi:The Lord of the Rings: Shadow of the Past]]

The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum

2026-04-17T20:05:47Z

Chen Geller:

{{Disambig-two|the 2027 film adaptation|2009 fan film|[[The Hunt for Gollum]]}}
{{film infobox
|image = The Lord of the Rings - The Hunt for Gollum Logo.png
|caption =
|name = The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum
|director = [[Andy Serkis]]
|producer = [[Peter Jackson]] [[Fran Walsh]] [[Philippa Boyens]] [[Zane Weiner]]
|writer = [[Fran Walsh]] [[Philippa Boyens]] Phoebe Gittins Arty Papageorgiou
|narrator =
|starring = [[Andy Serkis]] [[Ian McKellen]] [[Kate Winslet]] [[Jamie Dornan]] [[Leo Woodall]]
|music =
|cinematography =
|editing =
|studio = WingNut films Imaginarium [[New Line Cinema]]<ref name=Gollum></ref>
|distributor = [[Warner Bros.|Warner Bros. Pictures]]<ref name=Gollum></ref>
|released = 17 December [[2027]]<ref name="TheDirect2027Release"/>
|runtime =
|country = [[New Zealand]]<ref name=Gollum></ref>
|language = English
|budget =
|website =
|imdb_id=32328070
|basedon=[[The Lord of the Rings]]
|production design=[[Dan Hennah]] (Production designer)}}
'''''The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum''''' is the title (originally, working title<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/09/curtis-brown-jrr-tolkien-literary-estate-deal-1236526748/|articlename=Curtis Brown To Rep J.R.R. Tolkien’s Literary Estate|author=Jesse Whittock|dated=10 September 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref>) of a forthcoming film adaptation currently in pre-production and set for a [[2027]] release, the first of a planned series of Tolkien films to be produced by [[New Line Cinema]], a division of [[Warner Bros.|Warner Brothers]].<ref name=":4">{{webcite|author=Matt Donnelly|articleurl=https://variety.com/2023/film/news/lord-of-the-rings-new-movies-warner-bros-1235533672/|articlename=New ‘Lord of the Rings’ Movies Set at Warner Bros. |dated=23 February 2023|website=[https://variety.com/ Variety]|accessed=10 June 2024}}</ref>

The film will cover [[Gollum]]'s travels after losing [[The One Ring|the Ring]] to [[Bilbo Baggins]] (as depicted in [[The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey|''An Unexpected Journey'']]), through [[Gandalf]] setting out to track the creature after [[Bilbo's Farewell Party]] (as depicted in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]'') and down to [[Gollum]] intercepting [[Fellowship of the Ring|the Fellowship]] in [[Moria|Moria.]]

It will be directed by and star [[Andy Serkis]], who played [[Gollum]] in [[Peter Jackson]]'s previous films, as well as directing second unit. [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] will produce with his co-writing team of [[Fran Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens]], who will also write the screenplay with ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]]'' scribes Phoebe Gittins and Arty Papageorgiou.

The subject of this film is a longstanding fascination of [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s who developed it quite intensly in 2008 with [[Guillermo del Toro]]. The film is in preproduction with several cast and crew members from previous films already attached, including actor [[Elijah Wood]], concept artists [[John Howe]] and [[Alan Lee]] and others.

==Early Development==
Although the film was only announced in 2023, it had a long gestation period with [[Peter Jackson]], who considered filming this subject since circa 1997, and at least as late as July 2015. During 2008, in particular, the film was in development with a plot synopsis, a tentative budget and an initial cast and crew attached, and drew the attention of further talent like [[Viggo Mortensen]], as well as the press. Elements of this proposed "bridge film" were eventually put into ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' but mostly axed during the early months of the shoot. Jackson also negotiated in 2018 about producing a show for [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon Prime]] about the related subject of the travels of young [[Aragorn]], but ended up producing ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]]'' with [[New Line Cinema]] instead.

===During ''The'' ''Lord of the Rings''===
[[Peter Jackson]] read [[The Lord of the Rings|''The Lord of the Rings'']] circa 1979, and he claims that he "always loved the concept that when [[Gandalf]] leaves [[Bag End]] he goes and joins up with [[Aragorn]] and the two of them hunt [[Gollum]] down."<ref name=":26">Peter Jackson, Philippa Boyens, Fran Walsh, "Director's Commentary", Peter Jackson, ''The Lord of the Rings trilogy'' (New Line Cinema: 2004).</ref> This piece of backstory was also expanded upon in the [[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)|radio serial]], which [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] was very familiar with. He and [[Fran Walsh]] first pitched a trilogy based on [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']] and ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'' around November 1995.<ref>Brian Sibley, Peter Jackson: A Filmmaker's Journey (London: HarperCollins, 2006), pp. 312 ff.</ref><ref>J. W Braun, ''The lord of the films : the unofficial guide to Tolkien's Middle-Earth on the big screen'' (Toronto: ECW Press, 2009), pp. 20, 63, 68-69, 195.</ref><ref>Michael Pellerin, "Completing Middle-earth," Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit'' (Warner Brothers: 2015).</ref> They may well have had the [[Gollum]] episode in mind at some time between that point and early 1997. So long as they intended to start with ''The Hobbit'' (up to early 1996), they will have been mindful of the need to connect the two novels, and while their treatment (mid 1997) doesn't seem to cover the [[Gollum]] episode, it already dramatizes the remainder of the backstory that's given in "[[The Shadow of the Past]]", "[[The Council of Elrond]]" and [[appendix B]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1j06oqh/so_what_is_the_hunt_for_gollum_really_based_on/|articlename=So, what is The Hunt for Gollum REALLY based on?|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=28 February 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> When the project expanded (September 1998) to three films, Jackson tried to finally incorporate this storyline - some eight pages' worth - but realized that he "just couldn't put [the Hunt for [[Gollum]]] into the movie".<ref name=":26" />

[[Peter Jackson|Peter]] nevertheless publicly expressed a desire to film "[[Gandalf]] and [[Aragorn]] hunting [[Gollum]], and his capture by [[Orcs]]"<ref name=":25">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://members.tripod.com/peter_jackson_online/lotr/articles/20_questions2.htm|articlename=20 QUESTIONS WITH PETER JACKSON- PART 2|author=Harry Knowles|dated=31 December 1998|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> At the time, the idea was to shoot this as additional material and add it into the extended edition: although by early 2001 he would have realized this could not be accomodated in the pickups to ''The Fellowship of the Ring'', in 2003 he would still half-jokingly talk about shooting more pickups to "fatten these films out without technically going beyond ‘[[The Lord of the Rings]]’ as the licensed property." Elsewhere in the commentary, he jokes about "spinoff" entries.<ref name=":26" /> Other ideas for this treatment included [[Tom Bombadil]]<ref name=":25" /> and the [[Lothlórien|attack on Lorien]], with the entire expansion estimated at around three hours' worth.<ref name=":26" />

By the end of 2001, The success of ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]'' emboldened [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]<ref>Kristin Thompson, T''he Frodo Franchise: The Lord of the Rings and Modern Hollywoo''d (Berkeley: University of California Press, 2007), pp. 51, 327, 338.</ref> to pursue more films (he was also in discussions to "rekindle" ''King Kong'' at the time) and he had later discussed filming a "''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|Lord of the Rings]]'' prequel", along with ''[[The Hobbit]]'', with composer [[Howard Shore]] and executive producer [[Mark Ordesky]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2006/11/19/24053-peter-jackson-and-fran-walsh-talk-the-hobbit-2/|articlename=Peter Jackson and Fran Walsh Talk THE HOBBIT|author=Xoanon|dated=19 November 2006|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref><ref name=":35">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.rhino.com/article/interview-howard-shore-the-lord-of-the-rings|articlename=INTERVIEW: Howard Shore (“The Lord of the Rings”)|author=Will Harris|dated=27 April 2018|website=Rhino}}</ref> At a later premiere, [[New Line Cinema|New Line]]'s president Robert Shaye told [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s agent [[Ken Kamins]] that they "would want to have a conversation" about the two films.<ref name=":30" /> The idea at the time was to incorporate [[Arwen]] as a female character<ref name=":10">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20230327113046/https://ew.com/article/2003/12/06/peter-jackson-mulls-rings-prequel/|articlename=Peter Jackson mulls ''Rings'' prequel|author=Gary Susman|dated=6 December 2003|website=EW}}</ref> and produce both films back-to-back "in some short order"<ref name=":30">Ian Nathan, ''Anything You Can Imagine: Peter Jackson and the Making of Middle-earth'' (London: HarperCollins, 2019), pp. 827, 835.</ref> after ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'', in order to "complete the set of films.”<ref name=":10" /> Peter was referring to these two films, when talking in the behind the scenes documentaries in 2004 about "Maybe there'll be something we can do." Actors [[Andy Serkis]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2003/dec/09/jrrtolkien|articlename=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2003/dec/09/jrrtolkien|author=Anonymous|dated=9 Dec 2003|website=The Guardian}}</ref> [[Ian McKellen]], producer Barrie Osborne<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2002/12/16/25965-ttt-benefit-with-barrie-osborne-2/|articlename=TTT Benefit with Barrie Osborne
by|author=xoanon|dated=16 December 2002|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> and concept artist Paul Lasaine all expressed interest at the time.

Also around this time, [[Andy Serkis]] goes into some detail in his book ''[[Gollum: How We Made Movie Magic|Gollum: Howe We Made Movie Magic]]'' into how he imagined Smeagol's personality and upbringing. This conception of Smeagol would become imperative for the film all those years later: <blockquote>I was interested in trying to define Gollum's class and status in the community, and had thought that, coming from the wealthiest and largest Stoor family, he would probably never have really worked a day in his life. He probably skipped school and spent time squandering money that he had stolen from his grandmother's purse. It was a matriarchy and his grandmother was the head of his family, so I wondered how we might reflect this. We decided that some sort of neckerchief, maybe made of silk and a little flamboyant, might be a good idea. I liked the idea of carrying through the drug-addict metaphor, implying that he was like a young rich kid who had always had money in his pocket and was able to experiment with whatever took his fancy, like a Middle-earth version of a young playboy or a Victorian dandy.

We also examined the idea of his curious and inquisitive nature. I always saw Sméagol as a loner, not particularly liked, a bit of a Billy-no-friends, and not very good at team sports. He would have been thought of as a bit weird, and he would have secretly dreamed up vengeful scenarios for all the other Stoor hobbits, who completely ignored him. So, to cope with being so introverted and alienated, he became a collector, obsessed with the "roots and beginnings" of things. Objects became more important than people: at least they couldn't hurt him. Physically: I gave him a stoop from constantly looking down. I imagined him to be fairly narcissistic, spending hours fascinating himself by staring at his own reflection in the water while he fished. We decided to display this obsessive behavior through shiny pau shell buttons and little trophies of fish bones tied to his belt, as if he were adorning himself with fetishlike status symbols. Although he was dysfunctional, he was not evil or malicious, just, as the Travis Bickle character says of himself in Taxi Driver, full of "morbid self-attention.<ref>Andrew Serkis, [[Gollum: How We Made Movie Magic|''Gollum: How We Made Movie Magic'']] (London: HarperCollins, 2003), p. 58.</ref> </blockquote>While talking about ''[[The Hobbit]]'' in 16 September 2006, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] said they "have thought about it from time to time" and in fact "spent most of this morning" talking about the films. They talked of how "[[Elrond]], [[Galadriel]] and [[Arwen]] could all feature"<ref name=":11" /> and "[[Gollum]]'s sneaking into [[Mordor]] and [[Aragorn]] protecting [[The Shire]]. That's what we'd do. Love to work with [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] again".<ref name=":11">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/30085|articlename=Part 5: Quint and Peter Jackson talk THE HOBBIT and a potential return to low budget horror!!!|author=Eric Vespe|dated=16 September 2006|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]], hearing this remark in 2012, said it "sounds like a lot of fun".<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2012/03/13/54232-viggo-mortensens-visit-to-boston-part-2-new-video/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen’s visit to Boston – part 2 (new video!)|author=Greendragon|dated=13 March 2012|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref> At the time, [[Peter Jackson|Peter]] had a falling-out with [[New Line Cinema]] who had tipped Sam Raimi to direct both films.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2006/11/22/926-the-new-director-of-the-hobbit-is/|articlename=Sam Raimi to Direct Hobbit Movie??|author=xoanon|dated=22 November 2006|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref>

===During ''The Hobbit''===
Since the rights to [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']] were split with [[MGM|Metro Goldwyn-Mayer]], in March 2007 [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] pitched this to CEO Harry Sloan: he had already heard of it from [[New Line Cinema]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.ign.com/articles/2006/11/14/hobbit-crown-panther-news|articlename=Hobbit, Crown, Panther News|author=Anonymous|dated=15 Nov 2006|website=IGN}}</ref> but Sloan was won over by Jackson's pitch, which was apparently very detailed.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.kristinthompson.net/blog/2008/05/19/the-hobbit-films-pj-and-fw-know-every-scene-every-moment/|articlename=The Hobbit films: PJ and FW know “every scene, every moment”|author=Kristin Thompson|dated=19 May 2008|website=Kristinthompson.net}}</ref> By contrast, Shaye later said [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] "hasn't told us too much about it."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.screendaily.com/new-line-mgm-team-for-two-hobbit-movies-with-peter-jackson/4036350.article|articlename=New Line, MGM team for two Hobbit movies with Peter Jackson|author=Jeremy Kay|dated=18 December 2007|website=Screen Daily}}</ref>

By December, both films were moving forward with a budget of $150 million each: the idea was that [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]], [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] would write and produce and the films will be shot in 2009 for release in 2010 and 2011.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/del-toro-doubles-up-hobbit-103547/|articlename=Del Toro doubles up for ‘Hobbit’|author=Borys Kit|dated=28 January 2008|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> Robert Shaye, Michael Lynne and [[Mark Ordesky]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://variety.com/2008/film/columns/shaye-kept-new-line-afloat-1117982001/|articlename=Shaye kept New Line afloat|author=Anne Thompson|dated=7 March 2008|website=Variety}}</ref> were attached as executive producers until February, when they were replaced by Toby Emmerich (previously head of production since 2001) and Carolyn Blackwood. Actor [[Ian McKellen|Ian Mckellen]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2008/mar/26/lordoftherings.jrrtolkien|articlename=Hard Hobbit to break: McKellen set for return as Gandalf|author=Anonymous|dated=26 March 2008|website=The Guardian}}</ref> assistant Matthew Dravitzky,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://if.com.au/guillermo-wants-old-buddies-to-join-him-on-the-hobbit/|articlename=Guillermo wants old buddies to join him on The Hobbit|author=Anonymous|dated=23 March 2009|website=IF FX}}</ref> composer [[Howard Shore]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/09/28/30045-howard-shore-is-working-on-hobbit-score/|articlename=Howard Shore is Working on Hobbit Score|author=28 September 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/02/24/28408-howard-shore-talks-hobbit-in-switzerland/|articlename=Howard Shore Talks ‘Hobbit’ in Switzerland|author=Calisuri|dated=24 February 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref>, [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]]<ref name=":38">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/10/22/30352-del-toro-interview-part-3-%E2%80%9Ci-love-new-zealand%E2%80%9D/|articlename=Del Toro Interview Part 3: “I Love New Zealand!”|author=Xoanon|dated=22 October 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> and [[Wētā FX|Weta FX]]<ref name=":37" /> were attached to the project. Although [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] hadn't ruled out directing - he later aired the notion of shooting second unit<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20081012042437/http://moviesblog.mtv.com/2008/10/08/guillermo-del-toro-to-fly-solo-on-hobbit-directing-duties-says-no-to-peter-jackson-assist/|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro To Fly Solo On ‘Hobbit’ Directing Duties, Says No To Peter Jackson Assist|author=Shawn Adler|dated=8 October 2008|website=MTV}}</ref><ref name=":17" /> - he soon picked [[Guillermo del Toro]] to direct.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/01/30/28331-torn-exclusive-del-toro-%e2%80%9c99-percent-certain%e2%80%9d-says-nl-insider/|articlename=TORN exclusive: Del Toro “99 percent certain” says NL insider.|author=MrCere|dated=30 January 2008|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref>

Subsequently, actors [[Andy Serkis]],<ref name=":17" /> [[Ian Holm]]<ref name=":15">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080501020820/http://www.mtv.com/movies/news/articles/1586421/story.jhtml|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro Addresses 'Hobbit' Fans' Concerns, Talks Possible Casting|author=Shawn Adler, Josh Horowitz|dated=28 April 2008|website=Premiere.com}}</ref>; concept artists [[Alan Lee]] and [[John Howe]]; prosthetics supervisor [[Gino Acevedo]]<ref name=":37">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/04/25/28747-guillermo-del-toro-chats-with-torn-about-the-hobbit-films/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro Chats with TORN About ‘The Hobbit’ Films!|author=Xoanon|dated=25 April 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> were all attached. They had approached [[Grant Major]] but he declined<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=http://www.artstars.us/grant-major/8/|articlename=Grant Major|author=Tom Lisowski|dated=14 November 2011|website=Art Stars}}</ref> and hopped onboard ''Green Lantern'' with costume designer Ngila Dickson: they were substituted by [[Dan Hennah]]<ref name=":32">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/51948|articlename=An Unexpected Journey: Quint on the set of The Hobbit Part 3 – Beginnings and Endings|author=Eric Vespe|dated=14 November 2011|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> and Kate Hawley.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.whowhatwear.com/living/who-what-wear-podcast-kate-hawley|articlename=How the Frankenstein Costume Designer Brought the Film to Life|author=Madeline Hill|dated=17 November 2025|website=Who What Wear}}</ref> Actors [[Martin Freeman]]<ref>In "The Road Back to Middle-earth", Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit'' (New Line Cinema: 2015), Philippa Boyens recalls proposing Freeman as Bilbo Baggins when she saw him at the 2003 BAFTAs.</ref> and [[Hugo Weaving]];<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.slashfilm.com/504115/guillermo-del-toro-confirms-hugo-weaving-for-the-hobbit-and-much-more/|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro Confirms Hugo Weaving For The Hobbit... And Much More|author=Brendon Connolly|dated=11 June 2009|website=Slash Film}}</ref> as well as [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]]'s regular collaborators (including artists Wayne Barlowe and Francisco Ruiz Velasco<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20081201164150/http://bilbohobbit.com/del-toro-talks-hobbit-in-live-chat/|articlename="Del Toro talks 'Hobbit' in Live Chat"|author=Alex|dated=27 November 2008|website=BilboHobbit.com}}</ref>) were also being sought beginning at this time. [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had first seen [[Lee Pace]] - which he would cast as [[Thranduil]] later - around this time, as well.

"We got really excited," said [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]], "because this second film is not a ‘tag on’, it’s not ‘filler,’ it’s an integral part of telling the story of those 50 years of history lost in the narrative".<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://theplaylist.net/60-year-period-between-hobbi-20080425/|articlename=60-Year Period Between ‘The Hobbit’ & ‘Fellowship’ For Hobbit Sequel Suddenly Gone? Or Not?|author=Rodrigo Perez|dated=25 April 2008|website=The Playlist}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.gamesradar.com/guillermo-del-toro-talks-hobbit-and-more/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro talks Hobbit and more|author=Anonymous|dated=25 April 2008|website=Total Film}}</ref> Although he had a radical new vision for the designs in the first film, <ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080915124607/http://www.premiere.com/features/4642/exclusive-guillermo-del-toro-on-hellboy-ii-page4.html|articlename=Exclusive: Guillermo del Toro on 'Hellboy II'|author=Anonymous|website=Premiere}}</ref> [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] intended to use the second film to affect a gradual change of style towards that of [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]: "We have to recreate a lot of the stuff they did on the [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|trilogy]]," he said: helpfully, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had kept the [[Bag End]] and [[Rivendell]] sets, and they set about rebuilding [[Hobbiton]].<ref name=":32" />

[[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] also rewatched the extended editions with [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]], [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] and intended to watch the making-ofs, dailies "the camera reports... everything," particularly for ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080914124349/http://www.comingsoon.net/news/nycomicconnews.php?id=44254|articlename=EXCL: Del Toro on Hellboy II and The Hobbit|author=Edward Douglas|dated=21 April 2008|website=Coming Soon.net}}</ref> The remastering of ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'' was also begun around this time. This was done because [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] felt that it "has to evolve into the lensing, the color palette, the texture palette, and the feel of the [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|trilogy]]…"<ref name=":13">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/37428|articlename=Quint and Guillermo del Toro chat about HELLBOY II, THE HOBBIT and more!!!|author=Eric Vespe|dated=12 July 2008|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> partially for this purpose, a break was to be scheduled partway through the shoot,<ref name=":31">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080712175117/http://www.ifmagazine.com/feature.asp?article=2879|articlename=GUILLERMO DEL TORO ESCAPES 'LABYRINTH' AND ENDS RIGHT BACK INTO 'HELLBOY'|author=Carl Cortez|dated=9 July 2008|website=iFMagazine}}</ref> which was estimated at over 370 days.<ref name=":31" />

[[Guillermo del Toro|Guillermo]] insisted the second film would add to the series.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wReRe8Si2aU|articlename=Guillermo del Toro: RT's Dinner & the Movies Interview Pt 5|author=OCR|dated=11 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> He said "it’s also expanding and illuminating some of the aspects of the trilogy in a slightly different way, like same characters in a different environment. I find that very attractive."<ref name=":13" /> The idea was that the first film would be a retelling of [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']], including the bulk of the [[Dol Guldur]] storyline, up to [[Smaug]]'s death: the second would wrap-up the remainder of [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']] in its first half, and concern itself with the Hunt for [[Gollum]] and other "bridging" plot threads in its second half.<ref name=":14">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20120831093447/http://moviesblog.mtv.com/2008/10/07/hobbit-films-will-be-one-continuous-journey-promises-guillermo-del-toro/|articlename='Hobbit' Films Will Be One 'Continuous Journey,' Promises Guillermo Del Toro|author=Shawn Adler|dated=7 October 2008|website=MTV}}</ref>

Although [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] predicted the second film would require the most work,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2P0dTo0yNpQ|articlename=THE HOBBIT 1 & 2 MOVIE UPDATE|author=ReelzChannel|dated=7 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> both he<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JVHzVKy_F8w|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro talks about Hobbit Movie|author=Brettmartintv|dated=7 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] showed a particular eagerness towards it, with [[Guillermo del Toro|Guillermo]] calling it a "treasure trove of possibilities."<ref name=":16">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080915084029/http://www.mtv.com/movies/news/articles/1590278/story.jhtml|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro Answers 'Hobbit' Fans' Questions About Returning 'Rings' Cast, Religion And More|author=Shawn Adler|dated=2 July 2008|website=MTV}}</ref> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] was also "really looking forward to developing Film Two. It gives us a freedom that we haven't really had on our [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] journey."<ref name=":17" /> [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] concluded that "the promise of that land is absolutely mind-boggling!"<ref name=":16" />

Referring specifically to [[Gollum]]'s part in the events, [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] said "[[Gollum]] has a rather fascinating arch to go through and his alliance to [[Shelob]] or his period of imprisonment in [[Thranduil]]'s". [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] added that "There's an awful lot of incident that happens during that 60 year gap. At this stage, we're not imagining a film that literally covers 60 years, like a bio-pic or documentary. We would figure out what happens during that 60 years, and choose one short section of time to drop in and dramatise for the screen". Both filmmakers said they agreed that "apart from extreme circumstances, we would never recast a character who appeared in the [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|LOTR trilogy]]".<ref name=":17">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080730161821/http://www.wetanz.com/holics/index.php?itemid=695&catid=2|articlename=An Unexpected Party Chat|author=Anonymous|dated=30 July 2008|website=Weta Workshop website}}</ref> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] later remarked that, in some cases, they'd sooner write around a character than recast the part.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/41848|articlename=Comic-Con '09: Peter Jackson talks to Capone about DISTRICT 9, THE HOBBIT, and the state of the film industry!!!|author="Capone"|dated=28 July 2009|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref>

As of the formulation of these comments in July, [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] said the second film is "too early"<ref name=":13" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5YoRDF12aRc|articlename=GDT the Hobbit 1|author=Garfeimao TheOneRing|dated=14 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> in its development process to know precisely what it might entail, estimating that it would take six months to formulate the storyline for the film.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.ign.com/articles/2008/07/09/exclusive-gdt-on-the-hobbit|articlename=Exclusive: GDT on The Hobbit|author=Eric Moro and Stax|dated=10 July 2008|website=IGN}}</ref> By September, however, [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] claimed they "found what reverberated."<ref name=":14" /> [[Guillermo del Toro|Guillermo]] had expressed reservations about the term "bridge film" from the outset, but by now he and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] disabused of the term completely, having come to see the films as five undifferentiated parts of a greater whole.

Although they apparently made an outline,<ref name=":15" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/10/16/30296-guillermo-del-toro-i%e2%80%99m-so-voracious-about-the-hobbit/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro: “I’m so voracious about The Hobbit!”|author=Xoanon|dated=16 October 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> it seems the film went no further than this. Up until this point, del Toro had been video-conferencing with Jackson and the other collaborators, meeting in person every three weeks.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://variety.com/2008/film/features/guillermo-del-toro-booked-thru-2017-1117991560/|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro booked thru 2017|author=Michael Fleming|dated=3 September, 2008|website=Variety}}</ref> By the time he arrived to concentrate on writing the story treatment in November 2008<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=http://newboards.theonering.net/forum/gforum/perl/gforum.cgi?post=147373;guest=501771554#147373|articlename="Hola"|author=Guillermo del Toro|dated=8 November 2008|website=The One Ring Discussion Boards}}</ref><ref>Alfio Leotta, ''Peter Jackson'' (London: Bloomsbury Publishing, 2015), p. 196.</ref> the contents of the "bridge" film were being gradually edged-out by the contents of ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]],'' to the point that by the time the completed treatment was greenlit in April 2009<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2009/08/03/32999-peter-jackson-speaks/|articlename=Peter Jackson speaks|author=MrCere|dated=3 August 2009|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref> the films could only be described as a two-part adaptation of ''[[The Hobbit]],'' albeit with elements of the bridge film "integrated''."''<ref>Anonymous, "The Hobbit: Gollum, Bilbo, del Toro and Jackson," ''Empire'', April 2009.</ref> Although [[John Howe]] apparently sent [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] some sketches,<ref name=":38" /> and [[Howard Shore]] had musical ideas,<ref>TheOneRing, Hobbit Desolation of Smaug Music Commentary Watch Along, ''YouTube'', 29 July 2020. Esp. 1:12:15. One such musical idea dates back to the composition of ''The Fellowship of the Ring:'' the flat sixth setting of the Hobbits' bassline that's heard when Gandalf glimpses Thorin's map: Howard was saving that as a "portent of an adventure" towards a potential adaptation of The Hobbit, but by the stage of discussing with del Toro he would have realized it would be applicable to the "bridge" film as well.</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/30722|articlename=ScoreKeeper Talks To Howard Shore About THE TWO TOWERS Complete Recordings, THE HOBBIT, And More!!|author=Merrick|dated=16 November 2006|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> no more work was done on the bridge film. At this time, a [[The Hunt for Gollum|fan film on the same subject was released]], followed shortly by [[Born of Hope|a fan film about Aragorn's errantries]]. The latter of this gained a measure of approbation from [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s camp.

Even so, elements of the bridge film clung to the project for a long time: in 2013 [[Philippa Boyens]] said, probably referring to the preproduction period, that "When we started structuring this trilogy we honestly thought about telling some of that. How [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]] becomes the uncle of [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] and take care of him. The story of [[Gollum]]…"<ref name=":9" /> Casting calls had been issued for the roles of [[Primula Brandybuck]] and [[Drogo Baggins]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20201024010428/http://www.movies.spoilertv.com/2010/01/hobbit-casting-call.html#ixzz0btnyJvCI|articlename=Hobbit - Official Casting Call and Plot Details|author=DarkUFO|dated=4 January 2010|website=SpoilerTV}}</ref> with Primula said to be "Prone to letting words and thoughts tumble out of her mouth without pause" while Drogo was "well known around The Shire and is a bit of a ladies man." While Caroline Grace-Cassidy was considered for [[Primula Brandybuck|Primula]], [[Ryan Gage]] was cast in the role of [[Drogo Baggins|Drogo]] and remained attached to it well into shooting, only being recast as [[Alfrid]] around May.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/cate-blanchett-revisiting-rings-role-57193/|articlename=Cate Blanchett Revisiting ‘Rings’ Role In ‘Hobbit’|author=Gregg Kilday|dated=7 December 2010|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> Although both parts were described as "leads" Boyens remembers Alfrid, itself a small role, being bigger than Drogo. The roles of [[Master Worrywort|Worrywort]] and [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]], which was originally rumoured to include him "moving to live at [[Bag End]] after the untimely drowning of [[Drogo Baggins|Drogo]] and [[Primula Brandybuck|Primula]]" were probably rewritten into their present form around that time.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=theonering.net/torwp/2014/03/25/87789-how-would-have-peter-jacksons-the-hobbit-looked-as-a-duology/|articlename=How would have Peter Jackson’s The Hobbit looked as a duology?|author=Demosthenes|dated=25 March 2014|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref>

They had scouted locations for the [[Barrow-downs|Barrow Downs]], possibly with a connection to the aforementioned "[[Aragorn]] protecting the [[The Shire|Shire]]" plot point.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://narniafans.com/2019/08/interview-with-narnia-conceptual-designer-john-howe/|articlename=Interview with Narnia Conceptual Designer John Howe|author=David Sutton|dated=18 August 2019|website=Narnia Fans.com}}</ref> More scenes were planned for the [[Dol Guldur]] story and the [[Orcs]]: they had gone as far as designing a young [[Gothmog (Lieutenant of Morgul)#Gothmog in adaptations|Gothmog]] who would participate in the concluding battle, but didn't utilize him.<ref name=":0" /> Another storyline concerned Itarille (later [[Tauriel]]) and her romance with an Elf lord of [[Rivendell]]: clearly an outgrowth of the original idea of featuring [[Arwen]] in the film. [[Aidan Turner]] seems to have read for the part of this Elf Lord. Indeed, Jackson recalled in 2015 that "We did try to figure out a way to get a cameo, even if it was a cameo, for [[Aragorn]] and actually for [[Arwen]], too: we tried to have [[Liv Tyler]] in the film".<ref name=":0" /> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] remarked in 2013 that they envisioned [[Aragorn]] being "quite young" in the film, but concluded that [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] "could have absolutely played" him at the time. "It was incredibly tempting."<ref name=":39">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TapH7wM8MdI&t=85s|articlename=Philippa Boyens ci parla delle scene tagliate dello Hobbit: la Desolazione di Smaug e di... Aragorn!|author=Badtaste|dated=11 December 2013|website=YouTube}}</ref> It's unclear when the idea finally died out: Philippa claims they "always" wanted to have him in the film, and the scene "invoking [[Aragorn]]" was scripted in early 2013, as a "homage" to their earlier plans.

[[Viggo Mortensen]] had been interested in the project since 2007.<ref name=":43">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/09/18/29885-viggo-mortensen-still-waiting-for-guillermo-del-toro%E2%80%99s-%E2%80%98hobbit%E2%80%99-call/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen Still Waiting For Guillermo Del Toro’s ‘Hobbit’ Call|author=Xoanon|dated=18 September 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref name=":44" /> Although it was reported that [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] had held conversations with him<ref name=":43" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thetimes.com/uk/law/article/hobbit-movies-meet-dire-foe-in-son-of-tolkien-lxnpmnsd2rp|articlename=Hobbit movies meet dire foe in son of Tolkien|author=John Harlow|dated=25 May 2008|website=The Times}}</ref> these appear to have not taken place before 2010. In 2008 [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] said he would "rather do it myself than see another actor finish the job for me,"<ref name=":44" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/12/17/30804-tv-watch-viggo-mortensen-on-night-talk/|articlename=TV Watch: Viggo Mortensen on ‘Night Talk’|author=Xoanon|dated=17 December 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/39305|articlename=Capone has a GOOD chat with Viggo Mortensen about politics, THE ROAD, APPALOOSA, and THE HOBBIT!!!|author=Steve Prokopy|dated=11 May 2009|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> saying "it would be fun."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://ohnotheydidnt.livejournal.com/41460224.html|articlename=Moviefone's Exclusive Viggo Mortensen Interview!|author=Anonymous|dated=25 November 2009|website=Moviefone}}</ref> Other actors from [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'']] have also expressed interest in appearing in the film, including [[Liv Tyler]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2011/03/21/42863-liv-tyler-not-contacted-for-hobbit/|articlename=Liv Tyler Not Contacted For Hobbit|author=DiveTwin|dated=21 March 2011|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> [[Cate Blanchett]],<ref name=":16" /> [[Dominic Monaghan]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.firstshowing.net/2009/dominic-monaghan-ready-to-return-for-the-hobbit-movies/|articlename=Dominic Monaghan Ready to Return for The Hobbit Movies?|author=Brandon Lee Tenney|dated=19 January 2009|website=First Showing}}</ref> [[Sean Astin]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2009/03/10/31356-astin-up-for-hobbit-if-hobbit-up-for-him/|articlename=Astin up for Hobbit if Hobbit up for him|author=Xoanon|dated=10 March 2009|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref name=":44" /> [[John Noble]] and [[Sean Bean]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.digitalspy.com/movies/a434476/sean-bean-on-the-hobbit-absence-theyre-sticklers-for-detail/|articlename=Sean Bean on 'The Hobbit' absence: 'They're sticklers for detail'|author=Emma Dibdin|dated=30 October 2012|website=Digital Spy}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://theplaylist.net/viggo-mortensen-optimistic-about-role-20090401/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen Optimistic About Role In Del Toro’s ‘Hobbit’, Project Extends To A Trilogy?|author=Simon Dang|dated=1 April 2009|website=The Playlist}}</ref> [[Christopher Lee]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://whatculture.com/film/christopher-lee-wants-sarumann-return-in-the-hobbit|articlename=Christopher Lee wants Saruman return in THE HOBBIT|author=Matt Holmes|dated=25 June 2011|website=WhatCulture}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5qGFbBNnodw&t=77s|articlename=Christopher Lee about possibly returning to Middle Earth|author="Rushblogg"|dated=12 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> [[Brad Dourif]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/09/12/29751-brad-dourif-on-returning-to-middle-earth/|articlename=Brad Dourif on Returning to Middle-earth|author=Deej|dated=12 September 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> [[John Rhys-Davies]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/the-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy-makeup-difficulties-explained-john-rhys-davies/|articlename=John Rhys-Davies Reveals Gruesome Makeup Process for Gimli in The Lord of the Rings [Exclusive]|author=Aidan Kelley and Steven Weintraub|dated=9 August 2025|website=Collider}}</ref> and [[Elijah Wood]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/11/16/30565-elijah-hobbit-appearance-concievably-possible/|articlename=Elijah – Hobbit appearance ‘concievably possible’|author=Altaira|dated=16 November 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.firstshowing.net/2008/elijah-wood-confirms-dual-hobbit-movie-details/|articlename=Elijah Wood Confirms Dual Hobbit Movie Details|author=Alex Billington|dated=11 January 2008|website=First Showing}}</ref>

Around 2010, [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] recieved an availability call<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2013/may/28/viggo-mortensen-interview|articlename=Viggo Mortensen interview: 'If I think a film's beyond me – that's a good sign'|author=Imogen Tilden|dated=28 May 2013|website=The Guardian}}</ref> from [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]: "I said sure, if [[Aragorn]] is supposed to be in the bridge story, because he’s not in [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']]."<ref name=":1">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2013/05/30/72294-viggo-turned-down-role-as-aragorn-not-so-fast/|articlename=Viggo ‘Turned Down’ Role as Aragorn? Not so fast…|author=Newsfrombree|dated=30 May 2013|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.wired.com/2012/03/viggo-mortensen-speaks-2/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen Speaks: Part 2 of 3|author=Ethan Gilsdorf|dated=11 March 2012|website=Wired.com}}</ref> Informed that they "can take certain liberties" he said he'd "love to revisit him."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/films/features/viggo-mortensen-interview-captain-fantastic-lord-of-the-rings-aragorn-hobbit-david-cronenberg-a7231826.html|articlename=Viggo Mortensen interview: 'I didn't throw Peter Jackson under the bus'|author=Jacob Stolworthy|dated=23 January 2017|website=The Independent}}</ref> However, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] later revealed that since that call, they "could think of no way of doing it".<ref name=":0" /> Having no further contact, and knowing that "[[Orlando Bloom]] and [[Cate Blanchett]] shot something,"<ref name=":44">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://viggo-works.com/?fromday=1&frommonth=6&fromyear=2006&today=25&tomonth=2&toyear=2026&order=date&page=243&selectedcat=262&ascdesc=DESC&filter=Go&m=on|articlename=Viggo Mortenson Dangerous Method Interview|author=Anonymous|dated=25 November 2011|website=Movies.com}}</ref>[[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] concluded in November 2011 that "[[Aragorn]] is half [[Elves|elf]] [sic] and also lives a couple hundred years or more and he could be in a bridge, but I have to assume it isn't going to happen".<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reuters.com/article/lifestyle/rings-actor-mortensen-unlikely-to-repeat-role-idUSTRE7AM2U9/|articlename="Rings" actor Mortensen unlikely to repeat role|author=Kurt Orzeck|dated=24 November 2011|website=Reuters}}</ref> Although he still has misgivings - "It would make sense if Aragorn was part of the story and he's not"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.scotsman.com/arts-and-culture/interview-viggo-mortensen-is-lord-of-all-things-1573949|articlename=Interview: Viggo Mortensen is lord of all things|author=Chitra Ramaswamy|dated=25 May 2013|website=The Scotsman}}</ref> - he said he would still be open to playing [[Aragorn]] "if it seemed sensible to do so".<ref name=":1" />

===After ''The Hobbit''===

Conversations about making the "bridge film" as a third instalment<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.firstshowing.net/2009/guillermo-del-toro-updates-on-the-hobbit/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro Briefly Talks More About The Hobbit Split|author=Alex Billington|dated=5 June 2009|website=First Showing}}</ref> continued well into 2010:<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://geeksofdoom.com/2009/08/19/bridge-between-the-hobbit-lord-of-the-rings-still-to-be-built-peter-jackson-to-direct-third-movie|articlename=[Updated] Bridge Between ‘The Hobbit’ & ‘Lord Of The Rings’ Still To Be Built? Peter Jackson To Direct Third Movie?|author="The Movie God"|dated=19 August 2009|website=Geeks of Doom}}</ref> In 2012, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had revealed that "a third movie has always been in discussion."<ref>Michael Pellerin, "The Clouds Burst", Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies'' (New Line Cinema: 2015).</ref> These conversations resumed - now with the film situated as a fourth movie - as [[The Hobbit (film series)|''The Hobbit'']] was winding down in 2013. Says [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]]: "There’s enough story there to make a bridge movie, you know, there’s 60 years between ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'' and a lot of things happened."<ref name=":9">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.heyuguys.com/interview-peter-jackson-the-hobbit-the-desolation-of-smaug/|articlename=The HeyUGuys Interview: The Hobbit director Peter Jackson all but rules out a return to Middle Earth|author=Stefan Pape|dated=13 December 2013|website=HeyUGuys}}</ref> In the director's commentary to ''[[The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies|The Battle of the Five Armies]]'' in 2015, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] remained open to the idea of making more films, and mused about what Jackson jokingly calls "A fictitious film 3.5" which [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] goes on to call "The Hunt for Gollum".<ref name=":0">Peter Jackson, Philippa Boyens, "Director's Commentary," Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies'' (New Line Cinema: 2015).</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] said it could include "a few other things that go on which are really interesting" like [[Saruman]]'s search for the [[The One Ring|Ring]]. She elaborates:<blockquote>''[[Aragorn]] really is one who tracks Gollum and ends up...and finds him eventually in the [[Dead Marshes]], and he's taken [[Woodland Realm|to the Elves]]. And he's taken to the Elves, and because of the kindness of the Elves - and [[Legolas]] is one of his keepers... in [[Mirkwood]], and through their kindness he actually manages to escape. Or has he escaped? Or was he let loose?''<ref name=":0" /></blockquote>[[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had kept the possibility of returning to [[Middle-earth]] open<ref name=":0" /> but [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] revealed that they "had zero expectations of going back to this."<ref name=":7">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2024/05/the-lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-peter-jackson-andy-serkis-philippa-boyens-explain-23-years-after-cannes-saved-original-trilogy-1235917510/|articlename=Peter Jackson, Andy Serkis & Philippa Boyens Explain Why They’re Returning To Middle-Earth For ‘The Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum’ 23 Years After Cannes Saved The Billion-Dollar Franchise|author=Mike Fleming Junior|dated=15 May 2024|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://uk.movies.yahoo.com/don-t-expect--the-hobbit-3--to-lead-directly-into--the-lord-of-the-rings-140402150.html|articlename=The Hobbit 3 won't lead into The Lord of the Rings|author=Tom Butler|dated=11 December 2013|website=Yahoo Entertainment UK}}</ref> Their ultimate decision to return to this premise may have been stirred, in part, by other projects: first, Jackson had seen the in-development video game ''[[Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor|Shadow of Mordor]],'' on which [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]] and others from Jackson's crew had worked, and which had nestled itself into the gap between ''[[The Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]].''<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.ign.com/articles/2014/02/20/why-lord-of-the-rings-fans-should-be-excited-for-shadow-of-mordor|articlename=Why Lord of the Rings Fans Should Be Excited for Shadow of Mordor|author=Luke Karmali|dated=20 February 2014|website=IGN}}</ref>

Shortly afterwards, when the [[Tolkien Estate]] (still nominally under [[Christopher Tolkien]]) shopped the television rights, the idea of doing a show about young [[Aragorn]] was pitched, first by Netflix, and then - at the suggestion of the Russo brothers<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-features/the-rings-of-power-showrunners-interview-season-2-1235233124/|articlename=‘The Rings of Power’ Showrunners Break Silence on Backlash, Sauron and Season 2|author=James Hibberd|dated=5 October 2022|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> - by [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon Prime Video]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=http://newboards.theonering.net/forum/gforum/perl/gforum.cgi?post=946980;sb=post_time;so=DESC;forum_view=forum_view_collapsed;guest=206510448#947231|articlename=If you will indulge me in a story|author="Uncle Iorlas"|dated=21 July 2018|website=The One Ring.net Message Boards}}</ref> Upon hearing this, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]]' mind immediately went to the period of the hunt: "If you're telling the [story of] him hunting [[Gollum]], you're getting closer to [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]]."<ref name=":21">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.fandom.com/articles/peter-jackson-lord-of-the-rings-series|articlename=Peter Jackson’s Tips For Casting Aragorn in Lord of the Rings TV Show|author=Kim Taylor-Foster|dated=4 December 2018|website=Fandom.com}}</ref> She and Jackson had also expressed interest in the potential of [[Aragorn]]'s younger days and life in [[Rivendell]]: "He's probably going to have to start young,"<ref name=":21" /> remarked Boyens, concluding that "A lot of the early [[Aragorn]] story hasn't been told."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.stuff.co.nz/entertainment/film/108970711/philippa-boyens-on-mortal-engines-hobbits-and-going-solo|articlename=Philippa Boyens on Mortal Engines, Hobbits and going solo|author=Philip Matthews|dated=16 December 2018|website=Stuff.nz}}</ref> [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortesen]] also got wind of the rumours and said he's open to reprising his role.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/viggo-mortensen-interview-falling-lord-of-the-rings/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen on Falling, Directing, and LOTR TV Show Interest|author=Christina Radish|dated=14 February 2021|website=Collider}}</ref>

Toby Emmerich and Carolyn Blackwood from [[New Line Cinema]] were brought into the fold in the hopes of cooperating on the show. In early 2018 lawyer Peter Nelson set-up "dialogue between [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon]]" to participate as executive producer.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/how-lord-rings-tv-series-landed-at-amazon-not-netflix-1099213/|articlename=Inside Amazon’s $250M ‘Lord of the Rings’ Deal: “It’s Very Much a Creature of the Times”|author=Tatiana Siegel|dated=5 April 2018|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20210308114202/https://www.herr-der-ringe-film.de/v3/de/news/tolkienfilme/news_121920.php|articlename=Exklusiv: Zu den Kulissen der HERR DER RINGE Serie, Her Der Ringe Film (archived).|author=Cirdan|dated=20 June 2018|website=Herr der Ringe.de}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.stuff.co.nz/entertainment/celebrities/108520139/sir-peter-jackson-hasnt-given-up-hope-of-making-the-dam-busters|articlename=Sir Peter Jackson hasn't given up hope of making The Dam Busters|author=James Croot|dated=12 November 2018|website=NZStuff}}</ref> Preoccupied with ''Mortal Engines'' and ''They Shall Not Grow Old'', [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] proposed in June 2018 to review the scripts and put "the creative team together."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://de.ign.com/tv/129313/interview/peter-jackson-ist-fur-das-kreative-team-hinter-der-herr-der-ringe-serie-verantwortlich|articlename=Peter Jackson ist für das kreative Team hinter der Herr der Ringe-Serie verantwortlich|author=Valentin Aschenbrenner|dated=5 June 2018|website=IGN.de}}</ref> In July, Amazon landed on [[John D. Payne]] and [[Patrick McKay]] as showrunners, and before any work could be done, a regime change in [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon Prime Video]]<ref name=":19">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/peter-jackson-amazon-lord-of-the-rings-tv-series-1235193692/|articlename=Peter Jackson Says Amazon’s ‘Lord of the Rings’ TV Series Ghosted Him|author=James Hibberd|dated=5 August 2022|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> in early 2019 resulted in [[New Line Cinema]] being demoted to a "minority licensee stakeholder."<ref name=":20">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/lord-of-the-rings-amazon-vs-warner-bros-1235337625/|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings’: Amazon, Warner Bros. Ready for Tolkien Battle|author=James Hibberd|dated=28 February 2023|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> Although the showrunners had asked to meet [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]],<ref name=":19" /> COVID prevented this from taking place.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2022/02/10-burning-questions-about-amazons-the-rings-of-power?srsltid=AfmBOopmlhLKVkCtSqkuvTTAcUtyQUICWXopTWLQq_1tu4aEf1ICrDLp|articlename=10 Burning Questions About Amazon’s The Rings of Power|author=Joanna Robinson|dated=14 February 2022|website=Vanity Fair}}</ref> While the show used a substantial number of his crew, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] were reportedly "very frustrated that so many believed they were involved with [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon]]’s show."<ref name=":20" /> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had avoided watching the show to prevent "cross-contamination."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.slashfilm.com/1693866/why-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy-screenwriter-wont-watch-the-rings-of-power/|articlename=Why One Lord Of The Rings Trilogy Screenwriter Won't Watch The Rings Of Power|author=Jaron Pak|dated=21 October 2024|website=Slash Film}}</ref> Since then, the show had left [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s home country of [[New Zealand]].

Already in 2019, the show's development had galvanized Emmerich and Blackwood to pursue an animated film with [[Middle-earth Enterprises]] (who were not involved in the show) and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]. The bridge film might have been the "CG-animated" story that [[New Line Cinema|New Line]] "had been exploring with Sir [[Peter Jackson]]" but it failed to materialize and they decided to pursue ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim]]''<ref>Daniel Falconer, ''The Art of The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim'' (Wiliam Murrow: London, 2025), pp. 9-10.</ref>. Later on, Emmerich and Blackwood were replaced by Michael de Luca and Pam Abdy, who were "striving to keep [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon]] from blurring the lines too much between" the show and the films.<ref name=":20" /> Other projects like [[Tales of the Shire: A "The Lord of the Rings" Game|''Tales of the Shire'']], the remastering of the six films to Ultra High Definition and renovations of [[Hobbiton]] were begun shortly afterwards, as well.

After this long gestation period, ''The Hunt for Gollum'' entered development once again in 2022. [[Andy Serkis]] was attached as director in October 2023 and story meetings occurred as early as May 2024, along with early availability calls to actors like [[Ian McKellen]] and [[Viggo Mortensen]] between that time and early September. By that point, the writing of the treatment was underway, followed by the first draft in January-May. After some crew hiring in August, pre-production started in early September 2025 ahead of shooting in May 2026.

==Development==
In 2022 the new administration of [[Middle-earth Enterprises]] expressed a desire to make more films, including ones "based on iconic characters, such as [[Gandalf]], [[Aragorn]], [[Gollum]], [[Galadriel]], [[Éowyn|Eowyn]] and other characters."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/lord-of-the-rings-rights-embracer-1235201442/|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings,’ ‘The Hobbit’ Movie, Games and Other Rights Holder Sold to Swedish Gaming Company Embracer|author=Georg Szalai|dated=18 August 2022|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]], [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] kept updated throughout the negotiations to extend [[New Line Cinema]]'s lease on the rights.<ref name=":4" />

Having "really enjoyed working with [[Kenji Kamiyama]], who directed ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|War of the Rohirrim]]''," [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] signed on to produce two new films: [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] denied<ref name=":22" /> rumours that this involved splitting the [[Gollum]] story,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2024/05/lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-cast-plot-everything-we-know-1235919922/|articlename=‘The Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum’: Everything We Know So Far|author=Dessi Gomez|dated=16 May 2024|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://filmstories.co.uk/news/the-lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-its-two-films-says-ian-mckellen/|articlename=The Lord Of The Rings: Hunt For Gollum {{!}} “It’s two films” says Ian McKellen|author=Ryan Lambie|dated=11 September 2024|website=Film Stories}}</ref> and at various times her and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] expressed interest in subjects varying from the [[Battle of Dale|War in the North]], Young [[Aragorn]], or certain vignettes from [[Rohan]] or [[Gondor]]'s history,<ref name=":23">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1i97ctm/the_next_film_after_the_hunt_for_gollum/|articlename=The next film after The Hunt for Gollum: Everything we know so far|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=25 January 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> but they settled on a retelling of the missing early chapters of [[The Fellowship of the Ring]], developed under the title [[The Lord of the Rings: Shadow of the Past|''Shadow of the Past'']], whose script is probably one of the other two scripts [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had been working on.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.indiewire.com/news/general-news/peter-jackson-not-retired-working-on-three-scripts-1235138316/|articlename=Peter Jackson Is Working on Three Screenplays: ‘I’m Certainly Not Retired’|author=By Rance Collins|dated=13 July 2025|website=IndieWire}}</ref>

Signing on the films was done with the intention to jump-start a new slate of ''Lord of the Rings'' prequels for [[New Line Cinema]],<ref name=":18" /><ref name=":24" /> with [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also expressing interest in making an "epic trilogy", probably about the [[Angmar conflict|Angmar War]].<ref name=":23" /> However, having developed the [[Gollum]] premise for so long, they decided to start with it. Asked about unrealized projects in 2024, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] observed that "there's a lot of that in ''The Hunt for Gollum.''"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9LdzKS584wA&t=614s|articlename=Lord of the Rings: War of the Rohirrim Interviews! Peter Jackson Role Explained|author=Brandon Davis|dated=29 October 2024|website=YouTube}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis]], who played [[Gollum]], had directed second unit on ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King|The Return of the King]]'' and ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]<ref name=":7" />'' and had since become a director in his own right, as well as narrating audiobooks of Tolkien's novels. [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] approached [[Andy Serkis|Andy]] around October 2023.<ref name=":24">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ssUmmuU-Bmk&t=76s|articlename=Andy Serkis Talks Motion Capture, Gollum, and Directing {{!}} Superhero Comic Con San Antonio 2024 Q&A|author=Freeman Coliseum|dated=24 June 2024|website=YouTube}}</ref> While developing the story, they already made availability checks to key cast and crew members.

===Writing===
Story meetings have happened at least as early as May 2024<ref name=":7" /> and by July they were about to start writing,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/comconnireland/status/1835962321211904490|articlename=Andy Serkis took to the stage at Comic Con Northern Ireland to talk all things Lord of the Rings and more!|author=@comconnireland|dated=16 September 2024|website=Twitter}}</ref> with [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] spotted at the [[Hobbiton]] set in November with writers [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] and Arty Papageorgiou, producers [[Zane Weiner]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/05/lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-release-date-1236390022/|articlename=‘Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum’ Sets Pre-Christmas 2027 Release|author=Anthony D'Alessandro|dated=8 May 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> and Carlos Ramirez Laloli.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.elfenomeno.com/info/ver/23481/comienza-el-rodaje-de-el-senor-de-los-anillos-la-caza-de-gollum-en-hobbiton|articlename=¿Comienza el rodaje de El Señor de los Anillos: La Caza de Gollum en Hobbiton?|author=Elfenomeno|dated=6 November 2024|website=Elfenomeno.com}}</ref> By December they had been in the process of writing the story treatment.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/lord-of-the-rings-war-of-the-rohirrim-arty-papageorgiou-phoebe-gittins/|articlename="Who Better for a Gollum Film Than Gollum Himself?": 'War of the Rohirrim' Writers on Working with Andy Serkis in 'The Hunt for Gollum'|author=Therese Lacson|dated=16 December 2024|website=Collider}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] later estimated they would finish writing by the middle of the year - executive Pamela Abdy since put the completion of the script at May<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/04/warner-bros-mike-de-luca-pam-abdy-courage-in-face-of-brutal-press-coverage-1236366618/|articlename=Warner Bros’ Mike De Luca & Pam Abdy: Playing Long Game, Mixing IP Like ‘Bodyguard’ Revamp & Bold Originals & Animation Despite Brutal Press|author=Mike Fleming Junior|dated=11 April 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> - and begin "scouting locations and building [sets]" with shooting due to begin towards the beginning of 2026.<ref name=":5">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.1news.co.nz/2024/12/15/exclusive-andy-serkis-philippa-boyens-on-the-hunt-for-gollum/|articlename=Exclusive: Andy Serkis, Philippa Boyens on new Lord of the Rings film|author=Abbey Wakefield|dated=15 December 2024|website=1News}}</ref> As a result, the release date for the film was ultimately delayed from 2026 to 17 December 2027.<ref name="TheDirect2027Release">{{webcite|author=Klein Felt|articleurl=https://thedirect.com/article/hunt-for-gollum-movie-lord-of-the-rings-release-official|articlename=Lord of the Rings: Hunt for Gollum Movie Gets Release Window from Andy Serkis|dated=27 Feb 2025|website=[https://thedirect.com The Direct]|accessed=27 Feb 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://variety.com/2025/film/news/lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-release-date-december-2027-1236390820/|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum’ Sets December 2027 Release Date; Warner Bros. Also Dates New ‘Evil Dead’ and M. Night Shyamalan Movies for 2026|author=Zack Sharf|dated=8 May 2025|website=Variety}}</ref>

A draft of the screenplay had been sent to de Luca and Abdy in May, probably prior to the investor meeting on the 8th, when [[Warner Bros.|Warner]]'s CEO David Zaslav announced the official release date.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://voicefilm.com/david-zaslav-announces-that-the-release-date-for-the-next-lord-of-the-rings-movie-will-be-revealed-today/|articlename=David Zaslav Announces That the Release Date for the Next ‘Lord of the Rings’ Movie Will Be Revealed Today|author=Mark|dated=8 May 2025|website=Voice Film}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.comicbasics.com/warner-ceo-david-zaslav-says-they-will-focus-more-on-their-main-ips-like-harry-potter-and-dc-in-the-future-those-belong-to-us-and-theyll-only-belong-to-us-forever/|articlename=Warner CEO David Zaslav Says They Will Focus More on Their Main IPs Like ‘Harry Potter’ and DC in the Future: “Those belong to us, and they’ll only belong to us forever.”|author=Arthur S. Poe|dated=8 May 2025|website=Comic Basics}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had since revealed that the film is due to start pre production in August<ref name=":33">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1krwz8d/andy_serkis_the_lord_of_the_rings_the_hunt_for/|articlename=Andy Serkis Panel at Fan Expo Philadelphia 2025|author=FandomWire News|dated=19 May 2025}}</ref> - when the film started hiring crew - then ammended to "late August to early September"<ref name=":18" />, with [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] ultimately arriving in [[Wellington]] circa 8 September to begin work on the film.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://metro.co.uk/2025/09/03/andy-serkis-admits-cant-escape-gollum-ahead-lord-rings-return-24066270/amp/|articlename=Andy Serkis admits he ‘can’t escape Gollum’ ahead of Lord of the Rings return|author=Sabrina Barr|dated=3 September 2025|website=Metro UK}}</ref> Serkis had left New Zealand during the holiday season, attending the premiere of "28 Years Later: The Bone Temple" before flying back to New Zealand: en rote he landed in Los Angeles.<ref name=":41">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.tmz.com/2026/01/20/andy-serkis-wants-original-lord-of-the-rings-cast-in-new-film/|articlename=LOTR' Star Andy Serkis: OG Cast Is Precious, Love 'Em For New Flick|author=Anonymous|dated=20 January 20 2026|website=TMZ}}</ref>

==Pre production==
[[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had further said preproduction will last for six months,<ref name=":27">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.comingsoon.it/cinema/news/in-un-mondo-alla-deriva-gollum-ci-salvera-la-nostra-intervista-ad-andy/n203564/|articlename=In un mondo alla deriva Gollum ci salverà: la nostra intervista ad Andy Serkis|author=Carola Proto|dated=25 June 2025|website=Coming Soon.it}}</ref> with [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] later confirming it will start filming in May<ref name=":12">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1msw9fp/the_lord_of_the_rings_the_hunt_for_gollum_starts/|articlename=The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum starts shooting in May, says Sir Ian McKellen. "I'll tell you two secrets about the casting..."|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=17 August 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> for an extended shooting period:<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-filming-update-andy-serkis/|articlename=Director Andy Serkis Offers Huge Filming Update For 'The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum' [Exclusive]|author=Chris McPherson and Steven Weintraub|dated=10 June 2025|website=Collider}}</ref> This puts the beginning of filming in [[New Zealand]] winter and, deducting the holidays, six months after [[Andy Serkis|Andy]]'s arrival. Location scouting may have taken place at Hawke's Bay as early as June<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1lis26w/a_location_scout_for_the_lord_of_the_rings_the/|articlename=A location scout for The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum seems to be snooping around Hawke's Bay, New Zealand|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=23 June 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> and later at the Waikato.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.waikatotimes.co.nz/nz-news/360837801/aliens-warriors-heroes-princesses-and-gollum-big-productions-filmed-and-possibly-coming-waikato|articlename=Aliens, warriors, heroes, princesses ... and Gollum: The big productions filmed in (and possibly coming to) the Waikato|author=Mike Mather|dated=1 October 2025|website=Waikato Times}}</ref> They had also watched the films sometime prior to November.<ref>Latino USA TV, "How Movie Monsters Are Really Made!", YouTube, 26 November 2025.</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] also spoke appreciatively of [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s penchant for behind the scenes extras,.<ref name=":33" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/gu1jj7/one_zoom_to_rule_them_all_reunited_apart_lord_of/|articlename=One Zoom to Rule Them All {{!}} Reunited Apart LORD OF THE RINGS Edition|author=Josh Gad|dated=31 May 2021|website=}}</ref> and [[Peter Jackson|Peter]] himself had since confirmed they will do "little blogs." In October, [[Andy Serkis|Andy]] revealed that they're developing prosthetics.<ref name=":34">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1og2b4p/andy_serkis_says_all_the_art_department_from_lord/|articlename=Andy Serkis says "all the art department" from Lord of the Rings are "excited to come back." They started location scouting and camera tests.|author=u/Lord_Varys92|dated=25 October 2024|website=Reddit}}</ref>

Since [[Elijah Wood]], slated to appear in the film, is on tour through to early September,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://parade.com/news/lord-of-the-rings-hobbits-25-years-later-reunion-tour|articlename=The Hobbits Are Back Together — and Their Big News Has Fans Cheering|author=Whitney Danhauer|dated=25 October 2025|website=Parade}}</ref> his scenes might be scheduled for [[New Zealand]] summer, which could suggest shooting ''in situ'' in [[Hobbiton]], presumably depicting [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] dallying outside [[Bag End]] while [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]] and [[Gandalf]] argue within, as depicted in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]''. [[Ian McKellen]] is also hoping to join the production in [[New Zealand as Middle-earth|New Zealand]] during July.<ref>The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, "There's Nothing I Enjoy More Than Acting In The Theater" - Ian McKellen EXTENDED INTERVIEW," ''YouTub''e, 5 February 2026.</ref>

===Crew===
The film, said to be "one of the most expensive feature films to be shot in [[New Zealand]]"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/new-lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-film-will-be-shot-in-nz-set-for-2027-release/3BDNB3QFKJDAVGB4ODOTQ63YLY/|articlename=New Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum film will be shot in NZ, set for 2027 release|author=Tom Rose|dated=18 June 2025|website=New Zealand Herald}}</ref> is expected to draft alums of the ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|Lord of the Rings]]'', ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|War of the Rohirrim]]'' (many of whom will have also worked on ''[[The Rings of Power]]'' Season One and other projects) working in the [[Wellington]] and greater New Zealand screen sector.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thepost.co.nz/nz-news/350274670/film-heavyweights-alight-over-lotr-comeback|articlename=Film heavyweights ‘alight’ over LOTR comeback|author=Rachel Thomas|dated=10 May 2024|website=The New Zealand Post}}</ref><ref name=":5" /> Crewing began in early August, with Wood since confirming the involvement of production designer [[Dan Hennah]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IX5NhkyQ710|articlename=Elijah Wood en Monterrey/ conferencia de la DesertCon|author=Asi SoyTv|dated=6 October 2025|website=YouTube}}</ref> and set decorator Ra Vincent might also be involved.<ref name=":34" /> Although [[Janet Brennan Croft|Janet Brennan-Croft]] acted as [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] consultant on previous films, Beppe Pezzini will fill this role for this film.<ref>Educational Media Services |University of Oxford, "Beppe Pezzini on Classics and Fantasy |Fantasy Summer School ‪@facultyofenglishoxford‬," ''YouTube'', 23 September 2025.</ref>

IMDb credits Bob Buck as ''a'' costume designer for the film: it remains to be seen if Ngila Dickson, having just wrapped ''Predator: Badlands'' with [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]], might return. Kate Hawley, who was attached to del Toro's version of the film, is unlikely to take part due to work on "Bad Bridgets."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/10/daisy-edgar-jones-emilia-jones-bad-bridgets-luckychap-1236604481/|articlename=Daisy Edgar-Jones And Emilia Jones To Star In ‘Bad Bridgets’ From LuckyChap|author=Justin Kroll|dated=31 October 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> Liz Mullane and Rachel Bullock head the New Zealand casting sweep. Both [[Wētā FX|WetaFX]] and [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]] are confirmed for the project,<ref name=":8">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt32328070/companycredits/?ref_=tt_dt_cmpy|articlename=The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum (2027)|author=Anonymous|website=IMDb}}</ref> as are [[Gino Acevedo]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.instagram.com/p/DRy30vUkme7/|articlename="Oh no!"|author=Ginoacevedofx|dated=3 December 2025|website=Instagram}}</ref> [[John Howe]] and [[Alan Lee]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://ggba.swiss/en/the-lord-of-the-rings-nature-and-switzerlands-hidden-history-a-conversation-with-john-howe/|articlename=The Lord Of The Rings, Nature and Switzerland’s Hidden History (A Conversation with John Howe)|author=Woody Wade|dated=10 December 2025|website=Greater Geneva Bern Area}}</ref> In April - by which point a composer was already said to be attached to the project - [[Howard Shore]] said he was interested to "see how that all works out."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.classical-music.com/articles/howard-shore|articlename=Howard Shore: the film composer behind Hannibal Lecter and Bilbo Baggins|author=Michael Beek|dated=16 April 2025|website=Classical Music.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://en.softonic.com/articles/the-composer-of-the-soundtrack-for-the-lord-of-the-rings-made-a-cameo-in-the-movies-and-no-one-noticed#google_vignette|articlename=The composer of the soundtrack for The Lord of the Rings made a cameo in the movies and no one noticed|author=Agencias|dated=26 December 2025|website=Softonic}}</ref>

As early as October, [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] suggested that they're "doing camera tests."<ref name=":34" /> This is said to include miniature photography, with Alex Funke said to participate, even if only in an advisory position. On the live action side, although Robert Richardson had been rumoured as camerman, he will be preoccupied with Antoine Fuqua's Hannibal epic.<ref name=":34" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.worldofreel.com/blog/2025/7/23/michael-part-1-delayed-to-april-2026|articlename=‘Michael’ Delayed to April 2026|author=Jordan Ruimy|dated=23 July 2025|website=World of Reel}}</ref> While the film was in the story conference stage in July 2024, Richardson said he had "a number" of projects "on the constantly-shifting horizon of the film industry."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.filmlightcolourawards.com/colour-awards-2024/jury-colour-awards-2024/robert-richardson-cinematographer-asc-ack/|articlename=Robert Richardson, Cinematographer, ASC, ACK|author=Anonymous|dated=18 July 2024|website=Film Light Colour Awards}}</ref>

The film is a co-production of [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s [[WingNut Films|WingNut films]] and [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]]' ''Imaginarium''. [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] will executive produce with his ''Imaginarium'' partner John Cavendish and Jackson's agent [[Ken Kamins]].<ref name="Gollum">{{webcite|author=Jennifer Maas|articleurl=https://variety.com/2024/film/news/lord-of-the-rings-movie-2026-release-warner-bros-1235997102/|articlename=Warner Bros. to Release New ‘Lord of the Rings’ Movie ‘The Hunt for Gollum’ in 2026, Peter Jackson to Produce and Andy Serkis to Direct|dated=9 May 2024|website=[https://variety.com/ Variety]|accessed=8 June 2024}}</ref> IMDb also credits studio chiefs Michael de Luca (who helped produce [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'']]), Pam Abdy and David Zaslav as executive producers<ref name=":8" /> and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] mentioned [[Warner Bros.|Warners]]' business consultant Alan Horn (who had produced ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]])'' as a collaborator, but these credits have yet to become official.<ref name=":7" />

===Cast===
With [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] due to star as [[Gollum]], approaches had been made to [[Ian McKellen|Sir Ian McKellen]]<ref name=":2">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2024/09/ian-mckellen-return-gandalf-new-the-lord-of-the-rings-films-1236075547/|articlename=Ian McKellen Reveals He’s Been Approached To Reprise His Role As Gandalf In Andy Serkis’ New ‘The Lord Of The Rings’ Films|author=Jake Kanter|dated=2 September 2024|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> and [[Viggo Mortensen]] to reprise [[Gandalf]] and [[Aragorn]], respectively. [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] said he's in talks to reprise "a little bit" of [[Gandalf]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.mirror.co.uk/3am/celebrity-news/sir-ian-mckellan-i-thought-36196617|articlename=EXCLUSIVE: Sir Ian McKellan: 'I thought I was a goner, but I'm coming back as Gandalf'|author=Marc Baker and Jackie Annett|dated=5 November 2025|website=The Mirror}}</ref> in [[New Zealand]].<ref name=":42">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thetimes.com/culture/tv-radio/article/ian-mckellen-an-ark-lowry-lord-of-the-rings-f9wc9nmdq|articlename=Ian McKellen at 86: ‘I’ve had to accept that I’m not immortal’|author=Jonathan Dean|dated=14 February 2026|website=The Times}}</ref> As of December, the contracts with [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] and [[Elijah Wood|Wood]] hadn't been finalized,<ref name=":40" /> but [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] expressed a desire to return to [[New Zealand]] for filming. [[Liv Tyler]], [[Evangeline Lilly]] and, especially, [[Orlando Bloom]] have also expressed interest in reprising their parts,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.nme.com/news/film/the-lord-of-the-rings-cast-say-they-would-jump-to-return-for-new-spin-off-movies-3853893|articlename=‘The Lord Of The Rings’ cast say they would “jump” to return for new spin-off movies|author=Damian Jones|dated=11 April 2025|website=NME}}</ref> while [[Dominic Monaghan]] expressed a desire to visit the set.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://nypost.com/2025/11/06/entertainment/dominic-monaghan-reveals-plans-for-next-lord-of-the-rings-movie/|articlename=Dominic Monaghan reveals big plans for next ‘Lord of the Rings’ movie — including possible return as Merry
By|author=Eric Todisco|dated=6 November 2025|website=New York Post}}</ref> [[Evangeline Lilly|Lilly]] had proceeded to do so, but indicated that she will have no further involvement with the project. [[Orcs]] are set to appear in the film, with [[Shane Rangi]] and [[Lawrence Makoare]] having reportedly been contacted.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/thelegacyofnerd/status/1979621220246344016|articlename=BREAKING: ‘The Hunt For Gollum’ Begins Filming in May 2026|author=@thelegacyofnerd|dated=8 October 2025|website=Twitter}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]]' comments about seeing the interiors of [[Barad-dûr|Barad Dur]] might suggest the involvement of [[Benedict Cumberbatch]].<ref name=":36">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lYYSsook-4Y|articlename=Philippa Boyens ('ESDLA: LA GUERRA DE LOS ROHIRRIM'): "Queríamos que se sintiera como algo nuevo"|author=eCartelera|dated=10 December 2024}}</ref>

[[Andy Serkis|Serkis]], [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had all spoke to [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]],<ref name=":3">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://theplaylist.net/the-war-of-the-rohirrim-philippa-boyens-on-the-new-anime-the-hunt-for-gollum-the-future-of-the-lord-of-the-rings-20241223/|articlename=‘The War Of The Rohirrim’: Philippa Boyens On The New Anime, ‘The Hunt For Gollum’ & The Future Of ‘The Lord of the Rings’|author=Rodrigo Perez|dated=23 December 2024|website=The Playlist}}</ref> who had previously said he'd be "open to it" if it makes sense for "the age I am now"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.gq-magazine.co.uk/article/viggo-mortensen-interview-2024|articlename=Viggo Mortensen re-used Aragorn's sword in new movie The Dead Don't Hurt “Because it's really good”|author=Rafael Motamayor|dated=28 May 2024|website=GQ}}</ref> but after [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] pitched it to him as "Digital make-up" they agreed he'd wait to read the script: With the approach to [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] happening sometime between June<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thetimes.com/culture/film/article/ian-mckellen-if-this-is-my-last-job-id-better-get-it-right-hadnt-i-n3t38g6tb|articlename=Ian McKellen: ‘When a script arrives, I think this might be my last job’|author=Dominic Maxwell|dated=8 June 2024|website=The Times of London}}</ref> and September,<ref name=":2" /> the approach to [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] may have taken place in mid-June, just prior to an interview in which [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] said "The script is the most important thing to me", seemingly no longer harping on the age quota.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/viggo-mortensen-lord-of-the-rings-script-feminism-1235935628/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen on Respecting Audiences, How Scripts Are Key “Unless I’m Broke,” New ‘LOTR’ Films|author=Georg Szalai|dated=30 June 2024|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] said they need to "drag" him.<ref name=":36" /> In the event, the cost of the deaging seemed too steep<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/ViewerAnon/status/1998489358849159181?s=20|articlename=I can confirm this|author=ViewerAnon|dated=9 December 2025|website=Twitter}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://3dvf.com/en/a-cult-actor-from-the-lord-of-the-rings-on-the-departure-the-question-arises-for-the-prequel-dedicated-to-gollum/#google_vignette|articlename=A Cult Actor from The Lord of the Rings on the Departure? The Question Arises for the Prequel Dedicated to Gollum|author=Quentin Couprie|dated=13 December 2025|accessed=3DVF}}</ref> and while they started looking for a younger "Strider", they ended casting [[Jamie Dornan]]. [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] had indicated he'd be interested in appearing in later film projects if they were "true to Tolkien."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.the-independent.com/arts-entertainment/films/news/viggo-mortensen-movies-interview-b2561237.html|articlename=Go to Bat with Viggo Mortensen: My films that deserve more love|author=Jacob Stolworthy|dated=7 June 2024|website=The Independent}}</ref>

While in London for ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]]'' premiere, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also "had lunch with an [[Elves|Elf]] lord" who "would fall into that story."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.instagram.com/nerdoftherings/reel/DDgKw47uxkJ/|articlename="Philippa Boyens teases an “elf lord” returning for Hunt for Gollum! "|author=Matt Graf|dated=12 December 2024|website=Instagram}}</ref> Although this could refer to [[Orlando Bloom|Bloom]] or even [[Marton Csokas]], [[Lee Pace]] was the most likely as he was shooting ''The Running Man'' in London at the time.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://people.com/glen-powell-films-running-man-reboot-37-years-after-arnold-schwarzenegger-movie-8745529|articlename=Glen Powell Films Running Man Remake in London 37 Years After Original Arnold Schwarzenegger Movie|author=Jen Juneau|dated=14 November 2024|website=People}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had since divulged that they expect "some of the cast who were originally in" ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'', as well as "some incredible new talent."<ref name=":28">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.jedinews.com/events/articles/indiana-comic-con-andy-serkis-full-panel/|articlename=Indiana Comic Con: Andy Serkis Full Panel|author=James Burns|dated=11 April 2025,|website=Jedi News}}</ref> Serkis had since reaffirrmed that he would "love the old cast" back.<ref name=":41" /> [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] had since confirmed that [[Gandalf]] and [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]], surely to be played by himself and [[Elijah Wood|Wood]], are scheduled to reappear in the piece.<ref name=":12" /> McKellen, Wood and Lee were officially announced for CinemaCon.

Casting seems to have started in November,<ref name=":40">Steve Schofield ''et al'', "25 Years of Fellowship", ''Empire'' (March 2026), pp. 46-70.</ref> with young boys auditioning for the boy [[Gollum|Smeagol]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/KnightGambit/status/2011815291198849220|articlename=Small Tidbit.....|author=Caleb Williams|dated=16 January 2026|website=Twitter}}</ref> and two of his fellow [[Stoors|Stoor]] riverfolk - a young girl and a young adult boy - in what looks like a setup for [[Gollum|Smeagol]]'s preoccupation with a birtday present. Out of the actors that originally auditioned for a younger Strider, Leo Woodall, was cast in the role of a fellow ranger, Halvard, presumably based on the character of [[Halbarad]].

Other roles auditioned for include women in their thirties and fifities: the latter is said to be Smeagol's grandmother, now confirmed as the "lead" role of Marigol, with [[Kate Winslet]] relocating to [[New Zealand]] for five months. Winslet had previously been considered, at least by the studio, for [[Éowyn|Eowyn]]. The thirties' part<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://knightedgemedia.com/2026/03/the-hunt-for-gollum-lead-female-characters-casting-are-underway-exclusive/#google_vignette|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum’ Lead Female Characters Casting Are Underway (EXCLUSIVE)|author=Caleb Williams|dated=5 March 2026|website=Knight Edge Media}}</ref> was reportedly circled by Anya Taylor-Joy. Some presume this to be [[Arwen]], but if so the quota is older than [[Liv Tyler]], who was 23 at the time of [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'']].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://medium.com/@chenngeller/on-aragorn-and-other-castings-a6e55668fce9?postPublishedType=repub|articlename=On Aragorn, Stoors and other castings|author=Chen Geller|dated=11 March 2026|website=Medium}}</ref>

==Plotline==
The exact events the film covers remain undisclosed. There's ambiguity concerning both the exact timeframe for the film, and whether it will focus more on [[Gollum]] or [[Aragorn]]. An official "blurb" for the movie reads: "The pic explores [[Aragorn]]’s adventures as a [[Rangers of the North|ranger]], specifically his quest to capture [[Gollum]] between [[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]] and [[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|Fellowship of the Ring]], tracking him to keep the [[The One Ring|Ring]]’s location from [[Sauron|Sauron."]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2026/01/box-office-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy-25th-anniversary-1236689724/|articlename=‘Lord Of The Rings’ Trilogy 25th Anniversary Event Rings Up $11M In Worldwide Box Office|author=Anthony D'Alessandro|dated=19 January 2026|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> A more extended synopsis had also been circulating:<blockquote>Before the Fellowship, one creature's obsession holds the key to Middle-earth's survival -- or its demise. In The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum, we meet young Smeagol -- an outsider drawn to trinkets and mischief -- long before The One Ring consumed him and began his tragic descent into the tortured, deceitful creature Gollum. With the ring lost and carried away by Bilbo Baggins, Gollum finds himself compelled to leave his cave in search of it. Gandalf the Grey calls upon Aragorn, still known as the ranger Strider, to track the elusive creature whose knowledge of the whereabouts of the ring could tip the balance toward the Dark Lord Sauron.
Set in the shadowed time between Bilbo's birthday disappearance and the Fellowship's formation, this perilous journey through Middle-earth's darkest corners reveals untold truths, tests the resolve of its future king, and explores the fractured soul and backstory of Gollum, one of Tolkien's most enigmatic characters.

Directed by original cast member Andy Serkis, produced by Peter Jackson, and written & produced by Fran Walsh and Phillipa Boyens -- the creative team behind the Oscar-winning trilogy -- this live-action movie bridges the beloved films with new characters, returning heroes, and a deeply engaging origin story that resets the stage for, and changes everything you know about the legendary Lord of the Rings trilogy.</blockquote>Strictly speaking, [[Aragorn]]'s hunt for [[Gollum]] begins during the events depicted in Jackson's [[The Fellowship of the Ring (2001 film)|''The Fellowship of the Ring'']], and in October, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] said the story "falls after the [[Bilbo's Farewell Party|birthday party of Bilbo]] and before the Mines Of [[Moria]]".<ref name=":22">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.empireonline.com/movies/news/lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-wont-be-two-films-second-philippa-boyens-exclusive/|articlename=The Hunt For Gollum Won’t Be Two Films, But A Second LOTR Film Is Incoming, Philippa Boyens Confirms|author=Ben Travis|dated=18 October 2024|website=Empire}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] added that the role of [[Aragorn]] is "very central" to the movie.<ref name=":36" /> Andy called the storyline "pivotal."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1md7lim/the_lord_of_the_rings_the_hunt_for_gollum_andy/|articlename=The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum - Andy Serkis says "this part of the story is pivotal"|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=30 July 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> [[Ian McKellen]] had described the plot as "[[Aragorn]] trying to find [[Gollum]] with [[Gandalf]] directing operations from the sidelines."<ref name=":42" />

However, ''a'' hunt for [[Gollum]] is begun by the [[Silvan Elves]] after Gollum first leaves the [[Misty Mountains|mountains]] in search of [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]], and in December Jackson said the film "tells us what happened to [[Gollum]] between ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' - end of [[The Hobbit (film series)|''The Hobbit'']] - and the beginning of ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]''".<ref name=":6">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/red-carpet-premiere-for-the-lord-of-the-rings-the-war-of-the-rohirrim/P3BS7U5NPS5EMFLPUV4SYSYFDU/|articlename=Red carpet premiere for The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|author=Mitchell Hageman|dated=11 December 2024|website=New Zealand Herald}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had since confirmed this timeframe: "It sits, kind of, in the timeline between ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' - between losing the [[The One Ring|Ring]] to [[Bilbo Baggins]] - and ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]''."<ref name=":18">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?t=1218&v=U-dw8DQDf90&feature=youtu.be|articlename=Kazakhstan feels like the center of the world - Andy Serkis {{!}} Interview of the Day|author=Silk Way / Qazaqstan|dated=15 July 2025|website=YouTube}}</ref> [[Dol Guldur]], the [[Nazgûl|Nazgul]] and [[Orcs]] are all said to potentially play part in the film.

[[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also alluded to other storylines: "we are finding a lot of threads of story that are surprising in there when you really go in there and examine it".<ref name=":29">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.slashfilm.com/1734018/philippa-boyens-lord-of-the-rings-war-of-the-rohirrim-exclusive-interview/|articlename=War Of The Rohirrim's Philippa Boyens Reveals Details About The Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum [Exclusive Interview]|author=Ben Pearson|dated=13 December 2024|website=/Film}}</ref> Events as varied as [[Aragorn]]'s sojourn in [[Lothlórien|Lórien]] with [[Arwen]], the fall of [[Balin's folk]], [[Boromir]]'s quest for [[Rivendell]] and much else occur concurrent to the time of the Hunt.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1iutc9r/building_bridges_so_what_happens_between_the/|articlename=Building Bridges: So, what happens between the trilogies that The Hunt for Gollum could possibly cover?|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=21 February 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> "You see the layers and layers of story that’s underneath there and how interconnected they all are", she adds.<ref name=":3" /> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] also made comments to this effect: "Some pretty interesting stuff happens that we reference in passing in [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The'' ''Lord of the Rings'']], but there’s a lot of more deep detail to it."<ref name=":6" />

[[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] adds that "We get to go to some places that we've never been before" in Middle-earth." One such place - only glimpsed in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|Fellowship of the Ring]]'' - is the interiors of [[Barad-dûr|Barad Dur]].<ref name=":36" /> Both she and Serkis alluded to new characters<ref name=":28" /><ref name=":5" /> and new dramatic situations, saying it's "surprising"<ref name=":7" /><ref name=":27" /><ref name=":29" /> and could be enjoyed be people wo don't know the novels.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.amica.it/video-post/andy-serkis-dirigero-signore-anelli-tornero-batman/|articlename=Andy Serkis, da Gollum a regista: «Dirigerò “Il Signore degli Anelli” e tornerò con Batman»|author=Emanuele Bigi|dated=27 June 2025|website=Amica}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also shared that one of the practicalities they were busy figuring out in the writing is "How does he [<nowiki/>[[Aragorn]]] pick up his scent? How does he find his trail, how does it happen?"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://nerdist.com/article/nerdist-philippa-boyens-interview-the-war-of-the-rohirrim-the-lord-of-the-rings-future/|articlename=Philippa Boyens Talks the Future of THE LORD OF THE RINGS Movies and Naming a Tolkien Character in THE WAR OF THE ROHIRRIM|author=by Rotem Rusak|dated=19 December 2024|website=Nerdist}}</ref>

==Cast==
{| class="wikitable mw-collapsible"
|- style="background: var(--tg-color-surface-2);"
!Actor!!Role
|-
|[[Andy Serkis]]||[[Gollum|Gollum & Smeagol]]<ref name="Gollum"></ref><ref name="Twitter">''Twitter'', [https://x.com/warnerbros/status/2044207974361510165 We’ve been waiting for you, precious. The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum only in theaters 17 December 2027.] by Warner Bros.</ref>
|-
|[[Ian McKellen]]
|[[Gandalf]]<ref name=":12" /><ref name="Twitter"></ref>
|-
|[[Kate Winslet]]
|[[Marigol]]<ref name="Twitter"></ref>
|-
|[[Jamie Dornan]]
|[[Aragorn|Strider]]<ref name="Twitter"></ref>
|-
|[[Leo Woodall]]
|[[Halvard]]<ref name="Twitter"></ref>
|-
|[[Lee Pace]]
|[[Thranduil]]<ref name="Twitter"></ref>
|-
|[[Elijah Wood]]
|[[Frodo Baggins]]<ref name=":12" /><ref name="Twitter"></ref>
|}

{{Title|Italics}}

{{References}}

{{Screen}}

[[Category:Films]]

[[fi:The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum]]

The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum

2026-04-15T13:54:56Z

Chen Geller:

{{Disambig-two|the 2027 film adaptation|2009 fan film|[[The Hunt for Gollum]]}}
{{film infobox
| image =
| caption =
| name = The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum
| director = [[Andy Serkis]]
| producer = [[Peter Jackson]] [[Fran Walsh]] [[Philippa Boyens]] [[Zane Weiner]]
| writer = [[Fran Walsh]] [[Philippa Boyens]] Phoebe Gittins Arty Papageorgiou
| narrator =
| starring = [[Andy Serkis]] [[Ian McKellen]] [[Kate Winslet]] [[Jamie Dornan]] [[Leo Woodall]]
| music =
| cinematography =
| editing =
| studio = WingNut films Imaginarium [[New Line Cinema]]<ref name=Gollum></ref>
| distributor = [[Warner Bros.|Warner Bros. Pictures]]<ref name=Gollum></ref>
| released = 17 December [[2027]]<ref name="TheDirect2027Release"/>
| runtime =
| country = [[New Zealand]]<ref name=Gollum></ref>
| language = English
| budget =
| website =
|imdb_id=32328070
|basedon=[[The Lord of the Rings]]
|production design=[[Dan Hennah]] (Production designer)}}
'''''The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum''''' is the title (originally, working title<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/09/curtis-brown-jrr-tolkien-literary-estate-deal-1236526748/|articlename=Curtis Brown To Rep J.R.R. Tolkien’s Literary Estate|author=Jesse Whittock|dated=10 September 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref>) of a forthcoming film adaptation currently in pre-production and set for a [[2027]] release, the first of a planned series of Tolkien films to be produced by [[New Line Cinema]], a division of [[Warner Bros.|Warner Brothers]].<ref name=":4">{{webcite|author=Matt Donnelly|articleurl=https://variety.com/2023/film/news/lord-of-the-rings-new-movies-warner-bros-1235533672/|articlename=New ‘Lord of the Rings’ Movies Set at Warner Bros. |dated=23 February 2023|website=[https://variety.com/ Variety]|accessed=10 June 2024}}</ref>

The film will cover [[Gollum]]'s travels after losing [[The One Ring|the Ring]] to [[Bilbo Baggins]] (as depicted in [[The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey|''An Unexpected Journey'']]), through [[Gandalf]] setting out to track the creature after [[Bilbo's Farewell Party]] (as depicted in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]'') and down to [[Gollum]] intercepting [[Fellowship of the Ring|the Fellowship]] in [[Moria|Moria.]]

It will be directed by and star [[Andy Serkis]], who played [[Gollum]] in [[Peter Jackson]]'s previous films, as well as directing second unit. [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] will produce with his co-writing team of [[Fran Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens]], who will also write the screenplay with ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]]'' scribes Phoebe Gittins and Arty Papageorgiou.

The subject of this film is a longstanding fascination of [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s who developed it quite intensly in 2008 with [[Guillermo del Toro]]. The film is in preproduction with several cast and crew members from previous films already attached, including actor [[Elijah Wood]], concept artists [[John Howe]] and [[Alan Lee]] and others.

==Early Development==
Although the film was only announced in 2023, it had a long gestation period with [[Peter Jackson]], who considered filming this subject since circa 1997, and at least as late as July 2015. During 2008, in particular, the film was in development with a plot synopsis, a tentative budget and an initial cast and crew attached, and drew the attention of further talent like [[Viggo Mortensen]], as well as the press. Elements of this proposed "bridge film" were eventually put into ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' but mostly axed during the early months of the shoot. Jackson also negotiated in 2018 about producing a show for [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon Prime]] about the related subject of the travels of young [[Aragorn]], but ended up producing ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]]'' with [[New Line Cinema]] instead.

===During ''The'' ''Lord of the Rings''===
[[Peter Jackson]] read [[The Lord of the Rings|''The Lord of the Rings'']] circa 1979, and he claims that he "always loved the concept that when [[Gandalf]] leaves [[Bag End]] he goes and joins up with [[Aragorn]] and the two of them hunt [[Gollum]] down."<ref name=":26">Peter Jackson, Philippa Boyens, Fran Walsh, "Director's Commentary", Peter Jackson, ''The Lord of the Rings trilogy'' (New Line Cinema: 2004).</ref> This piece of backstory was also expanded upon in the [[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)|radio serial]], which [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] was very familiar with. He and [[Fran Walsh]] first pitched a trilogy based on [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']] and ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'' around November 1995.<ref>Brian Sibley, Peter Jackson: A Filmmaker's Journey (London: HarperCollins, 2006), pp. 312 ff.</ref><ref>J. W Braun, ''The lord of the films : the unofficial guide to Tolkien's Middle-Earth on the big screen'' (Toronto: ECW Press, 2009), pp. 20, 63, 68-69, 195.</ref><ref>Michael Pellerin, "Completing Middle-earth," Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit'' (Warner Brothers: 2015).</ref> They may well have had the [[Gollum]] episode in mind at some time between that point and early 1997. So long as they intended to start with ''The Hobbit'' (up to early 1996), they will have been mindful of the need to connect the two novels, and while their treatment (mid 1997) doesn't seem to cover the [[Gollum]] episode, it already dramatizes the remainder of the backstory that's given in "[[The Shadow of the Past]]", "[[The Council of Elrond]]" and [[appendix B]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1j06oqh/so_what_is_the_hunt_for_gollum_really_based_on/|articlename=So, what is The Hunt for Gollum REALLY based on?|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=28 February 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> When the project expanded (September 1998) to three films, Jackson tried to finally incorporate this storyline - some eight pages' worth - but realized that he "just couldn't put [the Hunt for [[Gollum]]] into the movie".<ref name=":26" />

[[Peter Jackson|Peter]] nevertheless publicly expressed a desire to film "[[Gandalf]] and [[Aragorn]] hunting [[Gollum]], and his capture by [[Orcs]]"<ref name=":25">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://members.tripod.com/peter_jackson_online/lotr/articles/20_questions2.htm|articlename=20 QUESTIONS WITH PETER JACKSON- PART 2|author=Harry Knowles|dated=31 December 1998|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> At the time, the idea was to shoot this as additional material and add it into the extended edition: although by early 2001 he would have realized this could not be accomodated in the pickups to ''The Fellowship of the Ring'', in 2003 he would still half-jokingly talk about shooting more pickups to "fatten these films out without technically going beyond ‘[[The Lord of the Rings]]’ as the licensed property." Elsewhere in the commentary, he jokes about "spinoff" entries.<ref name=":26" /> Other ideas for this treatment included [[Tom Bombadil]]<ref name=":25" /> and the [[Lothlórien|attack on Lorien]], with the entire expansion estimated at around three hours' worth.<ref name=":26" />

By the end of 2001, The success of ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]'' emboldened [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]<ref>Kristin Thompson, T''he Frodo Franchise: The Lord of the Rings and Modern Hollywoo''d (Berkeley: University of California Press, 2007), pp. 51, 327, 338.</ref> to pursue more films (he was also in discussions to "rekindle" ''King Kong'' at the time) and he had later discussed filming a "''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|Lord of the Rings]]'' prequel", along with ''[[The Hobbit]]'', with composer [[Howard Shore]] and executive producer [[Mark Ordesky]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2006/11/19/24053-peter-jackson-and-fran-walsh-talk-the-hobbit-2/|articlename=Peter Jackson and Fran Walsh Talk THE HOBBIT|author=Xoanon|dated=19 November 2006|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref><ref name=":35">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.rhino.com/article/interview-howard-shore-the-lord-of-the-rings|articlename=INTERVIEW: Howard Shore (“The Lord of the Rings”)|author=Will Harris|dated=27 April 2018|website=Rhino}}</ref> At a later premiere, [[New Line Cinema|New Line]]'s president Robert Shaye told [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s agent [[Ken Kamins]] that they "would want to have a conversation" about the two films.<ref name=":30" /> The idea at the time was to incorporate [[Arwen]] as a female character<ref name=":10">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20230327113046/https://ew.com/article/2003/12/06/peter-jackson-mulls-rings-prequel/|articlename=Peter Jackson mulls ''Rings'' prequel|author=Gary Susman|dated=6 December 2003|website=EW}}</ref> and produce both films back-to-back "in some short order"<ref name=":30">Ian Nathan, ''Anything You Can Imagine: Peter Jackson and the Making of Middle-earth'' (London: HarperCollins, 2019), pp. 827, 835.</ref> after ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'', in order to "complete the set of films.”<ref name=":10" /> Peter was referring to these two films, when talking in the behind the scenes documentaries in 2004 about "Maybe there'll be something we can do." Actors [[Andy Serkis]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2003/dec/09/jrrtolkien|articlename=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2003/dec/09/jrrtolkien|author=Anonymous|dated=9 Dec 2003|website=The Guardian}}</ref> [[Ian McKellen]], producer Barrie Osborne<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2002/12/16/25965-ttt-benefit-with-barrie-osborne-2/|articlename=TTT Benefit with Barrie Osborne
by|author=xoanon|dated=16 December 2002|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> and concept artist Paul Lasaine all expressed interest at the time.

Also around this time, [[Andy Serkis]] goes into some detail in his book ''[[Gollum: How We Made Movie Magic|Gollum: Howe We Made Movie Magic]]'' into how he imagined Smeagol's personality and upbringing. This conception of Smeagol would become imperative for the film all those years later: <blockquote>I was interested in trying to define Gollum's class and status in the community, and had thought that, coming from the wealthiest and largest Stoor family, he would probably never have really worked a day in his life. He probably skipped school and spent time squandering money that he had stolen from his grandmother's purse. It was a matriarchy and his grandmother was the head of his family, so I wondered how we might reflect this. We decided that some sort of neckerchief, maybe made of silk and a little flamboyant, might be a good idea. I liked the idea of carrying through the drug-addict metaphor, implying that he was like a young rich kid who had always had money in his pocket and was able to experiment with whatever took his fancy, like a Middle-earth version of a young playboy or a Victorian dandy.

We also examined the idea of his curious and inquisitive nature. I always saw Sméagol as a loner, not particularly liked, a bit of a Billy-no-friends, and not very good at team sports. He would have been thought of as a bit weird, and he would have secretly dreamed up vengeful scenarios for all the other Stoor hobbits, who completely ignored him. So, to cope with being so introverted and alienated, he became a collector, obsessed with the "roots and beginnings" of things. Objects became more important than people: at least they couldn't hurt him. Physically: I gave him a stoop from constantly looking down. I imagined him to be fairly narcissistic, spending hours fascinating himself by staring at his own reflection in the water while he fished. We decided to display this obsessive behavior through shiny pau shell buttons and little trophies of fish bones tied to his belt, as if he were adorning himself with fetishlike status symbols. Although he was dysfunctional, he was not evil or malicious, just, as the Travis Bickle character says of himself in Taxi Driver, full of "morbid self-attention.<ref>Andrew Serkis, [[Gollum: How We Made Movie Magic|''Gollum: How We Made Movie Magic'']] (London: HarperCollins, 2003), p. 58.</ref> </blockquote>While talking about ''[[The Hobbit]]'' in 16 September 2006, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] said they "have thought about it from time to time" and in fact "spent most of this morning" talking about the films. They talked of how "[[Elrond]], [[Galadriel]] and [[Arwen]] could all feature"<ref name=":11" /> and "[[Gollum]]'s sneaking into [[Mordor]] and [[Aragorn]] protecting [[The Shire]]. That's what we'd do. Love to work with [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] again".<ref name=":11">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/30085|articlename=Part 5: Quint and Peter Jackson talk THE HOBBIT and a potential return to low budget horror!!!|author=Eric Vespe|dated=16 September 2006|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]], hearing this remark in 2012, said it "sounds like a lot of fun".<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2012/03/13/54232-viggo-mortensens-visit-to-boston-part-2-new-video/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen’s visit to Boston – part 2 (new video!)|author=Greendragon|dated=13 March 2012|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref> At the time, [[Peter Jackson|Peter]] had a falling-out with [[New Line Cinema]] who had tipped Sam Raimi to direct both films.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2006/11/22/926-the-new-director-of-the-hobbit-is/|articlename=Sam Raimi to Direct Hobbit Movie??|author=xoanon|dated=22 November 2006|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref>

===During ''The Hobbit''===
Since the rights to [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']] were split with [[MGM|Metro Goldwyn-Mayer]], in March 2007 [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] pitched this to CEO Harry Sloan: he had already heard of it from [[New Line Cinema]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.ign.com/articles/2006/11/14/hobbit-crown-panther-news|articlename=Hobbit, Crown, Panther News|author=Anonymous|dated=15 Nov 2006|website=IGN}}</ref> but Sloan was won over by Jackson's pitch, which was apparently very detailed.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.kristinthompson.net/blog/2008/05/19/the-hobbit-films-pj-and-fw-know-every-scene-every-moment/|articlename=The Hobbit films: PJ and FW know “every scene, every moment”|author=Kristin Thompson|dated=19 May 2008|website=Kristinthompson.net}}</ref> By contrast, Shaye later said [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] "hasn't told us too much about it."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.screendaily.com/new-line-mgm-team-for-two-hobbit-movies-with-peter-jackson/4036350.article|articlename=New Line, MGM team for two Hobbit movies with Peter Jackson|author=Jeremy Kay|dated=18 December 2007|website=Screen Daily}}</ref>

By December, both films were moving forward with a budget of $150 million each: the idea was that [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]], [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] would write and produce and the films will be shot in 2009 for release in 2010 and 2011.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/del-toro-doubles-up-hobbit-103547/|articlename=Del Toro doubles up for ‘Hobbit’|author=Borys Kit|dated=28 January 2008|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> Robert Shaye, Michael Lynne and [[Mark Ordesky]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://variety.com/2008/film/columns/shaye-kept-new-line-afloat-1117982001/|articlename=Shaye kept New Line afloat|author=Anne Thompson|dated=7 March 2008|website=Variety}}</ref> were attached as executive producers until February, when they were replaced by Toby Emmerich (previously head of production since 2001) and Carolyn Blackwood. Actor [[Ian McKellen|Ian Mckellen]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2008/mar/26/lordoftherings.jrrtolkien|articlename=Hard Hobbit to break: McKellen set for return as Gandalf|author=Anonymous|dated=26 March 2008|website=The Guardian}}</ref> assistant Matthew Dravitzky,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://if.com.au/guillermo-wants-old-buddies-to-join-him-on-the-hobbit/|articlename=Guillermo wants old buddies to join him on The Hobbit|author=Anonymous|dated=23 March 2009|website=IF FX}}</ref> composer [[Howard Shore]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/09/28/30045-howard-shore-is-working-on-hobbit-score/|articlename=Howard Shore is Working on Hobbit Score|author=28 September 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/02/24/28408-howard-shore-talks-hobbit-in-switzerland/|articlename=Howard Shore Talks ‘Hobbit’ in Switzerland|author=Calisuri|dated=24 February 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref>, [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]]<ref name=":38">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/10/22/30352-del-toro-interview-part-3-%E2%80%9Ci-love-new-zealand%E2%80%9D/|articlename=Del Toro Interview Part 3: “I Love New Zealand!”|author=Xoanon|dated=22 October 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> and [[Wētā FX|Weta FX]]<ref name=":37" /> were attached to the project. Although [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] hadn't ruled out directing - he later aired the notion of shooting second unit<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20081012042437/http://moviesblog.mtv.com/2008/10/08/guillermo-del-toro-to-fly-solo-on-hobbit-directing-duties-says-no-to-peter-jackson-assist/|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro To Fly Solo On ‘Hobbit’ Directing Duties, Says No To Peter Jackson Assist|author=Shawn Adler|dated=8 October 2008|website=MTV}}</ref><ref name=":17" /> - he soon picked [[Guillermo del Toro]] to direct.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/01/30/28331-torn-exclusive-del-toro-%e2%80%9c99-percent-certain%e2%80%9d-says-nl-insider/|articlename=TORN exclusive: Del Toro “99 percent certain” says NL insider.|author=MrCere|dated=30 January 2008|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref>

Subsequently, actors [[Andy Serkis]],<ref name=":17" /> [[Ian Holm]]<ref name=":15">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080501020820/http://www.mtv.com/movies/news/articles/1586421/story.jhtml|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro Addresses 'Hobbit' Fans' Concerns, Talks Possible Casting|author=Shawn Adler, Josh Horowitz|dated=28 April 2008|website=Premiere.com}}</ref>; concept artists [[Alan Lee]] and [[John Howe]]; prosthetics supervisor [[Gino Acevedo]]<ref name=":37">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/04/25/28747-guillermo-del-toro-chats-with-torn-about-the-hobbit-films/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro Chats with TORN About ‘The Hobbit’ Films!|author=Xoanon|dated=25 April 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> were all attached. They had approached [[Grant Major]] but he declined<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=http://www.artstars.us/grant-major/8/|articlename=Grant Major|author=Tom Lisowski|dated=14 November 2011|website=Art Stars}}</ref> and hopped onboard ''Green Lantern'' with costume designer Ngila Dickson: they were substituted by [[Dan Hennah]]<ref name=":32">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/51948|articlename=An Unexpected Journey: Quint on the set of The Hobbit Part 3 – Beginnings and Endings|author=Eric Vespe|dated=14 November 2011|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> and Kate Hawley.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.whowhatwear.com/living/who-what-wear-podcast-kate-hawley|articlename=How the Frankenstein Costume Designer Brought the Film to Life|author=Madeline Hill|dated=17 November 2025|website=Who What Wear}}</ref> Actors [[Martin Freeman]]<ref>In "The Road Back to Middle-earth", Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit'' (New Line Cinema: 2015), Philippa Boyens recalls proposing Freeman as Bilbo Baggins when she saw him at the 2003 BAFTAs.</ref> and [[Hugo Weaving]];<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.slashfilm.com/504115/guillermo-del-toro-confirms-hugo-weaving-for-the-hobbit-and-much-more/|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro Confirms Hugo Weaving For The Hobbit... And Much More|author=Brendon Connolly|dated=11 June 2009|website=Slash Film}}</ref> as well as [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]]'s regular collaborators (including artists Wayne Barlowe and Francisco Ruiz Velasco<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20081201164150/http://bilbohobbit.com/del-toro-talks-hobbit-in-live-chat/|articlename="Del Toro talks 'Hobbit' in Live Chat"|author=Alex|dated=27 November 2008|website=BilboHobbit.com}}</ref>) were also being sought beginning at this time. [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had first seen [[Lee Pace]] - which he would cast as [[Thranduil]] later - around this time, as well.

"We got really excited," said [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]], "because this second film is not a ‘tag on’, it’s not ‘filler,’ it’s an integral part of telling the story of those 50 years of history lost in the narrative".<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://theplaylist.net/60-year-period-between-hobbi-20080425/|articlename=60-Year Period Between ‘The Hobbit’ & ‘Fellowship’ For Hobbit Sequel Suddenly Gone? Or Not?|author=Rodrigo Perez|dated=25 April 2008|website=The Playlist}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.gamesradar.com/guillermo-del-toro-talks-hobbit-and-more/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro talks Hobbit and more|author=Anonymous|dated=25 April 2008|website=Total Film}}</ref> Although he had a radical new vision for the designs in the first film, <ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080915124607/http://www.premiere.com/features/4642/exclusive-guillermo-del-toro-on-hellboy-ii-page4.html|articlename=Exclusive: Guillermo del Toro on 'Hellboy II'|author=Anonymous|website=Premiere}}</ref> [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] intended to use the second film to affect a gradual change of style towards that of [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]: "We have to recreate a lot of the stuff they did on the [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|trilogy]]," he said: helpfully, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had kept the [[Bag End]] and [[Rivendell]] sets, and they set about rebuilding [[Hobbiton]].<ref name=":32" />

[[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] also rewatched the extended editions with [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]], [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] and intended to watch the making-ofs, dailies "the camera reports... everything," particularly for ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080914124349/http://www.comingsoon.net/news/nycomicconnews.php?id=44254|articlename=EXCL: Del Toro on Hellboy II and The Hobbit|author=Edward Douglas|dated=21 April 2008|website=Coming Soon.net}}</ref> The remastering of ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'' was also begun around this time. This was done because [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] felt that it "has to evolve into the lensing, the color palette, the texture palette, and the feel of the [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|trilogy]]…"<ref name=":13">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/37428|articlename=Quint and Guillermo del Toro chat about HELLBOY II, THE HOBBIT and more!!!|author=Eric Vespe|dated=12 July 2008|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> partially for this purpose, a break was to be scheduled partway through the shoot,<ref name=":31">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080712175117/http://www.ifmagazine.com/feature.asp?article=2879|articlename=GUILLERMO DEL TORO ESCAPES 'LABYRINTH' AND ENDS RIGHT BACK INTO 'HELLBOY'|author=Carl Cortez|dated=9 July 2008|website=iFMagazine}}</ref> which was estimated at over 370 days.<ref name=":31" />

[[Guillermo del Toro|Guillermo]] insisted the second film would add to the series.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wReRe8Si2aU|articlename=Guillermo del Toro: RT's Dinner & the Movies Interview Pt 5|author=OCR|dated=11 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> He said "it’s also expanding and illuminating some of the aspects of the trilogy in a slightly different way, like same characters in a different environment. I find that very attractive."<ref name=":13" /> The idea was that the first film would be a retelling of [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']], including the bulk of the [[Dol Guldur]] storyline, up to [[Smaug]]'s death: the second would wrap-up the remainder of [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']] in its first half, and concern itself with the Hunt for [[Gollum]] and other "bridging" plot threads in its second half.<ref name=":14">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20120831093447/http://moviesblog.mtv.com/2008/10/07/hobbit-films-will-be-one-continuous-journey-promises-guillermo-del-toro/|articlename='Hobbit' Films Will Be One 'Continuous Journey,' Promises Guillermo Del Toro|author=Shawn Adler|dated=7 October 2008|website=MTV}}</ref>

Although [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] predicted the second film would require the most work,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2P0dTo0yNpQ|articlename=THE HOBBIT 1 & 2 MOVIE UPDATE|author=ReelzChannel|dated=7 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> both he<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JVHzVKy_F8w|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro talks about Hobbit Movie|author=Brettmartintv|dated=7 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] showed a particular eagerness towards it, with [[Guillermo del Toro|Guillermo]] calling it a "treasure trove of possibilities."<ref name=":16">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080915084029/http://www.mtv.com/movies/news/articles/1590278/story.jhtml|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro Answers 'Hobbit' Fans' Questions About Returning 'Rings' Cast, Religion And More|author=Shawn Adler|dated=2 July 2008|website=MTV}}</ref> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] was also "really looking forward to developing Film Two. It gives us a freedom that we haven't really had on our [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] journey."<ref name=":17" /> [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] concluded that "the promise of that land is absolutely mind-boggling!"<ref name=":16" />

Referring specifically to [[Gollum]]'s part in the events, [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] said "[[Gollum]] has a rather fascinating arch to go through and his alliance to [[Shelob]] or his period of imprisonment in [[Thranduil]]'s". [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] added that "There's an awful lot of incident that happens during that 60 year gap. At this stage, we're not imagining a film that literally covers 60 years, like a bio-pic or documentary. We would figure out what happens during that 60 years, and choose one short section of time to drop in and dramatise for the screen". Both filmmakers said they agreed that "apart from extreme circumstances, we would never recast a character who appeared in the [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|LOTR trilogy]]".<ref name=":17">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080730161821/http://www.wetanz.com/holics/index.php?itemid=695&catid=2|articlename=An Unexpected Party Chat|author=Anonymous|dated=30 July 2008|website=Weta Workshop website}}</ref> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] later remarked that, in some cases, they'd sooner write around a character than recast the part.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/41848|articlename=Comic-Con '09: Peter Jackson talks to Capone about DISTRICT 9, THE HOBBIT, and the state of the film industry!!!|author="Capone"|dated=28 July 2009|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref>

As of the formulation of these comments in July, [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] said the second film is "too early"<ref name=":13" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5YoRDF12aRc|articlename=GDT the Hobbit 1|author=Garfeimao TheOneRing|dated=14 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> in its development process to know precisely what it might entail, estimating that it would take six months to formulate the storyline for the film.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.ign.com/articles/2008/07/09/exclusive-gdt-on-the-hobbit|articlename=Exclusive: GDT on The Hobbit|author=Eric Moro and Stax|dated=10 July 2008|website=IGN}}</ref> By September, however, [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] claimed they "found what reverberated."<ref name=":14" /> [[Guillermo del Toro|Guillermo]] had expressed reservations about the term "bridge film" from the outset, but by now he and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] disabused of the term completely, having come to see the films as five undifferentiated parts of a greater whole.

Although they apparently made an outline,<ref name=":15" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/10/16/30296-guillermo-del-toro-i%e2%80%99m-so-voracious-about-the-hobbit/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro: “I’m so voracious about The Hobbit!”|author=Xoanon|dated=16 October 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> it seems the film went no further than this. Up until this point, del Toro had been video-conferencing with Jackson and the other collaborators, meeting in person every three weeks.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://variety.com/2008/film/features/guillermo-del-toro-booked-thru-2017-1117991560/|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro booked thru 2017|author=Michael Fleming|dated=3 September, 2008|website=Variety}}</ref> By the time he arrived to concentrate on writing the story treatment in November 2008<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=http://newboards.theonering.net/forum/gforum/perl/gforum.cgi?post=147373;guest=501771554#147373|articlename="Hola"|author=Guillermo del Toro|dated=8 November 2008|website=The One Ring Discussion Boards}}</ref><ref>Alfio Leotta, ''Peter Jackson'' (London: Bloomsbury Publishing, 2015), p. 196.</ref> the contents of the "bridge" film were being gradually edged-out by the contents of ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]],'' to the point that by the time the completed treatment was greenlit in April 2009<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2009/08/03/32999-peter-jackson-speaks/|articlename=Peter Jackson speaks|author=MrCere|dated=3 August 2009|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref> the films could only be described as a two-part adaptation of ''[[The Hobbit]],'' albeit with elements of the bridge film "integrated''."''<ref>Anonymous, "The Hobbit: Gollum, Bilbo, del Toro and Jackson," ''Empire'', April 2009.</ref> Although [[John Howe]] apparently sent [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] some sketches,<ref name=":38" /> and [[Howard Shore]] had musical ideas,<ref>TheOneRing, Hobbit Desolation of Smaug Music Commentary Watch Along, ''YouTube'', 29 July 2020. Esp. 1:12:15. One such musical idea dates back to the composition of ''The Fellowship of the Ring:'' the flat sixth setting of the Hobbits' bassline that's heard when Gandalf glimpses Thorin's map: Howard was saving that as a "portent of an adventure" towards a potential adaptation of The Hobbit, but by the stage of discussing with del Toro he would have realized it would be applicable to the "bridge" film as well.</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/30722|articlename=ScoreKeeper Talks To Howard Shore About THE TWO TOWERS Complete Recordings, THE HOBBIT, And More!!|author=Merrick|dated=16 November 2006|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> no more work was done on the bridge film. At this time, a [[The Hunt for Gollum|fan film on the same subject was released]], followed shortly by [[Born of Hope|a fan film about Aragorn's errantries]]. The latter of this gained a measure of approbation from [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s camp.

Even so, elements of the bridge film clung to the project for a long time: in 2013 [[Philippa Boyens]] said, probably referring to the preproduction period, that "When we started structuring this trilogy we honestly thought about telling some of that. How [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]] becomes the uncle of [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] and take care of him. The story of [[Gollum]]…"<ref name=":9" /> Casting calls had been issued for the roles of [[Primula Brandybuck]] and [[Drogo Baggins]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20201024010428/http://www.movies.spoilertv.com/2010/01/hobbit-casting-call.html#ixzz0btnyJvCI|articlename=Hobbit - Official Casting Call and Plot Details|author=DarkUFO|dated=4 January 2010|website=SpoilerTV}}</ref> with Primula said to be "Prone to letting words and thoughts tumble out of her mouth without pause" while Drogo was "well known around The Shire and is a bit of a ladies man." While Caroline Grace-Cassidy was considered for [[Primula Brandybuck|Primula]], [[Ryan Gage]] was cast in the role of [[Drogo Baggins|Drogo]] and remained attached to it well into shooting, only being recast as [[Alfrid]] around May.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/cate-blanchett-revisiting-rings-role-57193/|articlename=Cate Blanchett Revisiting ‘Rings’ Role In ‘Hobbit’|author=Gregg Kilday|dated=7 December 2010|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> Although both parts were described as "leads" Boyens remembers Alfrid, itself a small role, being bigger than Drogo. The roles of [[Master Worrywort|Worrywort]] and [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]], which was originally rumoured to include him "moving to live at [[Bag End]] after the untimely drowning of [[Drogo Baggins|Drogo]] and [[Primula Brandybuck|Primula]]" were probably rewritten into their present form around that time.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=theonering.net/torwp/2014/03/25/87789-how-would-have-peter-jacksons-the-hobbit-looked-as-a-duology/|articlename=How would have Peter Jackson’s The Hobbit looked as a duology?|author=Demosthenes|dated=25 March 2014|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref>

They had scouted locations for the [[Barrow-downs|Barrow Downs]], possibly with a connection to the aforementioned "[[Aragorn]] protecting the [[The Shire|Shire]]" plot point.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://narniafans.com/2019/08/interview-with-narnia-conceptual-designer-john-howe/|articlename=Interview with Narnia Conceptual Designer John Howe|author=David Sutton|dated=18 August 2019|website=Narnia Fans.com}}</ref> More scenes were planned for the [[Dol Guldur]] story and the [[Orcs]]: they had gone as far as designing a young [[Gothmog (Lieutenant of Morgul)#Gothmog in adaptations|Gothmog]] who would participate in the concluding battle, but didn't utilize him.<ref name=":0" /> Another storyline concerned Itarille (later [[Tauriel]]) and her romance with an Elf lord of [[Rivendell]]: clearly an outgrowth of the original idea of featuring [[Arwen]] in the film. [[Aidan Turner]] seems to have read for the part of this Elf Lord. Indeed, Jackson recalled in 2015 that "We did try to figure out a way to get a cameo, even if it was a cameo, for [[Aragorn]] and actually for [[Arwen]], too: we tried to have [[Liv Tyler]] in the film".<ref name=":0" /> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] remarked in 2013 that they envisioned [[Aragorn]] being "quite young" in the film, but concluded that [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] "could have absolutely played" him at the time. "It was incredibly tempting."<ref name=":39">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TapH7wM8MdI&t=85s|articlename=Philippa Boyens ci parla delle scene tagliate dello Hobbit: la Desolazione di Smaug e di... Aragorn!|author=Badtaste|dated=11 December 2013|website=YouTube}}</ref> It's unclear when the idea finally died out: the scene "invoking [[Aragorn]]" was scripted in early 2013, as a "homage" to their earlier plans.

[[Viggo Mortensen]] had been interested in the project since 2007.<ref name=":43">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/09/18/29885-viggo-mortensen-still-waiting-for-guillermo-del-toro%E2%80%99s-%E2%80%98hobbit%E2%80%99-call/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen Still Waiting For Guillermo Del Toro’s ‘Hobbit’ Call|author=Xoanon|dated=18 September 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref name=":44" /> Although it was reported that [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] had held conversations with him<ref name=":43" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thetimes.com/uk/law/article/hobbit-movies-meet-dire-foe-in-son-of-tolkien-lxnpmnsd2rp|articlename=Hobbit movies meet dire foe in son of Tolkien|author=John Harlow|dated=25 May 2008|website=The Times}}</ref> these appear to have not taken place before 2010. In 2008 [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] said he would "rather do it myself than see another actor finish the job for me,"<ref name=":44" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/12/17/30804-tv-watch-viggo-mortensen-on-night-talk/|articlename=TV Watch: Viggo Mortensen on ‘Night Talk’|author=Xoanon|dated=17 December 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/39305|articlename=Capone has a GOOD chat with Viggo Mortensen about politics, THE ROAD, APPALOOSA, and THE HOBBIT!!!|author=Steve Prokopy|dated=11 May 2009|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> saying "it would be fun."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://ohnotheydidnt.livejournal.com/41460224.html|articlename=Moviefone's Exclusive Viggo Mortensen Interview!|author=Anonymous|dated=25 November 2009|website=Moviefone}}</ref> Other actors from [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'']] have also expressed interest in appearing in the film, including [[Liv Tyler]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2011/03/21/42863-liv-tyler-not-contacted-for-hobbit/|articlename=Liv Tyler Not Contacted For Hobbit|author=DiveTwin|dated=21 March 2011|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> [[Cate Blanchett]],<ref name=":16" /> [[Dominic Monaghan]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.firstshowing.net/2009/dominic-monaghan-ready-to-return-for-the-hobbit-movies/|articlename=Dominic Monaghan Ready to Return for The Hobbit Movies?|author=Brandon Lee Tenney|dated=19 January 2009|website=First Showing}}</ref> [[Sean Astin]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2009/03/10/31356-astin-up-for-hobbit-if-hobbit-up-for-him/|articlename=Astin up for Hobbit if Hobbit up for him|author=Xoanon|dated=10 March 2009|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref name=":44" /> [[John Noble]] and [[Sean Bean]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.digitalspy.com/movies/a434476/sean-bean-on-the-hobbit-absence-theyre-sticklers-for-detail/|articlename=Sean Bean on 'The Hobbit' absence: 'They're sticklers for detail'|author=Emma Dibdin|dated=30 October 2012|website=Digital Spy}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://theplaylist.net/viggo-mortensen-optimistic-about-role-20090401/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen Optimistic About Role In Del Toro’s ‘Hobbit’, Project Extends To A Trilogy?|author=Simon Dang|dated=1 April 2009|website=The Playlist}}</ref> [[Christopher Lee]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://whatculture.com/film/christopher-lee-wants-sarumann-return-in-the-hobbit|articlename=Christopher Lee wants Saruman return in THE HOBBIT|author=Matt Holmes|dated=25 June 2011|website=WhatCulture}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5qGFbBNnodw&t=77s|articlename=Christopher Lee about possibly returning to Middle Earth|author="Rushblogg"|dated=12 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> [[Brad Dourif]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/09/12/29751-brad-dourif-on-returning-to-middle-earth/|articlename=Brad Dourif on Returning to Middle-earth|author=Deej|dated=12 September 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> [[John Rhys-Davies]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/the-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy-makeup-difficulties-explained-john-rhys-davies/|articlename=John Rhys-Davies Reveals Gruesome Makeup Process for Gimli in The Lord of the Rings [Exclusive]|author=Aidan Kelley and Steven Weintraub|dated=9 August 2025|website=Collider}}</ref> and [[Elijah Wood]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/11/16/30565-elijah-hobbit-appearance-concievably-possible/|articlename=Elijah – Hobbit appearance ‘concievably possible’|author=Altaira|dated=16 November 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.firstshowing.net/2008/elijah-wood-confirms-dual-hobbit-movie-details/|articlename=Elijah Wood Confirms Dual Hobbit Movie Details|author=Alex Billington|dated=11 January 2008|website=First Showing}}</ref>

Around 2010, [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] recieved an availability call<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2013/may/28/viggo-mortensen-interview|articlename=Viggo Mortensen interview: 'If I think a film's beyond me – that's a good sign'|author=Imogen Tilden|dated=28 May 2013|website=The Guardian}}</ref> from [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]: "I said sure, if [[Aragorn]] is supposed to be in the bridge story, because he’s not in [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']]."<ref name=":1">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2013/05/30/72294-viggo-turned-down-role-as-aragorn-not-so-fast/|articlename=Viggo ‘Turned Down’ Role as Aragorn? Not so fast…|author=Newsfrombree|dated=30 May 2013|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.wired.com/2012/03/viggo-mortensen-speaks-2/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen Speaks: Part 2 of 3|author=Ethan Gilsdorf|dated=11 March 2012|website=Wired.com}}</ref> Informed that they "can take certain liberties" he said he'd "love to revisit him."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/films/features/viggo-mortensen-interview-captain-fantastic-lord-of-the-rings-aragorn-hobbit-david-cronenberg-a7231826.html|articlename=Viggo Mortensen interview: 'I didn't throw Peter Jackson under the bus'|author=Jacob Stolworthy|dated=23 January 2017|website=The Independent}}</ref> However, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] later revealed that since that call, they "could think of no way of doing it".<ref name=":0" /> Having no further contact, and knowing that "[[Orlando Bloom]] and [[Cate Blanchett]] shot something,"<ref name=":44">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://viggo-works.com/?fromday=1&frommonth=6&fromyear=2006&today=25&tomonth=2&toyear=2026&order=date&page=243&selectedcat=262&ascdesc=DESC&filter=Go&m=on|articlename=Viggo Mortenson Dangerous Method Interview|author=Anonymous|dated=25 November 2011|website=Movies.com}}</ref>[[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] concluded in November 2011 that "[[Aragorn]] is half [[Elves|elf]] [sic] and also lives a couple hundred years or more and he could be in a bridge, but I have to assume it isn't going to happen".<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reuters.com/article/lifestyle/rings-actor-mortensen-unlikely-to-repeat-role-idUSTRE7AM2U9/|articlename="Rings" actor Mortensen unlikely to repeat role|author=Kurt Orzeck|dated=24 November 2011|website=Reuters}}</ref> Although he still has misgivings - "It would make sense if Aragorn was part of the story and he's not"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.scotsman.com/arts-and-culture/interview-viggo-mortensen-is-lord-of-all-things-1573949|articlename=Interview: Viggo Mortensen is lord of all things|author=Chitra Ramaswamy|dated=25 May 2013|website=The Scotsman}}</ref> - he said he would still be open to playing [[Aragorn]] "if it seemed sensible to do so".<ref name=":1" />

===After ''The Hobbit''===

Conversations about making the "bridge film" as a third instalment<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.firstshowing.net/2009/guillermo-del-toro-updates-on-the-hobbit/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro Briefly Talks More About The Hobbit Split|author=Alex Billington|dated=5 June 2009|website=First Showing}}</ref> continued well into 2010:<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://geeksofdoom.com/2009/08/19/bridge-between-the-hobbit-lord-of-the-rings-still-to-be-built-peter-jackson-to-direct-third-movie|articlename=[Updated] Bridge Between ‘The Hobbit’ & ‘Lord Of The Rings’ Still To Be Built? Peter Jackson To Direct Third Movie?|author="The Movie God"|dated=19 August 2009|website=Geeks of Doom}}</ref> In 2012, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had revealed that "a third movie has always been in discussion."<ref>Michael Pellerin, "The Clouds Burst", Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies'' (New Line Cinema: 2015).</ref> These conversations resumed - now with the film situated as a fourth movie - as [[The Hobbit (film series)|''The Hobbit'']] was winding down in 2013. Says [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]]: "There’s enough story there to make a bridge movie, you know, there’s 60 years between ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'' and a lot of things happened."<ref name=":9">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.heyuguys.com/interview-peter-jackson-the-hobbit-the-desolation-of-smaug/|articlename=The HeyUGuys Interview: The Hobbit director Peter Jackson all but rules out a return to Middle Earth|author=Stefan Pape|dated=13 December 2013|website=HeyUGuys}}</ref> In the director's commentary to ''[[The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies|The Battle of the Five Armies]]'' in 2015, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] remained open to the idea of making more films, and mused about what Jackson jokingly calls "A fictitious film 3.5" which [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] goes on to call "The Hunt for Gollum".<ref name=":0">Peter Jackson, Philippa Boyens, "Director's Commentary," Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies'' (New Line Cinema: 2015).</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] said it could include "a few other things that go on which are really interesting" like [[Saruman]]'s search for the [[The One Ring|Ring]]. She elaborates:<blockquote>''[[Aragorn]] really is one who tracks Gollum and ends up...and finds him eventually in the [[Dead Marshes]], and he's taken [[Woodland Realm|to the Elves]]. And he's taken to the Elves, and because of the kindness of the Elves - and [[Legolas]] is one of his keepers... in [[Mirkwood]], and through their kindness he actually manages to escape. Or has he escaped? Or was he let loose?''<ref name=":0" /></blockquote>[[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had kept the possibility of returning to [[Middle-earth]] open<ref name=":0" /> but [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] revealed that they "had zero expectations of going back to this."<ref name=":7">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2024/05/the-lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-peter-jackson-andy-serkis-philippa-boyens-explain-23-years-after-cannes-saved-original-trilogy-1235917510/|articlename=Peter Jackson, Andy Serkis & Philippa Boyens Explain Why They’re Returning To Middle-Earth For ‘The Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum’ 23 Years After Cannes Saved The Billion-Dollar Franchise|author=Mike Fleming Junior|dated=15 May 2024|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://uk.movies.yahoo.com/don-t-expect--the-hobbit-3--to-lead-directly-into--the-lord-of-the-rings-140402150.html|articlename=The Hobbit 3 won't lead into The Lord of the Rings|author=Tom Butler|dated=11 December 2013|website=Yahoo Entertainment UK}}</ref> Their ultimate decision to return to this premise may have been stirred, in part, by other projects: first, Jackson had seen the in-development video game ''[[Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor|Shadow of Mordor]],'' on which [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]] and others from Jackson's crew had worked, and which had nestled itself into the gap between ''[[The Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]].''<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.ign.com/articles/2014/02/20/why-lord-of-the-rings-fans-should-be-excited-for-shadow-of-mordor|articlename=Why Lord of the Rings Fans Should Be Excited for Shadow of Mordor|author=Luke Karmali|dated=20 February 2014|website=IGN}}</ref>

Shortly afterwards, when the [[Tolkien Estate]] (still nominally under [[Christopher Tolkien]]) shopped the television rights, the idea of doing a show about young [[Aragorn]] was pitched, first by Netflix, and then - at the suggestion of the Russo brothers<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-features/the-rings-of-power-showrunners-interview-season-2-1235233124/|articlename=‘The Rings of Power’ Showrunners Break Silence on Backlash, Sauron and Season 2|author=James Hibberd|dated=5 October 2022|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> - by [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon Prime Video]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=http://newboards.theonering.net/forum/gforum/perl/gforum.cgi?post=946980;sb=post_time;so=DESC;forum_view=forum_view_collapsed;guest=206510448#947231|articlename=If you will indulge me in a story|author="Uncle Iorlas"|dated=21 July 2018|website=The One Ring.net Message Boards}}</ref> Upon hearing this, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]]' mind immediately went to the period of the hunt: "If you're telling the [story of] him hunting [[Gollum]], you're getting closer to [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]]."<ref name=":21">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.fandom.com/articles/peter-jackson-lord-of-the-rings-series|articlename=Peter Jackson’s Tips For Casting Aragorn in Lord of the Rings TV Show|author=Kim Taylor-Foster|dated=4 December 2018|website=Fandom.com}}</ref> She and Jackson had also expressed interest in the potential of [[Aragorn]]'s younger days and life in [[Rivendell]]: "He's probably going to have to start young,"<ref name=":21" /> remarked Boyens, concluding that "A lot of the early [[Aragorn]] story hasn't been told."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.stuff.co.nz/entertainment/film/108970711/philippa-boyens-on-mortal-engines-hobbits-and-going-solo|articlename=Philippa Boyens on Mortal Engines, Hobbits and going solo|author=Philip Matthews|dated=16 December 2018|website=Stuff.nz}}</ref> [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortesen]] also got wind of the rumours and said he's open to reprising his role.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/viggo-mortensen-interview-falling-lord-of-the-rings/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen on Falling, Directing, and LOTR TV Show Interest|author=Christina Radish|dated=14 February 2021|website=Collider}}</ref>

Toby Emmerich and Carolyn Blackwood from [[New Line Cinema]] were brought into the fold in the hopes of cooperating on the show. In early 2018 lawyer Peter Nelson set-up "dialogue between [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon]]" to participate as executive producer.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/how-lord-rings-tv-series-landed-at-amazon-not-netflix-1099213/|articlename=Inside Amazon’s $250M ‘Lord of the Rings’ Deal: “It’s Very Much a Creature of the Times”|author=Tatiana Siegel|dated=5 April 2018|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20210308114202/https://www.herr-der-ringe-film.de/v3/de/news/tolkienfilme/news_121920.php|articlename=Exklusiv: Zu den Kulissen der HERR DER RINGE Serie, Her Der Ringe Film (archived).|author=Cirdan|dated=20 June 2018|website=Herr der Ringe.de}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.stuff.co.nz/entertainment/celebrities/108520139/sir-peter-jackson-hasnt-given-up-hope-of-making-the-dam-busters|articlename=Sir Peter Jackson hasn't given up hope of making The Dam Busters|author=James Croot|dated=12 November 2018|website=NZStuff}}</ref> Preoccupied with ''Mortal Engines'' and ''They Shall Not Grow Old'', [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] proposed in June 2018 to review the scripts and put "the creative team together."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://de.ign.com/tv/129313/interview/peter-jackson-ist-fur-das-kreative-team-hinter-der-herr-der-ringe-serie-verantwortlich|articlename=Peter Jackson ist für das kreative Team hinter der Herr der Ringe-Serie verantwortlich|author=Valentin Aschenbrenner|dated=5 June 2018|website=IGN.de}}</ref> In July, Amazon landed on [[John D. Payne]] and [[Patrick McKay]] as showrunners, and before any work could be done, a regime change in [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon Prime Video]]<ref name=":19">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/peter-jackson-amazon-lord-of-the-rings-tv-series-1235193692/|articlename=Peter Jackson Says Amazon’s ‘Lord of the Rings’ TV Series Ghosted Him|author=James Hibberd|dated=5 August 2022|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> in early 2019 resulted in [[New Line Cinema]] being demoted to a "minority licensee stakeholder."<ref name=":20">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/lord-of-the-rings-amazon-vs-warner-bros-1235337625/|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings’: Amazon, Warner Bros. Ready for Tolkien Battle|author=James Hibberd|dated=28 February 2023|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> Although the showrunners had asked to meet [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]],<ref name=":19" /> COVID prevented this from taking place.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2022/02/10-burning-questions-about-amazons-the-rings-of-power?srsltid=AfmBOopmlhLKVkCtSqkuvTTAcUtyQUICWXopTWLQq_1tu4aEf1ICrDLp|articlename=10 Burning Questions About Amazon’s The Rings of Power|author=Joanna Robinson|dated=14 February 2022|website=Vanity Fair}}</ref> While the show used a substantial number of his crew, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] were reportedly "very frustrated that so many believed they were involved with [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon]]’s show."<ref name=":20" /> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had avoided watching the show to prevent "cross-contamination."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.slashfilm.com/1693866/why-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy-screenwriter-wont-watch-the-rings-of-power/|articlename=Why One Lord Of The Rings Trilogy Screenwriter Won't Watch The Rings Of Power|author=Jaron Pak|dated=21 October 2024|website=Slash Film}}</ref> Since then, the show had left [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s home country of [[New Zealand]].

Already in 2019, the show's development had galvanized Emmerich and Blackwood to pursue an animated film with [[Middle-earth Enterprises]] (who were not involved in the show) and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]. The bridge film might have been the "CG-animated" story that [[New Line Cinema|New Line]] "had been exploring with Sir [[Peter Jackson]]" but it failed to materialize and they decided to pursue ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim]]''<ref>Daniel Falconer, ''The Art of The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim'' (Wiliam Murrow: London, 2025), pp. 9-10.</ref>. Later on, Emmerich and Blackwood were replaced by Michael de Luca and Pam Abdy, who were "striving to keep [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon]] from blurring the lines too much between" the show and the films.<ref name=":20" /> Other projects like [[Tales of the Shire: A "The Lord of the Rings" Game|''Tales of the Shire'']], the remastering of the six films to Ultra High Definition and renovations of [[Hobbiton]] were begun shortly afterwards, as well.

After this long gestation period, ''The Hunt for Gollum'' entered development once again in 2022. [[Andy Serkis]] was attached as director in October 2023 and story meetings occurred as early as May 2024, along with early availability calls to actors like [[Ian McKellen]] and [[Viggo Mortensen]] between that time and early September. By that point, the writing of the treatment was underway, followed by the first draft in January-May. After some crew hiring in August, pre-production started in early September 2025 ahead of shooting in May 2026.

==Development==
In 2022 the new administration of [[Middle-earth Enterprises]] expressed a desire to make more films, including ones "based on iconic characters, such as [[Gandalf]], [[Aragorn]], [[Gollum]], [[Galadriel]], [[Éowyn|Eowyn]] and other characters."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/lord-of-the-rings-rights-embracer-1235201442/|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings,’ ‘The Hobbit’ Movie, Games and Other Rights Holder Sold to Swedish Gaming Company Embracer|author=Georg Szalai|dated=18 August 2022|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]], [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] kept updated throughout the negotiations to extend [[New Line Cinema]]'s lease on the rights.<ref name=":4" />

Having "really enjoyed working with [[Kenji Kamiyama]], who directed ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|War of the Rohirrim]]''," [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] signed on to produce two new films: [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] denied<ref name=":22" /> rumours that this involved splitting the [[Gollum]] story,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2024/05/lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-cast-plot-everything-we-know-1235919922/|articlename=‘The Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum’: Everything We Know So Far|author=Dessi Gomez|dated=16 May 2024|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://filmstories.co.uk/news/the-lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-its-two-films-says-ian-mckellen/|articlename=The Lord Of The Rings: Hunt For Gollum {{!}} “It’s two films” says Ian McKellen|author=Ryan Lambie|dated=11 September 2024|website=Film Stories}}</ref> and at various times her and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] expressed interest in subjects varying from the [[Battle of Dale|War in the North]], Young [[Aragorn]], or certain vignettes from [[Rohan]] or [[Gondor]]'s history, which are all possible for the second film.<ref name=":23">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1i97ctm/the_next_film_after_the_hunt_for_gollum/|articlename=The next film after The Hunt for Gollum: Everything we know so far|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=25 January 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> These are probably ''not'' the other two scripts [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had been working on, however.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.indiewire.com/news/general-news/peter-jackson-not-retired-working-on-three-scripts-1235138316/|articlename=Peter Jackson Is Working on Three Screenplays: ‘I’m Certainly Not Retired’|author=By Rance Collins|dated=13 July 2025|website=IndieWire}}</ref>

Signing on the films was done with the intention to jump-start a new slate of ''Lord of the Rings'' prequels for [[New Line Cinema]],<ref name=":18" /><ref name=":24" /> with [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also expressing interest in making an "epic trilogy", probably about the [[Angmar conflict|Angmar War]].<ref name=":23" /> However, having developed the [[Gollum]] premise for so long, they decided to start with it. Asked about unrealized projects in 2024, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] observed that "there's a lot of that in ''The Hunt for Gollum.''"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9LdzKS584wA&t=614s|articlename=Lord of the Rings: War of the Rohirrim Interviews! Peter Jackson Role Explained|author=Brandon Davis|dated=29 October 2024|website=YouTube}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis]], who played [[Gollum]], had directed second unit on ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King|The Return of the King]]'' and ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]<ref name=":7" />'' and had since become a director in his own right, as well as narrating audiobooks of Tolkien's novels. [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] approached [[Andy Serkis|Andy]] around October 2023.<ref name=":24">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ssUmmuU-Bmk&t=76s|articlename=Andy Serkis Talks Motion Capture, Gollum, and Directing {{!}} Superhero Comic Con San Antonio 2024 Q&A|author=Freeman Coliseum|dated=24 June 2024|website=YouTube}}</ref> While developing the story, they already made availability checks to key cast and crew members.

===Writing===
Story meetings have happened at least as early as May 2024<ref name=":7" /> and by July they were about to start writing,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/comconnireland/status/1835962321211904490|articlename=Andy Serkis took to the stage at Comic Con Northern Ireland to talk all things Lord of the Rings and more!|author=@comconnireland|dated=16 September 2024|website=Twitter}}</ref> with [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] spotted at the [[Hobbiton]] set in November with writers [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] and Arty Papageorgiou, producers [[Zane Weiner]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/05/lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-release-date-1236390022/|articlename=‘Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum’ Sets Pre-Christmas 2027 Release|author=Anthony D'Alessandro|dated=8 May 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> and Carlos Ramirez Laloli.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.elfenomeno.com/info/ver/23481/comienza-el-rodaje-de-el-senor-de-los-anillos-la-caza-de-gollum-en-hobbiton|articlename=¿Comienza el rodaje de El Señor de los Anillos: La Caza de Gollum en Hobbiton?|author=Elfenomeno|dated=6 November 2024|website=Elfenomeno.com}}</ref> By December they had been in the process of writing the story treatment.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/lord-of-the-rings-war-of-the-rohirrim-arty-papageorgiou-phoebe-gittins/|articlename="Who Better for a Gollum Film Than Gollum Himself?": 'War of the Rohirrim' Writers on Working with Andy Serkis in 'The Hunt for Gollum'|author=Therese Lacson|dated=16 December 2024|website=Collider}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] later estimated they would finish writing by the middle of the year - executive Pamela Abdy since put the completion of the script at May<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/04/warner-bros-mike-de-luca-pam-abdy-courage-in-face-of-brutal-press-coverage-1236366618/|articlename=Warner Bros’ Mike De Luca & Pam Abdy: Playing Long Game, Mixing IP Like ‘Bodyguard’ Revamp & Bold Originals & Animation Despite Brutal Press|author=Mike Fleming Junior|dated=11 April 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> - and begin "scouting locations and building [sets]" with shooting due to begin towards the beginning of 2026.<ref name=":5">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.1news.co.nz/2024/12/15/exclusive-andy-serkis-philippa-boyens-on-the-hunt-for-gollum/|articlename=Exclusive: Andy Serkis, Philippa Boyens on new Lord of the Rings film|author=Abbey Wakefield|dated=15 December 2024|website=1News}}</ref> As a result, the release date for the film was ultimately delayed from 2026 to 17 December 2027.<ref name="TheDirect2027Release">{{webcite|author=Klein Felt|articleurl=https://thedirect.com/article/hunt-for-gollum-movie-lord-of-the-rings-release-official|articlename=Lord of the Rings: Hunt for Gollum Movie Gets Release Window from Andy Serkis|dated=27 Feb 2025|website=[https://thedirect.com The Direct]|accessed=27 Feb 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://variety.com/2025/film/news/lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-release-date-december-2027-1236390820/|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum’ Sets December 2027 Release Date; Warner Bros. Also Dates New ‘Evil Dead’ and M. Night Shyamalan Movies for 2026|author=Zack Sharf|dated=8 May 2025|website=Variety}}</ref>

A draft of the screenplay had been sent to de Luca and Abdy in May, probably prior to the investor meeting on the 8th, when [[Warner Bros.|Warner]]'s CEO David Zaslav announced the official release date.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://voicefilm.com/david-zaslav-announces-that-the-release-date-for-the-next-lord-of-the-rings-movie-will-be-revealed-today/|articlename=David Zaslav Announces That the Release Date for the Next ‘Lord of the Rings’ Movie Will Be Revealed Today|author=Mark|dated=8 May 2025|website=Voice Film}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.comicbasics.com/warner-ceo-david-zaslav-says-they-will-focus-more-on-their-main-ips-like-harry-potter-and-dc-in-the-future-those-belong-to-us-and-theyll-only-belong-to-us-forever/|articlename=Warner CEO David Zaslav Says They Will Focus More on Their Main IPs Like ‘Harry Potter’ and DC in the Future: “Those belong to us, and they’ll only belong to us forever.”|author=Arthur S. Poe|dated=8 May 2025|website=Comic Basics}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had since revealed that the film is due to start pre production in August<ref name=":33">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1krwz8d/andy_serkis_the_lord_of_the_rings_the_hunt_for/|articlename=Andy Serkis Panel at Fan Expo Philadelphia 2025|author=FandomWire News|dated=19 May 2025}}</ref> - when the film started hiring crew - then ammended to "late August to early September"<ref name=":18" />, with [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] ultimately arriving in [[Wellington]] circa 8 September to begin work on the film.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://metro.co.uk/2025/09/03/andy-serkis-admits-cant-escape-gollum-ahead-lord-rings-return-24066270/amp/|articlename=Andy Serkis admits he ‘can’t escape Gollum’ ahead of Lord of the Rings return|author=Sabrina Barr|dated=3 September 2025|website=Metro UK}}</ref> Serkis had left New Zealand during the holiday season, attending the premiere of "28 Years Later: The Bone Temple" before flying back to New Zealand: en rote he landed in Los Angeles.<ref name=":41">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.tmz.com/2026/01/20/andy-serkis-wants-original-lord-of-the-rings-cast-in-new-film/|articlename=LOTR' Star Andy Serkis: OG Cast Is Precious, Love 'Em For New Flick|author=Anonymous|dated=20 January 20 2026|website=TMZ}}</ref>

==Pre production==
[[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had further said preproduction will last for six months,<ref name=":27">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.comingsoon.it/cinema/news/in-un-mondo-alla-deriva-gollum-ci-salvera-la-nostra-intervista-ad-andy/n203564/|articlename=In un mondo alla deriva Gollum ci salverà: la nostra intervista ad Andy Serkis|author=Carola Proto|dated=25 June 2025|website=Coming Soon.it}}</ref> with [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] later confirming it will start filming in May<ref name=":12">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1msw9fp/the_lord_of_the_rings_the_hunt_for_gollum_starts/|articlename=The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum starts shooting in May, says Sir Ian McKellen. "I'll tell you two secrets about the casting..."|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=17 August 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> for an extended shooting period:<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-filming-update-andy-serkis/|articlename=Director Andy Serkis Offers Huge Filming Update For 'The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum' [Exclusive]|author=Chris McPherson and Steven Weintraub|dated=10 June 2025|website=Collider}}</ref> This puts the beginning of filming in [[New Zealand]] winter and, deducting the holidays, six months after [[Andy Serkis|Andy]]'s arrival. Location scouting may have taken place at Hawke's Bay as early as June<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1lis26w/a_location_scout_for_the_lord_of_the_rings_the/|articlename=A location scout for The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum seems to be snooping around Hawke's Bay, New Zealand|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=23 June 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> and later at the Waikato.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.waikatotimes.co.nz/nz-news/360837801/aliens-warriors-heroes-princesses-and-gollum-big-productions-filmed-and-possibly-coming-waikato|articlename=Aliens, warriors, heroes, princesses ... and Gollum: The big productions filmed in (and possibly coming to) the Waikato|author=Mike Mather|dated=1 October 2025|website=Waikato Times}}</ref> They had also watched the films sometime prior to November.<ref>Latino USA TV, "How Movie Monsters Are Really Made!", YouTube, 26 November 2025.</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] also spoke appreciatively of [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s penchant for behind the scenes extras,.<ref name=":33" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/gu1jj7/one_zoom_to_rule_them_all_reunited_apart_lord_of/|articlename=One Zoom to Rule Them All {{!}} Reunited Apart LORD OF THE RINGS Edition|author=Josh Gad|dated=31 May 2021|website=}}</ref> and [[Peter Jackson|Peter]] himself had since confirmed they will do "little blogs." In October, [[Andy Serkis|Andy]] revealed that they're developing prosthetics.<ref name=":34">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1og2b4p/andy_serkis_says_all_the_art_department_from_lord/|articlename=Andy Serkis says "all the art department" from Lord of the Rings are "excited to come back." They started location scouting and camera tests.|author=u/Lord_Varys92|dated=25 October 2024|website=Reddit}}</ref>

Since [[Elijah Wood]], slated to appear in the film, is on tour through to early September,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://parade.com/news/lord-of-the-rings-hobbits-25-years-later-reunion-tour|articlename=The Hobbits Are Back Together — and Their Big News Has Fans Cheering|author=Whitney Danhauer|dated=25 October 2025|website=Parade}}</ref> his scenes might be scheduled for [[New Zealand]] summer, which could suggest shooting ''in situ'' in [[Hobbiton]], presumably depicting [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] dallying outside [[Bag End]] while [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]] and [[Gandalf]] argue within, as depicted in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]''. [[Ian McKellen]] is also hoping to join the production in [[New Zealand as Middle-earth|New Zealand]] during July.<ref>The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, "There's Nothing I Enjoy More Than Acting In The Theater" - Ian McKellen EXTENDED INTERVIEW," ''YouTub''e, 5 February 2026.</ref>

===Crew===
The film, said to be "one of the most expensive feature films to be shot in [[New Zealand]]"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/new-lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-film-will-be-shot-in-nz-set-for-2027-release/3BDNB3QFKJDAVGB4ODOTQ63YLY/|articlename=New Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum film will be shot in NZ, set for 2027 release|author=Tom Rose|dated=18 June 2025|website=New Zealand Herald}}</ref> is expected to draft alums of the ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|Lord of the Rings]]'', ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|War of the Rohirrim]]'' (many of whom will have also worked on ''[[The Rings of Power]]'' Season One and other projects) working in the [[Wellington]] and greater New Zealand screen sector.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thepost.co.nz/nz-news/350274670/film-heavyweights-alight-over-lotr-comeback|articlename=Film heavyweights ‘alight’ over LOTR comeback|author=Rachel Thomas|dated=10 May 2024|website=The New Zealand Post}}</ref><ref name=":5" /> Crewing began in early August, with Wood since confirming the involvement of production designer [[Dan Hennah]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IX5NhkyQ710|articlename=Elijah Wood en Monterrey/ conferencia de la DesertCon|author=Asi SoyTv|dated=6 October 2025|website=YouTube}}</ref> and set decorator Ra Vincent might also be involved.<ref name=":34" /> Although [[Janet Brennan Croft|Janet Brennan-Croft]] acted as [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] consultant on previous films, Beppe Pezzini will fill this role for this film.<ref>Educational Media Services | University of Oxford, "Beppe Pezzini on Classics and Fantasy | Fantasy Summer School ‪@facultyofenglishoxford‬," ''YouTube'', 23 September 2025.</ref>

IMDb credits Bob Buck as ''a'' costume designer for the film: it remains to be seen if Ngila Dickson, having just wrapped ''Predator: Badlands'' with [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]], might return. Kate Hawley, who was attached to del Toro's version of the film, is unlikely to take part due to work on "Bad Bridgets."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/10/daisy-edgar-jones-emilia-jones-bad-bridgets-luckychap-1236604481/|articlename=Daisy Edgar-Jones And Emilia Jones To Star In ‘Bad Bridgets’ From LuckyChap|author=Justin Kroll|dated=31 October 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> Liz Mullane and Rachel Bullock head the New Zealand casting sweep. Both [[Wētā FX|WetaFX]] and [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]] are confirmed for the project,<ref name=":8">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt32328070/companycredits/?ref_=tt_dt_cmpy|articlename=The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum (2027)|author=Anonymous|website=IMDb}}</ref> as are [[Gino Acevedo]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.instagram.com/p/DRy30vUkme7/|articlename="Oh no!"|author=Ginoacevedofx|dated=3 December 2025|website=Instagram}}</ref> [[John Howe]] and [[Alan Lee]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://ggba.swiss/en/the-lord-of-the-rings-nature-and-switzerlands-hidden-history-a-conversation-with-john-howe/|articlename=The Lord Of The Rings, Nature and Switzerland’s Hidden History (A Conversation with John Howe)|author=Woody Wade|dated=10 December 2025|website=Greater Geneva Bern Area}}</ref> In April - by which point a composer was already said to be attached to the project - [[Howard Shore]] said he was interested to "see how that all works out."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.classical-music.com/articles/howard-shore|articlename=Howard Shore: the film composer behind Hannibal Lecter and Bilbo Baggins|author=Michael Beek|dated=16 April 2025|website=Classical Music.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://en.softonic.com/articles/the-composer-of-the-soundtrack-for-the-lord-of-the-rings-made-a-cameo-in-the-movies-and-no-one-noticed#google_vignette|articlename=The composer of the soundtrack for The Lord of the Rings made a cameo in the movies and no one noticed|author=Agencias|dated=26 December 2025|website=Softonic}}</ref>

As early as October, [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] suggested that they're "doing camera tests."<ref name=":34" /> This is said to include miniature photography, with Alex Funke said to participate, even if only in an advisory position. On the live action side, although Robert Richardson had been rumoured as camerman, he will be preoccupied with Antoine Fuqua's Hannibal epic.<ref name=":34" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.worldofreel.com/blog/2025/7/23/michael-part-1-delayed-to-april-2026|articlename=‘Michael’ Delayed to April 2026|author=Jordan Ruimy|dated=23 July 2025|website=World of Reel}}</ref> While the film was in the story conference stage in July 2024, Richardson said he had "a number" of projects "on the constantly-shifting horizon of the film industry."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.filmlightcolourawards.com/colour-awards-2024/jury-colour-awards-2024/robert-richardson-cinematographer-asc-ack/|articlename=Robert Richardson, Cinematographer, ASC, ACK|author=Anonymous|dated=18 July 2024|website=Film Light Colour Awards}}</ref>

The film is a co-production of [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s [[WingNut Films|WingNut films]] and [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]]' ''Imaginarium''. [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] will executive produce with his ''Imaginarium'' partner John Cavendish and Jackson's agent [[Ken Kamins]].<ref name="Gollum">{{webcite|author=Jennifer Maas|articleurl=https://variety.com/2024/film/news/lord-of-the-rings-movie-2026-release-warner-bros-1235997102/|articlename=Warner Bros. to Release New ‘Lord of the Rings’ Movie ‘The Hunt for Gollum’ in 2026, Peter Jackson to Produce and Andy Serkis to Direct|dated=9 May 2024|website=[https://variety.com/ Variety]|accessed=8 June 2024}}</ref> IMDb also credits studio chiefs Michael de Luca (who helped produce [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'']]), Pam Abdy and David Zaslav as executive producers<ref name=":8" /> and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] mentioned [[Warner Bros.|Warners]]' business consultant Alan Horn (who had produced ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]])'' as a collaborator, but these credits have yet to become official.<ref name=":7" />

===Cast===
With [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] due to star as [[Gollum]], approaches had been made to [[Ian McKellen|Sir Ian McKellen]]<ref name=":2">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2024/09/ian-mckellen-return-gandalf-new-the-lord-of-the-rings-films-1236075547/|articlename=Ian McKellen Reveals He’s Been Approached To Reprise His Role As Gandalf In Andy Serkis’ New ‘The Lord Of The Rings’ Films|author=Jake Kanter|dated=2 September 2024|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> and [[Viggo Mortensen]] to reprise [[Gandalf]] and [[Aragorn]], respectively. [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] said he's in talks to reprise "a little bit" of [[Gandalf]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.mirror.co.uk/3am/celebrity-news/sir-ian-mckellan-i-thought-36196617|articlename=EXCLUSIVE: Sir Ian McKellan: 'I thought I was a goner, but I'm coming back as Gandalf'|author=Marc Baker and Jackie Annett|dated=5 November 2025|website=The Mirror}}</ref> in [[New Zealand]].<ref name=":42">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thetimes.com/culture/tv-radio/article/ian-mckellen-an-ark-lowry-lord-of-the-rings-f9wc9nmdq|articlename=Ian McKellen at 86: ‘I’ve had to accept that I’m not immortal’|author=Jonathan Dean|dated=14 February 2026|website=The Times}}</ref> As of December, the contracts with [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] and [[Elijah Wood|Wood]] hadn't been finalized,<ref name=":40" /> but [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] expressed a desire to return to [[New Zealand]] for filming. [[Liv Tyler]], [[Evangeline Lilly]] and, especially, [[Orlando Bloom]] have also expressed interest in reprising their parts,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.nme.com/news/film/the-lord-of-the-rings-cast-say-they-would-jump-to-return-for-new-spin-off-movies-3853893|articlename=‘The Lord Of The Rings’ cast say they would “jump” to return for new spin-off movies|author=Damian Jones|dated=11 April 2025|website=NME}}</ref> while [[Dominic Monaghan]] expressed a desire to visit the set.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://nypost.com/2025/11/06/entertainment/dominic-monaghan-reveals-plans-for-next-lord-of-the-rings-movie/|articlename=Dominic Monaghan reveals big plans for next ‘Lord of the Rings’ movie — including possible return as Merry
By|author=Eric Todisco|dated=6 November 2025|website=New York Post}}</ref> [[Evangeline Lilly|Lilly]] had proceeded to do so, but indicated that she will have no further involvement with the project. [[Orcs]] are set to appear in the film, with [[Shane Rangi]] and [[Lawrence Makoare]] having reportedly been contacted.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/thelegacyofnerd/status/1979621220246344016|articlename=BREAKING: ‘The Hunt For Gollum’ Begins Filming in May 2026|author=@thelegacyofnerd|dated=8 October 2025|website=Twitter}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]]' comments about seeing the interiors of [[Barad-dûr|Barad Dur]] might suggest the involvement of [[Benedict Cumberbatch]].<ref name=":36">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lYYSsook-4Y|articlename=Philippa Boyens ('ESDLA: LA GUERRA DE LOS ROHIRRIM'): "Queríamos que se sintiera como algo nuevo"|author=eCartelera|dated=10 December 2024}}</ref>

[[Andy Serkis|Serkis]], [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had all spoke to [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]],<ref name=":3">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://theplaylist.net/the-war-of-the-rohirrim-philippa-boyens-on-the-new-anime-the-hunt-for-gollum-the-future-of-the-lord-of-the-rings-20241223/|articlename=‘The War Of The Rohirrim’: Philippa Boyens On The New Anime, ‘The Hunt For Gollum’ & The Future Of ‘The Lord of the Rings’|author=Rodrigo Perez|dated=23 December 2024|website=The Playlist}}</ref> who had previously said he'd be "open to it" if it makes sense for "the age I am now"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.gq-magazine.co.uk/article/viggo-mortensen-interview-2024|articlename=Viggo Mortensen re-used Aragorn's sword in new movie The Dead Don't Hurt “Because it's really good”|author=Rafael Motamayor|dated=28 May 2024|website=GQ}}</ref> but after [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] pitched it to him as "Digital make-up" they agreed he'd wait to read the script: With the approach to [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] happening sometime between June<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thetimes.com/culture/film/article/ian-mckellen-if-this-is-my-last-job-id-better-get-it-right-hadnt-i-n3t38g6tb|articlename=Ian McKellen: ‘When a script arrives, I think this might be my last job’|author=Dominic Maxwell|dated=8 June 2024|website=The Times of London}}</ref> and September,<ref name=":2" /> the approach to [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] may have taken place in mid-June, just prior to an interview in which [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] said "The script is the most important thing to me", seemingly no longer harping on the age quota.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/viggo-mortensen-lord-of-the-rings-script-feminism-1235935628/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen on Respecting Audiences, How Scripts Are Key “Unless I’m Broke,” New ‘LOTR’ Films|author=Georg Szalai|dated=30 June 2024|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] said they need to "drag" him.<ref name=":36" /> In the event, the cost of the deaging seemed too steep<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/ViewerAnon/status/1998489358849159181?s=20|articlename=I can confirm this|author=ViewerAnon|dated=9 December 2025|website=Twitter}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://3dvf.com/en/a-cult-actor-from-the-lord-of-the-rings-on-the-departure-the-question-arises-for-the-prequel-dedicated-to-gollum/#google_vignette|articlename=A Cult Actor from The Lord of the Rings on the Departure? The Question Arises for the Prequel Dedicated to Gollum|author=Quentin Couprie|dated=13 December 2025|accessed=3DVF}}</ref> and while they started looking for a younger "Strider", they ended casting [[Jamie Dornan]]. [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] had indicated he'd be interested in appearing in later film projects if they were "true to Tolkien."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.the-independent.com/arts-entertainment/films/news/viggo-mortensen-movies-interview-b2561237.html|articlename=Go to Bat with Viggo Mortensen: My films that deserve more love|author=Jacob Stolworthy|dated=7 June 2024|website=The Independent}}</ref>

While in London for ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]]'' premiere, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also "had lunch with an [[Elves|Elf]] lord" who "would fall into that story."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.instagram.com/nerdoftherings/reel/DDgKw47uxkJ/|articlename="Philippa Boyens teases an “elf lord” returning for Hunt for Gollum! "|author=Matt Graf|dated=12 December 2024|website=Instagram}}</ref> Although this could refer to [[Orlando Bloom|Bloom]] or even [[Marton Csokas]], [[Lee Pace]] is the most likely as he was shooting ''The Running Man'' in London at the time.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://people.com/glen-powell-films-running-man-reboot-37-years-after-arnold-schwarzenegger-movie-8745529|articlename=Glen Powell Films Running Man Remake in London 37 Years After Original Arnold Schwarzenegger Movie|author=Jen Juneau|dated=14 November 2024|website=People}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had since divulged that they expect "some of the cast who were originally in" ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'', as well as "some incredible new talent."<ref name=":28">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.jedinews.com/events/articles/indiana-comic-con-andy-serkis-full-panel/|articlename=Indiana Comic Con: Andy Serkis Full Panel|author=James Burns|dated=11 April 2025,|website=Jedi News}}</ref> [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] had since confirmed that [[Gandalf]] and [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]], surely to be played by himself and [[Elijah Wood|Wood]], are scheduled to reappear in the piece.<ref name=":12" /> McKellen, Wood and Lee were officially announced for CinemaCon.

Casting seems to have started in November,<ref name=":40">Steve Schofield ''et al'', "25 Years of Fellowship", ''Empire'' (March 2026), pp. 46-70.</ref> with young boys auditioning for the boy [[Gollum|Smeagol]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/KnightGambit/status/2011815291198849220|articlename=Small Tidbit.....|author=Caleb Williams|dated=16 January 2026|website=Twitter}}</ref> and two of his fellow [[Stoors|Stoor]] riverfolk - a young girl and a young adult boy - in what looks like a setup for [[Gollum|Smeagol]]'s preoccupation with a birtday present. Out of the actors that originally auditioned for a younger Strider, Leo Woodall, was cast in the role of a fellow ranger, Halvrad, presumably based on the character of [[Halbarad]].

Serkis had since reaffirrmed that he would "love the old cast" back.<ref name=":41" /> Other roles auditioned for include women in their thirties and fifities: the latter is said to be Smeagol's grandmother, now confirmed as the "lead" role of Marigol, with Kate Winslet relocating to New Zealand for five months. The thirties' part<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://knightedgemedia.com/2026/03/the-hunt-for-gollum-lead-female-characters-casting-are-underway-exclusive/#google_vignette|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum’ Lead Female Characters Casting Are Underway (EXCLUSIVE)|author=Caleb Williams|dated=5 March 2026|website=Knight Edge Media}}</ref> was reportedly circled by Anya Taylor-Joy. Some presume this to be [[Arwen]], but if so the quota is older than [[Liv Tyler]], who was 23 at the time of [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'']].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://medium.com/@chenngeller/on-aragorn-and-other-castings-a6e55668fce9?postPublishedType=repub|articlename=On Aragorn, Stoors and other castings|author=Chen Geller|dated=11 March 2026|website=Medium}}</ref> Winslet had previously been considered, at least by the studio, for [[Éowyn|Eowyn]].

==Plotline==
The exact events the film covers remain undisclosed. There's ambiguity concerning both the exact timeframe for the film, and whether it will focus more on [[Gollum]] or [[Aragorn]]. An official "blurb" for the movie reads: "The pic explores [[Aragorn]]’s adventures as a [[Rangers of the North|ranger]], specifically his quest to capture [[Gollum]] between [[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]] and [[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|Fellowship of the Ring]], tracking him to keep the [[The One Ring|Ring]]’s location from [[Sauron|Sauron."]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2026/01/box-office-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy-25th-anniversary-1236689724/|articlename=‘Lord Of The Rings’ Trilogy 25th Anniversary Event Rings Up $11M In Worldwide Box Office|author=Anthony D'Alessandro|dated=19 January 2026|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> A more extended synopsis had also been circulating:<blockquote>Before the Fellowship, one creature's obsession holds the key to Middle-earth's survival -- or its demise. In The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum, we meet young Smeagol -- an outsider drawn to trinkets and mischief -- long before The One Ring consumed him and began his tragic descent into the tortured, deceitful creature Gollum. With the ring lost and carried away by Bilbo Baggins, Gollum finds himself compelled to leave his cave in search of it. Gandalf the Grey calls upon Aragorn, still known as the ranger Strider, to track the elusive creature whose knowledge of the whereabouts of the ring could tip the balance toward the Dark Lord Sauron.
Set in the shadowed time between Bilbo's birthday disappearance and the Fellowship's formation, this perilous journey through Middle-earth's darkest corners reveals untold truths, tests the resolve of its future king, and explores the fractured soul and backstory of Gollum, one of Tolkien's most enigmatic characters.

Directed by original cast member Andy Serkis, produced by Peter Jackson, and written & produced by Fran Walsh and Phillipa Boyens -- the creative team behind the Oscar-winning trilogy -- this live-action movie bridges the beloved films with new characters, returning heroes, and a deeply engaging origin story that resets the stage for, and changes everything you know about the legendary Lord of the Rings trilogy.</blockquote>Strictly speaking, [[Aragorn]]'s hunt for [[Gollum]] begins during the events depicted in Jackson's [[The Fellowship of the Ring (2001 film)|''The Fellowship of the Ring'']], and in October, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] said the story "falls after the [[Bilbo's Farewell Party|birthday party of Bilbo]] and before the Mines Of [[Moria]]".<ref name=":22">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.empireonline.com/movies/news/lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-wont-be-two-films-second-philippa-boyens-exclusive/|articlename=The Hunt For Gollum Won’t Be Two Films, But A Second LOTR Film Is Incoming, Philippa Boyens Confirms|author=Ben Travis|dated=18 October 2024|website=Empire}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] added that the role of [[Aragorn]] is "very central" to the movie.<ref name=":36" /> Andy called the storyline "pivotal."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1md7lim/the_lord_of_the_rings_the_hunt_for_gollum_andy/|articlename=The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum - Andy Serkis says "this part of the story is pivotal"|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=30 July 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> [[Ian McKellen]] had described the plot as "[[Aragorn]] trying to find [[Gollum]] with [[Gandalf]] directing operations from the sidelines."<ref name=":42" />

However, ''a'' hunt for [[Gollum]] is begun by the [[Silvan Elves]] after Gollum first leaves the [[Misty Mountains|mountains]] in search of [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]], and in December Jackson said the film "tells us what happened to [[Gollum]] between ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' - end of [[The Hobbit (film series)|''The Hobbit'']] - and the beginning of ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]''".<ref name=":6">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/red-carpet-premiere-for-the-lord-of-the-rings-the-war-of-the-rohirrim/P3BS7U5NPS5EMFLPUV4SYSYFDU/|articlename=Red carpet premiere for The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|author=Mitchell Hageman|dated=11 December 2024|website=New Zealand Herald}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had since confirmed this timeframe: "It sits, kind of, in the timeline between ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' - between losing the [[The One Ring|Ring]] to [[Bilbo Baggins]] - and ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]''."<ref name=":18">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?t=1218&v=U-dw8DQDf90&feature=youtu.be|articlename=Kazakhstan feels like the center of the world - Andy Serkis {{!}} Interview of the Day|author=Silk Way / Qazaqstan|dated=15 July 2025|website=YouTube}}</ref> [[Dol Guldur]], the [[Nazgûl|Nazgul]] and [[Orcs]] are all said to potentially play part in the film.

[[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also alluded to other storylines: "we are finding a lot of threads of story that are surprising in there when you really go in there and examine it".<ref name=":29">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.slashfilm.com/1734018/philippa-boyens-lord-of-the-rings-war-of-the-rohirrim-exclusive-interview/|articlename=War Of The Rohirrim's Philippa Boyens Reveals Details About The Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum [Exclusive Interview]|author=Ben Pearson|dated=13 December 2024|website=/Film}}</ref> Events as varied as [[Aragorn]]'s sojourn in [[Lothlórien|Lórien]] with [[Arwen]], the fall of [[Balin's folk]], [[Boromir]]'s quest for [[Rivendell]] and much else occur concurrent to the time of the Hunt.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1iutc9r/building_bridges_so_what_happens_between_the/|articlename=Building Bridges: So, what happens between the trilogies that The Hunt for Gollum could possibly cover?|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=21 February 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> "You see the layers and layers of story that’s underneath there and how interconnected they all are", she adds.<ref name=":3" /> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] also made comments to this effect: "Some pretty interesting stuff happens that we reference in passing in [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The'' ''Lord of the Rings'']], but there’s a lot of more deep detail to it."<ref name=":6" />

[[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] adds that "We get to go to some places that we've never been before" in Middle-earth." One such place - only glimpsed in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|Fellowship of the Ring]]'' - is the interiors of [[Barad-dûr|Barad Dur]].<ref name=":36" /> Both she and Serkis alluded to new characters<ref name=":28" /><ref name=":5" /> and new dramatic situations, saying it's "surprising"<ref name=":7" /><ref name=":27" /><ref name=":29" /> and could be enjoyed be people wo don't know the novels.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.amica.it/video-post/andy-serkis-dirigero-signore-anelli-tornero-batman/|articlename=Andy Serkis, da Gollum a regista: «Dirigerò “Il Signore degli Anelli” e tornerò con Batman»|author=Emanuele Bigi|dated=27 June 2025|website=Amica}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also shared that one of the practicalities they were busy figuring out in the writing is "How does he [<nowiki/>[[Aragorn]]] pick up his scent? How does he find his trail, how does it happen?"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://nerdist.com/article/nerdist-philippa-boyens-interview-the-war-of-the-rohirrim-the-lord-of-the-rings-future/|articlename=Philippa Boyens Talks the Future of THE LORD OF THE RINGS Movies and Naming a Tolkien Character in THE WAR OF THE ROHIRRIM|author=by Rotem Rusak|dated=19 December 2024|website=Nerdist}}</ref>

==Cast==
{| class="wikitable mw-collapsible"
|- style="background: var(--tg-color-surface-2);"
!Actor!!Role
|-
|[[Andy Serkis]]||[[Gollum|Gollum & Smeagol]]<ref name="Gollum"></ref><ref name="Twitter">''Twitter'', [https://x.com/warnerbros/status/2044207974361510165 We’ve been waiting for you, precious. The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum only in theaters 17 December 2027.] by Warner Bros.</ref>
|-
|[[Ian McKellen]]
|[[Gandalf]]<ref name=":12" /><ref name="Twitter"></ref>
|-
|[[Kate Winslet]]
|[[Marigol]]<ref name="Twitter"></ref>
|-
|[[Jamie Dornan]]
|[[Aragorn|Strider]]<ref name="Twitter"></ref>
|-
|[[Leo Woodall]]
|[[Halvard]]<ref name="Twitter"></ref>
|-
|[[Lee Pace]]
|[[Thranduil]]<ref name="Twitter"></ref>
|-
|[[Elijah Wood]]
|[[Frodo Baggins]]<ref name=":12" /><ref name="Twitter"></ref>
|}

{{Title|Italics}}

{{References}}

{{Screen}}

[[Category:Films]]

[[fi:The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum]]

The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum

2026-04-11T13:48:33Z

Chen Geller:

{{Disambig-two|the 2027 film adaptation|2009 fan film|[[The Hunt for Gollum]]}}
{{film infobox
| image =
| caption =
| name = The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum
| director = [[Andy Serkis]]
| producer = [[Peter Jackson]] [[Fran Walsh]] [[Philippa Boyens]] [[Zane Weiner]]
| writer = [[Fran Walsh]] [[Philippa Boyens]] Phoebe Gittins Arty Papageorgiou
| narrator =
| starring = [[Andy Serkis]]<ref name=Gollum></ref> [[Elijah Wood]] [[Ian McKellen]] Kate Winslet
| music =
| cinematography =
| editing =
| studio = WingNut films Imaginarium [[New Line Cinema]]<ref name=Gollum></ref>
| distributor = [[Warner Bros.|Warner Bros. Pictures]]<ref name=Gollum></ref>
| released = 17 December [[2027]]<ref name="TheDirect2027Release"/>
| runtime =
| country = [[New Zealand]]<ref name=Gollum></ref>
| language = English
| budget =
| website =
|imdb_id=32328070
|basedon=[[The Lord of the Rings]]|production design=[[Dan Hennah]] (Production designer)}}
'''''The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum''''' is the title (originally, working title<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/09/curtis-brown-jrr-tolkien-literary-estate-deal-1236526748/|articlename=Curtis Brown To Rep J.R.R. Tolkien’s Literary Estate|author=Jesse Whittock|dated=10 September 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref>) of a forthcoming film adaptation currently in pre-production and set for a [[2027]] release, the first of a planned series of Tolkien films to be produced by [[New Line Cinema]], a division of [[Warner Bros.|Warner Brothers]].<ref name=":4">{{webcite|author=Matt Donnelly|articleurl=https://variety.com/2023/film/news/lord-of-the-rings-new-movies-warner-bros-1235533672/|articlename=New ‘Lord of the Rings’ Movies Set at Warner Bros. |dated=23 February 2023|website=[https://variety.com/ Variety]|accessed=10 June 2024}}</ref>

The film will cover [[Gollum]]'s travels after losing [[The One Ring|the Ring]] to [[Bilbo Baggins]] (as depicted in [[The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey|''An Unexpected Journey'']]), through [[Gandalf]] setting out to track the creature after [[Bilbo's Farewell Party]] (as depicted in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]'') and down to [[Gollum]] intercepting [[Fellowship of the Ring|the Fellowship]] in [[Moria|Moria.]]

It will be directed by and star [[Andy Serkis]], who played [[Gollum]] in [[Peter Jackson]]'s previous films, as well as directing second unit. [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] will produce with his co-writing team of [[Fran Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens]], who will also write the screenplay with ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]]'' scribes Phoebe Gittins and Arty Papageorgiou.

The subject of this film is a longstanding fascination of [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s who developed it quite intensly in 2008 with [[Guillermo del Toro]]. The film is in preproduction with several cast and crew members from previous films already attached, including actor [[Elijah Wood]], concept artists [[John Howe]] and [[Alan Lee]] and others.

==Early Development==
Although the film was only announced in 2023, it had a long gestation period with [[Peter Jackson]], who considered filming this subject since circa 1997, and at least as late as July 2015. During 2008, in particular, the film was in development with a plot synopsis, a tentative budget and an initial cast and crew attached, and drew the attention of further talent like [[Viggo Mortensen]], as well as the press. Elements of this proposed "bridge film" were eventually put into ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' but mostly axed during the early months of the shoot. Jackson also negotiated in 2018 about producing a show for [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon Prime]] about the related subject of the travels of young [[Aragorn]], but ended up producing ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]]'' with [[New Line Cinema]] instead.

===During ''The'' ''Lord of the Rings''===
[[Peter Jackson]] read [[The Lord of the Rings|''The Lord of the Rings'']] circa 1979, and he claims that he "always loved the concept that when [[Gandalf]] leaves [[Bag End]] he goes and joins up with [[Aragorn]] and the two of them hunt [[Gollum]] down."<ref name=":26">Peter Jackson, Philippa Boyens, Fran Walsh, "Director's Commentary", Peter Jackson, ''The Lord of the Rings trilogy'' (New Line Cinema: 2004).</ref> This piece of backstory was also expanded upon in the [[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)|radio serial]], which [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] was very familiar with. He and [[Fran Walsh]] first pitched a trilogy based on [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']] and ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'' around November 1995.<ref>Brian Sibley, Peter Jackson: A Filmmaker's Journey (London: HarperCollins, 2006), pp. 312 ff.</ref><ref>J. W Braun, ''The lord of the films : the unofficial guide to Tolkien's Middle-Earth on the big screen'' (Toronto: ECW Press, 2009), pp. 20, 63, 68-69, 195.</ref><ref>Michael Pellerin, "Completing Middle-earth," Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit'' (Warner Brothers: 2015).</ref> They may well have had the [[Gollum]] episode in mind at some time between that point and early 1997. So long as they intended to start with ''The Hobbit'' (up to early 1996), they will have been mindful of the need to connect the two novels, and while their treatment (mid 1997) doesn't seem to cover the [[Gollum]] episode, it already dramatizes the remainder of the backstory that's given in "[[The Shadow of the Past]]", "[[The Council of Elrond]]" and [[appendix B]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1j06oqh/so_what_is_the_hunt_for_gollum_really_based_on/|articlename=So, what is The Hunt for Gollum REALLY based on?|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=28 February 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> When the project expanded (September 1998) to three films, Jackson tried to finally incorporate this storyline - some eight pages' worth - but realized that he "just couldn't put [the Hunt for [[Gollum]]] into the movie".<ref name=":26" />

[[Peter Jackson|Peter]] nevertheless publicly expressed a desire to film "[[Gandalf]] and [[Aragorn]] hunting [[Gollum]], and his capture by [[Orcs]]"<ref name=":25">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://members.tripod.com/peter_jackson_online/lotr/articles/20_questions2.htm|articlename=20 QUESTIONS WITH PETER JACKSON- PART 2|author=Harry Knowles|dated=31 December 1998|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> At the time, the idea was to shoot this as additional material and add it into the extended edition: although by early 2001 he would have realized this could not be accomodated in the pickups to ''The Fellowship of the Ring'', in 2003 he would still half-jokingly talk about shooting more pickups to "fatten these films out without technically going beyond ‘[[The Lord of the Rings]]’ as the licensed property." Elsewhere in the commentary, he jokes about "spinoff" entries.<ref name=":26" /> Other ideas for this treatment included [[Tom Bombadil]]<ref name=":25" /> and the [[Lothlórien|attack on Lorien]], with the entire expansion estimated at around three hours' worth.<ref name=":26" />

By the end of 2001, The success of ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]'' emboldened [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]<ref>Kristin Thompson, T''he Frodo Franchise: The Lord of the Rings and Modern Hollywoo''d (Berkeley: University of California Press, 2007), pp. 51, 327, 338.</ref> to pursue more films (he was also in discussions to "rekindle" ''King Kong'' at the time) and he had later discussed filming a "''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|Lord of the Rings]]'' prequel", along with ''[[The Hobbit]]'', with composer [[Howard Shore]] and executive producer [[Mark Ordesky]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2006/11/19/24053-peter-jackson-and-fran-walsh-talk-the-hobbit-2/|articlename=Peter Jackson and Fran Walsh Talk THE HOBBIT|author=Xoanon|dated=19 November 2006|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref><ref name=":35">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.rhino.com/article/interview-howard-shore-the-lord-of-the-rings|articlename=INTERVIEW: Howard Shore (“The Lord of the Rings”)|author=Will Harris|dated=27 April 2018|website=Rhino}}</ref> At a later premiere, [[New Line Cinema|New Line]]'s president Robert Shaye told [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s agent [[Ken Kamins]] that they "would want to have a conversation" about the two films.<ref name=":30" /> The idea at the time was to incorporate [[Arwen]] as a female character<ref name=":10">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20230327113046/https://ew.com/article/2003/12/06/peter-jackson-mulls-rings-prequel/|articlename=Peter Jackson mulls ''Rings'' prequel|author=Gary Susman|dated=6 December 2003|website=EW}}</ref> and produce both films back-to-back "in some short order"<ref name=":30">Ian Nathan, ''Anything You Can Imagine: Peter Jackson and the Making of Middle-earth'' (London: HarperCollins, 2019), pp. 827, 835.</ref> after ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'', in order to "complete the set of films.”<ref name=":10" /> Peter was referring to these two films, when talking in the behind the scenes documentaries in 2004 about "Maybe there'll be something we can do." Actors [[Andy Serkis]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2003/dec/09/jrrtolkien|articlename=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2003/dec/09/jrrtolkien|author=Anonymous|dated=9 Dec 2003|website=The Guardian}}</ref> [[Ian McKellen]], producer Barrie Osborne<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2002/12/16/25965-ttt-benefit-with-barrie-osborne-2/|articlename=TTT Benefit with Barrie Osborne
by|author=xoanon|dated=16 December 2002|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> and concept artist Paul Lasaine all expressed interest at the time.

Also around this time, [[Andy Serkis]] goes into some detail in his book ''[[Gollum: How We Made Movie Magic|Gollum: Howe We Made Movie Magic]]'' into how he imagined Smeagol's personality and upbringing. This conception of Smeagol would become imperative for the film all those years later: <blockquote>I was interested in trying to define Gollum's class and status in the community, and had thought that, coming from the wealthiest and largest Stoor family, he would probably never have really worked a day in his life. He probably skipped school and spent time squandering money that he had stolen from his grandmother's purse. It was a matriarchy and his grandmother was the head of his family, so I wondered how we might reflect this. We decided that some sort of neckerchief, maybe made of silk and a little flamboyant, might be a good idea. I liked the idea of carrying through the drug-addict metaphor, implying that he was like a young rich kid who had always had money in his pocket and was able to experiment with whatever took his fancy, like a Middle-earth version of a young playboy or a Victorian dandy.

We also examined the idea of his curious and inquisitive nature. I always saw Sméagol as a loner, not particularly liked, a bit of a Billy-no-friends, and not very good at team sports. He would have been thought of as a bit weird, and he would have secretly dreamed up vengeful scenarios for all the other Stoor hobbits, who completely ignored him. So, to cope with being so introverted and alienated, he became a collector, obsessed with the "roots and beginnings" of things. Objects became more important than people: at least they couldn't hurt him. Physically: I gave him a stoop from constantly looking down. I imagined him to be fairly narcissistic, spending hours fascinating himself by staring at his own reflection in the water while he fished. We decided to display this obsessive behavior through shiny pau shell buttons and little trophies of fish bones tied to his belt, as if he were adorning himself with fetishlike status symbols. Although he was dysfunctional, he was not evil or malicious, just, as the Travis Bickle character says of himself in Taxi Driver, full of "morbid self-attention.<ref>Andrew Serkis, [[Gollum: How We Made Movie Magic|''Gollum: How We Made Movie Magic'']] (London: HarperCollins, 2003), p. 58.</ref> </blockquote>While talking about ''[[The Hobbit]]'' in 16 September 2006, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] said they "have thought about it from time to time" and in fact "spent most of this morning" talking about the films. They talked of how "[[Elrond]], [[Galadriel]] and [[Arwen]] could all feature"<ref name=":11" /> and "[[Gollum]]'s sneaking into [[Mordor]] and [[Aragorn]] protecting [[The Shire]]. That's what we'd do. Love to work with [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] again".<ref name=":11">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/30085|articlename=Part 5: Quint and Peter Jackson talk THE HOBBIT and a potential return to low budget horror!!!|author=Eric Vespe|dated=16 September 2006|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]], hearing this remark in 2012, said it "sounds like a lot of fun".<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2012/03/13/54232-viggo-mortensens-visit-to-boston-part-2-new-video/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen’s visit to Boston – part 2 (new video!)|author=Greendragon|dated=13 March 2012|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref> At the time, [[Peter Jackson|Peter]] had a falling-out with [[New Line Cinema]] who had tipped Sam Raimi to direct both films.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2006/11/22/926-the-new-director-of-the-hobbit-is/|articlename=Sam Raimi to Direct Hobbit Movie??|author=xoanon|dated=22 November 2006|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref>

===During ''The Hobbit''===
Since the rights to [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']] were split with [[MGM|Metro Goldwyn-Mayer]], in March 2007 [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] pitched this to CEO Harry Sloan: he had already heard of it from [[New Line Cinema]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.ign.com/articles/2006/11/14/hobbit-crown-panther-news|articlename=Hobbit, Crown, Panther News|author=Anonymous|dated=15 Nov 2006|website=IGN}}</ref> but Sloan was won over by Jackson's pitch, which was apparently very detailed.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.kristinthompson.net/blog/2008/05/19/the-hobbit-films-pj-and-fw-know-every-scene-every-moment/|articlename=The Hobbit films: PJ and FW know “every scene, every moment”|author=Kristin Thompson|dated=19 May 2008|website=Kristinthompson.net}}</ref> By contrast, Shaye later said [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] "hasn't told us too much about it."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.screendaily.com/new-line-mgm-team-for-two-hobbit-movies-with-peter-jackson/4036350.article|articlename=New Line, MGM team for two Hobbit movies with Peter Jackson|author=Jeremy Kay|dated=18 December 2007|website=Screen Daily}}</ref>

By December, both films were moving forward with a budget of $150 million each: the idea was that [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]], [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] would write and produce and the films will be shot in 2009 for release in 2010 and 2011.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/del-toro-doubles-up-hobbit-103547/|articlename=Del Toro doubles up for ‘Hobbit’|author=Borys Kit|dated=28 January 2008|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> Robert Shaye, Michael Lynne and [[Mark Ordesky]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://variety.com/2008/film/columns/shaye-kept-new-line-afloat-1117982001/|articlename=Shaye kept New Line afloat|author=Anne Thompson|dated=7 March 2008|website=Variety}}</ref> were attached as executive producers until February, when they were replaced by Toby Emmerich (previously head of production since 2001) and Carolyn Blackwood. Actor [[Ian McKellen|Ian Mckellen]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2008/mar/26/lordoftherings.jrrtolkien|articlename=Hard Hobbit to break: McKellen set for return as Gandalf|author=Anonymous|dated=26 March 2008|website=The Guardian}}</ref> assistant Matthew Dravitzky,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://if.com.au/guillermo-wants-old-buddies-to-join-him-on-the-hobbit/|articlename=Guillermo wants old buddies to join him on The Hobbit|author=Anonymous|dated=23 March 2009|website=IF FX}}</ref> composer [[Howard Shore]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/09/28/30045-howard-shore-is-working-on-hobbit-score/|articlename=Howard Shore is Working on Hobbit Score|author=28 September 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/02/24/28408-howard-shore-talks-hobbit-in-switzerland/|articlename=Howard Shore Talks ‘Hobbit’ in Switzerland|author=Calisuri|dated=24 February 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref>, [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]]<ref name=":38">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/10/22/30352-del-toro-interview-part-3-%E2%80%9Ci-love-new-zealand%E2%80%9D/|articlename=Del Toro Interview Part 3: “I Love New Zealand!”|author=Xoanon|dated=22 October 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> and [[Wētā FX|Weta FX]]<ref name=":37" /> were attached to the project. Although [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] hadn't ruled out directing - he later aired the notion of shooting second unit<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20081012042437/http://moviesblog.mtv.com/2008/10/08/guillermo-del-toro-to-fly-solo-on-hobbit-directing-duties-says-no-to-peter-jackson-assist/|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro To Fly Solo On ‘Hobbit’ Directing Duties, Says No To Peter Jackson Assist|author=Shawn Adler|dated=8 October 2008|website=MTV}}</ref><ref name=":17" /> - he soon picked [[Guillermo del Toro]] to direct.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/01/30/28331-torn-exclusive-del-toro-%e2%80%9c99-percent-certain%e2%80%9d-says-nl-insider/|articlename=TORN exclusive: Del Toro “99 percent certain” says NL insider.|author=MrCere|dated=30 January 2008|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref>

Subsequently, actors [[Andy Serkis]],<ref name=":17" /> [[Ian Holm]]<ref name=":15">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080501020820/http://www.mtv.com/movies/news/articles/1586421/story.jhtml|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro Addresses 'Hobbit' Fans' Concerns, Talks Possible Casting|author=Shawn Adler, Josh Horowitz|dated=28 April 2008|website=Premiere.com}}</ref>; concept artists [[Alan Lee]] and [[John Howe]]; prosthetics supervisor [[Gino Acevedo]]<ref name=":37">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/04/25/28747-guillermo-del-toro-chats-with-torn-about-the-hobbit-films/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro Chats with TORN About ‘The Hobbit’ Films!|author=Xoanon|dated=25 April 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> were all attached. They had approached [[Grant Major]] but he declined<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=http://www.artstars.us/grant-major/8/|articlename=Grant Major|author=Tom Lisowski|dated=14 November 2011|website=Art Stars}}</ref> and hopped onboard ''Green Lantern'' with costume designer Ngila Dickson: they were substituted by [[Dan Hennah]]<ref name=":32">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/51948|articlename=An Unexpected Journey: Quint on the set of The Hobbit Part 3 – Beginnings and Endings|author=Eric Vespe|dated=14 November 2011|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> and Kate Hawley.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.whowhatwear.com/living/who-what-wear-podcast-kate-hawley|articlename=How the Frankenstein Costume Designer Brought the Film to Life|author=Madeline Hill|dated=17 November 2025|website=Who What Wear}}</ref> Actors [[Martin Freeman]]<ref>In "The Road Back to Middle-earth", Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit'' (New Line Cinema: 2015), Philippa Boyens recalls proposing Freeman as Bilbo Baggins when she saw him at the 2003 BAFTAs.</ref> and [[Hugo Weaving]];<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.slashfilm.com/504115/guillermo-del-toro-confirms-hugo-weaving-for-the-hobbit-and-much-more/|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro Confirms Hugo Weaving For The Hobbit... And Much More|author=Brendon Connolly|dated=11 June 2009|website=Slash Film}}</ref> as well as [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]]'s regular collaborators (including artists Wayne Barlowe and Francisco Ruiz Velasco<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20081201164150/http://bilbohobbit.com/del-toro-talks-hobbit-in-live-chat/|articlename="Del Toro talks 'Hobbit' in Live Chat"|author=Alex|dated=27 November 2008|website=BilboHobbit.com}}</ref>) were also being sought beginning at this time. [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had first seen [[Lee Pace]] - which he would cast as [[Thranduil]] later - around this time, as well.

"We got really excited," said [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]], "because this second film is not a ‘tag on’, it’s not ‘filler,’ it’s an integral part of telling the story of those 50 years of history lost in the narrative".<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://theplaylist.net/60-year-period-between-hobbi-20080425/|articlename=60-Year Period Between ‘The Hobbit’ & ‘Fellowship’ For Hobbit Sequel Suddenly Gone? Or Not?|author=Rodrigo Perez|dated=25 April 2008|website=The Playlist}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.gamesradar.com/guillermo-del-toro-talks-hobbit-and-more/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro talks Hobbit and more|author=Anonymous|dated=25 April 2008|website=Total Film}}</ref> Although he had a radical new vision for the designs in the first film, <ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080915124607/http://www.premiere.com/features/4642/exclusive-guillermo-del-toro-on-hellboy-ii-page4.html|articlename=Exclusive: Guillermo del Toro on 'Hellboy II'|author=Anonymous|website=Premiere}}</ref> [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] intended to use the second film to affect a gradual change of style towards that of [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]: "We have to recreate a lot of the stuff they did on the [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|trilogy]]," he said: helpfully, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had kept the [[Bag End]] and [[Rivendell]] sets, and they set about rebuilding [[Hobbiton]].<ref name=":32" />

[[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] also rewatched the extended editions with [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]], [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] and intended to watch the making-ofs, dailies "the camera reports... everything," particularly for ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080914124349/http://www.comingsoon.net/news/nycomicconnews.php?id=44254|articlename=EXCL: Del Toro on Hellboy II and The Hobbit|author=Edward Douglas|dated=21 April 2008|website=Coming Soon.net}}</ref> The remastering of ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'' was also begun around this time. This was done because [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] felt that it "has to evolve into the lensing, the color palette, the texture palette, and the feel of the [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|trilogy]]…"<ref name=":13">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/37428|articlename=Quint and Guillermo del Toro chat about HELLBOY II, THE HOBBIT and more!!!|author=Eric Vespe|dated=12 July 2008|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> partially for this purpose, a break was to be scheduled partway through the shoot,<ref name=":31">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080712175117/http://www.ifmagazine.com/feature.asp?article=2879|articlename=GUILLERMO DEL TORO ESCAPES 'LABYRINTH' AND ENDS RIGHT BACK INTO 'HELLBOY'|author=Carl Cortez|dated=9 July 2008|website=iFMagazine}}</ref> which was estimated at over 370 days.<ref name=":31" />

[[Guillermo del Toro|Guillermo]] insisted the second film would add to the series.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wReRe8Si2aU|articlename=Guillermo del Toro: RT's Dinner & the Movies Interview Pt 5|author=OCR|dated=11 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> He said "it’s also expanding and illuminating some of the aspects of the trilogy in a slightly different way, like same characters in a different environment. I find that very attractive."<ref name=":13" /> The idea was that the first film would be a retelling of [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']], including the bulk of the [[Dol Guldur]] storyline, up to [[Smaug]]'s death: the second would wrap-up the remainder of [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']] in its first half, and concern itself with the Hunt for [[Gollum]] and other "bridging" plot threads in its second half.<ref name=":14">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20120831093447/http://moviesblog.mtv.com/2008/10/07/hobbit-films-will-be-one-continuous-journey-promises-guillermo-del-toro/|articlename='Hobbit' Films Will Be One 'Continuous Journey,' Promises Guillermo Del Toro|author=Shawn Adler|dated=7 October 2008|website=MTV}}</ref>

Although [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] predicted the second film would require the most work,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2P0dTo0yNpQ|articlename=THE HOBBIT 1 & 2 MOVIE UPDATE|author=ReelzChannel|dated=7 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> both he<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JVHzVKy_F8w|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro talks about Hobbit Movie|author=Brettmartintv|dated=7 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] showed a particular eagerness towards it, with [[Guillermo del Toro|Guillermo]] calling it a "treasure trove of possibilities."<ref name=":16">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080915084029/http://www.mtv.com/movies/news/articles/1590278/story.jhtml|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro Answers 'Hobbit' Fans' Questions About Returning 'Rings' Cast, Religion And More|author=Shawn Adler|dated=2 July 2008|website=MTV}}</ref> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] was also "really looking forward to developing Film Two. It gives us a freedom that we haven't really had on our [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] journey."<ref name=":17" /> [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] concluded that "the promise of that land is absolutely mind-boggling!"<ref name=":16" />

Referring specifically to [[Gollum]]'s part in the events, [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] said "[[Gollum]] has a rather fascinating arch to go through and his alliance to [[Shelob]] or his period of imprisonment in [[Thranduil]]'s". [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] added that "There's an awful lot of incident that happens during that 60 year gap. At this stage, we're not imagining a film that literally covers 60 years, like a bio-pic or documentary. We would figure out what happens during that 60 years, and choose one short section of time to drop in and dramatise for the screen". Both filmmakers said they agreed that "apart from extreme circumstances, we would never recast a character who appeared in the [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|LOTR trilogy]]".<ref name=":17">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080730161821/http://www.wetanz.com/holics/index.php?itemid=695&catid=2|articlename=An Unexpected Party Chat|author=Anonymous|dated=30 July 2008|website=Weta Workshop website}}</ref> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] later remarked that, in some cases, they'd sooner write around a character than recast the part.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/41848|articlename=Comic-Con '09: Peter Jackson talks to Capone about DISTRICT 9, THE HOBBIT, and the state of the film industry!!!|author="Capone"|dated=28 July 2009|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref>

As of the formulation of these comments in July, [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] said the second film is "too early"<ref name=":13" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5YoRDF12aRc|articlename=GDT the Hobbit 1|author=Garfeimao TheOneRing|dated=14 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> in its development process to know precisely what it might entail, estimating that it would take six months to formulate the storyline for the film.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.ign.com/articles/2008/07/09/exclusive-gdt-on-the-hobbit|articlename=Exclusive: GDT on The Hobbit|author=Eric Moro and Stax|dated=10 July 2008|website=IGN}}</ref> By September, however, [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] claimed they "found what reverberated."<ref name=":14" /> [[Guillermo del Toro|Guillermo]] had expressed reservations about the term "bridge film" from the outset, but by now he and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] disabused of the term completely, having come to see the films as five undifferentiated parts of a greater whole.

Although they apparently made an outline,<ref name=":15" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/10/16/30296-guillermo-del-toro-i%e2%80%99m-so-voracious-about-the-hobbit/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro: “I’m so voracious about The Hobbit!”|author=Xoanon|dated=16 October 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> it seems the film went no further than this. Up until this point, del Toro had been video-conferencing with Jackson and the other collaborators, meeting in person every three weeks.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://variety.com/2008/film/features/guillermo-del-toro-booked-thru-2017-1117991560/|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro booked thru 2017|author=Michael Fleming|dated=3 September, 2008|website=Variety}}</ref> By the time he arrived to concentrate on writing the story treatment in November 2008<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=http://newboards.theonering.net/forum/gforum/perl/gforum.cgi?post=147373;guest=501771554#147373|articlename="Hola"|author=Guillermo del Toro|dated=8 November 2008|website=The One Ring Discussion Boards}}</ref><ref>Alfio Leotta, ''Peter Jackson'' (London: Bloomsbury Publishing, 2015), p. 196.</ref> the contents of the "bridge" film were being gradually edged-out by the contents of ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]],'' to the point that by the time the completed treatment was greenlit in April 2009<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2009/08/03/32999-peter-jackson-speaks/|articlename=Peter Jackson speaks|author=MrCere|dated=3 August 2009|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref> the films could only be described as a two-part adaptation of ''[[The Hobbit]],'' albeit with elements of the bridge film "integrated''."''<ref>Anonymous, "The Hobbit: Gollum, Bilbo, del Toro and Jackson," ''Empire'', April 2009.</ref> Although [[John Howe]] apparently sent [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] some sketches,<ref name=":38" /> and [[Howard Shore]] had musical ideas,<ref>TheOneRing, Hobbit Desolation of Smaug Music Commentary Watch Along, ''YouTube'', 29 July 2020. Esp. 1:12:15. One such musical idea dates back to the composition of ''The Fellowship of the Ring:'' the flat sixth setting of the Hobbits' bassline that's heard when Gandalf glimpses Thorin's map: Howard was saving that as a "portent of an adventure" towards a potential adaptation of The Hobbit, but by the stage of discussing with del Toro he would have realized it would be applicable to the "bridge" film as well.</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/30722|articlename=ScoreKeeper Talks To Howard Shore About THE TWO TOWERS Complete Recordings, THE HOBBIT, And More!!|author=Merrick|dated=16 November 2006|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> no more work was done on the bridge film. At this time, a [[The Hunt for Gollum|fan film on the same subject was released]], followed shortly by [[Born of Hope|a fan film about Aragorn's errantries]]. The latter of this gained a measure of approbation from [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s camp.

Even so, elements of the bridge film clung to the project for a long time: in 2013 [[Philippa Boyens]] said, probably referring to the preproduction period, that "When we started structuring this trilogy we honestly thought about telling some of that. How [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]] becomes the uncle of [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] and take care of him. The story of [[Gollum]]…"<ref name=":9" /> Casting calls had been issued for the roles of [[Primula Brandybuck]] and [[Drogo Baggins]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20201024010428/http://www.movies.spoilertv.com/2010/01/hobbit-casting-call.html#ixzz0btnyJvCI|articlename=Hobbit - Official Casting Call and Plot Details|author=DarkUFO|dated=4 January 2010|website=SpoilerTV}}</ref> with Primula said to be "Prone to letting words and thoughts tumble out of her mouth without pause" while Drogo was "well known around The Shire and is a bit of a ladies man." While Caroline Grace-Cassidy was considered for [[Primula Brandybuck|Primula]], [[Ryan Gage]] was cast in the role of [[Drogo Baggins|Drogo]] and remained attached to it well into shooting, only being recast as [[Alfrid]] around May.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/cate-blanchett-revisiting-rings-role-57193/|articlename=Cate Blanchett Revisiting ‘Rings’ Role In ‘Hobbit’|author=Gregg Kilday|dated=7 December 2010|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> Although both parts were described as "leads" Boyens remembers Alfrid, itself a small role, being bigger than Drogo. The roles of [[Master Worrywort|Worrywort]] and [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]], which was originally rumoured to include him "moving to live at [[Bag End]] after the untimely drowning of [[Drogo Baggins|Drogo]] and [[Primula Brandybuck|Primula]]" were probably rewritten into their present form around that time.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=theonering.net/torwp/2014/03/25/87789-how-would-have-peter-jacksons-the-hobbit-looked-as-a-duology/|articlename=How would have Peter Jackson’s The Hobbit looked as a duology?|author=Demosthenes|dated=25 March 2014|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref>

They had scouted locations for the [[Barrow-downs|Barrow Downs]], possibly with a connection to the aforementioned "[[Aragorn]] protecting the [[The Shire|Shire]]" plot point.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://narniafans.com/2019/08/interview-with-narnia-conceptual-designer-john-howe/|articlename=Interview with Narnia Conceptual Designer John Howe|author=David Sutton|dated=18 August 2019|website=Narnia Fans.com}}</ref> More scenes were planned for the [[Dol Guldur]] story and the [[Orcs]]: they had gone as far as designing a young [[Gothmog (Lieutenant of Morgul)#Gothmog in adaptations|Gothmog]] who would participate in the concluding battle, but didn't utilize him.<ref name=":0" /> Another storyline concerned Itarille (later [[Tauriel]]) and her romance with an Elf lord of [[Rivendell]]: clearly an outgrowth of the original idea of featuring [[Arwen]] in the film. [[Aidan Turner]] seems to have read for the part of this Elf Lord. Indeed, Jackson recalled in 2015 that "We did try to figure out a way to get a cameo, even if it was a cameo, for [[Aragorn]] and actually for [[Arwen]], too: we tried to have [[Liv Tyler]] in the film".<ref name=":0" /> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] remarked in 2013 that they envisioned [[Aragorn]] being "quite young" in the film, but concluded that [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] "could have absolutely played" him at the time. "It was incredibly tempting."<ref name=":39">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TapH7wM8MdI&t=85s|articlename=Philippa Boyens ci parla delle scene tagliate dello Hobbit: la Desolazione di Smaug e di... Aragorn!|author=Badtaste|dated=11 December 2013|website=YouTube}}</ref> It's unclear when the idea finally died out: the scene "invoking [[Aragorn]]" was scripted in early 2013, as a "homage" to their earlier plans.

[[Viggo Mortensen]] had been interested in the project since 2007.<ref name=":43">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/09/18/29885-viggo-mortensen-still-waiting-for-guillermo-del-toro%E2%80%99s-%E2%80%98hobbit%E2%80%99-call/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen Still Waiting For Guillermo Del Toro’s ‘Hobbit’ Call|author=Xoanon|dated=18 September 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref name=":44" /> Although it was reported that [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] had held conversations with him<ref name=":43" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thetimes.com/uk/law/article/hobbit-movies-meet-dire-foe-in-son-of-tolkien-lxnpmnsd2rp|articlename=Hobbit movies meet dire foe in son of Tolkien|author=John Harlow|dated=25 May 2008|website=The Times}}</ref> these appear to have not taken place before 2010. In 2008 [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] said he would "rather do it myself than see another actor finish the job for me,"<ref name=":44" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/12/17/30804-tv-watch-viggo-mortensen-on-night-talk/|articlename=TV Watch: Viggo Mortensen on ‘Night Talk’|author=Xoanon|dated=17 December 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/39305|articlename=Capone has a GOOD chat with Viggo Mortensen about politics, THE ROAD, APPALOOSA, and THE HOBBIT!!!|author=Steve Prokopy|dated=11 May 2009|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> saying "it would be fun."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://ohnotheydidnt.livejournal.com/41460224.html|articlename=Moviefone's Exclusive Viggo Mortensen Interview!|author=Anonymous|dated=25 November 2009|website=Moviefone}}</ref> Other actors from [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'']] have also expressed interest in appearing in the film, including [[Liv Tyler]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2011/03/21/42863-liv-tyler-not-contacted-for-hobbit/|articlename=Liv Tyler Not Contacted For Hobbit|author=DiveTwin|dated=21 March 2011|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> [[Cate Blanchett]],<ref name=":16" /> [[Dominic Monaghan]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.firstshowing.net/2009/dominic-monaghan-ready-to-return-for-the-hobbit-movies/|articlename=Dominic Monaghan Ready to Return for The Hobbit Movies?|author=Brandon Lee Tenney|dated=19 January 2009|website=First Showing}}</ref> [[Sean Astin]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2009/03/10/31356-astin-up-for-hobbit-if-hobbit-up-for-him/|articlename=Astin up for Hobbit if Hobbit up for him|author=Xoanon|dated=10 March 2009|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref name=":44" /> [[John Noble]] and [[Sean Bean]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.digitalspy.com/movies/a434476/sean-bean-on-the-hobbit-absence-theyre-sticklers-for-detail/|articlename=Sean Bean on 'The Hobbit' absence: 'They're sticklers for detail'|author=Emma Dibdin|dated=30 October 2012|website=Digital Spy}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://theplaylist.net/viggo-mortensen-optimistic-about-role-20090401/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen Optimistic About Role In Del Toro’s ‘Hobbit’, Project Extends To A Trilogy?|author=Simon Dang|dated=1 April 2009|website=The Playlist}}</ref> [[Christopher Lee]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://whatculture.com/film/christopher-lee-wants-sarumann-return-in-the-hobbit|articlename=Christopher Lee wants Saruman return in THE HOBBIT|author=Matt Holmes|dated=25 June 2011|website=WhatCulture}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5qGFbBNnodw&t=77s|articlename=Christopher Lee about possibly returning to Middle Earth|author="Rushblogg"|dated=12 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> [[Brad Dourif]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/09/12/29751-brad-dourif-on-returning-to-middle-earth/|articlename=Brad Dourif on Returning to Middle-earth|author=Deej|dated=12 September 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> [[John Rhys-Davies]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/the-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy-makeup-difficulties-explained-john-rhys-davies/|articlename=John Rhys-Davies Reveals Gruesome Makeup Process for Gimli in The Lord of the Rings [Exclusive]|author=Aidan Kelley and Steven Weintraub|dated=9 August 2025|website=Collider}}</ref> and [[Elijah Wood]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/11/16/30565-elijah-hobbit-appearance-concievably-possible/|articlename=Elijah – Hobbit appearance ‘concievably possible’|author=Altaira|dated=16 November 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.firstshowing.net/2008/elijah-wood-confirms-dual-hobbit-movie-details/|articlename=Elijah Wood Confirms Dual Hobbit Movie Details|author=Alex Billington|dated=11 January 2008|website=First Showing}}</ref>

Around 2010, [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] recieved an availability call<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2013/may/28/viggo-mortensen-interview|articlename=Viggo Mortensen interview: 'If I think a film's beyond me – that's a good sign'|author=Imogen Tilden|dated=28 May 2013|website=The Guardian}}</ref> from [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]: "I said sure, if [[Aragorn]] is supposed to be in the bridge story, because he’s not in [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']]."<ref name=":1">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2013/05/30/72294-viggo-turned-down-role-as-aragorn-not-so-fast/|articlename=Viggo ‘Turned Down’ Role as Aragorn? Not so fast…|author=Newsfrombree|dated=30 May 2013|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.wired.com/2012/03/viggo-mortensen-speaks-2/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen Speaks: Part 2 of 3|author=Ethan Gilsdorf|dated=11 March 2012|website=Wired.com}}</ref> Informed that they "can take certain liberties" he said he'd "love to revisit him."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/films/features/viggo-mortensen-interview-captain-fantastic-lord-of-the-rings-aragorn-hobbit-david-cronenberg-a7231826.html|articlename=Viggo Mortensen interview: 'I didn't throw Peter Jackson under the bus'|author=Jacob Stolworthy|dated=23 January 2017|website=The Independent}}</ref> However, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] later revealed that since that call, they "could think of no way of doing it".<ref name=":0" /> Having no further contact, and knowing that "[[Orlando Bloom]] and [[Cate Blanchett]] shot something,"<ref name=":44">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://viggo-works.com/?fromday=1&frommonth=6&fromyear=2006&today=25&tomonth=2&toyear=2026&order=date&page=243&selectedcat=262&ascdesc=DESC&filter=Go&m=on|articlename=Viggo Mortenson Dangerous Method Interview|author=Anonymous|dated=25 November 2011|website=Movies.com}}</ref>[[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] concluded in November 2011 that "[[Aragorn]] is half [[Elves|elf]] [sic] and also lives a couple hundred years or more and he could be in a bridge, but I have to assume it isn't going to happen".<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reuters.com/article/lifestyle/rings-actor-mortensen-unlikely-to-repeat-role-idUSTRE7AM2U9/|articlename="Rings" actor Mortensen unlikely to repeat role|author=Kurt Orzeck|dated=24 November 2011|website=Reuters}}</ref> Although he still has misgivings - "It would make sense if Aragorn was part of the story and he's not"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.scotsman.com/arts-and-culture/interview-viggo-mortensen-is-lord-of-all-things-1573949|articlename=Interview: Viggo Mortensen is lord of all things|author=Chitra Ramaswamy|dated=25 May 2013|website=The Scotsman}}</ref> - he said he would still be open to playing [[Aragorn]] "if it seemed sensible to do so".<ref name=":1" />

===After ''The Hobbit''===

Conversations about making the "bridge film" as a third instalment<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.firstshowing.net/2009/guillermo-del-toro-updates-on-the-hobbit/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro Briefly Talks More About The Hobbit Split|author=Alex Billington|dated=5 June 2009|website=First Showing}}</ref> continued well into 2010:<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://geeksofdoom.com/2009/08/19/bridge-between-the-hobbit-lord-of-the-rings-still-to-be-built-peter-jackson-to-direct-third-movie|articlename=[Updated] Bridge Between ‘The Hobbit’ & ‘Lord Of The Rings’ Still To Be Built? Peter Jackson To Direct Third Movie?|author="The Movie God"|dated=19 August 2009|website=Geeks of Doom}}</ref> In 2012, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had revealed that "a third movie has always been in discussion."<ref>Michael Pellerin, "The Clouds Burst", Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies'' (New Line Cinema: 2015).</ref> These conversations resumed - now with the film situated as a fourth movie - as [[The Hobbit (film series)|''The Hobbit'']] was winding down in 2013. Says [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]]: "There’s enough story there to make a bridge movie, you know, there’s 60 years between ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'' and a lot of things happened."<ref name=":9">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.heyuguys.com/interview-peter-jackson-the-hobbit-the-desolation-of-smaug/|articlename=The HeyUGuys Interview: The Hobbit director Peter Jackson all but rules out a return to Middle Earth|author=Stefan Pape|dated=13 December 2013|website=HeyUGuys}}</ref> In the director's commentary to ''[[The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies|The Battle of the Five Armies]]'' in 2015, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] remained open to the idea of making more films, and mused about what Jackson jokingly calls "A fictitious film 3.5" which [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] goes on to call "The Hunt for Gollum".<ref name=":0">Peter Jackson, Philippa Boyens, "Director's Commentary," Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies'' (New Line Cinema: 2015).</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] said it could include "a few other things that go on which are really interesting" like [[Saruman]]'s search for the [[The One Ring|Ring]]. She elaborates:<blockquote>''[[Aragorn]] really is one who tracks Gollum and ends up...and finds him eventually in the [[Dead Marshes]], and he's taken [[Woodland Realm|to the Elves]]. And he's taken to the Elves, and because of the kindness of the Elves - and [[Legolas]] is one of his keepers... in [[Mirkwood]], and through their kindness he actually manages to escape. Or has he escaped? Or was he let loose?''<ref name=":0" /></blockquote>[[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had kept the possibility of returning to [[Middle-earth]] open<ref name=":0" /> but [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] revealed that they "had zero expectations of going back to this."<ref name=":7">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2024/05/the-lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-peter-jackson-andy-serkis-philippa-boyens-explain-23-years-after-cannes-saved-original-trilogy-1235917510/|articlename=Peter Jackson, Andy Serkis & Philippa Boyens Explain Why They’re Returning To Middle-Earth For ‘The Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum’ 23 Years After Cannes Saved The Billion-Dollar Franchise|author=Mike Fleming Junior|dated=15 May 2024|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://uk.movies.yahoo.com/don-t-expect--the-hobbit-3--to-lead-directly-into--the-lord-of-the-rings-140402150.html|articlename=The Hobbit 3 won't lead into The Lord of the Rings|author=Tom Butler|dated=11 December 2013|website=Yahoo Entertainment UK}}</ref> Their ultimate decision to return to this premise may have been stirred, in part, by other projects: first, Jackson had seen the in-development video game ''[[Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor|Shadow of Mordor]],'' on which [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]] and others from Jackson's crew had worked, and which had nestled itself into the gap between ''[[The Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]].''<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.ign.com/articles/2014/02/20/why-lord-of-the-rings-fans-should-be-excited-for-shadow-of-mordor|articlename=Why Lord of the Rings Fans Should Be Excited for Shadow of Mordor|author=Luke Karmali|dated=20 February 2014|website=IGN}}</ref>

Shortly afterwards, when the [[Tolkien Estate]] (still nominally under [[Christopher Tolkien]]) shopped the television rights, the idea of doing a show about young [[Aragorn]] was pitched, first by Netflix, and then - at the suggestion of the Russo brothers<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-features/the-rings-of-power-showrunners-interview-season-2-1235233124/|articlename=‘The Rings of Power’ Showrunners Break Silence on Backlash, Sauron and Season 2|author=James Hibberd|dated=5 October 2022|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> - by [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon Prime Video]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=http://newboards.theonering.net/forum/gforum/perl/gforum.cgi?post=946980;sb=post_time;so=DESC;forum_view=forum_view_collapsed;guest=206510448#947231|articlename=If you will indulge me in a story|author="Uncle Iorlas"|dated=21 July 2018|website=The One Ring.net Message Boards}}</ref> Upon hearing this, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]]' mind immediately went to the period of the hunt: "If you're telling the [story of] him hunting [[Gollum]], you're getting closer to [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]]."<ref name=":21">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.fandom.com/articles/peter-jackson-lord-of-the-rings-series|articlename=Peter Jackson’s Tips For Casting Aragorn in Lord of the Rings TV Show|author=Kim Taylor-Foster|dated=4 December 2018|website=Fandom.com}}</ref> She and Jackson had also expressed interest in the potential of [[Aragorn]]'s younger days and life in [[Rivendell]]: "He's probably going to have to start young,"<ref name=":21" /> remarked Boyens, concluding that "A lot of the early [[Aragorn]] story hasn't been told."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.stuff.co.nz/entertainment/film/108970711/philippa-boyens-on-mortal-engines-hobbits-and-going-solo|articlename=Philippa Boyens on Mortal Engines, Hobbits and going solo|author=Philip Matthews|dated=16 December 2018|website=Stuff.nz}}</ref> [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortesen]] also got wind of the rumours and said he's open to reprising his role.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/viggo-mortensen-interview-falling-lord-of-the-rings/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen on Falling, Directing, and LOTR TV Show Interest|author=Christina Radish|dated=14 February 2021|website=Collider}}</ref>

Toby Emmerich and Carolyn Blackwood from [[New Line Cinema]] were brought into the fold in the hopes of cooperating on the show. In early 2018 lawyer Peter Nelson set-up "dialogue between [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon]]" to participate as executive producer.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/how-lord-rings-tv-series-landed-at-amazon-not-netflix-1099213/|articlename=Inside Amazon’s $250M ‘Lord of the Rings’ Deal: “It’s Very Much a Creature of the Times”|author=Tatiana Siegel|dated=5 April 2018|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20210308114202/https://www.herr-der-ringe-film.de/v3/de/news/tolkienfilme/news_121920.php|articlename=Exklusiv: Zu den Kulissen der HERR DER RINGE Serie, Her Der Ringe Film (archived).|author=Cirdan|dated=20 June 2018|website=Herr der Ringe.de}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.stuff.co.nz/entertainment/celebrities/108520139/sir-peter-jackson-hasnt-given-up-hope-of-making-the-dam-busters|articlename=Sir Peter Jackson hasn't given up hope of making The Dam Busters|author=James Croot|dated=12 November 2018|website=NZStuff}}</ref> Preoccupied with ''Mortal Engines'' and ''They Shall Not Grow Old'', [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] proposed in June 2018 to review the scripts and put "the creative team together."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://de.ign.com/tv/129313/interview/peter-jackson-ist-fur-das-kreative-team-hinter-der-herr-der-ringe-serie-verantwortlich|articlename=Peter Jackson ist für das kreative Team hinter der Herr der Ringe-Serie verantwortlich|author=Valentin Aschenbrenner|dated=5 June 2018|website=IGN.de}}</ref> In July, Amazon landed on [[John D. Payne]] and [[Patrick McKay]] as showrunners, and before any work could be done, a regime change in [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon Prime Video]]<ref name=":19">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/peter-jackson-amazon-lord-of-the-rings-tv-series-1235193692/|articlename=Peter Jackson Says Amazon’s ‘Lord of the Rings’ TV Series Ghosted Him|author=James Hibberd|dated=5 August 2022|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> in early 2019 resulted in [[New Line Cinema]] being demoted to a "minority licensee stakeholder."<ref name=":20">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/lord-of-the-rings-amazon-vs-warner-bros-1235337625/|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings’: Amazon, Warner Bros. Ready for Tolkien Battle|author=James Hibberd|dated=28 February 2023|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> Although the showrunners had asked to meet [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]],<ref name=":19" /> COVID prevented this from taking place.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2022/02/10-burning-questions-about-amazons-the-rings-of-power?srsltid=AfmBOopmlhLKVkCtSqkuvTTAcUtyQUICWXopTWLQq_1tu4aEf1ICrDLp|articlename=10 Burning Questions About Amazon’s The Rings of Power|author=Joanna Robinson|dated=14 February 2022|website=Vanity Fair}}</ref> While the show used a substantial number of his crew, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] were reportedly "very frustrated that so many believed they were involved with [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon]]’s show."<ref name=":20" /> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had avoided watching the show to prevent "cross-contamination."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.slashfilm.com/1693866/why-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy-screenwriter-wont-watch-the-rings-of-power/|articlename=Why One Lord Of The Rings Trilogy Screenwriter Won't Watch The Rings Of Power|author=Jaron Pak|dated=21 October 2024|website=Slash Film}}</ref> Since then, the show had left [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s home country of [[New Zealand]].

Already in 2019, the show's development had galvanized Emmerich and Blackwood to pursue an animated film with [[Middle-earth Enterprises]] (who were not involved in the show) and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]. The bridge film might have been the "CG-animated" story that [[New Line Cinema|New Line]] "had been exploring with Sir [[Peter Jackson]]" but it failed to materialize and they decided to pursue ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim]]''<ref>Daniel Falconer, ''The Art of The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim'' (Wiliam Murrow: London, 2025), pp. 9-10.</ref>. Later on, Emmerich and Blackwood were replaced by Michael de Luca and Pam Abdy, who were "striving to keep [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon]] from blurring the lines too much between" the show and the films.<ref name=":20" /> Other projects like [[Tales of the Shire: A "The Lord of the Rings" Game|''Tales of the Shire'']], the remastering of the six films to Ultra High Definition and renovations of [[Hobbiton]] were begun shortly afterwards, as well.

After this long gestation period, ''The Hunt for Gollum'' entered development once again in 2022. [[Andy Serkis]] was attached as director in October 2023 and story meetings occurred as early as May 2024, along with early availability calls to actors like [[Ian McKellen]] and [[Viggo Mortensen]] between that time and early September. By that point, the writing of the treatment was underway, followed by the first draft in January-May. After some crew hiring in August, pre-production started in early September 2025 ahead of shooting in May 2026.

==Development==
In 2022 the new administration of [[Middle-earth Enterprises]] expressed a desire to make more films, including ones "based on iconic characters, such as [[Gandalf]], [[Aragorn]], [[Gollum]], [[Galadriel]], [[Éowyn|Eowyn]] and other characters."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/lord-of-the-rings-rights-embracer-1235201442/|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings,’ ‘The Hobbit’ Movie, Games and Other Rights Holder Sold to Swedish Gaming Company Embracer|author=Georg Szalai|dated=18 August 2022|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]], [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] kept updated throughout the negotiations to extend [[New Line Cinema]]'s lease on the rights.<ref name=":4" />

Having "really enjoyed working with [[Kenji Kamiyama]], who directed ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|War of the Rohirrim]]''," [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] signed on to produce two new films: [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] denied<ref name=":22" /> rumours that this involved splitting the [[Gollum]] story,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2024/05/lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-cast-plot-everything-we-know-1235919922/|articlename=‘The Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum’: Everything We Know So Far|author=Dessi Gomez|dated=16 May 2024|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://filmstories.co.uk/news/the-lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-its-two-films-says-ian-mckellen/|articlename=The Lord Of The Rings: Hunt For Gollum {{!}} “It’s two films” says Ian McKellen|author=Ryan Lambie|dated=11 September 2024|website=Film Stories}}</ref> and at various times her and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] expressed interest in subjects varying from the [[Battle of Dale|War in the North]], Young [[Aragorn]], or certain vignettes from [[Rohan]] or [[Gondor]]'s history, which are all possible for the second film.<ref name=":23">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1i97ctm/the_next_film_after_the_hunt_for_gollum/|articlename=The next film after The Hunt for Gollum: Everything we know so far|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=25 January 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> These are probably ''not'' the other two scripts [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had been working on, however.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.indiewire.com/news/general-news/peter-jackson-not-retired-working-on-three-scripts-1235138316/|articlename=Peter Jackson Is Working on Three Screenplays: ‘I’m Certainly Not Retired’|author=By Rance Collins|dated=13 July 2025|website=IndieWire}}</ref>

Signing on the films was done with the intention to jump-start a new slate of ''Lord of the Rings'' prequels for [[New Line Cinema]],<ref name=":18" /><ref name=":24" /> with [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also expressing interest in making an "epic trilogy", probably about the [[Angmar conflict|Angmar War]].<ref name=":23" /> However, having developed the [[Gollum]] premise for so long, they decided to start with it. Asked about unrealized projects in 2024, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] observed that "there's a lot of that in ''The Hunt for Gollum.''"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9LdzKS584wA&t=614s|articlename=Lord of the Rings: War of the Rohirrim Interviews! Peter Jackson Role Explained|author=Brandon Davis|dated=29 October 2024|website=YouTube}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis]], who played [[Gollum]], had directed second unit on ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King|The Return of the King]]'' and ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]<ref name=":7" />'' and had since become a director in his own right, as well as narrating audiobooks of Tolkien's novels. [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] approached [[Andy Serkis|Andy]] around October 2023.<ref name=":24">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ssUmmuU-Bmk&t=76s|articlename=Andy Serkis Talks Motion Capture, Gollum, and Directing {{!}} Superhero Comic Con San Antonio 2024 Q&A|author=Freeman Coliseum|dated=24 June 2024|website=YouTube}}</ref> While developing the story, they already made availability checks to key cast and crew members.

===Writing===
Story meetings have happened at least as early as May 2024<ref name=":7" /> and by July they were about to start writing,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/comconnireland/status/1835962321211904490|articlename=Andy Serkis took to the stage at Comic Con Northern Ireland to talk all things Lord of the Rings and more!|author=@comconnireland|dated=16 September 2024|website=Twitter}}</ref> with [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] spotted at the [[Hobbiton]] set in November with writers [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] and Arty Papageorgiou, producers [[Zane Weiner]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/05/lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-release-date-1236390022/|articlename=‘Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum’ Sets Pre-Christmas 2027 Release|author=Anthony D'Alessandro|dated=8 May 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> and Carlos Ramirez Laloli.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.elfenomeno.com/info/ver/23481/comienza-el-rodaje-de-el-senor-de-los-anillos-la-caza-de-gollum-en-hobbiton|articlename=¿Comienza el rodaje de El Señor de los Anillos: La Caza de Gollum en Hobbiton?|author=Elfenomeno|dated=6 November 2024|website=Elfenomeno.com}}</ref> By December they had been in the process of writing the story treatment.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/lord-of-the-rings-war-of-the-rohirrim-arty-papageorgiou-phoebe-gittins/|articlename="Who Better for a Gollum Film Than Gollum Himself?": 'War of the Rohirrim' Writers on Working with Andy Serkis in 'The Hunt for Gollum'|author=Therese Lacson|dated=16 December 2024|website=Collider}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] later estimated they would finish writing by the middle of the year - executive Pamela Abdy since put the completion of the script at May<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/04/warner-bros-mike-de-luca-pam-abdy-courage-in-face-of-brutal-press-coverage-1236366618/|articlename=Warner Bros’ Mike De Luca & Pam Abdy: Playing Long Game, Mixing IP Like ‘Bodyguard’ Revamp & Bold Originals & Animation Despite Brutal Press|author=Mike Fleming Junior|dated=11 April 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> - and begin "scouting locations and building [sets]" with shooting due to begin towards the beginning of 2026.<ref name=":5">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.1news.co.nz/2024/12/15/exclusive-andy-serkis-philippa-boyens-on-the-hunt-for-gollum/|articlename=Exclusive: Andy Serkis, Philippa Boyens on new Lord of the Rings film|author=Abbey Wakefield|dated=15 December 2024|website=1News}}</ref> As a result, the release date for the film was ultimately delayed from 2026 to 17 December 2027.<ref name="TheDirect2027Release">{{webcite|author=Klein Felt|articleurl=https://thedirect.com/article/hunt-for-gollum-movie-lord-of-the-rings-release-official|articlename=Lord of the Rings: Hunt for Gollum Movie Gets Release Window from Andy Serkis|dated=27 Feb 2025|website=[https://thedirect.com The Direct]|accessed=27 Feb 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://variety.com/2025/film/news/lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-release-date-december-2027-1236390820/|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum’ Sets December 2027 Release Date; Warner Bros. Also Dates New ‘Evil Dead’ and M. Night Shyamalan Movies for 2026|author=Zack Sharf|dated=8 May 2025|website=Variety}}</ref>

A draft of the screenplay had been sent to de Luca and Abdy in May, probably prior to the investor meeting on the 8th, when [[Warner Bros.|Warner]]'s CEO David Zaslav announced the official release date.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://voicefilm.com/david-zaslav-announces-that-the-release-date-for-the-next-lord-of-the-rings-movie-will-be-revealed-today/|articlename=David Zaslav Announces That the Release Date for the Next ‘Lord of the Rings’ Movie Will Be Revealed Today|author=Mark|dated=8 May 2025|website=Voice Film}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.comicbasics.com/warner-ceo-david-zaslav-says-they-will-focus-more-on-their-main-ips-like-harry-potter-and-dc-in-the-future-those-belong-to-us-and-theyll-only-belong-to-us-forever/|articlename=Warner CEO David Zaslav Says They Will Focus More on Their Main IPs Like ‘Harry Potter’ and DC in the Future: “Those belong to us, and they’ll only belong to us forever.”|author=Arthur S. Poe|dated=8 May 2025|website=Comic Basics}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had since revealed that the film is due to start pre production in August<ref name=":33">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1krwz8d/andy_serkis_the_lord_of_the_rings_the_hunt_for/|articlename=Andy Serkis Panel at Fan Expo Philadelphia 2025|author=FandomWire News|dated=19 May 2025}}</ref> - when the film started hiring crew - then ammended to "late August to early September"<ref name=":18" />, with [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] ultimately arriving in [[Wellington]] circa 8 September to begin work on the film.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://metro.co.uk/2025/09/03/andy-serkis-admits-cant-escape-gollum-ahead-lord-rings-return-24066270/amp/|articlename=Andy Serkis admits he ‘can’t escape Gollum’ ahead of Lord of the Rings return|author=Sabrina Barr|dated=3 September 2025|website=Metro UK}}</ref> Serkis had left New Zealand during the holiday season, attending the premiere of "28 Years Later: The Bone Temple" before flying back to New Zealand: en rote he landed in Los Angeles.<ref name=":41">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.tmz.com/2026/01/20/andy-serkis-wants-original-lord-of-the-rings-cast-in-new-film/|articlename=LOTR' Star Andy Serkis: OG Cast Is Precious, Love 'Em For New Flick|author=Anonymous|dated=20 January 20 2026|website=TMZ}}</ref>

==Pre production==
[[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had further said preproduction will last for six months,<ref name=":27">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.comingsoon.it/cinema/news/in-un-mondo-alla-deriva-gollum-ci-salvera-la-nostra-intervista-ad-andy/n203564/|articlename=In un mondo alla deriva Gollum ci salverà: la nostra intervista ad Andy Serkis|author=Carola Proto|dated=25 June 2025|website=Coming Soon.it}}</ref> with [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] later confirming it will start filming in May<ref name=":12">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1msw9fp/the_lord_of_the_rings_the_hunt_for_gollum_starts/|articlename=The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum starts shooting in May, says Sir Ian McKellen. "I'll tell you two secrets about the casting..."|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=17 August 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> for an extended shooting period:<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-filming-update-andy-serkis/|articlename=Director Andy Serkis Offers Huge Filming Update For 'The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum' [Exclusive]|author=Chris McPherson and Steven Weintraub|dated=10 June 2025|website=Collider}}</ref> This puts the beginning of filming in [[New Zealand]] winter and, deducting the holidays, six months after [[Andy Serkis|Andy]]'s arrival. Location scouting may have taken place at Hawke's Bay as early as June<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1lis26w/a_location_scout_for_the_lord_of_the_rings_the/|articlename=A location scout for The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum seems to be snooping around Hawke's Bay, New Zealand|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=23 June 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> and later at the Waikato.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.waikatotimes.co.nz/nz-news/360837801/aliens-warriors-heroes-princesses-and-gollum-big-productions-filmed-and-possibly-coming-waikato|articlename=Aliens, warriors, heroes, princesses ... and Gollum: The big productions filmed in (and possibly coming to) the Waikato|author=Mike Mather|dated=1 October 2025|website=Waikato Times}}</ref> They had also watched the films sometime prior to November.<ref>Latino USA TV, "How Movie Monsters Are Really Made!", YouTube, 26 November 2025.</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] also spoke appreciatively of [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s penchant for behind the scenes extras,.<ref name=":33" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/gu1jj7/one_zoom_to_rule_them_all_reunited_apart_lord_of/|articlename=One Zoom to Rule Them All {{!}} Reunited Apart LORD OF THE RINGS Edition|author=Josh Gad|dated=31 May 2021|website=}}</ref> and [[Peter Jackson|Peter]] himself had since confirmed they will do "little blogs." In October, [[Andy Serkis|Andy]] revealed that they're developing prosthetics.<ref name=":34">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1og2b4p/andy_serkis_says_all_the_art_department_from_lord/|articlename=Andy Serkis says "all the art department" from Lord of the Rings are "excited to come back." They started location scouting and camera tests.|author=u/Lord_Varys92|dated=25 October 2024|website=Reddit}}</ref>

Since [[Elijah Wood]], slated to appear in the film, is on tour through to early September,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://parade.com/news/lord-of-the-rings-hobbits-25-years-later-reunion-tour|articlename=The Hobbits Are Back Together — and Their Big News Has Fans Cheering|author=Whitney Danhauer|dated=25 October 2025|website=Parade}}</ref> his scenes might be scheduled for [[New Zealand]] summer, which could suggest shooting ''in situ'' in [[Hobbiton]], presumably depicting [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] dallying outside [[Bag End]] while [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]] and [[Gandalf]] argue within, as depicted in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]''. [[Ian McKellen]] is also hoping to join the production in [[New Zealand as Middle-earth|New Zealand]] during July.<ref>The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, "There's Nothing I Enjoy More Than Acting In The Theater" - Ian McKellen EXTENDED INTERVIEW," ''YouTub''e, 5 February 2026.</ref>

===Crew===
The film, said to be "one of the most expensive feature films to be shot in [[New Zealand]]"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/new-lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-film-will-be-shot-in-nz-set-for-2027-release/3BDNB3QFKJDAVGB4ODOTQ63YLY/|articlename=New Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum film will be shot in NZ, set for 2027 release|author=Tom Rose|dated=18 June 2025|website=New Zealand Herald}}</ref> is expected to draft alums of the ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|Lord of the Rings]]'', ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|War of the Rohirrim]]'' (many of whom will have also worked on ''[[The Rings of Power]]'' Season One and other projects) working in the [[Wellington]] and greater New Zealand screen sector.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thepost.co.nz/nz-news/350274670/film-heavyweights-alight-over-lotr-comeback|articlename=Film heavyweights ‘alight’ over LOTR comeback|author=Rachel Thomas|dated=10 May 2024|website=The New Zealand Post}}</ref><ref name=":5" /> Crewing began in early August, with Wood since confirming the involvement of production designer [[Dan Hennah]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IX5NhkyQ710|articlename=Elijah Wood en Monterrey/ conferencia de la DesertCon|author=Asi SoyTv|dated=6 October 2025|website=YouTube}}</ref> and set decorator Ra Vincent might also be involved.<ref name=":34" /> Although [[Janet Brennan Croft|Janet Brennan-Croft]] acted as [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] consultant on previous films, Beppe Pezzini will fill this role for this film.<ref>Educational Media Services | University of Oxford, "Beppe Pezzini on Classics and Fantasy | Fantasy Summer School ‪@facultyofenglishoxford‬," ''YouTube'', 23 September 2025.</ref>

IMDb credits Bob Buck as ''a'' costume designer for the film: it remains to be seen if Ngila Dickson, having just wrapped ''Predator: Badlands'' with [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]], might return. Kate Hawley, who was attached to del Toro's version of the film, is unlikely to take part due to work on "Bad Bridgets."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/10/daisy-edgar-jones-emilia-jones-bad-bridgets-luckychap-1236604481/|articlename=Daisy Edgar-Jones And Emilia Jones To Star In ‘Bad Bridgets’ From LuckyChap|author=Justin Kroll|dated=31 October 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> Liz Mullane and Rachel Bullock head the New Zealand casting sweep. Both [[Wētā FX|WetaFX]] and [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]] are confirmed for the project,<ref name=":8">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt32328070/companycredits/?ref_=tt_dt_cmpy|articlename=The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum (2027)|author=Anonymous|website=IMDb}}</ref> as are [[Gino Acevedo]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.instagram.com/p/DRy30vUkme7/|articlename="Oh no!"|author=Ginoacevedofx|dated=3 December 2025|website=Instagram}}</ref> [[John Howe]] and [[Alan Lee]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://ggba.swiss/en/the-lord-of-the-rings-nature-and-switzerlands-hidden-history-a-conversation-with-john-howe/|articlename=The Lord Of The Rings, Nature and Switzerland’s Hidden History (A Conversation with John Howe)|author=Woody Wade|dated=10 December 2025|website=Greater Geneva Bern Area}}</ref> In April - by which point a composer was already said to be attached to the project - [[Howard Shore]] said he was interested to "see how that all works out."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.classical-music.com/articles/howard-shore|articlename=Howard Shore: the film composer behind Hannibal Lecter and Bilbo Baggins|author=Michael Beek|dated=16 April 2025|website=Classical Music.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://en.softonic.com/articles/the-composer-of-the-soundtrack-for-the-lord-of-the-rings-made-a-cameo-in-the-movies-and-no-one-noticed#google_vignette|articlename=The composer of the soundtrack for The Lord of the Rings made a cameo in the movies and no one noticed|author=Agencias|dated=26 December 2025|website=Softonic}}</ref>

As early as October, [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] suggested that they're "doing camera tests."<ref name=":34" /> This is said to include miniature photography, with Alex Funke said to participate, even if only in an advisory position. On the live action side, although Robert Richardson had been rumoured as camerman, he will be preoccupied with Antoine Fuqua's Hannibal epic.<ref name=":34" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.worldofreel.com/blog/2025/7/23/michael-part-1-delayed-to-april-2026|articlename=‘Michael’ Delayed to April 2026|author=Jordan Ruimy|dated=23 July 2025|website=World of Reel}}</ref> While the film was in the story conference stage in July 2024, Richardson said he had "a number" of projects "on the constantly-shifting horizon of the film industry."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.filmlightcolourawards.com/colour-awards-2024/jury-colour-awards-2024/robert-richardson-cinematographer-asc-ack/|articlename=Robert Richardson, Cinematographer, ASC, ACK|author=Anonymous|dated=18 July 2024|website=Film Light Colour Awards}}</ref>

The film is a co-production of [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s [[WingNut Films|WingNut films]] and [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]]' ''Imaginarium''. [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] will executive produce with his ''Imaginarium'' partner John Cavendish and Jackson's agent [[Ken Kamins]].<ref name="Gollum">{{webcite|author=Jennifer Maas|articleurl=https://variety.com/2024/film/news/lord-of-the-rings-movie-2026-release-warner-bros-1235997102/|articlename=Warner Bros. to Release New ‘Lord of the Rings’ Movie ‘The Hunt for Gollum’ in 2026, Peter Jackson to Produce and Andy Serkis to Direct|dated=9 May 2024|website=[https://variety.com/ Variety]|accessed=8 June 2024}}</ref> IMDb also credits studio chiefs Michael de Luca (who helped produce [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'']]), Pam Abdy and David Zaslav as executive producers<ref name=":8" /> and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] mentioned [[Warner Bros.|Warners]]' business consultant Alan Horn (who had produced ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]])'' as a collaborator, but these credits have yet to become official.<ref name=":7" />

===Cast===
With [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] due to star as [[Gollum]], approaches had been made to [[Ian McKellen|Sir Ian McKellen]]<ref name=":2">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2024/09/ian-mckellen-return-gandalf-new-the-lord-of-the-rings-films-1236075547/|articlename=Ian McKellen Reveals He’s Been Approached To Reprise His Role As Gandalf In Andy Serkis’ New ‘The Lord Of The Rings’ Films|author=Jake Kanter|dated=2 September 2024|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> and [[Viggo Mortensen]] to reprise [[Gandalf]] and [[Aragorn]], respectively. [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] said he's in talks to reprise "a little bit" of [[Gandalf]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.mirror.co.uk/3am/celebrity-news/sir-ian-mckellan-i-thought-36196617|articlename=EXCLUSIVE: Sir Ian McKellan: 'I thought I was a goner, but I'm coming back as Gandalf'|author=Marc Baker and Jackie Annett|dated=5 November 2025|website=The Mirror}}</ref> in [[New Zealand]].<ref name=":42">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thetimes.com/culture/tv-radio/article/ian-mckellen-an-ark-lowry-lord-of-the-rings-f9wc9nmdq|articlename=Ian McKellen at 86: ‘I’ve had to accept that I’m not immortal’|author=Jonathan Dean|dated=14 February 2026|website=The Times}}</ref> As of December, the contracts with [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] and [[Elijah Wood|Wood]] hadn't been finalized,<ref name=":40" /> but [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] expressed a desire to return to [[New Zealand]] for filming. [[Liv Tyler]], [[Evangeline Lilly]] and, especially, [[Orlando Bloom]] have also expressed interest in reprising their parts,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.nme.com/news/film/the-lord-of-the-rings-cast-say-they-would-jump-to-return-for-new-spin-off-movies-3853893|articlename=‘The Lord Of The Rings’ cast say they would “jump” to return for new spin-off movies|author=Damian Jones|dated=11 April 2025|website=NME}}</ref> while [[Dominic Monaghan]] expressed a desire to visit the set.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://nypost.com/2025/11/06/entertainment/dominic-monaghan-reveals-plans-for-next-lord-of-the-rings-movie/|articlename=Dominic Monaghan reveals big plans for next ‘Lord of the Rings’ movie — including possible return as Merry
By|author=Eric Todisco|dated=6 November 2025|website=New York Post}}</ref> [[Evangeline Lilly|Lilly]] had proceeded to do so, but indicated that she will have no further involvement with the project. [[Orcs]] are set to appear in the film, with [[Shane Rangi]] and [[Lawrence Makoare]] having reportedly been contacted.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/thelegacyofnerd/status/1979621220246344016|articlename=BREAKING: ‘The Hunt For Gollum’ Begins Filming in May 2026|author=@thelegacyofnerd|dated=8 October 2025|website=Twitter}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]]' comments about seeing the interiors of [[Barad-dûr|Barad Dur]] might suggest the involvement of [[Benedict Cumberbatch]].<ref name=":36">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lYYSsook-4Y|articlename=Philippa Boyens ('ESDLA: LA GUERRA DE LOS ROHIRRIM'): "Queríamos que se sintiera como algo nuevo"|author=eCartelera|dated=10 December 2024}}</ref>

[[Andy Serkis|Serkis]], [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had all spoke to [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]],<ref name=":3">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://theplaylist.net/the-war-of-the-rohirrim-philippa-boyens-on-the-new-anime-the-hunt-for-gollum-the-future-of-the-lord-of-the-rings-20241223/|articlename=‘The War Of The Rohirrim’: Philippa Boyens On The New Anime, ‘The Hunt For Gollum’ & The Future Of ‘The Lord of the Rings’|author=Rodrigo Perez|dated=23 December 2024|website=The Playlist}}</ref> who had previously said he'd be "open to it" if it makes sense for "the age I am now"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.gq-magazine.co.uk/article/viggo-mortensen-interview-2024|articlename=Viggo Mortensen re-used Aragorn's sword in new movie The Dead Don't Hurt “Because it's really good”|author=Rafael Motamayor|dated=28 May 2024|website=GQ}}</ref> but after [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] pitched it to him as "Digital make-up" they agreed he'd wait to read the script: With the approach to [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] happening sometime between June<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thetimes.com/culture/film/article/ian-mckellen-if-this-is-my-last-job-id-better-get-it-right-hadnt-i-n3t38g6tb|articlename=Ian McKellen: ‘When a script arrives, I think this might be my last job’|author=Dominic Maxwell|dated=8 June 2024|website=The Times of London}}</ref> and September,<ref name=":2" /> the approach to [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] may have taken place in mid-June, just prior to an interview in which [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] said "The script is the most important thing to me", seemingly no longer harping on the age quota.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/viggo-mortensen-lord-of-the-rings-script-feminism-1235935628/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen on Respecting Audiences, How Scripts Are Key “Unless I’m Broke,” New ‘LOTR’ Films|author=Georg Szalai|dated=30 June 2024|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] said they need to "drag" him.<ref name=":36" /> Mortensen also said he'd be interested in appearing in later film projects if they were "true to Tolkien."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.the-independent.com/arts-entertainment/films/news/viggo-mortensen-movies-interview-b2561237.html|articlename=Go to Bat with Viggo Mortensen: My films that deserve more love|author=Jacob Stolworthy|dated=7 June 2024|website=The Independent}}</ref>

While in London for ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]]'' premiere, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also "had lunch with an [[Elves|Elf]] lord" who "would fall into that story."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.instagram.com/nerdoftherings/reel/DDgKw47uxkJ/|articlename="Philippa Boyens teases an “elf lord” returning for Hunt for Gollum! "|author=Matt Graf|dated=12 December 2024|website=Instagram}}</ref> Although this could refer to [[Orlando Bloom|Bloom]] or even [[Marton Csokas]], [[Lee Pace]] is the most likely as he was shooting ''The Running Man'' in London at the time.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://people.com/glen-powell-films-running-man-reboot-37-years-after-arnold-schwarzenegger-movie-8745529|articlename=Glen Powell Films Running Man Remake in London 37 Years After Original Arnold Schwarzenegger Movie|author=Jen Juneau|dated=14 November 2024|website=People}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had since divulged that they expect "some of the cast who were originally in" ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'', as well as "some incredible new talent."<ref name=":28">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.jedinews.com/events/articles/indiana-comic-con-andy-serkis-full-panel/|articlename=Indiana Comic Con: Andy Serkis Full Panel|author=James Burns|dated=11 April 2025,|website=Jedi News}}</ref> [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] had since confirmed that [[Gandalf]] and [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]], surely to be played by himself and [[Elijah Wood|Wood]], are scheduled to reappear in the piece.<ref name=":12" />

Casting seems to have started in November,<ref name=":40">Steve Schofield ''et al'', "25 Years of Fellowship", ''Empire'' (March 2026), pp. 46-70.</ref> with young boys auditioning for the boy [[Gollum|Smeagol]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/KnightGambit/status/2011815291198849220|articlename=Small Tidbit.....|author=Caleb Williams|dated=16 January 2026|website=Twitter}}</ref> and two of his fellow [[Stoors|Stoor]] riverfolk - a young girl and a young adult boy - in what looks like a setup for [[Gollum|Smeagol]]'s preoccupation with a birtday present. Andy had since confirmed Aragorn will be "recast" but it's unclear exactly what this means. Actors in their early thirties auditioned for a young "[[Aragorn|Strider]]",<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://knightedgemedia.com/2026/01/the-hunt-for-gollum-casting-call-teases-young-strider-and-his-fellow-dunedain-rangers/#google_vignette|articlename=‘The Hunt for Gollum’ Casting Call Teases Young Strider and His Fellow Dúnedain Rangers|author=Caleb Williams|dated=16 January 2026|website=Knight Edge Media}}</ref> with 29-year old Leo Woodall reportedly tipped for the role.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://knightedgemedia.com/2026/03/rumor-leo-woodall-cast-as-strider-in-lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum/#google_vignette|articlename=RUMOR: Leo Woodall Cast as Strider in ‘Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum’|author=Caleb Williams|dated=7 March 2026|website=Knight Edge Media}}</ref> While there had been reports that the studio is not hoping to get Viggo<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/ViewerAnon/status/1998489358849159181?s=20|articlename=I can confirm this|author=ViewerAnon|dated=9 December 2025|website=Twitter}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had spoken about potentially having to "hand off"<ref name=":3" /> from [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]], and rumours had pointed to the inexpediency of the deaging.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://3dvf.com/en/a-cult-actor-from-the-lord-of-the-rings-on-the-departure-the-question-arises-for-the-prequel-dedicated-to-gollum/#google_vignette|articlename=A Cult Actor from The Lord of the Rings on the Departure? The Question Arises for the Prequel Dedicated to Gollum|author=Quentin Couprie|dated=13 December 2025|accessed=3DVF}}</ref> The age differential - Mortensen was 42 while shooting ''Lord of the Rings'' - may well suggest a cameo to either an old [[Aragorn|Elessar]] and/or the "mature" [[Aragorn]] of the [[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|''Fellowship of the Ring'']] era.''<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://medium.com/p/dcf21faf019e|articlename=The Hunt for Gollum and the Aragorn problem|author=Chen Geller|website=Medium}}</ref>'' [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had earlier spoke of meeting [[Aragorn]] when he was "quite young" in ''[[The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies|The Battle of the Five Armies]],'' but not so young that it didn't seem plausible to her to have [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] play him circa 2011''.<ref name=":39" />'' The audition scene, although not necessarily representative of the film, also implies the presence of the other [[Rangers of the North|Rangers]], perhaps including [[Halbarad]]. A younger Strider could also feature in a "Young Aragorn" picture.

Serkis had since reaffirrmed that he would "love the old cast" back.<ref name=":41" /> Other roles auditioned for include women in their thirties and fifities: the latter is said to be Smeagol's grandmother, now confirmed as a "lead" role, with Kate Winslet relocating to New Zealand for five months. The thirties' part<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://knightedgemedia.com/2026/03/the-hunt-for-gollum-lead-female-characters-casting-are-underway-exclusive/#google_vignette|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum’ Lead Female Characters Casting Are Underway (EXCLUSIVE)|author=Caleb Williams|dated=5 March 2026|website=Knight Edge Media}}</ref> is reportedly circled by Anya Taylor-Joy. Some presume this to be [[Arwen]], but if so the quota is older than [[Liv Tyler]], who was 23 at the time of [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'']].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://medium.com/@chenngeller/on-aragorn-and-other-castings-a6e55668fce9?postPublishedType=repub|articlename=On Aragorn, Stoors and other castings|author=Chen Geller|dated=11 March 2026|website=Medium}}</ref> Winslet had previously been considered, at least by the studio, for [[Éowyn|Eowyn]].

==Plotline==
The exact events the film covers remain undisclosed. There's ambiguity concerning both the exact timeframe for the film, and whether it will focus more on [[Gollum]] or [[Aragorn]]. An official "blurb" for the movie reads: "The pic explores [[Aragorn]]’s adventures as a [[Rangers of the North|ranger]], specifically his quest to capture [[Gollum]] between [[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]] and [[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|Fellowship of the Ring]], tracking him to keep the [[The One Ring|Ring]]’s location from [[Sauron|Sauron."]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2026/01/box-office-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy-25th-anniversary-1236689724/|articlename=‘Lord Of The Rings’ Trilogy 25th Anniversary Event Rings Up $11M In Worldwide Box Office|author=Anthony D'Alessandro|dated=19 January 2026|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> A more extended synopsis had also been circulating:<blockquote>Before the Fellowship, one creature's obsession holds the key to Middle-earth's survival -- or its demise. In The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum, we meet young Smeagol -- an outsider drawn to trinkets and mischief -- long before The One Ring consumed him and began his tragic descent into the tortured, deceitful creature Gollum. With the ring lost and carried away by Bilbo Baggins, Gollum finds himself compelled to leave his cave in search of it. Gandalf the Grey calls upon Aragorn, still known as the ranger Strider, to track the elusive creature whose knowledge of the whereabouts of the ring could tip the balance toward the Dark Lord Sauron.
Set in the shadowed time between Bilbo's birthday disappearance and the Fellowship's formation, this perilous journey through Middle-earth's darkest corners reveals untold truths, tests the resolve of its future king, and explores the fractured soul and backstory of Gollum, one of Tolkien's most enigmatic characters.

Directed by original cast member Andy Serkis, produced by Peter Jackson, and written & produced by Fran Walsh and Phillipa Boyens -- the creative team behind the Oscar-winning trilogy -- this live-action movie bridges the beloved films with new characters, returning heroes, and a deeply engaging origin story that resets the stage for, and changes everything you know about the legendary Lord of the Rings trilogy.</blockquote>Strictly speaking, [[Aragorn]]'s hunt for [[Gollum]] begins during the events depicted in Jackson's [[The Fellowship of the Ring (2001 film)|''The Fellowship of the Ring'']], and in October, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] said the story "falls after the [[Bilbo's Farewell Party|birthday party of Bilbo]] and before the Mines Of [[Moria]]".<ref name=":22">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.empireonline.com/movies/news/lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-wont-be-two-films-second-philippa-boyens-exclusive/|articlename=The Hunt For Gollum Won’t Be Two Films, But A Second LOTR Film Is Incoming, Philippa Boyens Confirms|author=Ben Travis|dated=18 October 2024|website=Empire}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] added that the role of [[Aragorn]] is "very central" to the movie.<ref name=":36" /> Andy called the storyline "pivotal."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1md7lim/the_lord_of_the_rings_the_hunt_for_gollum_andy/|articlename=The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum - Andy Serkis says "this part of the story is pivotal"|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=30 July 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> [[Ian McKellen]] had described the plot as "[[Aragorn]] trying to find [[Gollum]] with [[Gandalf]] directing operations from the sidelines."<ref name=":42" />

However, ''a'' hunt for [[Gollum]] is begun by the [[Silvan Elves]] after Gollum first leaves the [[Misty Mountains|mountains]] in search of [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]], and in December Jackson said the film "tells us what happened to [[Gollum]] between ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' - end of [[The Hobbit (film series)|''The Hobbit'']] - and the beginning of ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]''".<ref name=":6">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/red-carpet-premiere-for-the-lord-of-the-rings-the-war-of-the-rohirrim/P3BS7U5NPS5EMFLPUV4SYSYFDU/|articlename=Red carpet premiere for The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|author=Mitchell Hageman|dated=11 December 2024|website=New Zealand Herald}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had since confirmed this timeframe: "It sits, kind of, in the timeline between ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' - between losing the [[The One Ring|Ring]] to [[Bilbo Baggins]] - and ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]''."<ref name=":18">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?t=1218&v=U-dw8DQDf90&feature=youtu.be|articlename=Kazakhstan feels like the center of the world - Andy Serkis {{!}} Interview of the Day|author=Silk Way / Qazaqstan|dated=15 July 2025|website=YouTube}}</ref> [[Dol Guldur]], the [[Nazgûl|Nazgul]] and [[Orcs]] are all said to potentially play part in the film.

[[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also alluded to other storylines: "we are finding a lot of threads of story that are surprising in there when you really go in there and examine it".<ref name=":29">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.slashfilm.com/1734018/philippa-boyens-lord-of-the-rings-war-of-the-rohirrim-exclusive-interview/|articlename=War Of The Rohirrim's Philippa Boyens Reveals Details About The Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum [Exclusive Interview]|author=Ben Pearson|dated=13 December 2024|website=/Film}}</ref> Events as varied as [[Aragorn]]'s sojourn in [[Lothlórien|Lórien]] with [[Arwen]], the fall of [[Balin's folk]], [[Boromir]]'s quest for [[Rivendell]] and much else occur concurrent to the time of the Hunt.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1iutc9r/building_bridges_so_what_happens_between_the/|articlename=Building Bridges: So, what happens between the trilogies that The Hunt for Gollum could possibly cover?|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=21 February 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> "You see the layers and layers of story that’s underneath there and how interconnected they all are", she adds.<ref name=":3" /> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] also made comments to this effect: "Some pretty interesting stuff happens that we reference in passing in [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The'' ''Lord of the Rings'']], but there’s a lot of more deep detail to it."<ref name=":6" />

[[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] adds that "We get to go to some places that we've never been before" in Middle-earth." One such place - only glimpsed in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|Fellowship of the Ring]]'' - is the interiors of [[Barad-dûr|Barad Dur]].<ref name=":36" /> Both she and Serkis alluded to new characters<ref name=":28" /><ref name=":5" /> and new dramatic situations, saying it's "surprising"<ref name=":7" /><ref name=":27" /><ref name=":29" /> and could be enjoyed be people wo don't know the novels.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.amica.it/video-post/andy-serkis-dirigero-signore-anelli-tornero-batman/|articlename=Andy Serkis, da Gollum a regista: «Dirigerò “Il Signore degli Anelli” e tornerò con Batman»|author=Emanuele Bigi|dated=27 June 2025|website=Amica}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also shared that one of the practicalities they were busy figuring out in the writing is "How does he [<nowiki/>[[Aragorn]]] pick up his scent? How does he find his trail, how does it happen?"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://nerdist.com/article/nerdist-philippa-boyens-interview-the-war-of-the-rohirrim-the-lord-of-the-rings-future/|articlename=Philippa Boyens Talks the Future of THE LORD OF THE RINGS Movies and Naming a Tolkien Character in THE WAR OF THE ROHIRRIM|author=by Rotem Rusak|dated=19 December 2024|website=Nerdist}}</ref>

==Cast==
{| class="wikitable mw-collapsible"
|- style="background: var(--tg-color-surface-2);"
!Actor!!Role
|-
|[[Andy Serkis]]||[[Gollum]]<ref name="Gollum"></ref>
|-
|[[Elijah Wood]]
|[[Frodo Baggins]]<ref name=":12" />
|-
|[[Ian McKellen]]
|[[Gandalf]]<ref name=":12" />
|-
|[[Kate Winslet]]
|Unconfirmed role<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2026/03/kate-winslet-lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-andy-serkis-1236749998/|articlename=Kate Winslet To Play Female Lead In Andy Serkis’ ‘LOTR: The Hunt For Gollum’|author=Baz Bamigboye|dated=11 March 2026|accessed=15 March 2026|website=Deadline|archiveurl=|archivename=|archivedate=}}</ref>
|}

{{Title|Italics}}

{{References}}

{{Screen}}

[[Category:Films]]

[[fi:The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum]]

The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum

2026-04-11T13:16:34Z

Chen Geller:

{{Disambig-two|the 2027 film adaptation|2009 fan film|[[The Hunt for Gollum]]}}
{{film infobox
| image =
| caption =
| name = The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum
| director = [[Andy Serkis]]
| producer = [[Peter Jackson]] [[Fran Walsh]] [[Philippa Boyens]] [[Zane Weiner]]
| writer = [[Fran Walsh]] [[Philippa Boyens]] Phoebe Gittins Arty Papageorgiou
| narrator =
| starring = [[Andy Serkis]]<ref name=Gollum></ref> [[Elijah Wood]] [[Ian McKellen]] Kate Winslet
| music =
| cinematography =
| editing =
| studio = WingNut films Imaginarium [[New Line Cinema]]<ref name=Gollum></ref>
| distributor = [[Warner Bros.|Warner Bros. Pictures]]<ref name=Gollum></ref>
| released = 17 December [[2027]]<ref name="TheDirect2027Release"/>
| runtime =
| country = [[New Zealand]]<ref name=Gollum></ref>
| language = English
| budget =
| website =
|imdb_id=32328070
|basedon=[[The Lord of the Rings]]|production design=[[Dan Hennah]] (Production designer)}}
'''''The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum''''' is the title (originally, working title<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/09/curtis-brown-jrr-tolkien-literary-estate-deal-1236526748/|articlename=Curtis Brown To Rep J.R.R. Tolkien’s Literary Estate|author=Jesse Whittock|dated=10 September 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref>) of a forthcoming film adaptation currently in pre-production and set for a [[2027]] release, the first of a planned series of Tolkien films to be produced by [[New Line Cinema]], a division of [[Warner Bros.|Warner Brothers]].<ref name=":4">{{webcite|author=Matt Donnelly|articleurl=https://variety.com/2023/film/news/lord-of-the-rings-new-movies-warner-bros-1235533672/|articlename=New ‘Lord of the Rings’ Movies Set at Warner Bros. |dated=23 February 2023|website=[https://variety.com/ Variety]|accessed=10 June 2024}}</ref>

The film will cover [[Gollum]]'s travels after losing [[The One Ring|the Ring]] to [[Bilbo Baggins]] (as depicted in [[The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey|''An Unexpected Journey'']]), through [[Gandalf]] setting out to track the creature after [[Bilbo's Farewell Party]] (as depicted in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]'') and down to [[Gollum]] intercepting [[Fellowship of the Ring|the Fellowship]] in [[Moria|Moria.]]

It will be directed by and star [[Andy Serkis]], who played [[Gollum]] in [[Peter Jackson]]'s previous films, as well as directing second unit. [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] will produce with his co-writing team of [[Fran Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens]], who will also write the screenplay with ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]]'' scribes Phoebe Gittins and Arty Papageorgiou.

The subject of this film is a longstanding fascination of [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s who developed it quite intensly in 2008 with [[Guillermo del Toro]]. The film is in preproduction with several cast and crew members from previous films already attached, including actor [[Elijah Wood]], concept artists [[John Howe]] and [[Alan Lee]] and others.

==Early Development==
Although the film was only announced in 2023, it had a long gestation period with [[Peter Jackson]], who considered filming this subject since circa 1997, and at least as late as July 2015. During 2008, in particular, the film was in development with a plot synopsis, a tentative budget and an initial cast and crew attached, and drew the attention of further talent like [[Viggo Mortensen]], as well as the press. Elements of this proposed "bridge film" were eventually put into ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' but mostly axed during the early months of the shoot. Jackson also negotiated in 2018 about producing a show for [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon Prime]] about the related subject of the travels of young [[Aragorn]], but ended up producing ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]]'' with [[New Line Cinema]] instead.

===During ''The'' ''Lord of the Rings''===
[[Peter Jackson]] read [[The Lord of the Rings|''The Lord of the Rings'']] circa 1979, and he claims that he "always loved the concept that when [[Gandalf]] leaves [[Bag End]] he goes and joins up with [[Aragorn]] and the two of them hunt [[Gollum]] down."<ref name=":26">Peter Jackson, Philippa Boyens, Fran Walsh, "Director's Commentary", Peter Jackson, ''The Lord of the Rings trilogy'' (New Line Cinema: 2004).</ref> This piece of backstory was also expanded upon in the [[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)|radio serial]], which [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] was very familiar with. He and [[Fran Walsh]] first pitched a trilogy based on [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']] and ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'' around November 1995.<ref>Brian Sibley, Peter Jackson: A Filmmaker's Journey (London: HarperCollins, 2006), pp. 312 ff.</ref><ref>J. W Braun, ''The lord of the films : the unofficial guide to Tolkien's Middle-Earth on the big screen'' (Toronto: ECW Press, 2009), pp. 20, 63, 68-69, 195.</ref><ref>Michael Pellerin, "Completing Middle-earth," Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit'' (Warner Brothers: 2015).</ref> They may well have had the [[Gollum]] episode in mind at some time between that point and early 1997. So long as they intended to start with ''The Hobbit'' (up to early 1996), they will have been mindful of the need to connect the two novels, and while their treatment (mid 1997) doesn't seem to cover the [[Gollum]] episode, it already dramatizes the remainder of the backstory that's given in "[[The Shadow of the Past]]", "[[The Council of Elrond]]" and [[appendix B]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1j06oqh/so_what_is_the_hunt_for_gollum_really_based_on/|articlename=So, what is The Hunt for Gollum REALLY based on?|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=28 February 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> When the project expanded (September 1998) to three films, Jackson tried to finally incorporate this storyline - some eight pages' worth - but realized that he "just couldn't put [the Hunt for [[Gollum]]] into the movie".<ref name=":26" />

[[Peter Jackson|Peter]] nevertheless publicly expressed a desire to film "[[Gandalf]] and [[Aragorn]] hunting [[Gollum]], and his capture by [[Orcs]]"<ref name=":25">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://members.tripod.com/peter_jackson_online/lotr/articles/20_questions2.htm|articlename=20 QUESTIONS WITH PETER JACKSON- PART 2|author=Harry Knowles|dated=31 December 1998|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> At the time, the idea was to shoot this as additional material and add it into the extended edition: although by early 2001 he would have realized this could not be accomodated in the pickups to ''The Fellowship of the Ring'', in 2003 he would still half-jokingly talk about shooting more pickups to "fatten these films out without technically going beyond ‘[[The Lord of the Rings]]’ as the licensed property." Elsewhere in the commentary, he jokes about "spinoff" entries.<ref name=":26" /> Other ideas for this treatment included [[Tom Bombadil]]<ref name=":25" /> and the [[Lothlórien|attack on Lorien]], with the entire expansion estimated at around three hours' worth.<ref name=":26" />

By the end of 2001, The success of ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]'' emboldened [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]<ref>Kristin Thompson, T''he Frodo Franchise: The Lord of the Rings and Modern Hollywoo''d (Berkeley: University of California Press, 2007), pp. 51, 327, 338.</ref> to pursue more films (he was also in discussions to "rekindle" ''King Kong'' at the time) and he had later discussed filming a "''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|Lord of the Rings]]'' prequel", along with ''[[The Hobbit]]'', with composer [[Howard Shore]] and executive producer [[Mark Ordesky]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2006/11/19/24053-peter-jackson-and-fran-walsh-talk-the-hobbit-2/|articlename=Peter Jackson and Fran Walsh Talk THE HOBBIT|author=Xoanon|dated=19 November 2006|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref><ref name=":35">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.rhino.com/article/interview-howard-shore-the-lord-of-the-rings|articlename=INTERVIEW: Howard Shore (“The Lord of the Rings”)|author=Will Harris|dated=27 April 2018|website=Rhino}}</ref> At a later premiere, [[New Line Cinema|New Line]]'s president Robert Shaye told [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s agent [[Ken Kamins]] that they "would want to have a conversation" about the two films.<ref name=":30" /> The idea at the time was to incorporate [[Arwen]] as a female character<ref name=":10">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20230327113046/https://ew.com/article/2003/12/06/peter-jackson-mulls-rings-prequel/|articlename=Peter Jackson mulls ''Rings'' prequel|author=Gary Susman|dated=6 December 2003|website=EW}}</ref> and produce both films back-to-back "in some short order"<ref name=":30">Ian Nathan, ''Anything You Can Imagine: Peter Jackson and the Making of Middle-earth'' (London: HarperCollins, 2019), pp. 827, 835.</ref> after ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'', in order to "complete the set of films.”<ref name=":10" /> Peter was referring to these two films, when talking in the behind the scenes documentaries in 2004 about "Maybe there'll be something we can do." Actors [[Andy Serkis]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2003/dec/09/jrrtolkien|articlename=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2003/dec/09/jrrtolkien|author=Anonymous|dated=9 Dec 2003|website=The Guardian}}</ref> [[Ian McKellen]], producer Barrie Osborne<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2002/12/16/25965-ttt-benefit-with-barrie-osborne-2/|articlename=TTT Benefit with Barrie Osborne
by|author=xoanon|dated=16 December 2002|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> and concept artist Paul Lasaine all expressed interest at the time.

Also around this time, [[Andy Serkis]] goes into some detail in his book ''[[Gollum: How We Made Movie Magic|Gollum: Howe We Made Movie Magic]]'' into how he imagined Smeagol's personality and upbringing. This conception of Smeagol would become imperative for the film all those years later: <blockquote>I was interested in trying to define Gollum's class and status in the community, and had thought that, coming from the wealthiest and largest Stoor family, he would probably never have really worked a day in his life. He probably skipped school and spent time squandering money that he had stolen from his grandmother's purse. It was a matriarchy and his grandmother was the head of his family, so I wondered how we might reflect this. We decided that some sort of neckerchief, maybe made of silk and a little flamboyant, might be a good idea. I liked the idea of carrying through the drug-addict metaphor, implying that he was like a young rich kid who had always had money in his pocket and was able to experiment with whatever took his fancy, like a Middle-earth version of a young playboy or a Victorian dandy.

We also examined the idea of his curious and inquisitive nature. I always saw Sméagol as a loner, not particularly liked, a bit of a Billy-no-friends, and not very good at team sports. He would have been thought of as a bit weird, and he would have secretly dreamed up vengeful scenarios for all the other Stoor hobbits, who completely ignored him. So, to cope with being so introverted and alienated, he became a collector, obsessed with the "roots and beginnings" of things. Objects became more important than people: at least they couldn't hurt him. Physically: I gave him a stoop from constantly looking down. I imagined him to be fairly narcissistic, spending hours fascinating himself by staring at his own reflection in the water while he fished. We decided to display this obsessive behavior through shiny pau shell buttons and little trophies of fish bones tied to his belt, as if he were adorning himself with fetishlike status symbols. Although he was dysfunctional, he was not evil or malicious, just, as the Travis Bickle character says of himself in Taxi Driver, full of "morbid self-attention.<ref>Andrew Serkis, [[Gollum: How We Made Movie Magic|''Gollum: How We Made Movie Magic'']] (London: HarperCollins, 2003), p. 58.</ref> </blockquote>While talking about ''[[The Hobbit]]'' in 16 September 2006, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] said they "have thought about it from time to time" and in fact "spent most of this morning" talking about the films. They talked of how "[[Elrond]], [[Galadriel]] and [[Arwen]] could all feature"<ref name=":11" /> and "[[Gollum]]'s sneaking into [[Mordor]] and [[Aragorn]] protecting [[The Shire]]. That's what we'd do. Love to work with [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] again".<ref name=":11">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/30085|articlename=Part 5: Quint and Peter Jackson talk THE HOBBIT and a potential return to low budget horror!!!|author=Eric Vespe|dated=16 September 2006|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]], hearing this remark in 2012, said it "sounds like a lot of fun".<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2012/03/13/54232-viggo-mortensens-visit-to-boston-part-2-new-video/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen’s visit to Boston – part 2 (new video!)|author=Greendragon|dated=13 March 2012|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref> At the time, [[Peter Jackson|Peter]] had a falling-out with [[New Line Cinema]] who had tipped Sam Raimi to direct both films.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2006/11/22/926-the-new-director-of-the-hobbit-is/|articlename=Sam Raimi to Direct Hobbit Movie??|author=xoanon|dated=22 November 2006|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref>

===During ''The Hobbit''===
Since the rights to [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']] were split with [[MGM|Metro Goldwyn-Mayer]], in March 2007 [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] pitched this to CEO Harry Sloan: he had already heard of it from [[New Line Cinema]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.ign.com/articles/2006/11/14/hobbit-crown-panther-news|articlename=Hobbit, Crown, Panther News|author=Anonymous|dated=15 Nov 2006|website=IGN}}</ref> but Sloan was won over by Jackson's pitch, which was apparently very detailed.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.kristinthompson.net/blog/2008/05/19/the-hobbit-films-pj-and-fw-know-every-scene-every-moment/|articlename=The Hobbit films: PJ and FW know “every scene, every moment”|author=Kristin Thompson|dated=19 May 2008|website=Kristinthompson.net}}</ref> By contrast, Shaye later said [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] "hasn't told us too much about it."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.screendaily.com/new-line-mgm-team-for-two-hobbit-movies-with-peter-jackson/4036350.article|articlename=New Line, MGM team for two Hobbit movies with Peter Jackson|author=Jeremy Kay|dated=18 December 2007|website=Screen Daily}}</ref>

By December, both films were moving forward with a budget of $150 million each: the idea was that [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]], [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] would write and produce and the films will be shot in 2009 for release in 2010 and 2011.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/del-toro-doubles-up-hobbit-103547/|articlename=Del Toro doubles up for ‘Hobbit’|author=Borys Kit|dated=28 January 2008|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> Robert Shaye, Michael Lynne and [[Mark Ordesky]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://variety.com/2008/film/columns/shaye-kept-new-line-afloat-1117982001/|articlename=Shaye kept New Line afloat|author=Anne Thompson|dated=7 March 2008|website=Variety}}</ref> were attached as executive producers until February, when they were replaced by Toby Emmerich (previously head of production since 2001) and Carolyn Blackwood. Actor [[Ian McKellen|Ian Mckellen]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2008/mar/26/lordoftherings.jrrtolkien|articlename=Hard Hobbit to break: McKellen set for return as Gandalf|author=Anonymous|dated=26 March 2008|website=The Guardian}}</ref> assistant Matthew Dravitzky,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://if.com.au/guillermo-wants-old-buddies-to-join-him-on-the-hobbit/|articlename=Guillermo wants old buddies to join him on The Hobbit|author=Anonymous|dated=23 March 2009|website=IF FX}}</ref> composer [[Howard Shore]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/09/28/30045-howard-shore-is-working-on-hobbit-score/|articlename=Howard Shore is Working on Hobbit Score|author=28 September 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/02/24/28408-howard-shore-talks-hobbit-in-switzerland/|articlename=Howard Shore Talks ‘Hobbit’ in Switzerland|author=Calisuri|dated=24 February 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref>, [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]]<ref name=":38">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/10/22/30352-del-toro-interview-part-3-%E2%80%9Ci-love-new-zealand%E2%80%9D/|articlename=Del Toro Interview Part 3: “I Love New Zealand!”|author=Xoanon|dated=22 October 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> and [[Wētā FX|Weta FX]]<ref name=":37" /> were attached to the project. Although [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] hadn't ruled out directing - he later aired the notion of shooting second unit<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20081012042437/http://moviesblog.mtv.com/2008/10/08/guillermo-del-toro-to-fly-solo-on-hobbit-directing-duties-says-no-to-peter-jackson-assist/|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro To Fly Solo On ‘Hobbit’ Directing Duties, Says No To Peter Jackson Assist|author=Shawn Adler|dated=8 October 2008|website=MTV}}</ref><ref name=":17" /> - he soon picked [[Guillermo del Toro]] to direct.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/01/30/28331-torn-exclusive-del-toro-%e2%80%9c99-percent-certain%e2%80%9d-says-nl-insider/|articlename=TORN exclusive: Del Toro “99 percent certain” says NL insider.|author=MrCere|dated=30 January 2008|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref>

Subsequently, actors [[Andy Serkis]],<ref name=":17" /> [[Ian Holm]]<ref name=":15">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080501020820/http://www.mtv.com/movies/news/articles/1586421/story.jhtml|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro Addresses 'Hobbit' Fans' Concerns, Talks Possible Casting|author=Shawn Adler, Josh Horowitz|dated=28 April 2008|website=Premiere.com}}</ref>; concept artists [[Alan Lee]] and [[John Howe]]; prosthetics supervisor [[Gino Acevedo]]<ref name=":37">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/04/25/28747-guillermo-del-toro-chats-with-torn-about-the-hobbit-films/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro Chats with TORN About ‘The Hobbit’ Films!|author=Xoanon|dated=25 April 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> were all attached. They had approached [[Grant Major]] but he declined<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=http://www.artstars.us/grant-major/8/|articlename=Grant Major|author=Tom Lisowski|dated=14 November 2011|website=Art Stars}}</ref> and hopped onboard ''Green Lantern'' with costume designer Ngila Dickson: they were substituted by [[Dan Hennah]]<ref name=":32">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/51948|articlename=An Unexpected Journey: Quint on the set of The Hobbit Part 3 – Beginnings and Endings|author=Eric Vespe|dated=14 November 2011|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> and Kate Hawley.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.whowhatwear.com/living/who-what-wear-podcast-kate-hawley|articlename=How the Frankenstein Costume Designer Brought the Film to Life|author=Madeline Hill|dated=17 November 2025|website=Who What Wear}}</ref> Actors [[Martin Freeman]]<ref>In "The Road Back to Middle-earth", Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit'' (New Line Cinema: 2015), Philippa Boyens recalls proposing Freeman as Bilbo Baggins when she saw him at the 2003 BAFTAs.</ref> and [[Hugo Weaving]];<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.slashfilm.com/504115/guillermo-del-toro-confirms-hugo-weaving-for-the-hobbit-and-much-more/|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro Confirms Hugo Weaving For The Hobbit... And Much More|author=Brendon Connolly|dated=11 June 2009|website=Slash Film}}</ref> as well as [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]]'s regular collaborators (including artists Wayne Barlowe and Francisco Ruiz Velasco<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20081201164150/http://bilbohobbit.com/del-toro-talks-hobbit-in-live-chat/|articlename="Del Toro talks 'Hobbit' in Live Chat"|author=Alex|dated=27 November 2008|website=BilboHobbit.com}}</ref>) were also being sought beginning at this time.

"We got really excited," said [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]], "because this second film is not a ‘tag on’, it’s not ‘filler,’ it’s an integral part of telling the story of those 50 years of history lost in the narrative".<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://theplaylist.net/60-year-period-between-hobbi-20080425/|articlename=60-Year Period Between ‘The Hobbit’ & ‘Fellowship’ For Hobbit Sequel Suddenly Gone? Or Not?|author=Rodrigo Perez|dated=25 April 2008|website=The Playlist}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.gamesradar.com/guillermo-del-toro-talks-hobbit-and-more/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro talks Hobbit and more|author=Anonymous|dated=25 April 2008|website=Total Film}}</ref> Although he had a radical new vision for the designs in the first film, <ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080915124607/http://www.premiere.com/features/4642/exclusive-guillermo-del-toro-on-hellboy-ii-page4.html|articlename=Exclusive: Guillermo del Toro on 'Hellboy II'|author=Anonymous|website=Premiere}}</ref> [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] intended to use the second film to affect a gradual change of style towards that of [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]: "We have to recreate a lot of the stuff they did on the [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|trilogy]]," he said: helpfully, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had kept the [[Bag End]] and [[Rivendell]] sets, and they set about rebuilding [[Hobbiton]].<ref name=":32" />

[[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] also rewatched the extended editions with [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]], [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] and intended to watch the making-ofs, dailies "the camera reports... everything," particularly for ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080914124349/http://www.comingsoon.net/news/nycomicconnews.php?id=44254|articlename=EXCL: Del Toro on Hellboy II and The Hobbit|author=Edward Douglas|dated=21 April 2008|website=Coming Soon.net}}</ref> The remastering of ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'' was also begun around this time. This was done because [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] felt that it "has to evolve into the lensing, the color palette, the texture palette, and the feel of the [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|trilogy]]…"<ref name=":13">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/37428|articlename=Quint and Guillermo del Toro chat about HELLBOY II, THE HOBBIT and more!!!|author=Eric Vespe|dated=12 July 2008|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> partially for this purpose, a break was to be scheduled partway through the shoot,<ref name=":31">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080712175117/http://www.ifmagazine.com/feature.asp?article=2879|articlename=GUILLERMO DEL TORO ESCAPES 'LABYRINTH' AND ENDS RIGHT BACK INTO 'HELLBOY'|author=Carl Cortez|dated=9 July 2008|website=iFMagazine}}</ref> which was estimated at over 370 days.<ref name=":31" />

[[Guillermo del Toro|Guillermo]] insisted the second film would add to the series.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wReRe8Si2aU|articlename=Guillermo del Toro: RT's Dinner & the Movies Interview Pt 5|author=OCR|dated=11 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> He said "it’s also expanding and illuminating some of the aspects of the trilogy in a slightly different way, like same characters in a different environment. I find that very attractive."<ref name=":13" /> The idea was that the first film would be a retelling of [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']], including the bulk of the [[Dol Guldur]] storyline, up to [[Smaug]]'s death: the second would wrap-up the remainder of [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']] in its first half, and concern itself with the Hunt for [[Gollum]] and other "bridging" plot threads in its second half.<ref name=":14">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20120831093447/http://moviesblog.mtv.com/2008/10/07/hobbit-films-will-be-one-continuous-journey-promises-guillermo-del-toro/|articlename='Hobbit' Films Will Be One 'Continuous Journey,' Promises Guillermo Del Toro|author=Shawn Adler|dated=7 October 2008|website=MTV}}</ref>

Although [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] predicted the second film would require the most work,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2P0dTo0yNpQ|articlename=THE HOBBIT 1 & 2 MOVIE UPDATE|author=ReelzChannel|dated=7 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> both he<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JVHzVKy_F8w|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro talks about Hobbit Movie|author=Brettmartintv|dated=7 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] showed a particular eagerness towards it, with [[Guillermo del Toro|Guillermo]] calling it a "treasure trove of possibilities."<ref name=":16">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080915084029/http://www.mtv.com/movies/news/articles/1590278/story.jhtml|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro Answers 'Hobbit' Fans' Questions About Returning 'Rings' Cast, Religion And More|author=Shawn Adler|dated=2 July 2008|website=MTV}}</ref> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] was also "really looking forward to developing Film Two. It gives us a freedom that we haven't really had on our [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] journey."<ref name=":17" /> [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] concluded that "the promise of that land is absolutely mind-boggling!"<ref name=":16" />

Referring specifically to [[Gollum]]'s part in the events, [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] said "[[Gollum]] has a rather fascinating arch to go through and his alliance to [[Shelob]] or his period of imprisonment in [[Thranduil]]'s". [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] added that "There's an awful lot of incident that happens during that 60 year gap. At this stage, we're not imagining a film that literally covers 60 years, like a bio-pic or documentary. We would figure out what happens during that 60 years, and choose one short section of time to drop in and dramatise for the screen". Both filmmakers said they agreed that "apart from extreme circumstances, we would never recast a character who appeared in the [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|LOTR trilogy]]".<ref name=":17">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080730161821/http://www.wetanz.com/holics/index.php?itemid=695&catid=2|articlename=An Unexpected Party Chat|author=Anonymous|dated=30 July 2008|website=Weta Workshop website}}</ref> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] later remarked that, in some cases, they'd sooner write around a character than recast the part.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/41848|articlename=Comic-Con '09: Peter Jackson talks to Capone about DISTRICT 9, THE HOBBIT, and the state of the film industry!!!|author="Capone"|dated=28 July 2009|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref>

As of the formulation of these comments in July, [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] said the second film is "too early"<ref name=":13" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5YoRDF12aRc|articlename=GDT the Hobbit 1|author=Garfeimao TheOneRing|dated=14 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> in its development process to know precisely what it might entail, estimating that it would take six months to formulate the storyline for the film.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.ign.com/articles/2008/07/09/exclusive-gdt-on-the-hobbit|articlename=Exclusive: GDT on The Hobbit|author=Eric Moro and Stax|dated=10 July 2008|website=IGN}}</ref> By September, however, [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] claimed they "found what reverberated."<ref name=":14" /> [[Guillermo del Toro|Guillermo]] had expressed reservations about the term "bridge film" from the outset, but by now he and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] disabused of the term completely, having come to see the films as five undifferentiated parts of a greater whole.

Although they apparently made an outline,<ref name=":15" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/10/16/30296-guillermo-del-toro-i%e2%80%99m-so-voracious-about-the-hobbit/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro: “I’m so voracious about The Hobbit!”|author=Xoanon|dated=16 October 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> it seems the film went no further than this. Up until this point, del Toro had been video-conferencing with Jackson and the other collaborators, meeting in person every three weeks.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://variety.com/2008/film/features/guillermo-del-toro-booked-thru-2017-1117991560/|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro booked thru 2017|author=Michael Fleming|dated=3 September, 2008|website=Variety}}</ref> By the time he arrived to concentrate on writing the story treatment in November 2008<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=http://newboards.theonering.net/forum/gforum/perl/gforum.cgi?post=147373;guest=501771554#147373|articlename="Hola"|author=Guillermo del Toro|dated=8 November 2008|website=The One Ring Discussion Boards}}</ref><ref>Alfio Leotta, ''Peter Jackson'' (London: Bloomsbury Publishing, 2015), p. 196.</ref> the contents of the "bridge" film were being gradually edged-out by the contents of ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]],'' to the point that by the time the completed treatment was greenlit in April 2009<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2009/08/03/32999-peter-jackson-speaks/|articlename=Peter Jackson speaks|author=MrCere|dated=3 August 2009|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref> the films could only be described as a two-part adaptation of ''[[The Hobbit]],'' albeit with elements of the bridge film "integrated''."''<ref>Anonymous, "The Hobbit: Gollum, Bilbo, del Toro and Jackson," ''Empire'', April 2009.</ref> Although [[John Howe]] apparently sent [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] some sketches,<ref name=":38" /> and [[Howard Shore]] had musical ideas,<ref>TheOneRing, Hobbit Desolation of Smaug Music Commentary Watch Along, ''YouTube'', 29 July 2020. Esp. 1:12:15. One such musical idea dates back to the composition of ''The Fellowship of the Ring:'' the flat sixth setting of the Hobbits' bassline that's heard when Gandalf glimpses Thorin's map: Howard was saving that as a "portent of an adventure" towards a potential adaptation of The Hobbit, but by the stage of discussing with del Toro he would have realized it would be applicable to the "bridge" film as well.</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/30722|articlename=ScoreKeeper Talks To Howard Shore About THE TWO TOWERS Complete Recordings, THE HOBBIT, And More!!|author=Merrick|dated=16 November 2006|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> no more work was done on the bridge film. At this time, a [[The Hunt for Gollum|fan film on the same subject was released]], followed shortly by [[Born of Hope|a fan film about Aragorn's errantries]]. The latter of this gained a measure of approbation from [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s camp.

Even so, elements of the bridge film clung to the project for a long time: in 2013 [[Philippa Boyens]] said that "When we started structuring this trilogy we honestly thought about telling some of that. How [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]] becomes the uncle of [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] and take care of him. The story of [[Gollum]]…"<ref name=":9" /> Casting calls had been issued for the roles of [[Primula Brandybuck]] and [[Drogo Baggins]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20201024010428/http://www.movies.spoilertv.com/2010/01/hobbit-casting-call.html#ixzz0btnyJvCI|articlename=Hobbit - Official Casting Call and Plot Details|author=DarkUFO|dated=4 January 2010|website=SpoilerTV}}</ref> with Primula said to be "Prone to letting words and thoughts tumble out of her mouth without pause" while Drogo was "well known around The Shire and is a bit of a ladies man." While Caroline Grace-Cassidy was considered for [[Primula Brandybuck|Primula]], [[Ryan Gage]] was cast in the role of [[Drogo Baggins|Drogo]] and remained attached to it well into shooting, only being recast as [[Alfrid]] around May.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/cate-blanchett-revisiting-rings-role-57193/|articlename=Cate Blanchett Revisiting ‘Rings’ Role In ‘Hobbit’|author=Gregg Kilday|dated=7 December 2010|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> The roles of Worrywort and [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]], which was originally rumoured to include him "moving to live at [[Bag End]] after the untimely drowning of [[Drogo Baggins|Drogo]] and [[Primula Brandybuck|Primula]]" was probably rewritten into its present form around that time.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=theonering.net/torwp/2014/03/25/87789-how-would-have-peter-jacksons-the-hobbit-looked-as-a-duology/|articlename=How would have Peter Jackson’s The Hobbit looked as a duology?|author=Demosthenes|dated=25 March 2014|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> They had scouted locations for the [[Barrow-downs|Barrow Downs]], possibly with a connection to the aforementioned "[[Aragorn]] protecting the [[The Shire|Shire]]" plot point.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://narniafans.com/2019/08/interview-with-narnia-conceptual-designer-john-howe/|articlename=Interview with Narnia Conceptual Designer John Howe|author=David Sutton|dated=18 August 2019|website=Narnia Fans.com}}</ref> More scenes were planned for the [[Dol Guldur]] story and the [[Orcs]]: they had gone as far as designing a young [[Gothmog (Lieutenant of Morgul)#Gothmog in adaptations|Gothmog]] who would participate in the concluding battle, but didn't utilize him.<ref name=":0" />

Another storyline concerned Itarille (later [[Tauriel]]) and her romance with an Elf lord of [[Rivendell]]: clearly an outgrowth of the original idea of featuring [[Arwen]] in the film. [[Aidan Turner]] seems to have read for the part of this Elf Lord. Indeed, Jackson recalled in 2015 that "We did try to figure out a way to get a cameo, even if it was a cameo, for [[Aragorn]] and actually for [[Arwen]], too: we tried to have [[Liv Tyler]] in the film".<ref name=":0" /> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] remarked in 2013 that they envisioned [[Aragorn]] being "quite young" in the film, but concluded that [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] "could have absolutely played" him at the time. "It was incredibly tempting."<ref name=":39">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TapH7wM8MdI&t=85s|articlename=Philippa Boyens ci parla delle scene tagliate dello Hobbit: la Desolazione di Smaug e di... Aragorn!|author=Badtaste|dated=11 December 2013|website=YouTube}}</ref> It's unclear when the idea finally died out: the scene "invoking [[Aragorn]]" was scripted in early 2013, as a "homage" to their earlier plans.

[[Viggo Mortensen]] had been interested in the project since 2007.<ref name=":43">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/09/18/29885-viggo-mortensen-still-waiting-for-guillermo-del-toro%E2%80%99s-%E2%80%98hobbit%E2%80%99-call/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen Still Waiting For Guillermo Del Toro’s ‘Hobbit’ Call|author=Xoanon|dated=18 September 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref name=":44" /> Although it was reported that [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] had held conversations with him<ref name=":43" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thetimes.com/uk/law/article/hobbit-movies-meet-dire-foe-in-son-of-tolkien-lxnpmnsd2rp|articlename=Hobbit movies meet dire foe in son of Tolkien|author=John Harlow|dated=25 May 2008|website=The Times}}</ref> these appear to have not taken place before 2010. In 2008 [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] said he would "rather do it myself than see another actor finish the job for me,"<ref name=":44" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/12/17/30804-tv-watch-viggo-mortensen-on-night-talk/|articlename=TV Watch: Viggo Mortensen on ‘Night Talk’|author=Xoanon|dated=17 December 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/39305|articlename=Capone has a GOOD chat with Viggo Mortensen about politics, THE ROAD, APPALOOSA, and THE HOBBIT!!!|author=Steve Prokopy|dated=11 May 2009|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> saying "it would be fun."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://ohnotheydidnt.livejournal.com/41460224.html|articlename=Moviefone's Exclusive Viggo Mortensen Interview!|author=Anonymous|dated=25 November 2009|website=Moviefone}}</ref> Other actors from [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'']] have also expressed interest in appearing in the film, including [[Liv Tyler]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2011/03/21/42863-liv-tyler-not-contacted-for-hobbit/|articlename=Liv Tyler Not Contacted For Hobbit|author=DiveTwin|dated=21 March 2011|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> [[Cate Blanchett]],<ref name=":16" /> [[Dominic Monaghan]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.firstshowing.net/2009/dominic-monaghan-ready-to-return-for-the-hobbit-movies/|articlename=Dominic Monaghan Ready to Return for The Hobbit Movies?|author=Brandon Lee Tenney|dated=19 January 2009|website=First Showing}}</ref> [[Sean Astin]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2009/03/10/31356-astin-up-for-hobbit-if-hobbit-up-for-him/|articlename=Astin up for Hobbit if Hobbit up for him|author=Xoanon|dated=10 March 2009|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref name=":44" /> [[John Noble]] and [[Sean Bean]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.digitalspy.com/movies/a434476/sean-bean-on-the-hobbit-absence-theyre-sticklers-for-detail/|articlename=Sean Bean on 'The Hobbit' absence: 'They're sticklers for detail'|author=Emma Dibdin|dated=30 October 2012|website=Digital Spy}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://theplaylist.net/viggo-mortensen-optimistic-about-role-20090401/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen Optimistic About Role In Del Toro’s ‘Hobbit’, Project Extends To A Trilogy?|author=Simon Dang|dated=1 April 2009|website=The Playlist}}</ref> [[Christopher Lee]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://whatculture.com/film/christopher-lee-wants-sarumann-return-in-the-hobbit|articlename=Christopher Lee wants Saruman return in THE HOBBIT|author=Matt Holmes|dated=25 June 2011|website=WhatCulture}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5qGFbBNnodw&t=77s|articlename=Christopher Lee about possibly returning to Middle Earth|author="Rushblogg"|dated=12 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> [[Brad Dourif]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/09/12/29751-brad-dourif-on-returning-to-middle-earth/|articlename=Brad Dourif on Returning to Middle-earth|author=Deej|dated=12 September 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> [[John Rhys-Davies]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/the-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy-makeup-difficulties-explained-john-rhys-davies/|articlename=John Rhys-Davies Reveals Gruesome Makeup Process for Gimli in The Lord of the Rings [Exclusive]|author=Aidan Kelley and Steven Weintraub|dated=9 August 2025|website=Collider}}</ref> and [[Elijah Wood]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/11/16/30565-elijah-hobbit-appearance-concievably-possible/|articlename=Elijah – Hobbit appearance ‘concievably possible’|author=Altaira|dated=16 November 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.firstshowing.net/2008/elijah-wood-confirms-dual-hobbit-movie-details/|articlename=Elijah Wood Confirms Dual Hobbit Movie Details|author=Alex Billington|dated=11 January 2008|website=First Showing}}</ref>

Around 2010, [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] recieved an availability call<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2013/may/28/viggo-mortensen-interview|articlename=Viggo Mortensen interview: 'If I think a film's beyond me – that's a good sign'|author=Imogen Tilden|dated=28 May 2013|website=The Guardian}}</ref> from [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]: "I said sure, if [[Aragorn]] is supposed to be in the bridge story, because he’s not in [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']]."<ref name=":1">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2013/05/30/72294-viggo-turned-down-role-as-aragorn-not-so-fast/|articlename=Viggo ‘Turned Down’ Role as Aragorn? Not so fast…|author=Newsfrombree|dated=30 May 2013|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.wired.com/2012/03/viggo-mortensen-speaks-2/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen Speaks: Part 2 of 3|author=Ethan Gilsdorf|dated=11 March 2012|website=Wired.com}}</ref> Informed that they "can take certain liberties" he said he'd "love to revisit him."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/films/features/viggo-mortensen-interview-captain-fantastic-lord-of-the-rings-aragorn-hobbit-david-cronenberg-a7231826.html|articlename=Viggo Mortensen interview: 'I didn't throw Peter Jackson under the bus'|author=Jacob Stolworthy|dated=23 January 2017|website=The Independent}}</ref> However, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] later revealed that since that call, they "could think of no way of doing it".<ref name=":0" /> Having no further contact, and knowing that "[[Orlando Bloom]] and [[Cate Blanchett]] shot something,"<ref name=":44">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://viggo-works.com/?fromday=1&frommonth=6&fromyear=2006&today=25&tomonth=2&toyear=2026&order=date&page=243&selectedcat=262&ascdesc=DESC&filter=Go&m=on|articlename=Viggo Mortenson Dangerous Method Interview|author=Anonymous|dated=25 November 2011|website=Movies.com}}</ref>[[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] concluded in November 2011 that "[[Aragorn]] is half [[Elves|elf]] [sic] and also lives a couple hundred years or more and he could be in a bridge, but I have to assume it isn't going to happen".<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reuters.com/article/lifestyle/rings-actor-mortensen-unlikely-to-repeat-role-idUSTRE7AM2U9/|articlename="Rings" actor Mortensen unlikely to repeat role|author=Kurt Orzeck|dated=24 November 2011|website=Reuters}}</ref> Although he still has misgivings - "It would make sense if Aragorn was part of the story and he's not"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.scotsman.com/arts-and-culture/interview-viggo-mortensen-is-lord-of-all-things-1573949|articlename=Interview: Viggo Mortensen is lord of all things|author=Chitra Ramaswamy|dated=25 May 2013|website=The Scotsman}}</ref> - he said he would still be open to playing [[Aragorn]] "if it seemed sensible to do so".<ref name=":1" />

===After ''The Hobbit''===

Conversations about making the "bridge film" as a third instalment<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.firstshowing.net/2009/guillermo-del-toro-updates-on-the-hobbit/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro Briefly Talks More About The Hobbit Split|author=Alex Billington|dated=5 June 2009|website=First Showing}}</ref> continued well into 2010:<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://geeksofdoom.com/2009/08/19/bridge-between-the-hobbit-lord-of-the-rings-still-to-be-built-peter-jackson-to-direct-third-movie|articlename=[Updated] Bridge Between ‘The Hobbit’ & ‘Lord Of The Rings’ Still To Be Built? Peter Jackson To Direct Third Movie?|author="The Movie God"|dated=19 August 2009|website=Geeks of Doom}}</ref> In 2012, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had revealed that "a third movie has always been in discussion."<ref>Michael Pellerin, "The Clouds Burst", Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies'' (New Line Cinema: 2015).</ref> These conversations resumed - now with the film situated as a fourth movie - as [[The Hobbit (film series)|''The Hobbit'']] was winding down in 2013. Says [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]]: "There’s enough story there to make a bridge movie, you know, there’s 60 years between ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'' and a lot of things happened."<ref name=":9">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.heyuguys.com/interview-peter-jackson-the-hobbit-the-desolation-of-smaug/|articlename=The HeyUGuys Interview: The Hobbit director Peter Jackson all but rules out a return to Middle Earth|author=Stefan Pape|dated=13 December 2013|website=HeyUGuys}}</ref> In the director's commentary to ''[[The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies|The Battle of the Five Armies]]'' in 2015, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] remained open to the idea of making more films, and mused about what Jackson jokingly calls "A fictitious film 3.5" which [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] goes on to call "The Hunt for Gollum".<ref name=":0">Peter Jackson, Philippa Boyens, "Director's Commentary," Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies'' (New Line Cinema: 2015).</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] said it could include "a few other things that go on which are really interesting" like [[Saruman]]'s search for the [[The One Ring|Ring]]. She elaborates:<blockquote>''[[Aragorn]] really is one who tracks Gollum and ends up...and finds him eventually in the [[Dead Marshes]], and he's taken [[Woodland Realm|to the Elves]]. And he's taken to the Elves, and because of the kindness of the Elves - and [[Legolas]] is one of his keepers... in [[Mirkwood]], and through their kindness he actually manages to escape. Or has he escaped? Or was he let loose?''<ref name=":0" /></blockquote>[[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had kept the possibility of returning to [[Middle-earth]] open<ref name=":0" /> but [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] revealed that they "had zero expectations of going back to this."<ref name=":7">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2024/05/the-lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-peter-jackson-andy-serkis-philippa-boyens-explain-23-years-after-cannes-saved-original-trilogy-1235917510/|articlename=Peter Jackson, Andy Serkis & Philippa Boyens Explain Why They’re Returning To Middle-Earth For ‘The Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum’ 23 Years After Cannes Saved The Billion-Dollar Franchise|author=Mike Fleming Junior|dated=15 May 2024|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://uk.movies.yahoo.com/don-t-expect--the-hobbit-3--to-lead-directly-into--the-lord-of-the-rings-140402150.html|articlename=The Hobbit 3 won't lead into The Lord of the Rings|author=Tom Butler|dated=11 December 2013|website=Yahoo Entertainment UK}}</ref> Their ultimate decision to return to this premise may have been stirred, in part, by other projects: first, Jackson had seen the in-development video game ''[[Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor|Shadow of Mordor]],'' on which [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]] and others from Jackson's crew had worked, and which had nestled itself into the gap between ''[[The Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]].''<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.ign.com/articles/2014/02/20/why-lord-of-the-rings-fans-should-be-excited-for-shadow-of-mordor|articlename=Why Lord of the Rings Fans Should Be Excited for Shadow of Mordor|author=Luke Karmali|dated=20 February 2014|website=IGN}}</ref>

Shortly afterwards, when the [[Tolkien Estate]] (still nominally under [[Christopher Tolkien]]) shopped the television rights, the idea of doing a show about young [[Aragorn]] was pitched, first by Netflix, and then - at the suggestion of the Russo brothers<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-features/the-rings-of-power-showrunners-interview-season-2-1235233124/|articlename=‘The Rings of Power’ Showrunners Break Silence on Backlash, Sauron and Season 2|author=James Hibberd|dated=5 October 2022|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> - by [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon Prime Video]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=http://newboards.theonering.net/forum/gforum/perl/gforum.cgi?post=946980;sb=post_time;so=DESC;forum_view=forum_view_collapsed;guest=206510448#947231|articlename=If you will indulge me in a story|author="Uncle Iorlas"|dated=21 July 2018|website=The One Ring.net Message Boards}}</ref> Upon hearing this, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]]' mind immediately went to the period of the hunt: "If you're telling the [story of] him hunting [[Gollum]], you're getting closer to [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]]."<ref name=":21">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.fandom.com/articles/peter-jackson-lord-of-the-rings-series|articlename=Peter Jackson’s Tips For Casting Aragorn in Lord of the Rings TV Show|author=Kim Taylor-Foster|dated=4 December 2018|website=Fandom.com}}</ref> She and Jackson had also expressed interest in the potential of [[Aragorn]]'s younger days and life in [[Rivendell]]: "He's probably going to have to start young,"<ref name=":21" /> remarked Boyens, concluding that "A lot of the early [[Aragorn]] story hasn't been told."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.stuff.co.nz/entertainment/film/108970711/philippa-boyens-on-mortal-engines-hobbits-and-going-solo|articlename=Philippa Boyens on Mortal Engines, Hobbits and going solo|author=Philip Matthews|dated=16 December 2018|website=Stuff.nz}}</ref> [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortesen]] also got wind of the rumours and said he's open to reprising his role.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/viggo-mortensen-interview-falling-lord-of-the-rings/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen on Falling, Directing, and LOTR TV Show Interest|author=Christina Radish|dated=14 February 2021|website=Collider}}</ref>

Toby Emmerich and Carolyn Blackwood from [[New Line Cinema]] were brought into the fold in the hopes of cooperating on the show. In early 2018 lawyer Peter Nelson set-up "dialogue between [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon]]" to participate as executive producer.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/how-lord-rings-tv-series-landed-at-amazon-not-netflix-1099213/|articlename=Inside Amazon’s $250M ‘Lord of the Rings’ Deal: “It’s Very Much a Creature of the Times”|author=Tatiana Siegel|dated=5 April 2018|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20210308114202/https://www.herr-der-ringe-film.de/v3/de/news/tolkienfilme/news_121920.php|articlename=Exklusiv: Zu den Kulissen der HERR DER RINGE Serie, Her Der Ringe Film (archived).|author=Cirdan|dated=20 June 2018|website=Herr der Ringe.de}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.stuff.co.nz/entertainment/celebrities/108520139/sir-peter-jackson-hasnt-given-up-hope-of-making-the-dam-busters|articlename=Sir Peter Jackson hasn't given up hope of making The Dam Busters|author=James Croot|dated=12 November 2018|website=NZStuff}}</ref> Preoccupied with ''Mortal Engines'' and ''They Shall Not Grow Old'', [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] proposed in June 2018 to review the scripts and put "the creative team together."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://de.ign.com/tv/129313/interview/peter-jackson-ist-fur-das-kreative-team-hinter-der-herr-der-ringe-serie-verantwortlich|articlename=Peter Jackson ist für das kreative Team hinter der Herr der Ringe-Serie verantwortlich|author=Valentin Aschenbrenner|dated=5 June 2018|website=IGN.de}}</ref> In July, Amazon landed on [[John D. Payne]] and [[Patrick McKay]] as showrunners, and before any work could be done, a regime change in [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon Prime Video]]<ref name=":19">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/peter-jackson-amazon-lord-of-the-rings-tv-series-1235193692/|articlename=Peter Jackson Says Amazon’s ‘Lord of the Rings’ TV Series Ghosted Him|author=James Hibberd|dated=5 August 2022|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> in early 2019 resulted in [[New Line Cinema]] being demoted to a "minority licensee stakeholder."<ref name=":20">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/lord-of-the-rings-amazon-vs-warner-bros-1235337625/|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings’: Amazon, Warner Bros. Ready for Tolkien Battle|author=James Hibberd|dated=28 February 2023|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> Although the showrunners had asked to meet [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]],<ref name=":19" /> COVID prevented this from taking place.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2022/02/10-burning-questions-about-amazons-the-rings-of-power?srsltid=AfmBOopmlhLKVkCtSqkuvTTAcUtyQUICWXopTWLQq_1tu4aEf1ICrDLp|articlename=10 Burning Questions About Amazon’s The Rings of Power|author=Joanna Robinson|dated=14 February 2022|website=Vanity Fair}}</ref> While the show used a substantial number of his crew, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] were reportedly "very frustrated that so many believed they were involved with [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon]]’s show."<ref name=":20" /> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had avoided watching the show to prevent "cross-contamination."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.slashfilm.com/1693866/why-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy-screenwriter-wont-watch-the-rings-of-power/|articlename=Why One Lord Of The Rings Trilogy Screenwriter Won't Watch The Rings Of Power|author=Jaron Pak|dated=21 October 2024|website=Slash Film}}</ref> Since then, the show had left [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s home country of [[New Zealand]].

Already in 2019, the show's development had galvanized Emmerich and Blackwood to pursue an animated film with [[Middle-earth Enterprises]] (who were not involved in the show) and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]. The bridge film might have been the "CG-animated" story that [[New Line Cinema|New Line]] "had been exploring with Sir [[Peter Jackson]]" but it failed to materialize and they decided to pursue ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim]]''<ref>Daniel Falconer, ''The Art of The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim'' (Wiliam Murrow: London, 2025), pp. 9-10.</ref>. Later on, Emmerich and Blackwood were replaced by Michael de Luca and Pam Abdy, who were "striving to keep [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon]] from blurring the lines too much between" the show and the films.<ref name=":20" /> Other projects like [[Tales of the Shire: A "The Lord of the Rings" Game|''Tales of the Shire'']], the remastering of the six films to Ultra High Definition and renovations of [[Hobbiton]] were begun shortly afterwards, as well.

After this long gestation period, ''The Hunt for Gollum'' entered development once again in 2022. [[Andy Serkis]] was attached as director in October 2023 and story meetings occurred as early as May 2024, along with early availability calls to actors like [[Ian McKellen]] and [[Viggo Mortensen]] between that time and early September. By that point, the writing of the treatment was underway, followed by the first draft in January-May. After some crew hiring in August, pre-production started in early September 2025 ahead of shooting in May 2026.

==Development==
In 2022 the new administration of [[Middle-earth Enterprises]] expressed a desire to make more films, including ones "based on iconic characters, such as [[Gandalf]], [[Aragorn]], [[Gollum]], [[Galadriel]], [[Éowyn|Eowyn]] and other characters."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/lord-of-the-rings-rights-embracer-1235201442/|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings,’ ‘The Hobbit’ Movie, Games and Other Rights Holder Sold to Swedish Gaming Company Embracer|author=Georg Szalai|dated=18 August 2022|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]], [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] kept updated throughout the negotiations to extend [[New Line Cinema]]'s lease on the rights.<ref name=":4" />

Having "really enjoyed working with [[Kenji Kamiyama]], who directed ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|War of the Rohirrim]]''," [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] signed on to produce two new films: [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] denied<ref name=":22" /> rumours that this involved splitting the [[Gollum]] story,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2024/05/lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-cast-plot-everything-we-know-1235919922/|articlename=‘The Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum’: Everything We Know So Far|author=Dessi Gomez|dated=16 May 2024|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://filmstories.co.uk/news/the-lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-its-two-films-says-ian-mckellen/|articlename=The Lord Of The Rings: Hunt For Gollum {{!}} “It’s two films” says Ian McKellen|author=Ryan Lambie|dated=11 September 2024|website=Film Stories}}</ref> and at various times her and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] expressed interest in subjects varying from the [[Battle of Dale|War in the North]], Young [[Aragorn]], or certain vignettes from [[Rohan]] or [[Gondor]]'s history, which are all possible for the second film.<ref name=":23">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1i97ctm/the_next_film_after_the_hunt_for_gollum/|articlename=The next film after The Hunt for Gollum: Everything we know so far|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=25 January 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> These are probably ''not'' the other two scripts [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had been working on, however.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.indiewire.com/news/general-news/peter-jackson-not-retired-working-on-three-scripts-1235138316/|articlename=Peter Jackson Is Working on Three Screenplays: ‘I’m Certainly Not Retired’|author=By Rance Collins|dated=13 July 2025|website=IndieWire}}</ref>

Signing on the films was done with the intention to jump-start a new slate of ''Lord of the Rings'' prequels for [[New Line Cinema]],<ref name=":18" /><ref name=":24" /> with [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also expressing interest in making an "epic trilogy", probably about the [[Angmar conflict|Angmar War]].<ref name=":23" /> However, having developed the [[Gollum]] premise for so long, they decided to start with it. Asked about unrealized projects in 2024, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] observed that "there's a lot of that in ''The Hunt for Gollum.''"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9LdzKS584wA&t=614s|articlename=Lord of the Rings: War of the Rohirrim Interviews! Peter Jackson Role Explained|author=Brandon Davis|dated=29 October 2024|website=YouTube}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis]], who played [[Gollum]], had directed second unit on ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King|The Return of the King]]'' and ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]<ref name=":7" />'' and had since become a director in his own right, as well as narrating audiobooks of Tolkien's novels. [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] approached [[Andy Serkis|Andy]] around October 2023.<ref name=":24">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ssUmmuU-Bmk&t=76s|articlename=Andy Serkis Talks Motion Capture, Gollum, and Directing {{!}} Superhero Comic Con San Antonio 2024 Q&A|author=Freeman Coliseum|dated=24 June 2024|website=YouTube}}</ref> While developing the story, they already made availability checks to key cast and crew members.

===Writing===
Story meetings have happened at least as early as May 2024<ref name=":7" /> and by July they were about to start writing,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/comconnireland/status/1835962321211904490|articlename=Andy Serkis took to the stage at Comic Con Northern Ireland to talk all things Lord of the Rings and more!|author=@comconnireland|dated=16 September 2024|website=Twitter}}</ref> with [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] spotted at the [[Hobbiton]] set in November with writers [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] and Arty Papageorgiou, producers [[Zane Weiner]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/05/lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-release-date-1236390022/|articlename=‘Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum’ Sets Pre-Christmas 2027 Release|author=Anthony D'Alessandro|dated=8 May 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> and Carlos Ramirez Laloli.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.elfenomeno.com/info/ver/23481/comienza-el-rodaje-de-el-senor-de-los-anillos-la-caza-de-gollum-en-hobbiton|articlename=¿Comienza el rodaje de El Señor de los Anillos: La Caza de Gollum en Hobbiton?|author=Elfenomeno|dated=6 November 2024|website=Elfenomeno.com}}</ref> By December they had been in the process of writing the story treatment.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/lord-of-the-rings-war-of-the-rohirrim-arty-papageorgiou-phoebe-gittins/|articlename="Who Better for a Gollum Film Than Gollum Himself?": 'War of the Rohirrim' Writers on Working with Andy Serkis in 'The Hunt for Gollum'|author=Therese Lacson|dated=16 December 2024|website=Collider}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] later estimated they would finish writing by the middle of the year - executive Pamela Abdy since put the completion of the script at May<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/04/warner-bros-mike-de-luca-pam-abdy-courage-in-face-of-brutal-press-coverage-1236366618/|articlename=Warner Bros’ Mike De Luca & Pam Abdy: Playing Long Game, Mixing IP Like ‘Bodyguard’ Revamp & Bold Originals & Animation Despite Brutal Press|author=Mike Fleming Junior|dated=11 April 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> - and begin "scouting locations and building [sets]" with shooting due to begin towards the beginning of 2026.<ref name=":5">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.1news.co.nz/2024/12/15/exclusive-andy-serkis-philippa-boyens-on-the-hunt-for-gollum/|articlename=Exclusive: Andy Serkis, Philippa Boyens on new Lord of the Rings film|author=Abbey Wakefield|dated=15 December 2024|website=1News}}</ref> As a result, the release date for the film was ultimately delayed from 2026 to 17 December 2027.<ref name="TheDirect2027Release">{{webcite|author=Klein Felt|articleurl=https://thedirect.com/article/hunt-for-gollum-movie-lord-of-the-rings-release-official|articlename=Lord of the Rings: Hunt for Gollum Movie Gets Release Window from Andy Serkis|dated=27 Feb 2025|website=[https://thedirect.com The Direct]|accessed=27 Feb 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://variety.com/2025/film/news/lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-release-date-december-2027-1236390820/|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum’ Sets December 2027 Release Date; Warner Bros. Also Dates New ‘Evil Dead’ and M. Night Shyamalan Movies for 2026|author=Zack Sharf|dated=8 May 2025|website=Variety}}</ref>

A draft of the screenplay had been sent to de Luca and Abdy in May, probably prior to the investor meeting on the 8th, when [[Warner Bros.|Warner]]'s CEO David Zaslav announced the official release date.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://voicefilm.com/david-zaslav-announces-that-the-release-date-for-the-next-lord-of-the-rings-movie-will-be-revealed-today/|articlename=David Zaslav Announces That the Release Date for the Next ‘Lord of the Rings’ Movie Will Be Revealed Today|author=Mark|dated=8 May 2025|website=Voice Film}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.comicbasics.com/warner-ceo-david-zaslav-says-they-will-focus-more-on-their-main-ips-like-harry-potter-and-dc-in-the-future-those-belong-to-us-and-theyll-only-belong-to-us-forever/|articlename=Warner CEO David Zaslav Says They Will Focus More on Their Main IPs Like ‘Harry Potter’ and DC in the Future: “Those belong to us, and they’ll only belong to us forever.”|author=Arthur S. Poe|dated=8 May 2025|website=Comic Basics}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had since revealed that the film is due to start pre production in August<ref name=":33">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1krwz8d/andy_serkis_the_lord_of_the_rings_the_hunt_for/|articlename=Andy Serkis Panel at Fan Expo Philadelphia 2025|author=FandomWire News|dated=19 May 2025}}</ref> - when the film started hiring crew - then ammended to "late August to early September"<ref name=":18" />, with [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] ultimately arriving in [[Wellington]] circa 8 September to begin work on the film.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://metro.co.uk/2025/09/03/andy-serkis-admits-cant-escape-gollum-ahead-lord-rings-return-24066270/amp/|articlename=Andy Serkis admits he ‘can’t escape Gollum’ ahead of Lord of the Rings return|author=Sabrina Barr|dated=3 September 2025|website=Metro UK}}</ref> Serkis had left New Zealand during the holiday season, attending the premiere of "28 Years Later: The Bone Temple" before flying back to New Zealand: en rote he landed in Los Angeles.<ref name=":41">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.tmz.com/2026/01/20/andy-serkis-wants-original-lord-of-the-rings-cast-in-new-film/|articlename=LOTR' Star Andy Serkis: OG Cast Is Precious, Love 'Em For New Flick|author=Anonymous|dated=20 January 20 2026|website=TMZ}}</ref>

==Pre production==
[[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had further said preproduction will last for six months,<ref name=":27">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.comingsoon.it/cinema/news/in-un-mondo-alla-deriva-gollum-ci-salvera-la-nostra-intervista-ad-andy/n203564/|articlename=In un mondo alla deriva Gollum ci salverà: la nostra intervista ad Andy Serkis|author=Carola Proto|dated=25 June 2025|website=Coming Soon.it}}</ref> with [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] later confirming it will start filming in May<ref name=":12">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1msw9fp/the_lord_of_the_rings_the_hunt_for_gollum_starts/|articlename=The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum starts shooting in May, says Sir Ian McKellen. "I'll tell you two secrets about the casting..."|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=17 August 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> for an extended shooting period:<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-filming-update-andy-serkis/|articlename=Director Andy Serkis Offers Huge Filming Update For 'The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum' [Exclusive]|author=Chris McPherson and Steven Weintraub|dated=10 June 2025|website=Collider}}</ref> This puts the beginning of filming in [[New Zealand]] winter and, deducting the holidays, six months after [[Andy Serkis|Andy]]'s arrival. Location scouting may have taken place at Hawke's Bay as early as June<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1lis26w/a_location_scout_for_the_lord_of_the_rings_the/|articlename=A location scout for The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum seems to be snooping around Hawke's Bay, New Zealand|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=23 June 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> and later at the Waikato.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.waikatotimes.co.nz/nz-news/360837801/aliens-warriors-heroes-princesses-and-gollum-big-productions-filmed-and-possibly-coming-waikato|articlename=Aliens, warriors, heroes, princesses ... and Gollum: The big productions filmed in (and possibly coming to) the Waikato|author=Mike Mather|dated=1 October 2025|website=Waikato Times}}</ref> They had also watched the films sometime prior to November.<ref>Latino USA TV, "How Movie Monsters Are Really Made!", YouTube, 26 November 2025.</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] also spoke appreciatively of [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s penchant for behind the scenes extras,.<ref name=":33" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/gu1jj7/one_zoom_to_rule_them_all_reunited_apart_lord_of/|articlename=One Zoom to Rule Them All {{!}} Reunited Apart LORD OF THE RINGS Edition|author=Josh Gad|dated=31 May 2021|website=}}</ref> and [[Peter Jackson|Peter]] himself had since confirmed they will do "little blogs." In October, [[Andy Serkis|Andy]] revealed that they're developing prosthetics.<ref name=":34">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1og2b4p/andy_serkis_says_all_the_art_department_from_lord/|articlename=Andy Serkis says "all the art department" from Lord of the Rings are "excited to come back." They started location scouting and camera tests.|author=u/Lord_Varys92|dated=25 October 2024|website=Reddit}}</ref>

Since [[Elijah Wood]], slated to appear in the film, is on tour through to early September,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://parade.com/news/lord-of-the-rings-hobbits-25-years-later-reunion-tour|articlename=The Hobbits Are Back Together — and Their Big News Has Fans Cheering|author=Whitney Danhauer|dated=25 October 2025|website=Parade}}</ref> his scenes might be scheduled for [[New Zealand]] summer, which could suggest shooting ''in situ'' in [[Hobbiton]], presumably depicting [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] dallying outside [[Bag End]] while [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]] and [[Gandalf]] argue within, as depicted in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]''. [[Ian McKellen]] is also hoping to join the production in [[New Zealand as Middle-earth|New Zealand]] during July.<ref>The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, "There's Nothing I Enjoy More Than Acting In The Theater" - Ian McKellen EXTENDED INTERVIEW," ''YouTub''e, 5 February 2026.</ref>

===Crew===
The film, said to be "one of the most expensive feature films to be shot in [[New Zealand]]"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/new-lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-film-will-be-shot-in-nz-set-for-2027-release/3BDNB3QFKJDAVGB4ODOTQ63YLY/|articlename=New Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum film will be shot in NZ, set for 2027 release|author=Tom Rose|dated=18 June 2025|website=New Zealand Herald}}</ref> is expected to draft alums of the ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|Lord of the Rings]]'', ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|War of the Rohirrim]]'' (many of whom will have also worked on ''[[The Rings of Power]]'' Season One and other projects) working in the [[Wellington]] and greater New Zealand screen sector.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thepost.co.nz/nz-news/350274670/film-heavyweights-alight-over-lotr-comeback|articlename=Film heavyweights ‘alight’ over LOTR comeback|author=Rachel Thomas|dated=10 May 2024|website=The New Zealand Post}}</ref><ref name=":5" /> Crewing began in early August, with Wood since confirming the involvement of production designer [[Dan Hennah]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IX5NhkyQ710|articlename=Elijah Wood en Monterrey/ conferencia de la DesertCon|author=Asi SoyTv|dated=6 October 2025|website=YouTube}}</ref> and set decorator Ra Vincent might also be involved.<ref name=":34" /> Although [[Janet Brennan Croft|Janet Brennan-Croft]] acted as [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] consultant on previous films, Beppe Pezzini will fill this role for this film.<ref>Educational Media Services | University of Oxford, "Beppe Pezzini on Classics and Fantasy | Fantasy Summer School ‪@facultyofenglishoxford‬," ''YouTube'', 23 September 2025.</ref>

IMDb credits Bob Buck as ''a'' costume designer for the film: it remains to be seen if Ngila Dickson, having just wrapped ''Predator: Badlands'' with [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]], might return. Kate Hawley, who was attached to del Toro's version of the film, is unlikely to take part due to work on "Bad Bridgets."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/10/daisy-edgar-jones-emilia-jones-bad-bridgets-luckychap-1236604481/|articlename=Daisy Edgar-Jones And Emilia Jones To Star In ‘Bad Bridgets’ From LuckyChap|author=Justin Kroll|dated=31 October 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> Liz Mullane and Rachel Bullock head the New Zealand casting sweep. Both [[Wētā FX|WetaFX]] and [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]] are confirmed for the project,<ref name=":8">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt32328070/companycredits/?ref_=tt_dt_cmpy|articlename=The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum (2027)|author=Anonymous|website=IMDb}}</ref> as are [[Gino Acevedo]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.instagram.com/p/DRy30vUkme7/|articlename="Oh no!"|author=Ginoacevedofx|dated=3 December 2025|website=Instagram}}</ref> [[John Howe]] and [[Alan Lee]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://ggba.swiss/en/the-lord-of-the-rings-nature-and-switzerlands-hidden-history-a-conversation-with-john-howe/|articlename=The Lord Of The Rings, Nature and Switzerland’s Hidden History (A Conversation with John Howe)|author=Woody Wade|dated=10 December 2025|website=Greater Geneva Bern Area}}</ref> In April - by which point a composer was already said to be attached to the project - [[Howard Shore]] said he was interested to "see how that all works out."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.classical-music.com/articles/howard-shore|articlename=Howard Shore: the film composer behind Hannibal Lecter and Bilbo Baggins|author=Michael Beek|dated=16 April 2025|website=Classical Music.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://en.softonic.com/articles/the-composer-of-the-soundtrack-for-the-lord-of-the-rings-made-a-cameo-in-the-movies-and-no-one-noticed#google_vignette|articlename=The composer of the soundtrack for The Lord of the Rings made a cameo in the movies and no one noticed|author=Agencias|dated=26 December 2025|website=Softonic}}</ref>

As early as October, [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] suggested that they're "doing camera tests."<ref name=":34" /> This is said to include miniature photography, with Alex Funke said to participate, even if only in an advisory position. On the live action side, although Robert Richardson had been rumoured as camerman, he will be preoccupied with Antoine Fuqua's Hannibal epic.<ref name=":34" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.worldofreel.com/blog/2025/7/23/michael-part-1-delayed-to-april-2026|articlename=‘Michael’ Delayed to April 2026|author=Jordan Ruimy|dated=23 July 2025|website=World of Reel}}</ref> While the film was in the story conference stage in July 2024, Richardson said he had "a number" of projects "on the constantly-shifting horizon of the film industry."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.filmlightcolourawards.com/colour-awards-2024/jury-colour-awards-2024/robert-richardson-cinematographer-asc-ack/|articlename=Robert Richardson, Cinematographer, ASC, ACK|author=Anonymous|dated=18 July 2024|website=Film Light Colour Awards}}</ref>

The film is a co-production of [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s [[WingNut Films|WingNut films]] and [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]]' ''Imaginarium''. [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] will executive produce with his ''Imaginarium'' partner John Cavendish and Jackson's agent [[Ken Kamins]].<ref name="Gollum">{{webcite|author=Jennifer Maas|articleurl=https://variety.com/2024/film/news/lord-of-the-rings-movie-2026-release-warner-bros-1235997102/|articlename=Warner Bros. to Release New ‘Lord of the Rings’ Movie ‘The Hunt for Gollum’ in 2026, Peter Jackson to Produce and Andy Serkis to Direct|dated=9 May 2024|website=[https://variety.com/ Variety]|accessed=8 June 2024}}</ref> IMDb also credits studio chiefs Michael de Luca (who helped produce [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'']]), Pam Abdy and David Zaslav as executive producers<ref name=":8" /> and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] mentioned [[Warner Bros.|Warners]]' business consultant Alan Horn (who had produced ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]])'' as a collaborator, but these credits have yet to become official.<ref name=":7" />

===Cast===
With [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] due to star as [[Gollum]], approaches had been made to [[Ian McKellen|Sir Ian McKellen]]<ref name=":2">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2024/09/ian-mckellen-return-gandalf-new-the-lord-of-the-rings-films-1236075547/|articlename=Ian McKellen Reveals He’s Been Approached To Reprise His Role As Gandalf In Andy Serkis’ New ‘The Lord Of The Rings’ Films|author=Jake Kanter|dated=2 September 2024|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> and [[Viggo Mortensen]] to reprise [[Gandalf]] and [[Aragorn]], respectively. [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] said he's in talks to reprise "a little bit" of [[Gandalf]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.mirror.co.uk/3am/celebrity-news/sir-ian-mckellan-i-thought-36196617|articlename=EXCLUSIVE: Sir Ian McKellan: 'I thought I was a goner, but I'm coming back as Gandalf'|author=Marc Baker and Jackie Annett|dated=5 November 2025|website=The Mirror}}</ref> in [[New Zealand]].<ref name=":42">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thetimes.com/culture/tv-radio/article/ian-mckellen-an-ark-lowry-lord-of-the-rings-f9wc9nmdq|articlename=Ian McKellen at 86: ‘I’ve had to accept that I’m not immortal’|author=Jonathan Dean|dated=14 February 2026|website=The Times}}</ref> As of December, the contracts with [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] and [[Elijah Wood|Wood]] hadn't been finalized,<ref name=":40" /> but [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] expressed a desire to return to [[New Zealand]] for filming. [[Liv Tyler]], [[Evangeline Lilly]] and, especially, [[Orlando Bloom]] have also expressed interest in reprising their parts,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.nme.com/news/film/the-lord-of-the-rings-cast-say-they-would-jump-to-return-for-new-spin-off-movies-3853893|articlename=‘The Lord Of The Rings’ cast say they would “jump” to return for new spin-off movies|author=Damian Jones|dated=11 April 2025|website=NME}}</ref> while [[Dominic Monaghan]] expressed a desire to visit the set.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://nypost.com/2025/11/06/entertainment/dominic-monaghan-reveals-plans-for-next-lord-of-the-rings-movie/|articlename=Dominic Monaghan reveals big plans for next ‘Lord of the Rings’ movie — including possible return as Merry
By|author=Eric Todisco|dated=6 November 2025|website=New York Post}}</ref> [[Evangeline Lilly|Lilly]] had proceeded to do so, but indicated that she will have no further involvement with the project. [[Orcs]] are set to appear in the film, with [[Shane Rangi]] and [[Lawrence Makoare]] having reportedly been contacted.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/thelegacyofnerd/status/1979621220246344016|articlename=BREAKING: ‘The Hunt For Gollum’ Begins Filming in May 2026|author=@thelegacyofnerd|dated=8 October 2025|website=Twitter}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]]' comments about seeing the interiors of [[Barad-dûr|Barad Dur]] might suggest the involvement of [[Benedict Cumberbatch]].<ref name=":36">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lYYSsook-4Y|articlename=Philippa Boyens ('ESDLA: LA GUERRA DE LOS ROHIRRIM'): "Queríamos que se sintiera como algo nuevo"|author=eCartelera|dated=10 December 2024}}</ref>

[[Andy Serkis|Serkis]], [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had all spoke to [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]],<ref name=":3">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://theplaylist.net/the-war-of-the-rohirrim-philippa-boyens-on-the-new-anime-the-hunt-for-gollum-the-future-of-the-lord-of-the-rings-20241223/|articlename=‘The War Of The Rohirrim’: Philippa Boyens On The New Anime, ‘The Hunt For Gollum’ & The Future Of ‘The Lord of the Rings’|author=Rodrigo Perez|dated=23 December 2024|website=The Playlist}}</ref> who had previously said he'd be "open to it" if it makes sense for "the age I am now"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.gq-magazine.co.uk/article/viggo-mortensen-interview-2024|articlename=Viggo Mortensen re-used Aragorn's sword in new movie The Dead Don't Hurt “Because it's really good”|author=Rafael Motamayor|dated=28 May 2024|website=GQ}}</ref> but after [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] pitched it to him as "Digital make-up" they agreed he'd wait to read the script: With the approach to [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] happening sometime between June<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thetimes.com/culture/film/article/ian-mckellen-if-this-is-my-last-job-id-better-get-it-right-hadnt-i-n3t38g6tb|articlename=Ian McKellen: ‘When a script arrives, I think this might be my last job’|author=Dominic Maxwell|dated=8 June 2024|website=The Times of London}}</ref> and September,<ref name=":2" /> the approach to [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] may have taken place in mid-June, just prior to an interview in which [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] said "The script is the most important thing to me", seemingly no longer harping on the age quota.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/viggo-mortensen-lord-of-the-rings-script-feminism-1235935628/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen on Respecting Audiences, How Scripts Are Key “Unless I’m Broke,” New ‘LOTR’ Films|author=Georg Szalai|dated=30 June 2024|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] said they need to "drag" him.<ref name=":36" /> Mortensen also said he'd be interested in appearing in later film projects if they were "true to Tolkien."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.the-independent.com/arts-entertainment/films/news/viggo-mortensen-movies-interview-b2561237.html|articlename=Go to Bat with Viggo Mortensen: My films that deserve more love|author=Jacob Stolworthy|dated=7 June 2024|website=The Independent}}</ref>

While in London for ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]]'' premiere, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also "had lunch with an [[Elves|Elf]] lord" who "would fall into that story."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.instagram.com/nerdoftherings/reel/DDgKw47uxkJ/|articlename="Philippa Boyens teases an “elf lord” returning for Hunt for Gollum! "|author=Matt Graf|dated=12 December 2024|website=Instagram}}</ref> Although this could refer to [[Orlando Bloom|Bloom]] or even [[Marton Csokas]], [[Lee Pace]] is the most likely as he was shooting ''The Running Man'' in London at the time.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://people.com/glen-powell-films-running-man-reboot-37-years-after-arnold-schwarzenegger-movie-8745529|articlename=Glen Powell Films Running Man Remake in London 37 Years After Original Arnold Schwarzenegger Movie|author=Jen Juneau|dated=14 November 2024|website=People}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had since divulged that they expect "some of the cast who were originally in" ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'', as well as "some incredible new talent."<ref name=":28">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.jedinews.com/events/articles/indiana-comic-con-andy-serkis-full-panel/|articlename=Indiana Comic Con: Andy Serkis Full Panel|author=James Burns|dated=11 April 2025,|website=Jedi News}}</ref> [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] had since confirmed that [[Gandalf]] and [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]], surely to be played by himself and [[Elijah Wood|Wood]], are scheduled to reappear in the piece.<ref name=":12" />

Casting seems to have started in November,<ref name=":40">Steve Schofield ''et al'', "25 Years of Fellowship", ''Empire'' (March 2026), pp. 46-70.</ref> with young boys auditioning for the boy [[Gollum|Smeagol]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/KnightGambit/status/2011815291198849220|articlename=Small Tidbit.....|author=Caleb Williams|dated=16 January 2026|website=Twitter}}</ref> and two of his fellow [[Stoors|Stoor]] riverfolk - a young girl and a young adult boy - in what looks like a setup for [[Gollum|Smeagol]]'s preoccupation with a birtday present. Andy had since confirmed Aragorn will be "recast" but it's unclear exactly what this means. Actors in their early thirties auditioned for a young "[[Aragorn|Strider]]",<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://knightedgemedia.com/2026/01/the-hunt-for-gollum-casting-call-teases-young-strider-and-his-fellow-dunedain-rangers/#google_vignette|articlename=‘The Hunt for Gollum’ Casting Call Teases Young Strider and His Fellow Dúnedain Rangers|author=Caleb Williams|dated=16 January 2026|website=Knight Edge Media}}</ref> with 29-year old Leo Woodall reportedly tipped for the role.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://knightedgemedia.com/2026/03/rumor-leo-woodall-cast-as-strider-in-lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum/#google_vignette|articlename=RUMOR: Leo Woodall Cast as Strider in ‘Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum’|author=Caleb Williams|dated=7 March 2026|website=Knight Edge Media}}</ref> While there had been reports that the studio is not hoping to get Viggo<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/ViewerAnon/status/1998489358849159181?s=20|articlename=I can confirm this|author=ViewerAnon|dated=9 December 2025|website=Twitter}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had spoken about potentially having to "hand off"<ref name=":3" /> from [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]], and rumours had pointed to the inexpediency of the deaging.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://3dvf.com/en/a-cult-actor-from-the-lord-of-the-rings-on-the-departure-the-question-arises-for-the-prequel-dedicated-to-gollum/#google_vignette|articlename=A Cult Actor from The Lord of the Rings on the Departure? The Question Arises for the Prequel Dedicated to Gollum|author=Quentin Couprie|dated=13 December 2025|accessed=3DVF}}</ref> The age differential - Mortensen was 42 while shooting ''Lord of the Rings'' - may well suggest a cameo to either an old [[Aragorn|Elessar]] and/or the "mature" [[Aragorn]] of the [[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|''Fellowship of the Ring'']] era.''<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://medium.com/p/dcf21faf019e|articlename=The Hunt for Gollum and the Aragorn problem|author=Chen Geller|website=Medium}}</ref>'' [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had earlier spoke of meeting [[Aragorn]] when he was "quite young" in ''[[The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies|The Battle of the Five Armies]],'' but not so young that it didn't seem plausible to her to have [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] play him circa 2011''.<ref name=":39" />'' The audition scene, although not necessarily representative of the film, also implies the presence of the other [[Rangers of the North|Rangers]], perhaps including [[Halbarad]]. A younger Strider could also feature in a "Young Aragorn" picture.

Serkis had since reaffirrmed that he would "love the old cast" back.<ref name=":41" /> Other roles auditioned for include women in their thirties and fifities: the latter is said to be Smeagol's grandmother, now confirmed as a "lead" role, with Kate Winslet relocating to New Zealand for five months. The thirties' part<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://knightedgemedia.com/2026/03/the-hunt-for-gollum-lead-female-characters-casting-are-underway-exclusive/#google_vignette|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum’ Lead Female Characters Casting Are Underway (EXCLUSIVE)|author=Caleb Williams|dated=5 March 2026|website=Knight Edge Media}}</ref> is reportedly circled by Anya Taylor-Joy. Some presume this to be [[Arwen]], but if so the quota is older than [[Liv Tyler]], who was 23 at the time of [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'']].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://medium.com/@chenngeller/on-aragorn-and-other-castings-a6e55668fce9?postPublishedType=repub|articlename=On Aragorn, Stoors and other castings|author=Chen Geller|dated=11 March 2026|website=Medium}}</ref> Winslet had previously been considered, at least by the studio, for [[Éowyn|Eowyn]].

==Plotline==
The exact events the film covers remain undisclosed. There's ambiguity concerning both the exact timeframe for the film, and whether it will focus more on [[Gollum]] or [[Aragorn]]. An official "blurb" for the movie reads: "The pic explores [[Aragorn]]’s adventures as a [[Rangers of the North|ranger]], specifically his quest to capture [[Gollum]] between [[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]] and [[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|Fellowship of the Ring]], tracking him to keep the [[The One Ring|Ring]]’s location from [[Sauron|Sauron."]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2026/01/box-office-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy-25th-anniversary-1236689724/|articlename=‘Lord Of The Rings’ Trilogy 25th Anniversary Event Rings Up $11M In Worldwide Box Office|author=Anthony D'Alessandro|dated=19 January 2026|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> A more extended synopsis had also been circulating:<blockquote>Before the Fellowship, one creature's obsession holds the key to Middle-earth's survival -- or its demise. In The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum, we meet young Smeagol -- an outsider drawn to trinkets and mischief -- long before The One Ring consumed him and began his tragic descent into the tortured, deceitful creature Gollum. With the ring lost and carried away by Bilbo Baggins, Gollum finds himself compelled to leave his cave in search of it. Gandalf the Grey calls upon Aragorn, still known as the ranger Strider, to track the elusive creature whose knowledge of the whereabouts of the ring could tip the balance toward the Dark Lord Sauron.
Set in the shadowed time between Bilbo's birthday disappearance and the Fellowship's formation, this perilous journey through Middle-earth's darkest corners reveals untold truths, tests the resolve of its future king, and explores the fractured soul and backstory of Gollum, one of Tolkien's most enigmatic characters.

Directed by original cast member Andy Serkis, produced by Peter Jackson, and written & produced by Fran Walsh and Phillipa Boyens -- the creative team behind the Oscar-winning trilogy -- this live-action movie bridges the beloved films with new characters, returning heroes, and a deeply engaging origin story that resets the stage for, and changes everything you know about the legendary Lord of the Rings trilogy.</blockquote>Strictly speaking, [[Aragorn]]'s hunt for [[Gollum]] begins during the events depicted in Jackson's [[The Fellowship of the Ring (2001 film)|''The Fellowship of the Ring'']], and in October, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] said the story "falls after the [[Bilbo's Farewell Party|birthday party of Bilbo]] and before the Mines Of [[Moria]]".<ref name=":22">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.empireonline.com/movies/news/lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-wont-be-two-films-second-philippa-boyens-exclusive/|articlename=The Hunt For Gollum Won’t Be Two Films, But A Second LOTR Film Is Incoming, Philippa Boyens Confirms|author=Ben Travis|dated=18 October 2024|website=Empire}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] added that the role of [[Aragorn]] is "very central" to the movie.<ref name=":36" /> Andy called the storyline "pivotal."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1md7lim/the_lord_of_the_rings_the_hunt_for_gollum_andy/|articlename=The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum - Andy Serkis says "this part of the story is pivotal"|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=30 July 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> [[Ian McKellen]] had described the plot as "[[Aragorn]] trying to find [[Gollum]] with [[Gandalf]] directing operations from the sidelines."<ref name=":42" />

However, ''a'' hunt for [[Gollum]] is begun by the [[Silvan Elves]] after Gollum first leaves the [[Misty Mountains|mountains]] in search of [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]], and in December Jackson said the film "tells us what happened to [[Gollum]] between ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' - end of [[The Hobbit (film series)|''The Hobbit'']] - and the beginning of ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]''".<ref name=":6">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/red-carpet-premiere-for-the-lord-of-the-rings-the-war-of-the-rohirrim/P3BS7U5NPS5EMFLPUV4SYSYFDU/|articlename=Red carpet premiere for The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|author=Mitchell Hageman|dated=11 December 2024|website=New Zealand Herald}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had since confirmed this timeframe: "It sits, kind of, in the timeline between ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' - between losing the [[The One Ring|Ring]] to [[Bilbo Baggins]] - and ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]''."<ref name=":18">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?t=1218&v=U-dw8DQDf90&feature=youtu.be|articlename=Kazakhstan feels like the center of the world - Andy Serkis {{!}} Interview of the Day|author=Silk Way / Qazaqstan|dated=15 July 2025|website=YouTube}}</ref> [[Dol Guldur]], the [[Nazgûl|Nazgul]] and [[Orcs]] are all said to potentially play part in the film.

[[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also alluded to other storylines: "we are finding a lot of threads of story that are surprising in there when you really go in there and examine it".<ref name=":29">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.slashfilm.com/1734018/philippa-boyens-lord-of-the-rings-war-of-the-rohirrim-exclusive-interview/|articlename=War Of The Rohirrim's Philippa Boyens Reveals Details About The Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum [Exclusive Interview]|author=Ben Pearson|dated=13 December 2024|website=/Film}}</ref> Events as varied as [[Aragorn]]'s sojourn in [[Lothlórien|Lórien]] with [[Arwen]], the fall of [[Balin's folk]], [[Boromir]]'s quest for [[Rivendell]] and much else occur concurrent to the time of the Hunt.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1iutc9r/building_bridges_so_what_happens_between_the/|articlename=Building Bridges: So, what happens between the trilogies that The Hunt for Gollum could possibly cover?|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=21 February 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> "You see the layers and layers of story that’s underneath there and how interconnected they all are", she adds.<ref name=":3" /> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] also made comments to this effect: "Some pretty interesting stuff happens that we reference in passing in [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The'' ''Lord of the Rings'']], but there’s a lot of more deep detail to it."<ref name=":6" />

[[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] adds that "We get to go to some places that we've never been before" in Middle-earth." One such place - only glimpsed in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|Fellowship of the Ring]]'' - is the interiors of [[Barad-dûr|Barad Dur]].<ref name=":36" /> Both she and Serkis alluded to new characters<ref name=":28" /><ref name=":5" /> and new dramatic situations, saying it's "surprising"<ref name=":7" /><ref name=":27" /><ref name=":29" /> and could be enjoyed be people wo don't know the novels.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.amica.it/video-post/andy-serkis-dirigero-signore-anelli-tornero-batman/|articlename=Andy Serkis, da Gollum a regista: «Dirigerò “Il Signore degli Anelli” e tornerò con Batman»|author=Emanuele Bigi|dated=27 June 2025|website=Amica}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also shared that one of the practicalities they were busy figuring out in the writing is "How does he [<nowiki/>[[Aragorn]]] pick up his scent? How does he find his trail, how does it happen?"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://nerdist.com/article/nerdist-philippa-boyens-interview-the-war-of-the-rohirrim-the-lord-of-the-rings-future/|articlename=Philippa Boyens Talks the Future of THE LORD OF THE RINGS Movies and Naming a Tolkien Character in THE WAR OF THE ROHIRRIM|author=by Rotem Rusak|dated=19 December 2024|website=Nerdist}}</ref>

==Cast==
{| class="wikitable mw-collapsible"
|- style="background: var(--tg-color-surface-2);"
!Actor!!Role
|-
|[[Andy Serkis]]||[[Gollum]]<ref name="Gollum"></ref>
|-
|[[Elijah Wood]]
|[[Frodo Baggins]]<ref name=":12" />
|-
|[[Ian McKellen]]
|[[Gandalf]]<ref name=":12" />
|-
|[[Kate Winslet]]
|Unconfirmed role<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2026/03/kate-winslet-lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-andy-serkis-1236749998/|articlename=Kate Winslet To Play Female Lead In Andy Serkis’ ‘LOTR: The Hunt For Gollum’|author=Baz Bamigboye|dated=11 March 2026|accessed=15 March 2026|website=Deadline|archiveurl=|archivename=|archivedate=}}</ref>
|}

{{Title|Italics}}

{{References}}

{{Screen}}

[[Category:Films]]

[[fi:The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum]]

The Music of the Lord of the Rings Films (composition)

2026-04-10T21:46:56Z

Chen Geller:

{{cleanup}}
{{Disambig-two|the music composition for the Lord of the Rings films|book about the composition for The Lord of the Rings trilogy|[[The Music of the Lord of the Rings Films]]}}Howard Shore's compositions for ''The Lord of the Rings'' and ''The Hobbit'', together with work by Howard, Plan 9, David Long and Stephen Gallagher for ''The War of the Rohirrim'', ''The Rings of Power'' Season One and other projects represent a musico-dramatic oeuvre covering about 24 hours of music. This music is based on folk-like melodies, often stepwise; triadic harmony (though not generally stable in terms of key) and massed orchestrations, often ornamented by worldly instruments outside the orchestral replete.

The compositions include:

#[[:Category:The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power (Season One: Amazon Original Series Soundtrack)|The Rings of Power season one]]: Only the opening titles ([[Howard Shore]]) and source songs (Plan 9 and David Long).
#[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]] ([[Stephen Gallagher]], David Long using themes by Howard Shore and Plan 9)
#[[:Category:The Hobbit (film series) soundtracks|The Hobbit film trilogy (soundtracks)]], including the announcement trailer (Shore, Plan 9, Long, Gallagher ''et al'')
#[[:Category:The Lord of the Rings (film series) soundtracks|The Lord of the Rings film trilogy (soundtracks)]], including the second Return of the King trailer (Shore, Plan 9, Long ''et al'')
#Additional pieces for the concert stage (Howard Shore) or ''in situ'' for the Hobbiton set (Plan 9 and David Long).

==Orchestration==
Howard's orchestra varies in size between different pieces. Many instruments are used to colour certain narrative elements and related themes. Taken in whole, and together with instruments utilized by Plan 9 and David Long, it comprises:

'''Strings''': At least 16 first violins (concertmaster doubling hardinfelle, double violin), 16 second violins, 12 violas, 10 violoncelli, 8 double basses. 2 harps (one doubling celtic harp).

'''Woodwinds''': 4 flutes (doubling alto flute, piccoli, recorder, wood flute, tin whistle, low whistle, shakuhachi, dizi, nay), 4 oboes (one doubling cor anglais and heckelphone), 4 clarinets (one doubling bass clarinet and contrabass clarinet) and 3 bassoons (one doubling contrabassoon and contraforte). Also putorino, Rhaita (doubling rauschpfeife), 2 shawms, 2 crumhorns, dulcian.

'''Brass''': At least seven horns in F (doubling Wagner ''tuben''), eight trumpets (doubling rotary-valve trumpets), seven trombones (four tenor-bass and three bass trombones) and two tubas (doubling contrabass tuba). Also 20 didgeridoos, pukea, cow horn, tibetan horn.

'''Keyboards''': one grand piano (doubling upright piano, celesta, harpsichord, clavichord), synthesizer, grand pipe organ.

'''Percussion:''' Two Timpanists. At least seven players on bass drum, snare drums, side-drums (or field drums), toms and bass drum kit, triangle, glockenspiel, gong bass drum, tambourine, taiko drums (three sizes: large, medium and small), cymbals (including a splash cymbal cut into ribbons, antique cymbals, crotales), tubular bells, mark tree, carillon, tamtams, bossed gongs, woodblocks, temple blocks, log drums, slit drum, dudun drum, waterphone, shakers (including eggshakers, cabasa, caxixi and jingles), tibetan singing bowls, goblet drum, friction drum, frame drum, transceleste, marimba, 2 bodhrain, bell plates, anvil, "prepared" piano, castanets, tuned artillery shells, cans, wind machine.

"'''Hobbit band'''": 3 guitars (6 and 12-string, including bass guitar, doubling mandolin, caipira viola, lute, theorbo), 2 bagpipes (highland bapipes, doubling uileann pipes), 2 accordions (mussette, doubling concertina and harmonium), 1 hammered dulcimer (doubling cimbalom), hurdy-gurdy, banjo (doubling banjolele), euphonium.

'''Gamelan''': 1 kempul (doubling gong ageng), 1 kendhang, 4 saron players, 3 gender players (doubling slenthem), 4 kenong players (doubling kethuk), 2 bonang players, 1 gambang. Also doubling rebab, finger cymbals, ceng cengs, hyōshigi, kine, japanese cymbals, monochord, tanpura, sarangi (doubling dilruba).

'''Choir:''' 60 boys, at least 100 men and women, soloists (tenors, baritone, bass, soprano, treble).

==Themes==
The score relies on a large number of recurring associative themes (also known as ''Leitmotive'' or "Leading musical motives"). These appear independent of each other, in two more non-adjacent scenes. Most of these run through the entire series and lend it a sense of musical cohesion. These themes, which also develop according to the dramatic situation, are loosely divided into "family groups" and further delineated by associative keys and tone colour. They are as follows:

{| class="wikitable sortable"
!#
!Name
!Description
|-
|1
|'''"Impediment" theme'''
|This theme is a chromatic arpeggio (A minor: 1-3-5-♭6), sequenced a flat sixth apart. It is usually harmonized in minor triads a flat sixth apart (sometimes retrograded), and this sonority also appears on its own. It is introduced in the ''Rings of Power'' titles, where it is transformed as an F Lydian arpeggio (F: 1-3-♯4-5) over chords a minor third apart. The chords then appear in ''The War of the Rohirrim'' to depict the antagonists: Gm: ♯vi-i Freca, then G♭m: ♭vi-i under Wulf. The definitive theme appears throughout the live-action films, always representing impediment.
|-
|2
|'''Scales'''
|This is one of the basic devices Howard uses throughout the scores. Scalar motion may depict the Hobbits (usually as C: 1-2-3 starting on a quaver) but since scalar motion is inherent in many themes, it is used more generally in the scores, in any key or modality. Later, chromatic scales also begin appearing.
|-
|3
|'''"There and back Again"'''
|This idea rises and falls through a single scale degree. It can appear minor (minor seconds, usually rising and falling) to depict evil, or major (major seconds, usually falling and rising) to depict the Fellowship.
|-
|4
|'''Cluster'''
|This is a version of [2] which stacks the pitches to create a tone pyramid. It is used as a danger figure throughout, until it is resolved diatonically when Frodo awakes in Minas Tirith.
|-
|5
|'''"This Wandering Day"'''
|This walking song by Plan 9 and David Long is reprised a few times. Its diatonicism looks forward to the music of the Hobbits at large. All the themes associated with the Hobbits are diatonic or pentatonic, usually stepwise.
|-
|6
|'''The Ring'''
|This theme is based on the rising and falling minor second [3a]. It is stated in strings on A♭ minor, then sequenced in F minor, all harmonized in minor triads a minor second apart (F minor to E minor).
|-
|7
|'''Eowyn and Theoden'''
|This theme, voiced in open chords, depicts Eowyn, particularly in her relationship to Theoden.
|-
|8
|'''Rohan:'''
|This major theme is usually set in A Dorian and played by either ''hardingfelle'' or high brass. It has several detachable parts:
*'''Rhythm''': The opening unison quavers evoke galloping horse hooves.
*'''Melody''': This rises a minor third, then proceeds stepwise along the Dorian mode. In the fullest statements, the consequent phrase concludes with a plagal cadence. In the Pelennor fields, this is reshaped into driving triplets, and these then appear on their own. A countermelody emphasizes the falling and rising major second [3b]. Later, the melody is sometimes altered to begin on a major third or even perfect fourth.
*'''Chords:''' in keeping with the Dorian setting, the theme is usually harmonized in A Dorian: i-IV but in the fullest statements this is expanded to i-VII-III-IV.
Henceforth, all the themes associated with mankind will be modal, usually incorporating a prominent leap into the melodic contour.
|-
|9
|'''Eowyn:'''
|Eowyn's main theme is first hinted at in Hera's music. The theme leaps a fifth then proceeds stepwise over C Lydian: I-II-iii. Eowyn's first two scenes feature a similar progression under a scale, the perfect fifth ironed out. When she rebukes Grima, this theme which had since taken to the minor mode, regains the perfect fifth. Gallagher's score features other themes unique to it:
*The secondary theme leaps a perfect fifth and major sixth, then subsides in a stepwise figure. It mostly represents Helm and his sons.
*Olwyn is represented by a lyrical idea in thirds.
*Another idea in major and minor seconds represents Hera's relationship to Helm.
|-
|10
|'''First danger motif'''
|These paired, accented crotchets appear when Wulf confronts Helm. Later, they lend their rhyhtm to the Ring chord, mostly to depict the Ringwraiths, but these crotchets are also used on their own as a danger motif throughout.
|-
|11
|'''Horns'''
|Leaps ranging from a minor third to a perfect fifth appear throughout the scores, either in the score or as horn sound effects. Again, since these intervals are shared between multiple themes, they can be used in various contexts. Howard also frequently uses open fifths.
|-
|12
|'''Gondor'''
|This theme shares the Dorian setting, but leaps a perfect fifth (recalling Eowyn [7, 9], who will end up in Gondor) on D. Later, Howard will set it in rotary-valve trumpets.
|-
|13
|'''Rohan lament'''
|Versions of this lament (composed by plan 9 and David Long) appear both for Helm (in ''The War of the Rohirirm'') and for Theodred (in ''The Two Towers'').
|-
|14
|'''Nature'''
|This theme begins with a major-mode transformation of the impediment figure (over A minor: i-VI-i) and continues into chromatically rising chords. This second part is sometimes used on its own and, in the most extroverted statements, is embellished with unison brass triplets. Both parts are varied for other themes of the natural world. This theme first appears under the letter Gandalf sends to Hera, then appears through the bulk of the cycle to depict nature. In the end of ''The Two Towers'', it parallels the charge out of Helm's Deep with the concurrent Ent attack, and from this point on the theme becomes temporarily associated with the Rohirrim.
|-
|15
|'''Saruman or Orcs'''
|This theme first appears retrograded, as a lyrical triple-time woodwind idea for Saruman's appearance in ''The War of the Rohirrim''. It later assumes its definitive 5/4 setting in trombones. Notice that it reorganizes the pitches of the Ring [6], but now the seasawing minor seconds [3a] rise and fall. Later, the theme appears for Saruman's Uruks, and later for Orcs in general.
|-
|16
|'''The Hobbits (main theme)'''
|This theme, along with the Ring [6] is the nearest the series has to a main theme. It is almost always set in D pentatonic or C pentatonic, usually in strings, solo clarinet or tin whistle: this latter instrument is replaced by flute in ''The Return of the King''. It is again in detachable parts:
*'''First phrase''': This rises through four scale degrees, then falls back down. It is typically harmonized in D: I-IV-I-V.
*'''Second phrase''': By sequencing the initial stepwise motif upwards and harmonizing it with D: vii-IV-V-I, this part of the theme depicts the Shire as "the place that makes your heart swell when you think about it."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.woodzie.org/lotr/expansive.htm|articlename=Musical Themes in "The Lord of the Rings"|author=Eric Rawlins|dated=17 July 2006|website=Woodzie}}</ref>
*'''Accompaniment''': the first part is often accompanied by this bumptious outline in fifths and fourths. Howard omits this when a more sobering effect is called for, but he also uses it on its own.
|-
|17
|'''The Ring (fragment)'''
|Howard derives several fragments from the Ring that appear on their own:
*Ascending second: Both in ''An Unexpected Journey'' and ''The Fellowship of the Ring'', Bilbo blows smoke rings to the sound of a tritone gliding into the fifth. This recreates the rising major second that opens the ring [6] but over a major chord: it returns after the Ring's destruction when characters recall it, reaffirming that the Ring is indeed gone. The figure does also appear in the minor as a more pointed allusion to the Ring throughout the quest.
*Chords: Howard also harmonizes this motion as minor triads a minor second apart, or as a minor triad resolving to a major triad: this latter gesture concludes the prologue of ''Fellowship of the Ring'' (E♭: i-I) and both Weathertop (on album) and the walls of Moria are revealed to the sound of fanfares derived from this gesture.
|-
|18
|'''Bilbo Baggins, first theme'''
|This theme reshapes the Hobbits' theme to depict Bilbo Baggins. In the announcement trailer, only its first phrase is heard, but in ''An Unexpected Journey'' it is sometimes extended into a second phrase which, with its melodic leaps and horn scoring hints at Bilbo's more outgoing, "Tookish" side. This phrase is later used on its own.
|-
|19
|'''The Company, main theme'''
|This theme is first sung by Thorin and company (over string clusters [4] in the trailer, ''a-cappella'' in the film), but then appears orchestrally. At the end of ''An Unexpected Journey,'' it is transformed into the Song of the Lonely Mountain. After this, as the quest loses its swashbuckling sheen, the theme is no longer heard. Its harmony (triads a major second apart) is shared between all the ''melodic'' Dwarven themes.
|-
|20
|'''First Dwarven theme (Thorin):'''
|The stepwise nature of this theme depicts the influence Bilbo will play in Thorin's life. As in the announcement trailer, it is often heard as a countermelody for [19]. The theme is not, however, Thorin's theme in ''strictu sensu'': it scores most of the establishing montage of Erebor, and several scenes of the company at large. Again, notice the "Dwarven" Am-G harmony.
|-
|21
|'''Second Dwarven theme, first form'''
|This theme is used more generally for the Dwarves (it's called "The House of Durin" in Howard's sketches). This first form, heard over the opening titles of ''An Unexpected Journey'', combines the contour of the definitive theme with the pitches of the Ring fragment [17]. It also appears during the eagle resuce (only on album) and when the Dwarves reunite in Erebor after Smaug's attack.
|-
|22
|'''Bilbo Baggins, second theme'''
|This theme (A-B-C♯-E-E-G♯-G♯-A-E-C♯-E-D) also appears in the opening titles of ''An Unexpected Journey''. It is also heard, heroically in horns, when Bilbo rescues Thorin.
|-
|23
|'''First tragic theme (transcendant)'''
|This theme first appears during the opening shots of ''An Unexpected Journey'': this creates a sense of bookends with an identical statement in the Grey Havens, when Gandalf says farewel to the Hobbits. It also laments Gandalf's death (Doug Adams calls it "Gandalf's farewells") and is embedded into the farewell from Lorien. But it also appears during the final scenes on the slopes of Mount Doom. It is a chord progression atypical of the rest of the score: A♭: vi-IV-I-V. This results in the top voices rising and falling a minor second (cf. [3]) but then falling another major second. Combinations of rising and falling major and minor seconds, as well as minor scales, unite all the themes that depict Sauron's influence on Middle-earth (also [1]).
|-
|24
|'''The Journey Back'''
|This theme, first appearing over the map transition to Erebor, again creates bookends with the map transition from Minas Tirith back to the Shire in ''The Return of the King''. Appearing throughout the denoument of the film, it depicts the journey back from Mordor. It is a rising scale harmonized in chromatic mediants.
|-
|25
|'''Third Dwarven theme (Erebor)'''
|This theme is three rising horncalls outlining an A Aeolian scale: 1-3, 1-4, 1-5. It subsides in a descending, syncopated pattern that is later also used on its own. Again, it is not Erebor's theme in ''stricto sensu'': statements of it appear for the company, and for Thorin (it is played diegetically for his obsequies), as well as for the Iron Hill Dwarves. Henceforth, non-melodic Dwarven music will be characterized by its intervallic nature, often parallel fifths.
|-
|26
|'''Arkenstone, first theme'''
|In keeping with the intervallic Dwarven style, this theme begins on an open fifth, but then clusters in the chorus [4]. It depicts the mysterious aspect of the stone, but also appears when Gandalf hands Thorin the map and the key: the means towards finding the Arkenstone.
|-
|27
|'''Arkenstone, second theme'''
|This syncopated, B minor string figure first appears with [26] but they become increasingly independent as the score continues. In The Battle of the Five Armies, this idea often appears unresolved to depict Thorin's mounting obsession to retrieve the stone.
|-
|28
|'''Woodland Elves:'''
|This D Phrygian theme depicts the Woodland Elves as closer to Men, but the emphasis on the third degree in the harmony gives it an Elven sheen. Henceforth, Elven themes will be characterized by more "advanced" harmony than the rest of Middle-earth: mediant and chromatic mediant harmony, whole tone scales, chromatic lines, seventh chords and so forth.
|-
|29
|'''Smaug, first theme'''
|This theme is in three parts:
*'''Melody''': The F Phrygian Dominant setting denotes the old age of the Dragon. Henceforth, everything old in Middle earth (Galadriel, Sauron) will be depicted by this mode. The theme emphasizes the rising and falling minor second [6] and augmented second inherent to this mode.
*'''Chords''': This progression (F: I-i-I) sequences [17] to depict the Dragon's breath.
*'''Accompaniment''': The theme is accompanied by semiquavers in Gamelan. The ensemble sometimes doubles the melody inharmonically, and lends its texture to the treasure hoard sequence.
|-
|30
|'''Dwarvish Wanderers'''
|This scalar figure bemoans the Dwarves' downfall and loss of their homeland. It is also heard when Thorin is struck down by Azog in ''An Unexpected Journey'', and during their arrival to the Hidden Door.
|-
|31
|'''Impediment (Dwarven form)'''
|This form of the Impediment arpeggio relates that the Dwarves blame the Elves for their misfortune. It is also heard when, in surveying the Troll hoard, they are reminded of the hoard in Erebor.
|-
|32
|'''Hobbit party music'''
|This Plan 9 tune embellishes the Hobbits' diatonic harmonies with some light chromaticism. It is heard briefly in the Old Took's birthday, and in extenso during Bilbo's Farewell Party.
|-
|33
|'''Hobbits (mysterious variant)'''
|This augments the Shire's accompaniment [16.3] to the contour of the Impediment theme. It depicts many of the early scenes of ''An Unexpected Journey'', and returns in ''Fellowship of the Ring'' when Gandalf glimpses Thorin's map.
|-
|34
|'''Hobbits (folk variant)'''
|This version mostly appears for scenes in Hobbiton, but also in the cornfield in ''Fellowship of the Ring'' and, slow and retrograded, in the concert piece ''Ironfoot''. Notice that, on the theme's first appearance, it concludes with a "fiddle fanfare" as Bilbo realizes it's the day of the farewell party: another statement of the theme concluding with the same fanfare will score the erecting of the sign to the party in ''Fellowship of the Ring''. It is in two parts:
*Melody: this is a staccato version of the Hobbits theme.
*Accompaniment: This "Um pa-pah" rhyhtm is later used on its own and with other themes. The theme is also accompanied by a tapping on the bodhrain drums which also appears with other themes.
|-
|35
|'''Smeagol'''
|This theme, which brings out the pitiful Smeagol side of Gollum's character, is first alluded to when the chords of the second Shire phrase [16.2] turn minor.
|-
|36
|'''First Playful motif'''
|This elides the first pitch of [16.3] and sequences it to create a rhyhtmic figure in perfect fourths that skips the first beat of the measure. It often appears with [34] but both also appear in their own.
|-
|37
|'''Second playful motif'''
|The accompaniment of the folksy Hobbit theme sometimes appears in a cadential form (Doug Adams calls this the "Hobbit end-cap." This is gradually sequenced in a chromatic progression that comes to depict the lighter moments of the Hobbits (especially Merry and Pippin) in ''The Two Towers'' and ''The Return of the King''.
|-
|38
|'''Gandalf the Grey'''
|This wry figure in minor thirds and fourths depicts Gandalf the Grey throughout ''The Hobbit''. It does not appear in ''Fellowship of the Ring,'' where Gandalf's demise is imminent.
|-
|39
|'''First playful motif (first variant)'''
|This melds [36] and [16.3] into a driving figure. It is variously associated with Gandalf's fireworks (in ''An Unexpected Journey'' and ''Fellowship of the Ring''), his Smaug-like firework (the opening credits of ''The Desolation of Smaug'' anticipating ''Fellowship of the Ring'') and the mischief of Bilbo (sneaking out of the Farewell Party) and Merry and Pippin, in the cornfield. This latter statement is reprised in the closing credits.
|-
|40
|'''The Ring (chord, first form)'''
|Gandalf peering threateningly into Bilbo's window merits a triad with an added ninth. Minor triads with an added ninth also appear in the Warg and Goblin scenes. These chords verticalize the Ring, and tend to resolve as a minor plagal cadence (D minor: vi-i). Combined with the rhythm [10] these depict the Ringwraiths, but not only: they appear for Azog (film only), Saruman, Sauron himself, and the Orc armies.
|-
|41
|'''Fourth Dwarven theme (Dwarrowdelf)'''
|This theme, which will usher the Fellowship into the 21st hall of Dwarrowdelf, is first hinted at when the Dwarves introduce themselves to Bilbo, and again when they are introduced to Beorn. Both these scenes feature a 3-4-5 rise concluding on an open fifth. In ''Fellowship of the Ring,'' this is elaborated into a aeolian melody similar to [21], which also appears when the Cave Troll is slain.
|-
|42
|'''Fussy Bilbo'''
|This waltzing, D minor theme contains the same pitches as the Ring, but depicts Bilbo's out-of-sorts mannerism around the Dwarves. Later, it is applied to the Company in general, as when they emerge into Bard's house.
|-
|43
|'''Smaug (second theme)'''
|This retrogrades Smaug's original motif, then ascends chromatically: the effect is more subtly sinister and will also depict Thorin's Dragon Sickness, usually in more discordant string settings. Again, accompanied by major-minor triads built on F and semiquaver figures on Gamelan.
|-
|44
|'''Fifth Dwarven theme (The Company)'''
|This theme, which appears when Dwalin and Gandalf talk about Thorin's absence, repeats during the Hidden Door sequence and when the Dwarves retreat before Azog's forces in ''The Battle of the Five Armies''. It is elaborated upon in the concert piece "The Dwarf Lords." As originally stated, it takes the melodic Dwarven harmonies and turns them major: A-G.
|-
|45
|'''Hobbits, kinetic version'''
|This sequences the initial 1-2-3 rise of the Hobbits [16.1] over canonical imitation of the accompaniment [16.3] in quavers and semiquavers. It depicts Bilbo rushing out of his door, and Merry and Pippin rushing through the cornfield.
|-
|46
|'''The Company, second theme'''
|a more robust, "Dwarven" form of Bilbo's second theme. This appears when Bilbo sets out with the company and when Kili attempts to rescue him from the Trolls, for example. It is elaborated upon in the concert piece "Erebor."
|-
|47
|'''First Moria danger motif'''
|This theme, appearing in the Battle of Azanulbizar, takes a Dwarven perfect fifth and reduces it to a tritone. It appears in the later Moria scenes of ''The Fellowship of the Ring'' and Gandalf falling after the Balrog in ''The Two Towers''.
|-
|48
|'''Battle with Azog'''
|A similar figure in parallel fourths depicts the battle of Azanulbizar. It returns for the confrontation with Azog in the ''Battle of the Five Armies''.
|-
|49
|'''Second danger motif (Azog form)'''
|This theme is a pair of descending thirds, therefore a melodic form of the Ring chords. Here, they are major thirds an augmented second apart, thus outlining the Phrygian Dominant mode of Sauron. Azog's form concludes with a chromatic "barb" evoking his crude prosthetic arm. But it also appears for Azog's pack, Bolg and later the army he leads to the Erebor valley.
|-
|50
|'''Second tragic theme'''
|After the battle of Azanulbizar, this theme appears after Thorin's, answering his rising scale with a falling scale that accomodates upon itself. In doing so, it falls a major second, then falls and rises a minor one. This will appear increasingly by itself in ''The Battle of the Five Armies,'' always depicting death and tragedy (for instance, when Legolas speaks about his mother's death). In Fellowship of the Ring, the notes turn into a figure that rises and drops a minor second, then falls and rises a major second. This always depicts the suffering incurred by the War of the Ring.
|-
|51
|'''Wizards'''
|Another falling minor scale figure depicts the five Wizards. Naturally, it mostly appears with Gandalf, as when he arrives at Goblintown or during his parting with Bilbo in ''An Unexpected Journey''. But it also appears with Radagast.
|-
|52
|'''Radagast'''
|This nervous melody in major and minor seconds, only appears on album. But its accompaniments are heard in the film during Radagast's scenes, as well as when Bilbo escapes Goblintown.
|-
|53
|'''Mirkwood'''
|This line also alternates major and mind seconds. It depicts the shadow falling over Mirkwood. In The Desolation of Smaug, it becomes the definitive Mirkwood theme, reshaping [50]. This almost depicts the Elven Road, becoming gradually masked by the texture which features clusters, aleatoric figures, bowed cymbals, portamenti and sprechstimme vocals. Similar textures will appear in other places in the scores, always in relation to confusion and danger.
|-
|54
|'''Second danger motif (Necromancer form)'''
|The major thirds an augmented second apart are here played slower, without the chromatic "barb" characteristic of Azog. It depicts Dol Guldur and the Necromancer.
|-
|55
|'''Mirkwood spiders, first theme'''
|This theme is based on an eight-note tone row, accompanied by clusters. Both also appear in ''The Desolation of Smaug''. Henceforth, all spider music will be atonal, although Denethor merits similar music in the most intense moments.
|-
|56
|'''Mountain Trolls'''
|This theme, in waltz time, recalls Bilbo's fussy theme, but instead arpeggiates a triad with an added flat sixth. It thus relates to the later Cave Troll (a variant of [47] also repeated in the scene where Gollum brings rabbits to Frodo).
|-
|57
|'''Impediment (first variant)'''
|This sequences minor triads a minor third apart going up.
|-
|58
|'''Hobbits (developed)'''
|Two developments of the Hobbits theme depict the Hobbits' personal growth, loss of innoncence, discovery of compassion and so forth:

*A fuller version of the original theme, the harmony filled in to D: I-iii-IV-I-IV-V.
*A melodic development of [16.2] with a gruppeto figure similar to [6]. It depicts Bilbo's act of compassion towards Gollum, but also scenes that depict the growing maturity and worldliness of the Hobbits in ''Fellowship of the Ring'' and ''The Two Towers.''
|-
|59
|'''Third danger motif (first form)'''
|This is another rhythmic figure that skips the first beat, but here outlining a minor scale. It has a more dynamic effect than [54].
|-
|60
|'''Main evil theme'''
|This adapts the Ring [6] to the Phrygian Dominant setting of the dragon. Its definitive form is set in muted trumpets and rhaita. Here, cor anglais imitates the rhaita. In ''The Battle of the Five Armies'', a pipe organ produces a similarly reedy sound.
|-
|61
|'''First Orc theme (Warg riders)'''
|This driving, descending minor scale figure depicts Azog company, especially the Warg riders. It appears all through The Hobbit, and then resurfaces in The Two Towers are a descending cluster which first depicts Saruman's warg riders. Afterwards, it continues to represent the artfulness of the Orc armies.
|-
|62
|'''Lothlorien or Galadriel'''
|This theme is also characterized by the F Phrygian Dominant mode. It's brassy appearance for Elrond's company attacking Yazneg's Orcs creates a parallel with the arrival of Haldir's Elves to Helm's Deep (heralded by the same rendition of [11]). The theme also appears in guises that emphasize the pitches of [50], inherent in the theme, or changed to double harmonic minor. When Frodo is struck by a vision of Galadriel in Shelob's lair, the theme is shifted into standard Phrygian mode.
|-
|63
|'''Rivendell, main theme'''
|This theme changes the impediment theme [1] to A major. It is rhythmically altered and overlaid with a melody based on the same pitches. The theme is typically set in female choir and harp over tolling chimes.
|-
|64
|'''Rivendell, second theme'''
|This theme first appears in a martial guise when Elrond's riders stride into Rivendell, inadvertently antagonizing the Dwarves. It is soon repeated diegetically on wood flute, lute, theorbo and harp.
|-
|65
|'''Erebor-Rivendell hybrid'''
|This puts Rivendell's arpeggios in the low, "dwarven" strings and the Erebor horncalls in the high "Elven" choir. It ostensibly depicts the moonlight revealing the moon runes, then the Hidden Door. But it also appears when Thorin lingers over the defeated Azog. The same pride that almost stopped him from giving the map to Elrond, will be his downfall as Gandalf warned.
|-
|66
|'''Second danger motif (Sauron form)'''
|At the sight of Sauron's mural, the descending thirds turn into minor thirds a minor second apart. This version will continue into The Lord of the Rings. During the Minas Morgul scene, it is inverted into rising thirds.
|-
|67
|'''Second Dwarven theme (definitive)'''
|This theme now acquires its definitive pitches and tonality. Like Thorin's theme, it ascends but more resolutely in thirds spanning an octave. It then restarts on the low A but only reaches up the seventh scale degree. Notice that Thorin and his line are associated with A minor, as compared to Elrond's chromaticized A major.
|-
|68
|'''Goblins'''
|This theme in low brass over a hammering pattern that shifts time signatures (circling 7/5). It appears in all the goblin scenes and, on album, for their reappearance in ''The Battle of the Five Armies''. Going forward, rhythmic themes particularly in odd time signatures, will be associated with Orcs.
|-
|69
|'''Gollum'''
|This theme is in major and minor seconds played tremolando on cimbalom. This compares the spindly quality of Gollum, in his more menacing persona, with the hammered dulcimer that often plays [36]. In the early scenes of ''The Two Towers'', this figure is sequenced up so that it spans two chromatically interlocking fifths: this is similar to the music of Loge, the god of deception, in Wagner's Ring, a similarity that will become important later in the score.
|-
|70
|'''Fishing Song'''
|Gollum sings this song in ''An Unexpected Journey'', ''The Two Towers'' and ''The Return of the King''. In the latter, Gollum sings another song in a same vein, when he gloats over Frodo caught in Shelob's web.
|-
|71
|'''Smeagol (variant)'''
|The riddle scene in ''An Unexpected Journey'' begins combining Smeagol's theme [35] with that of the Ring [6]. This relationship is further explored in ''The Two Towers'', and in effect culminates in Gollum's Song (itself prefigured in the sewer scenes).
|-
|72
|'''Eagles'''
|A variant of the Nature theme hails the eagles in ''An Unexpected Journey'' and ''The Battle of the Five Armies''. The album features another idea that looks forward to the eagles rescuing Sam and Frodo from Mount Doom.
|-
|73
|'''Second Gondor theme (developed)'''
|This variant, in E minor, appears in the film when Thorin embraces Frodo. This parallels the climax of ''The Return of the King'' when Barad dur collapses. It is a transformation of a Gondorian theme that appears in ''Fellowship of the Ring''.
|-
|74
|'''Fourth danger motif (first form)'''
|This theme appears in ''An Unexpected Journey'' only on album. It shares the contour of Saruman's theme [15] and will resurface in ''The Return of the King'' to depict the Orc armies attacking Gondor.
|-
|75
|'''Entering Bree'''
|Thorin's entrance to Bree mirrors the Hobbits' entrance to it in ''Fellowship of the Ring'', with minor moded forms of the Hobbit accompaniments ([36] and the accompaniment of [34]) over minor triads ascending in thirds [57]. This music also depicts Pippin's exit from Edoras.
|-
|76
|'''Beorn'''
|Yet another variant of the Nature theme depicts Beorn and his lands. Now the Am: i-VI chords depict the tread of the bear's feet.
|-
|77
|'''Mirkwood, second theme'''
|This falling figure also depicts Mirkwood separately from the original theme.
|-
|78
|'''Ring "chord" (second form)'''
|The chord is redressed as a sinister, but less overtly threatening soprano solo. It relates to the Ringwraiths entombed in the High Fells. In the film it also appears in Dol Guldur. Later, it is transformed into a rising line built on the same chords, now depicting Mordor's strident power.
|-
|79
|'''White gems'''
|this theme relates the Woodland Elves to Mirkwood via the minor sixth. Since the gems were fashioned for Thranduil's wife, the appearance of this theme when Gandalf sees her statue at the Elven gate is apposite.
|-
|80
|'''Spiders, second theme'''
|This descending figure, which first appears when Bilbo plays with the cobwebs, also returns during the scene at the Spiders' nest.
|-
|81
|'''Legolas'''
|Legolas is associated with an up-tempo version of the Woodland realm theme, but also with string figurations that then adorn the Fellowship theme when he defeats a Mumak in The Return of the King.
|-
|82
|'''Tauriel'''
|This theme is based on a figure that concludes the Woodland realm theme.
|-
|83
|'''Woodland Guards'''
|Since Tauriel is the head of the guard, slow, lyrical versions of this theme acts as her secondary theme. Again, the Woodland Elves are set in "human" scales, in this case natural minor.
|-
|84
|'''Impediment (Thranduil form)'''
|This arpeggio idea contrasts Thranduil's covetousness with Elrond's wisdom, and compares him with similar attributes of Thorin's.
|-
|85
|'''Tauriel and Kili'''
|This theme begins with a duet for flute (a variant on Tauriel's theme) and oboe (answering with a variant of Thorin's theme). This is followed by a choral theme which incorporates the tragic theme, harmonized in "Elven" mediant chords and elaborated with a Dwarven open fifth.
|-
|86
|'''Assertive Bilbo'''
|Beginning as a "Dwarven" version of Bilbo's fussy theme, applying more to the Dwarves' bewilderment at their own rescue, this becomes the theme of the self-actualized Bilbo who smuggles the Arkenstone to Dale in ''The Battle of the Five Armies''. It also depicts his return to the Shire as a changed person. It is mirrored in "Dwarven" forms of the Hobbit accompaniment figures that accompany the inebriated Gimli in ''The Return of the King'': one last ode to Dwarven music.
|-
|87
|'''Bard, first theme'''
|starting on a minor third and perfect fourth, this theme plays on a similarity to Erebor. The Dwarves hope Bard will bring them nearer to the mountain.
|-
|88
|'''Bard, second theme'''
|This chordal device alternates B♭ minor and G minor. It appears in several scenes of Bard's, often but not always with [87].
|-
|89
|'''Laketown'''
|This theme combines figures similar to Gondor (leaping a perfect fifth on D Dorian, then descending stepwise) and Rohan (semiquaver figure evoking rowing).
|-
|90
|'''Politicians of Laketown'''
|This clavichord theme, constantly modulating, relates the Master of Laketown and his aide Alfrid to the forces of corruption that represent Sauron's influence on Middle earth. Alfrid tends to be accompanied with just a fragment of the unabridged theme. The theme also appears retrograded when Thorin and Company are brought before the Master.
|-
|91
|'''Bard's family'''
|First appearing briefly when Bard arrives home, this is a diatonic transformation of the Master's music, similar to Bilbo's music.
|-
|92
|'''Black Arrow'''
|This theme first scores Girion who shares the opening pitches of Bard, his descendent. It depicts the Black Arrow that will slay Smaug.
|-
|93
|'''Fourth danger motif (second form)'''
|This form ascends through the Phrygian Dominant scale, then curls upon itself. Again, this more emphatic, swelling form is then suppressed until ''The Return of the King''.
|-
|94
|'''Thrain'''
|Thrain is depicted in his deranged form by another danger motif. When he returns to his senses, it is replaced by a slow version of Erebor, punctuated by a harp arpeggio.
|-
|95
|'''Third danger motif (second form)'''
|still skipping the first beat, this theme now appears in any number of forms. These can be sequenced up, down or at pitch.
*'''Ascending scale:''' This is similar to the first form.
*'''Clustering:''' repeated note, then adding a scale degree on each subsequent measure.
*'''Rising and falling:''' This most aggressive form uses the opening notes of the Ring [3a], rising and falling a minor second.
|-
|96
|'''Fourth danger motif (third form)'''
|This form, which will be the most frequent, leaps a minor sixth, then falls down the minor scale.
|-
|97
|'''Evil (second form)'''
|This rhythmic augmentation of the original theme is another theme that depicts Sauron at force. Once he is driven out of Dol Guldur, it is deferred until ''The Return of the King'' where it depicts the Witch King emerging from Dol Guldur.
|-
|98
|'''Arwen'''
|This theme, which later introduces Arwen in Fellowship of the Ring and again in The Return of the King, first appears in the minor when Tauriel heals Kili. This parallels Arwen healing Frodo. It is a Phrygian line harmonized in F: I-iii.
|-
|99
|'''Smaug's death'''
|This combines all of Smaug's themes. It depicts his flight to Laketown, and his death. Afterwards, Smaug's theme is appropriated by the deranged Thorin.
|-
|100
|'''Bard, third theme'''
|This more heroic theme depicts Bard's new role as the leader of the exiled Lakemen.
|-
|101
|'''Gundabad'''
|This theme also features the rising and falling minor second. Notice the doubling by twenty didgeridoos.
|-
|102
|'''Orcs'''
|The Gundabad theme is always accompanied by five-four beat. This is reshaped for Saruman's Uruks (percussion in five beats, usually accented on the first and third). Sauron's Orcs are depicted by more hectic forms of the same idea (accents varying randomly across the line).
|-
|103
|'''The Ring (chord, transformed)'''
|This idea depicts other characters becoming touched by darkness. It is in two parts:
*'''Rising:''' This inverts a triad with brass adding a ninth to recreate the Ring chord. This appears during the fight in Dol Guldur and Galadriel banishing Sauron. It is hinted at when the Fellowship glimpse Caras Galadhon, and repeats when Galadriel appears wraith-like to Frodo.
*'''Falling:''' the two big statements then descending F minor arpeggios as Galadriel reels back from her episode. This also depicts Bilbo reeling from his Gollum-like episode.
|-
|104
|'''Dwarf warriors'''
|The minor sixth of this idea makes this a Dwarven counterpart of the Elvish warrior theme. It is accompanied by unpitched "grunts" from the Dwarven chorus, a texture that already appeared in the Rings of Power opening titles, and will appear again in Moria.
|-
|105
|'''Mithril shirt'''
|This quartal melody depicts the shirt (which was fashioned for an Elven prince). It appears when Thorin gives it Bilbo, and when Bilbo gives it to Frodo.
|-
|106
|'''Iron Hill Dwarves'''
|This theme is similar to the other major-moded Dwarven theme. The tattoo-like accompaniment evokes the riding of the Dwarven cavalry, and later appears on its own with the chariot.
|-
|107
|'''Tragic theme (transformed)'''
|This reharmonizes the original theme to depict valour and death on the battlefield. It ushers the conflict between Dwarves and Elves, then the offensive against the Orcs, and returns during the sequence where Gandalf and Pippin save Denethor, and the following skirmish in Pelennor.
|-
|108
|'''War Beasts'''
|Azog's horn is answered by this bestial motif, depicting the Trolls and Ogres he fields to the battle.
|-
|109
|'''The Fellowship'''
|This theme harmonizes the down-and-up figure [3b] in D: I-♭III-I and extending it to a nine note phrase. All themes emphasizing [3b] will be associated with the Fellowship.
|-
|110
|'''Third tragic theme'''
|This theme, in rising minor seconds an augmented second apart, contrasts Elendil and Isildur's fall with Boromir's, and later Denethor's.
|-
|111
|'''Impediment (second variant)'''
|This depicts the "Nameless fear" Galadriel mentions. It is reprised in Bag End and in The Two Towers.
|-
|112
|'''Walking Song'''
|Another diatonic song reintroduces Gandalf into the Shire, then ushers Bilbo away from it.
|-
|113
|'''Seduction of the Ring'''
|This is another variant of the Ring, in a standard minor mode and usually sung by boy choir. In The Return of the King, it is doubled by female choir to depict Smeagol's seduction.
|-
|114
|'''Journey there'''
|This theme reshapes the impediment arpeggio melodically. It depicts the journey to Mordor.
|-
|115
|'''Fifth danger motif'''
|This percussion quaver figure is the most overtly martial of the danger motifs. It depicts the turncoat Saruman overpowering Gandalf, then the forces Sauron fields in Osgiliath and during the Haradrim attack. It returns for the Mount Doom scene.
|-
|116
|'''Strider'''
|This figure leaps a perfect fourth, then ascends another step. It thus reorders the pitches of Gondor.
|-
|117
|'''Second Orc theme'''
|This is derived from the end of Saruman's theme. It depicts the Orc company he sends after the Fellowship.
|-
|118
|'''Mount Doom'''
|This aggressive, augmented form of the Impediment theme depicts both scenes set at the cracks of Doom.
|-
|119
|'''Tragic theme (Gondor form)'''
|This embellishes the theme by appending a perfect fifth. It appears with Boromir's first meeting with Aragorn, then scenes of Arwen envisioning Aragorn's mortality and leaving Rivendell.
|-
|121
|'''Diminishment of the Elves'''
|This theme for the scene in Gilraen's grave, brings the Phrygian Dominant setting of Lothlorien to Rivendell. It also repeats when Aragorn parts with Arwen.
|-
|122
|'''"Dangerous passes"'''
|This C minor theme depicts members of the Fellowship traversing difficult terrain: Caradhras, the approach to the walls of Moria and – on album – the secret stair.
|-
|123
|'''"Elvish pledge"'''
|This theme parallels the alliance of Celebrimbor and Narvi (as objectified in the Doors of Durin) with that of Haldir and Aragorn, when he shows up at Helm's Deep. It is a sequence of chords outlining a whole-tone scale.
|-
|124
|'''Second Moria danger motif'''
|This is a rising minor scale in parallel fifths. It first appears when the Doors crack open. Later, it assumes a more menacing form. In the film, it also appears when Legolas espies the Warg riders over the brow.
|-
|125
|'''Fellowship (fragment)'''
|This is the rhythm of the second phrase of the Fellowship. It appears in the Mazarbul chamber as they prepare to fight the Orcs. It is implied in the end of the Warg scene, the attack on Osgiliath, and restated in Sam's confrontation with Shelob.
|-
|126
|'''Durin's Bane'''
|By doubling the Moria theme at the octave, Howard Shore creates a sequence of power chords which depict the Balrog in Fellowship of the Ring and again in the opening scene of The Two Towers.
|-
|127
|'''Secondary Gondor theme'''
|This is a more lyrical depiction of Gondor. Triumphant forms depict the reforged Anduril.
|-
|128
|'''Aragorn'''
|This figure starts with the Strider theme, and sequences the opening three notes of the Fellowship [3b] upward.
|-
|129
|'''Fourth tragic theme'''
|This theme laments Boromir's death, and returns with every reminiscence of his death. It is also alluded to in scenes with Theoden and the dying Frodo.
|-
|130
|'''Impediment theme (third variant)'''
|This figure compares Frodo and Sam being stuck in the beginning of The Two Towers, and Merry and Pippin near the end of The Two Towers.
|-
|131
|'''Fourth danger motif (fourth form)'''
|This reduces the figure to the opening minor sixth and falling second. In the skirmish with the Haradrim troops it is reduced to a minor third, and this form returns in the attack on Osgiliath.
|-
|132
|'''First danger motive (second form)'''
|This combines the rhythm of the original danger motif with the contour of the Uruk theme. It appears when Merry and Pippin are marched along with the Uruks, then when a disguised Frodo and Sam are.
|-
|133
|'''Rohan (fragment)'''
|This sequences the galloping quavers so the first pitch is a unison, and the second is raised with every iteration. It appears in both early scenes with Eomer, and a similar style of writing is harkened when Aragorn arrives at Helm's Deep, when he rides out with Theoden and when Eomer is ordered to muster the Rohirrim.
|-
|134
|'''The Fellowship in Rohan'''
|This leaps a fifth and continues in the countermelody of Rohan, which is based on the Fellowship pitches. It depicts the growing allegiance of the members of the Fellowship and the Rohirrim through The Two Towers.
|-
|135
|'''The Ents'''
|This theme has two components: major triads a tritone apart, then a tremolando line in bass marimba and contrabassoon voiced in open chords a tritone apart.
|-
|136
|'''Gandalf the White'''
|This is another transformation of the original nature. It introduces the reborn Gandalf in Fangorn, at Helm's Deep and reprised in the credits.
|-
|137
|'''"Small stones"'''
|These chords (initially F# minor – G major – F# minor – A minor) depict Merry and Pippins effect on Treebeard. Later it assumes a form redolent of Treebeard's tritone progression. It is last recalled in The Return of the King when Gandalf and Pippin have a quiet moment, but this can only be heard on album.
|-
|138
|'''The White rider'''
|This reshaping of the Fellowship theme turns Gandalf, always astride Shadowfax, into "Saruman as he should have been."
|-
|139
|'''Hobbits (playful form)'''
|This first takes the form of a nocturne as Treebeard puts the Hobbits, sound asleep, in Wellinghall. It is transformed by the Fellowship chords and appears in the subsequent scenes in The Two Towers.
|-
|140
|'''The Fate of the Ring'''
|This reharmonizes [50] in D major. It thus turns the Ring's theme major. The basic shape reappears throughout The Return of the King as a melodic continuation of [50] and [6]. When Barad dur collapses, it becomes a fanfare, harmonized by the Fellowship chords, signaling Sauron's demise. This creates a harmonic resolution to Sauron's disonant minor second.
|-
|141
|'''Grima'''
|This theme, always in C minor and sometimes in the "Orcish" 5/4, is a dark counterpart to [134] in presenting one static pitch and one rising pitch: minor third, tritone, fifth, and concluding with a minor sixth dropping back into the fifth. It accompanies all of Grima's scene since Gandalf's arrival at Meduseld and is even hinted at when he stabs Saruman.
|-
|143
|'''Eowyn and Aragorn'''
|Eowyn's attraction to Aragorn is scored with this F Lydian theme. Notice the "sighing" appoggiaturas.
|-
|144
|'''Arwen and Aragorn'''
|an E Phrygian reshaping of Aragorn's theme, accompanied by the Rivendell arpeggio and redolent of sighing appoggiaturas.
|-
|145
|'''Battle of Helm's Deep'''
|this is a bolero-like rhythm that accompanies many of the Hornburg scenes.
|-
|146
|'''Third Orc theme'''
|This figure is reiterated a flat third away to depict the Uruk attempts to breach the Hornburg.
|-
|147
|'''Gondor (transformed)'''
|This version of Gondor, which replaces the descending final notes with Aragorn's ascending notes, is first heard in the Return of the King trailer. On album, it was hinted in an alternate version of the Fellowship prologue where another ascending version of the theme appeared in D major. Otherwise, this thematic complex - which appears in Gandalf's ascent to Minas Tirith, and in the Pelennor fields (theatrical cut) - is always heard in D minor until Aragorn's coronation. Notice that the original descending phrase also appears in the major, but only on album.
|-
|148
|'''The Ring (second form)'''
|This begins as a canon based on the Ring theme and the seduction theme, when Smeagol and Deagol fight. Afterwards, the Ring theme and the main evil theme are fused into a sinister Ab Phrygian Dominant theme. In the Cracks of Doom, this theme appears in two voices over the seduction theme.
|-
|149
|'''Shire (transformed)'''
|throughout The Return of the King, the Shire music and the Fellowship's become mingled. This initiates a process that culminates in the final Shire scenes: the melody is still the same, but the accompaniment had been reduced to thirds. When Sam returns home, this returns with a transformed melodic line, still in D major.
|-
|150
|'''Dead Men of Dunharrow'''
|This bitonal idea features a bassline similar to Gondor, while the top voices cluster. When the ghosts lend aid on the Pelennor fields, the clusters resolve diatonically.
|-
|151
|'''Meriadoc, squire of Rohan'''
|This theme leaps a perfect fifth like Eowyn's and proceeds in the contour of the second phrase of the Fellowship. It later returns when Merry confesses his doubts to Eowyn. When he stabs the Witch King, the opening leap is recalled, but extended to a major sixth.
|-
|152
|'''Denethor and Faramir'''
|The confrontation between Faramir and Denethor, and Faramir's subsequent march to certain death are scored with this variant of [74].
|-
|153
|'''There and back again (variant)'''
|this sequences the original motif in pitch. It underscores much of the Grey Havens scene.
|-
|154
|'''Shelob'''
|Another near tone-row. It is later spun into a pair of octatonic quadruple figures.
|-
|155
|'''Valinor'''
|The theme of the song "Into the West" appears when Gandalf describes Valinor to Pippin, when Sam hoists Frodo on his shoulders and at the conclusion of the Grey Havens scene.
|-
|156
|'''Hobbits (heroic form)'''
|This theme is spun out of the figure that depicts Sam's fight with Shelob. It later depicts Sam galivanting through Cirith Ungol. Its harmonies depict him hoisting Frodo on his shoulders, and pulling him up from the crack of doom.
|-
|157
|'''Magic Fire'''
|This figure homages Wagner's Loge theme (the interlocking falling fifths) in a form that most closely recalls the fires that guard Brunnhilde's enchanted sleep at the end of Valkyrie.
|-
|158
|'''Bilbo's Song'''
|This final transformation of the Shire, at the very end of the credits, recalls Bilbo's return to Bag End in The Battle of the Five Armies. Notice that the last stanza concludes with a perfect A major cadence: this resolves the A minor-A5 resolution of the Rings of Power titles. The cycle is now complete.
|}

[[Category:Music]]
<references />

The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum

2026-04-03T10:11:53Z

Chen Geller:

{{Disambig-two|the 2027 film adaptation|2009 fan film|[[The Hunt for Gollum]]}}
{{film infobox
| image =
| caption =
| name = The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum
| director = [[Andy Serkis]]
| producer = [[Peter Jackson]] [[Fran Walsh]] [[Philippa Boyens]] [[Zane Weiner]]
| writer = [[Fran Walsh]] [[Philippa Boyens]] Phoebe Gittins Arty Papageorgiou
| narrator =
| starring = [[Andy Serkis]]<ref name=Gollum></ref> [[Elijah Wood]] [[Ian McKellen]] Kate Winslet
| music =
| cinematography =
| editing =
| studio = WingNut films Imaginarium [[New Line Cinema]]<ref name=Gollum></ref>
| distributor = [[Warner Bros.|Warner Bros. Pictures]]<ref name=Gollum></ref>
| released = 17 December [[2027]]<ref name="TheDirect2027Release"/>
| runtime =
| country = [[New Zealand]]<ref name=Gollum></ref>
| language = English
| budget =
| website =
|imdb_id=32328070
|basedon=[[The Lord of the Rings]]|production design=[[Dan Hennah]] (Production designer)}}
'''''The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum''''' is the title (originally, working title<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/09/curtis-brown-jrr-tolkien-literary-estate-deal-1236526748/|articlename=Curtis Brown To Rep J.R.R. Tolkien’s Literary Estate|author=Jesse Whittock|dated=10 September 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref>) of a forthcoming film adaptation currently in pre-production and set for a [[2027]] release, the first of a planned series of Tolkien films to be produced by [[New Line Cinema]], a division of [[Warner Bros.|Warner Brothers]].<ref name=":4">{{webcite|author=Matt Donnelly|articleurl=https://variety.com/2023/film/news/lord-of-the-rings-new-movies-warner-bros-1235533672/|articlename=New ‘Lord of the Rings’ Movies Set at Warner Bros. |dated=23 February 2023|website=[https://variety.com/ Variety]|accessed=10 June 2024}}</ref>

The film will cover [[Gollum]]'s travels after losing [[The One Ring|the Ring]] to [[Bilbo Baggins]] (as depicted in [[The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey|''An Unexpected Journey'']]), through [[Gandalf]] setting out to track the creature after [[Bilbo's Farewell Party]] (as depicted in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]'') and down to [[Gollum]] intercepting [[Fellowship of the Ring|the Fellowship]] in [[Moria|Moria.]]

It will be directed by and star [[Andy Serkis]], who played [[Gollum]] in [[Peter Jackson]]'s previous films, as well as directing second unit. [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] will produce with his co-writing team of [[Fran Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens]], who will also write the screenplay with ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]]'' scribes Phoebe Gittins and Arty Papageorgiou.

The subject of this film is a longstanding fascination of [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s who developed it quite intensly in 2008 with [[Guillermo del Toro]]. The film is in preproduction with several cast and crew members from previous films already attached, including actor [[Elijah Wood]], concept artists [[John Howe]] and [[Alan Lee]] and others.

==Early Development==
Although the film was only announced in 2023, it had a long gestation period with [[Peter Jackson]], who considered filming this subject since circa 1997, and at least as late as July 2015. During 2008, in particular, the film was in development with a plot synopsis, a tentative budget and an initial cast and crew attached, and drew the attention of further talent like [[Viggo Mortensen]], as well as the press. Elements of this proposed "bridge film" were eventually put into ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' but mostly axed during the early months of the shoot. Jackson also negotiated in 2018 about producing a show for [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon Prime]] about the related subject of the travels of young [[Aragorn]], but ended up producing ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]]'' with [[New Line Cinema]] instead.

===During ''The'' ''Lord of the Rings''===
[[Peter Jackson]] read [[The Lord of the Rings|''The Lord of the Rings'']] circa 1979, and he claims that he "always loved the concept that when [[Gandalf]] leaves [[Bag End]] he goes and joins up with [[Aragorn]] and the two of them hunt [[Gollum]] down."<ref name=":26">Peter Jackson, Philippa Boyens, Fran Walsh, "Director's Commentary", Peter Jackson, ''The Lord of the Rings trilogy'' (New Line Cinema: 2004).</ref> This piece of backstory was also expanded upon in the [[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)|radio serial]], which [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] was very familiar with. He and [[Fran Walsh]] first pitched a trilogy based on [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']] and ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'' around November 1995.<ref>Brian Sibley, Peter Jackson: A Filmmaker's Journey (London: HarperCollins, 2006), pp. 312 ff.</ref><ref>J. W Braun, ''The lord of the films : the unofficial guide to Tolkien's Middle-Earth on the big screen'' (Toronto: ECW Press, 2009), pp. 20, 63, 68-69, 195.</ref><ref>Michael Pellerin, "Completing Middle-earth," Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit'' (Warner Brothers: 2015).</ref> They may well have had the [[Gollum]] episode in mind at some time between that point and early 1997. So long as they intended to start with ''The Hobbit'' (up to early 1996), they will have been mindful of the need to connect the two novels, and while their treatment (mid 1997) doesn't seem to cover the [[Gollum]] episode, it already dramatizes the remainder of the backstory that's given in "[[The Shadow of the Past]]", "[[The Council of Elrond]]" and [[appendix B]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1j06oqh/so_what_is_the_hunt_for_gollum_really_based_on/|articlename=So, what is The Hunt for Gollum REALLY based on?|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=28 February 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> When the project expanded (September 1998) to three films, Jackson tried to finally incorporate this storyline - some eight pages' worth - but realized that he "just couldn't put [the Hunt for [[Gollum]]] into the movie".<ref name=":26" />

[[Peter Jackson|Peter]] nevertheless publicly expressed a desire to film "[[Gandalf]] and [[Aragorn]] hunting [[Gollum]], and his capture by [[Orcs]]"<ref name=":25">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://members.tripod.com/peter_jackson_online/lotr/articles/20_questions2.htm|articlename=20 QUESTIONS WITH PETER JACKSON- PART 2|author=Harry Knowles|dated=31 December 1998|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> At the time, the idea was to shoot this as additional material and add it into the extended edition: although by early 2001 he would have realized this could not be accomodated in the pickups to ''The Fellowship of the Ring'', in 2003 he would still half-jokingly talk about shooting more pickups to "fatten these films out without technically going beyond ‘[[The Lord of the Rings]]’ as the licensed property." Elsewhere in the commentary, he jokes about "spinoff" entries.<ref name=":26" /> Other ideas for this treatment included [[Tom Bombadil]]<ref name=":25" /> and the [[Lothlórien|attack on Lorien]], with the entire expansion estimated at around three hours' worth.<ref name=":26" />

By the end of 2001, The success of ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]'' emboldened [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]<ref>Kristin Thompson, T''he Frodo Franchise: The Lord of the Rings and Modern Hollywoo''d (Berkeley: University of California Press, 2007), pp. 51, 327, 338.</ref> to pursue more films (he was also in discussions to "rekindle" ''King Kong'' at the time) and he had later discussed filming a "''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|Lord of the Rings]]'' prequel", along with ''[[The Hobbit]]'', with composer [[Howard Shore]] and executive producer [[Mark Ordesky]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2006/11/19/24053-peter-jackson-and-fran-walsh-talk-the-hobbit-2/|articlename=Peter Jackson and Fran Walsh Talk THE HOBBIT|author=Xoanon|dated=19 November 2006|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref><ref name=":35">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.rhino.com/article/interview-howard-shore-the-lord-of-the-rings|articlename=INTERVIEW: Howard Shore (“The Lord of the Rings”)|author=Will Harris|dated=27 April 2018|website=Rhino}}</ref> At a later premiere, [[New Line Cinema|New Line]]'s president Robert Shaye told [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s agent [[Ken Kamins]] that they "would want to have a conversation" about the two films.<ref name=":30" /> The idea at the time was to incorporate [[Arwen]] as a female character<ref name=":10">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20230327113046/https://ew.com/article/2003/12/06/peter-jackson-mulls-rings-prequel/|articlename=Peter Jackson mulls ''Rings'' prequel|author=Gary Susman|dated=6 December 2003|website=EW}}</ref> and produce both films back-to-back "in some short order"<ref name=":30">Ian Nathan, ''Anything You Can Imagine: Peter Jackson and the Making of Middle-earth'' (London: HarperCollins, 2019), pp. 827, 835.</ref> after ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'', in order to "complete the set of films.”<ref name=":10" /> Peter was referring to these two films, when talking in the behind the scenes documentaries in 2004 about "Maybe there'll be something we can do." Actors [[Andy Serkis]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2003/dec/09/jrrtolkien|articlename=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2003/dec/09/jrrtolkien|author=Anonymous|dated=9 Dec 2003|website=The Guardian}}</ref> [[Ian McKellen]], producer Barrie Osborne<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2002/12/16/25965-ttt-benefit-with-barrie-osborne-2/|articlename=TTT Benefit with Barrie Osborne
by|author=xoanon|dated=16 December 2002|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> and concept artist Paul Lasaine all expressed interest at the time.

Also around this time, [[Andy Serkis]] goes into some detail in his book ''[[Gollum: How We Made Movie Magic|Gollum: Howe We Made Movie Magic]]'' into how he imagined Smeagol's personality and upbringing. This conception of Smeagol would become imperative for the film all those years later: <blockquote>I was interested in trying to define Gollum's class and status in the community, and had thought that, coming from the wealthiest and largest Stoor family, he would probably never have really worked a day in his life. He probably skipped school and spent time squandering money that he had stolen from his grandmother's purse. It was a matriarchy and his grandmother was the head of his family, so I wondered how we might reflect this. We decided that some sort of neckerchief, maybe made of silk and a little flamboyant, might be a good idea. I liked the idea of carrying through the drug-addict metaphor, implying that he was like a young rich kid who had always had money in his pocket and was able to experiment with whatever took his fancy, like a Middle-earth version of a young playboy or a Victorian dandy.

We also examined the idea of his curious and inquisitive nature. I always saw Sméagol as a loner, not particularly liked, a bit of a Billy-no-friends, and not very good at team sports. He would have been thought of as a bit weird, and he would have secretly dreamed up vengeful scenarios for all the other Stoor hobbits, who completely ignored him. So, to cope with being so introverted and alienated, he became a collector, obsessed with the "roots and beginnings" of things. Objects became more important than people: at least they couldn't hurt him. Physically: I gave him a stoop from constantly looking down. I imagined him to be fairly narcissistic, spending hours fascinating himself by staring at his own reflection in the water while he fished. We decided to display this obsessive behavior through shiny pau shell buttons and little trophies of fish bones tied to his belt, as if he were adorning himself with fetishlike status symbols. Although he was dysfunctional, he was not evil or malicious, just, as the Travis Bickle character says of himself in Taxi Driver, full of "morbid self-attention.<ref>Andrew Serkis, [[Gollum: How We Made Movie Magic|''Gollum: How We Made Movie Magic'']] (London: HarperCollins, 2003), p. 58.</ref> </blockquote>While talking about ''[[The Hobbit]]'' in 16 September 2006, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] said they "have thought about it from time to time" and in fact "spent most of this morning" talking about the films. They talked of how "[[Elrond]], [[Galadriel]] and [[Arwen]] could all feature"<ref name=":11" /> and "[[Gollum]]'s sneaking into [[Mordor]] and [[Aragorn]] protecting [[The Shire]]. That's what we'd do. Love to work with [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] again".<ref name=":11">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/30085|articlename=Part 5: Quint and Peter Jackson talk THE HOBBIT and a potential return to low budget horror!!!|author=Eric Vespe|dated=16 September 2006|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]], hearing this remark in 2012, said it "sounds like a lot of fun".<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2012/03/13/54232-viggo-mortensens-visit-to-boston-part-2-new-video/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen’s visit to Boston – part 2 (new video!)|author=Greendragon|dated=13 March 2012|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref> At the time, [[Peter Jackson|Peter]] had a falling-out with [[New Line Cinema]] who had tipped Sam Raimi to direct both films.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2006/11/22/926-the-new-director-of-the-hobbit-is/|articlename=Sam Raimi to Direct Hobbit Movie??|author=xoanon|dated=22 November 2006|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref>

===During ''The Hobbit''===
Since the rights to [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']] were split with [[MGM|Metro Goldwyn-Mayer]], in March 2007 [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] pitched this to CEO Harry Sloan: he had already heard of it from [[New Line Cinema]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.ign.com/articles/2006/11/14/hobbit-crown-panther-news|articlename=Hobbit, Crown, Panther News|author=Anonymous|dated=15 Nov 2006|website=IGN}}</ref> but Sloan was won over by Jackson's pitch, which was apparently very detailed.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.kristinthompson.net/blog/2008/05/19/the-hobbit-films-pj-and-fw-know-every-scene-every-moment/|articlename=The Hobbit films: PJ and FW know “every scene, every moment”|author=Kristin Thompson|dated=19 May 2008|website=Kristinthompson.net}}</ref> By contrast, Shaye later said [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] "hasn't told us too much about it."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.screendaily.com/new-line-mgm-team-for-two-hobbit-movies-with-peter-jackson/4036350.article|articlename=New Line, MGM team for two Hobbit movies with Peter Jackson|author=Jeremy Kay|dated=18 December 2007|website=Screen Daily}}</ref>

By December, both films were moving forward with a budget of $150 million each: the idea was that [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]], [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] would write and produce and the films will be shot in 2009 for release in 2010 and 2011.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/del-toro-doubles-up-hobbit-103547/|articlename=Del Toro doubles up for ‘Hobbit’|author=Borys Kit|dated=28 January 2008|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> Robert Shaye, Michael Lynne and [[Mark Ordesky]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://variety.com/2008/film/columns/shaye-kept-new-line-afloat-1117982001/|articlename=Shaye kept New Line afloat|author=Anne Thompson|dated=7 March 2008|website=Variety}}</ref> were attached as executive producers until February, when they were replaced by Toby Emmerich (previously head of production since 2001) and Carolyn Blackwood. Actor [[Ian McKellen|Ian Mckellen]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2008/mar/26/lordoftherings.jrrtolkien|articlename=Hard Hobbit to break: McKellen set for return as Gandalf|author=Anonymous|dated=26 March 2008|website=The Guardian}}</ref> assistant Matthew Dravitzky,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://if.com.au/guillermo-wants-old-buddies-to-join-him-on-the-hobbit/|articlename=Guillermo wants old buddies to join him on The Hobbit|author=Anonymous|dated=23 March 2009|website=IF FX}}</ref> composer [[Howard Shore]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/09/28/30045-howard-shore-is-working-on-hobbit-score/|articlename=Howard Shore is Working on Hobbit Score|author=28 September 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/02/24/28408-howard-shore-talks-hobbit-in-switzerland/|articlename=Howard Shore Talks ‘Hobbit’ in Switzerland|author=Calisuri|dated=24 February 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref>, [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]]<ref name=":38">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/10/22/30352-del-toro-interview-part-3-%E2%80%9Ci-love-new-zealand%E2%80%9D/|articlename=Del Toro Interview Part 3: “I Love New Zealand!”|author=Xoanon|dated=22 October 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> and [[Wētā FX|Weta FX]]<ref name=":37" /> were attached to the project. Although [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] hadn't ruled out directing - he later aired the notion of shooting second unit<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20081012042437/http://moviesblog.mtv.com/2008/10/08/guillermo-del-toro-to-fly-solo-on-hobbit-directing-duties-says-no-to-peter-jackson-assist/|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro To Fly Solo On ‘Hobbit’ Directing Duties, Says No To Peter Jackson Assist|author=Shawn Adler|dated=8 October 2008|website=MTV}}</ref><ref name=":17" /> - he soon picked [[Guillermo del Toro]] to direct.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/01/30/28331-torn-exclusive-del-toro-%e2%80%9c99-percent-certain%e2%80%9d-says-nl-insider/|articlename=TORN exclusive: Del Toro “99 percent certain” says NL insider.|author=MrCere|dated=30 January 2008|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref>

Subsequently, actors [[Andy Serkis]],<ref name=":17" /> [[Ian Holm]]<ref name=":15">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080501020820/http://www.mtv.com/movies/news/articles/1586421/story.jhtml|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro Addresses 'Hobbit' Fans' Concerns, Talks Possible Casting|author=Shawn Adler, Josh Horowitz|dated=28 April 2008|website=Premiere.com}}</ref>; concept artists [[Alan Lee]] and [[John Howe]]; prosthetics supervisor [[Gino Acevedo]]<ref name=":37">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/04/25/28747-guillermo-del-toro-chats-with-torn-about-the-hobbit-films/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro Chats with TORN About ‘The Hobbit’ Films!|author=Xoanon|dated=25 April 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> were all attached. They had approached [[Grant Major]] but he declined<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=http://www.artstars.us/grant-major/8/|articlename=Grant Major|author=Tom Lisowski|dated=14 November 2011|website=Art Stars}}</ref> and hopped onboard ''Green Lantern'' with costume designer Ngila Dickson: they were substituted by [[Dan Hennah]]<ref name=":32">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/51948|articlename=An Unexpected Journey: Quint on the set of The Hobbit Part 3 – Beginnings and Endings|author=Eric Vespe|dated=14 November 2011|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> and Kate Hawley.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.whowhatwear.com/living/who-what-wear-podcast-kate-hawley|articlename=How the Frankenstein Costume Designer Brought the Film to Life|author=Madeline Hill|dated=17 November 2025|website=Who What Wear}}</ref> Actors [[Martin Freeman]]<ref>In "The Road Back to Middle-earth", Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit'' (New Line Cinema: 2015), Philippa Boyens recalls proposing Freeman as Bilbo Baggins when she saw him at the 2003 BAFTAs.</ref> and [[Hugo Weaving]];<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.slashfilm.com/504115/guillermo-del-toro-confirms-hugo-weaving-for-the-hobbit-and-much-more/|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro Confirms Hugo Weaving For The Hobbit... And Much More|author=Brendon Connolly|dated=11 June 2009|website=Slash Film}}</ref> as well as [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]]'s regular collaborators (including artists Wayne Barlowe and Francisco Ruiz Velasco<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20081201164150/http://bilbohobbit.com/del-toro-talks-hobbit-in-live-chat/|articlename="Del Toro talks 'Hobbit' in Live Chat"|author=Alex|dated=27 November 2008|website=BilboHobbit.com}}</ref>) were also being sought beginning at this time.

"We got really excited," said [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]], "because this second film is not a ‘tag on’, it’s not ‘filler,’ it’s an integral part of telling the story of those 50 years of history lost in the narrative".<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://theplaylist.net/60-year-period-between-hobbi-20080425/|articlename=60-Year Period Between ‘The Hobbit’ & ‘Fellowship’ For Hobbit Sequel Suddenly Gone? Or Not?|author=Rodrigo Perez|dated=25 April 2008|website=The Playlist}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.gamesradar.com/guillermo-del-toro-talks-hobbit-and-more/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro talks Hobbit and more|author=Anonymous|dated=25 April 2008|website=Total Film}}</ref> Although he had a radical new vision for the designs in the first film, <ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080915124607/http://www.premiere.com/features/4642/exclusive-guillermo-del-toro-on-hellboy-ii-page4.html|articlename=Exclusive: Guillermo del Toro on 'Hellboy II'|author=Anonymous|website=Premiere}}</ref> [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] intended to use the second film to affect a gradual change of style towards that of [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]: "We have to recreate a lot of the stuff they did on the [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|trilogy]]," he said: helpfully, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had kept the [[Bag End]] and [[Rivendell]] sets, and they set about rebuilding [[Hobbiton]].<ref name=":32" />

[[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] also rewatched the extended editions with [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]], [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] and intended to watch the making-ofs, dailies "the camera reports... everything," particularly for ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080914124349/http://www.comingsoon.net/news/nycomicconnews.php?id=44254|articlename=EXCL: Del Toro on Hellboy II and The Hobbit|author=Edward Douglas|dated=21 April 2008|website=Coming Soon.net}}</ref> The remastering of ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'' was also begun around this time. This was done because [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] felt that it "has to evolve into the lensing, the color palette, the texture palette, and the feel of the [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|trilogy]]…"<ref name=":13">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/37428|articlename=Quint and Guillermo del Toro chat about HELLBOY II, THE HOBBIT and more!!!|author=Eric Vespe|dated=12 July 2008|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> partially for this purpose, a break was to be scheduled partway through the shoot,<ref name=":31">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080712175117/http://www.ifmagazine.com/feature.asp?article=2879|articlename=GUILLERMO DEL TORO ESCAPES 'LABYRINTH' AND ENDS RIGHT BACK INTO 'HELLBOY'|author=Carl Cortez|dated=9 July 2008|website=iFMagazine}}</ref> which was estimated at over 370 days.<ref name=":31" />

[[Guillermo del Toro|Guillermo]] insisted the second film would add to the series.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wReRe8Si2aU|articlename=Guillermo del Toro: RT's Dinner & the Movies Interview Pt 5|author=OCR|dated=11 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> He said "it’s also expanding and illuminating some of the aspects of the trilogy in a slightly different way, like same characters in a different environment. I find that very attractive."<ref name=":13" /> The idea was that the first film would be a retelling of [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']], including the bulk of the [[Dol Guldur]] storyline, up to [[Smaug]]'s death: the second would wrap-up the remainder of [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']] in its first half, and concern itself with the Hunt for [[Gollum]] and other "bridging" plot threads in its second half.<ref name=":14">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20120831093447/http://moviesblog.mtv.com/2008/10/07/hobbit-films-will-be-one-continuous-journey-promises-guillermo-del-toro/|articlename='Hobbit' Films Will Be One 'Continuous Journey,' Promises Guillermo Del Toro|author=Shawn Adler|dated=7 October 2008|website=MTV}}</ref>

Although [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] predicted the second film would require the most work,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2P0dTo0yNpQ|articlename=THE HOBBIT 1 & 2 MOVIE UPDATE|author=ReelzChannel|dated=7 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> both he<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JVHzVKy_F8w|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro talks about Hobbit Movie|author=Brettmartintv|dated=7 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] showed a particular eagerness towards it, with [[Guillermo del Toro|Guillermo]] calling it a "treasure trove of possibilities."<ref name=":16">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080915084029/http://www.mtv.com/movies/news/articles/1590278/story.jhtml|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro Answers 'Hobbit' Fans' Questions About Returning 'Rings' Cast, Religion And More|author=Shawn Adler|dated=2 July 2008|website=MTV}}</ref> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] was also "really looking forward to developing Film Two. It gives us a freedom that we haven't really had on our [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] journey."<ref name=":17" /> [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] concluded that "the promise of that land is absolutely mind-boggling!"<ref name=":16" />

Referring specifically to [[Gollum]]'s part in the events, [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] said "[[Gollum]] has a rather fascinating arch to go through and his alliance to [[Shelob]] or his period of imprisonment in [[Thranduil]]'s". [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] added that "There's an awful lot of incident that happens during that 60 year gap. At this stage, we're not imagining a film that literally covers 60 years, like a bio-pic or documentary. We would figure out what happens during that 60 years, and choose one short section of time to drop in and dramatise for the screen". Both filmmakers said they agreed that "apart from extreme circumstances, we would never recast a character who appeared in the [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|LOTR trilogy]]".<ref name=":17">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080730161821/http://www.wetanz.com/holics/index.php?itemid=695&catid=2|articlename=An Unexpected Party Chat|author=Anonymous|dated=30 July 2008|website=Weta Workshop website}}</ref> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] later remarked that, in some cases, they'd sooner write around a character than recast the part.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/41848|articlename=Comic-Con '09: Peter Jackson talks to Capone about DISTRICT 9, THE HOBBIT, and the state of the film industry!!!|author="Capone"|dated=28 July 2009|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref>

As of the formulation of these comments in July, [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] said the second film is "too early"<ref name=":13" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5YoRDF12aRc|articlename=GDT the Hobbit 1|author=Garfeimao TheOneRing|dated=14 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> in its development process to know precisely what it might entail, estimating that it would take six months to formulate the storyline for the film.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.ign.com/articles/2008/07/09/exclusive-gdt-on-the-hobbit|articlename=Exclusive: GDT on The Hobbit|author=Eric Moro and Stax|dated=10 July 2008|website=IGN}}</ref> By September, however, [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] claimed they "found what reverberated."<ref name=":14" /> [[Guillermo del Toro|Guillermo]] had expressed reservations about the term "bridge film" from the outset, but by now he and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] disabused of the term completely, having come to see the films as five undifferentiated parts of a greater whole.

Although they apparently made an outline,<ref name=":15" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/10/16/30296-guillermo-del-toro-i%e2%80%99m-so-voracious-about-the-hobbit/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro: “I’m so voracious about The Hobbit!”|author=Xoanon|dated=16 October 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> it seems the film went no further than this. Up until this point, del Toro had been video-conferencing with Jackson and the other collaborators, meeting in person every three weeks.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://variety.com/2008/film/features/guillermo-del-toro-booked-thru-2017-1117991560/|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro booked thru 2017|author=Michael Fleming|dated=3 September, 2008|website=Variety}}</ref> By the time he arrived to concentrate on writing the story treatment in November 2008<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=http://newboards.theonering.net/forum/gforum/perl/gforum.cgi?post=147373;guest=501771554#147373|articlename="Hola"|author=Guillermo del Toro|dated=8 November 2008|website=The One Ring Discussion Boards}}</ref><ref>Alfio Leotta, ''Peter Jackson'' (London: Bloomsbury Publishing, 2015), p. 196.</ref> the contents of the "bridge" film were being gradually edged-out by the contents of ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]],'' to the point that by the time the completed treatment was greenlit in April 2009<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2009/08/03/32999-peter-jackson-speaks/|articlename=Peter Jackson speaks|author=MrCere|dated=3 August 2009|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref> the films could only be described as a two-part adaptation of ''[[The Hobbit]],'' albeit with elements of the bridge film "integrated''."''<ref>Anonymous, "The Hobbit: Gollum, Bilbo, del Toro and Jackson," ''Empire'', April 2009.</ref> Although [[John Howe]] apparently sent [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] some sketches,<ref name=":38" /> and [[Howard Shore]] had musical ideas,<ref>TheOneRing, Hobbit Desolation of Smaug Music Commentary Watch Along, ''YouTube'', 29 July 2020. Esp. 1:12:15. One such musical idea dates back to the composition of ''The Fellowship of the Ring:'' the flat sixth setting of the Hobbits' bassline that's heard when Gandalf glimpses Thorin's map: Howard was saving that as a "portent of an adventure" towards a potential adaptation of The Hobbit, but by the stage of discussing with del Toro he would have realized it would be applicable to the "bridge" film as well.</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/30722|articlename=ScoreKeeper Talks To Howard Shore About THE TWO TOWERS Complete Recordings, THE HOBBIT, And More!!|author=Merrick|dated=16 November 2006|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> no more work was done on the bridge film. At this time, a [[The Hunt for Gollum|fan film on the same subject was released]], followed shortly by [[Born of Hope|a fan film about Aragorn's errantries]]. The latter of this gained a measure of approbation from [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s camp.

Even so, elements of the bridge film clung to the project for a long time: in 2013 [[Philippa Boyens]] said that "When we started structuring this trilogy we honestly thought about telling some of that. How [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]] becomes the uncle of [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] and take care of him. The story of [[Gollum]]…"<ref name=":9" /> Casting calls had been issued for the roles of [[Primula Brandybuck]] and [[Drogo Baggins]]:<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20201024010428/http://www.movies.spoilertv.com/2010/01/hobbit-casting-call.html#ixzz0btnyJvCI|articlename=Hobbit - Official Casting Call and Plot Details|author=DarkUFO|dated=4 January 2010|website=SpoilerTV}}</ref> While Caroline Grace-Cassidy was considered for [[Primula Brandybuck|Primula]], [[Ryan Gage]] was cast in the role of [[Drogo Baggins|Drogo]] and remained attached to it well into shooting, only being recast as [[Alfrid]] around May.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/cate-blanchett-revisiting-rings-role-57193/|articlename=Cate Blanchett Revisiting ‘Rings’ Role In ‘Hobbit’|author=Gregg Kilday|dated=7 December 2010|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]]'s cameo, which was originally rumoured to include him "moving to live at [[Bag End]] after the untimely drowning of [[Drogo Baggins|Drogo]] and [[Primula Brandybuck|Primula]]" was probably rewritten into its present form around that time.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=theonering.net/torwp/2014/03/25/87789-how-would-have-peter-jacksons-the-hobbit-looked-as-a-duology/|articlename=How would have Peter Jackson’s The Hobbit looked as a duology?|author=Demosthenes|dated=25 March 2014|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> They had scouted locations for the [[Barrow-downs|Barrow Downs]], possibly with a connection to the aforementioned "[[Aragorn]] protecting the [[The Shire|Shire]]" plot point.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://narniafans.com/2019/08/interview-with-narnia-conceptual-designer-john-howe/|articlename=Interview with Narnia Conceptual Designer John Howe|author=David Sutton|dated=18 August 2019|website=Narnia Fans.com}}</ref> More scenes were planned for the [[Dol Guldur]] story and the [[Orcs]]: they had gone as far as designing a young [[Gothmog (Lieutenant of Morgul)#Gothmog in adaptations|Gothmog]] who would participate in the concluding battle, but didn't utilize him.<ref name=":0" />

Another storyline concerned Itarille (later [[Tauriel]]) and her romance with an Elf lord of [[Rivendell]]: clearly an outgrowth of the original idea of featuring [[Arwen]] in the film. [[Aidan Turner]] seems to have read for the part of this Elf Lord. Indeed, Jackson recalled in 2015 that "We did try to figure out a way to get a cameo, even if it was a cameo, for [[Aragorn]] and actually for [[Arwen]], too: we tried to have [[Liv Tyler]] in the film".<ref name=":0" /> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] remarked in 2013 that they envisioned [[Aragorn]] being "quite young" in the film, but concluded that [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] "could have absolutely played" him at the time. "It was incredibly tempting."<ref name=":39">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TapH7wM8MdI&t=85s|articlename=Philippa Boyens ci parla delle scene tagliate dello Hobbit: la Desolazione di Smaug e di... Aragorn!|author=Badtaste|dated=11 December 2013|website=YouTube}}</ref> It's unclear when the idea finally died out: the scene "invoking [[Aragorn]]" was scripted in early 2013, as a "homage" to their earlier plans.

[[Viggo Mortensen]] had been interested in the project since 2007.<ref name=":43">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/09/18/29885-viggo-mortensen-still-waiting-for-guillermo-del-toro%E2%80%99s-%E2%80%98hobbit%E2%80%99-call/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen Still Waiting For Guillermo Del Toro’s ‘Hobbit’ Call|author=Xoanon|dated=18 September 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref name=":44" /> Although it was reported that [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] had held conversations with him<ref name=":43" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thetimes.com/uk/law/article/hobbit-movies-meet-dire-foe-in-son-of-tolkien-lxnpmnsd2rp|articlename=Hobbit movies meet dire foe in son of Tolkien|author=John Harlow|dated=25 May 2008|website=The Times}}</ref> these appear to have not taken place before 2010. In 2008 [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] said he would "rather do it myself than see another actor finish the job for me,"<ref name=":44" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/12/17/30804-tv-watch-viggo-mortensen-on-night-talk/|articlename=TV Watch: Viggo Mortensen on ‘Night Talk’|author=Xoanon|dated=17 December 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/39305|articlename=Capone has a GOOD chat with Viggo Mortensen about politics, THE ROAD, APPALOOSA, and THE HOBBIT!!!|author=Steve Prokopy|dated=11 May 2009|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> saying "it would be fun."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://ohnotheydidnt.livejournal.com/41460224.html|articlename=Moviefone's Exclusive Viggo Mortensen Interview!|author=Anonymous|dated=25 November 2009|website=Moviefone}}</ref> Other actors from [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'']] have also expressed interest in appearing in the film, including [[Liv Tyler]], <ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2011/03/21/42863-liv-tyler-not-contacted-for-hobbit/|articlename=Liv Tyler Not Contacted For Hobbit|author=DiveTwin|dated=21 March 2011|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> [[Cate Blanchett]],<ref name=":16" /> [[Dominic Monaghan]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.firstshowing.net/2009/dominic-monaghan-ready-to-return-for-the-hobbit-movies/|articlename=Dominic Monaghan Ready to Return for The Hobbit Movies?|author=Brandon Lee Tenney|dated=19 January 2009|website=First Showing}}</ref> [[Sean Astin]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2009/03/10/31356-astin-up-for-hobbit-if-hobbit-up-for-him/|articlename=Astin up for Hobbit if Hobbit up for him|author=Xoanon|dated=10 March 2009|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref name=":44" /> [[John Noble]] and [[Sean Bean]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.digitalspy.com/movies/a434476/sean-bean-on-the-hobbit-absence-theyre-sticklers-for-detail/|articlename=Sean Bean on 'The Hobbit' absence: 'They're sticklers for detail'|author=Emma Dibdin|dated=30 October 2012|website=Digital Spy}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://theplaylist.net/viggo-mortensen-optimistic-about-role-20090401/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen Optimistic About Role In Del Toro’s ‘Hobbit’, Project Extends To A Trilogy?|author=Simon Dang|dated=1 April 2009|website=The Playlist}}</ref> [[Christopher Lee]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://whatculture.com/film/christopher-lee-wants-sarumann-return-in-the-hobbit|articlename=Christopher Lee wants Saruman return in THE HOBBIT|author=Matt Holmes|dated=25 June 2011|website=WhatCulture}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5qGFbBNnodw&t=77s|articlename=Christopher Lee about possibly returning to Middle Earth|author="Rushblogg"|dated=12 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> [[Brad Dourif]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/09/12/29751-brad-dourif-on-returning-to-middle-earth/|articlename=Brad Dourif on Returning to Middle-earth|author=Deej|dated=12 September 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> [[John Rhys-Davies]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/the-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy-makeup-difficulties-explained-john-rhys-davies/|articlename=John Rhys-Davies Reveals Gruesome Makeup Process for Gimli in The Lord of the Rings [Exclusive]|author=Aidan Kelley and Steven Weintraub|dated=9 August 2025|website=Collider}}</ref> and [[Elijah Wood]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/11/16/30565-elijah-hobbit-appearance-concievably-possible/|articlename=Elijah – Hobbit appearance ‘concievably possible’|author=Altaira|dated=16 November 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.firstshowing.net/2008/elijah-wood-confirms-dual-hobbit-movie-details/|articlename=Elijah Wood Confirms Dual Hobbit Movie Details|author=Alex Billington|dated=11 January 2008|website=First Showing}}</ref>

Around 2010, [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] recieved an availability call<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2013/may/28/viggo-mortensen-interview|articlename=Viggo Mortensen interview: 'If I think a film's beyond me – that's a good sign'|author=Imogen Tilden|dated=28 May 2013|website=The Guardian}}</ref> from [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]: "I said sure, if [[Aragorn]] is supposed to be in the bridge story, because he’s not in [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']]."<ref name=":1">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2013/05/30/72294-viggo-turned-down-role-as-aragorn-not-so-fast/|articlename=Viggo ‘Turned Down’ Role as Aragorn? Not so fast…|author=Newsfrombree|dated=30 May 2013|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.wired.com/2012/03/viggo-mortensen-speaks-2/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen Speaks: Part 2 of 3|author=Ethan Gilsdorf|dated=11 March 2012|website=Wired.com}}</ref> Informed that they "can take certain liberties" he said he'd "love to revisit him."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/films/features/viggo-mortensen-interview-captain-fantastic-lord-of-the-rings-aragorn-hobbit-david-cronenberg-a7231826.html|articlename=Viggo Mortensen interview: 'I didn't throw Peter Jackson under the bus'|author=Jacob Stolworthy|dated=23 January 2017|website=The Independent}}</ref> However, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] later revealed that since that call, they "could think of no way of doing it".<ref name=":0" /> Having no further contact, and knowing that "[[Orlando Bloom]] and [[Cate Blanchett]] shot something,"<ref name=":44">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://viggo-works.com/?fromday=1&frommonth=6&fromyear=2006&today=25&tomonth=2&toyear=2026&order=date&page=243&selectedcat=262&ascdesc=DESC&filter=Go&m=on|articlename=Viggo Mortenson Dangerous Method Interview|author=Anonymous|dated=25 November 2011|website=Movies.com}}</ref>[[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] concluded in November 2011 that "[[Aragorn]] is half [[Elves|elf]] [sic] and also lives a couple hundred years or more and he could be in a bridge, but I have to assume it isn't going to happen".<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reuters.com/article/lifestyle/rings-actor-mortensen-unlikely-to-repeat-role-idUSTRE7AM2U9/|articlename="Rings" actor Mortensen unlikely to repeat role|author=Kurt Orzeck|dated=24 November 2011|website=Reuters}}</ref> Although he still has misgivings - "It would make sense if Aragorn was part of the story and he's not"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.scotsman.com/arts-and-culture/interview-viggo-mortensen-is-lord-of-all-things-1573949|articlename=Interview: Viggo Mortensen is lord of all things|author=Chitra Ramaswamy|dated=25 May 2013|website=The Scotsman}}</ref> - he said he would still be open to playing [[Aragorn]] "if it seemed sensible to do so".<ref name=":1" />

===After ''The Hobbit''===

Conversations about making the "bridge film" as a third instalment<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.firstshowing.net/2009/guillermo-del-toro-updates-on-the-hobbit/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro Briefly Talks More About The Hobbit Split|author=Alex Billington|dated=5 June 2009|website=First Showing}}</ref> continued well into 2010:<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://geeksofdoom.com/2009/08/19/bridge-between-the-hobbit-lord-of-the-rings-still-to-be-built-peter-jackson-to-direct-third-movie|articlename=[Updated] Bridge Between ‘The Hobbit’ & ‘Lord Of The Rings’ Still To Be Built? Peter Jackson To Direct Third Movie?|author="The Movie God"|dated=19 August 2009|website=Geeks of Doom}}</ref> In 2012, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had revealed that "a third movie has always been in discussion."<ref>Michael Pellerin, "The Clouds Burst", Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies'' (New Line Cinema: 2015).</ref> These conversations resumed - now with the film situated as a fourth movie - as [[The Hobbit (film series)|''The Hobbit'']] was winding down in 2013. Says [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]]: "There’s enough story there to make a bridge movie, you know, there’s 60 years between ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'' and a lot of things happened."<ref name=":9">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.heyuguys.com/interview-peter-jackson-the-hobbit-the-desolation-of-smaug/|articlename=The HeyUGuys Interview: The Hobbit director Peter Jackson all but rules out a return to Middle Earth|author=Stefan Pape|dated=13 December 2013|website=HeyUGuys}}</ref> In the director's commentary to ''[[The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies|The Battle of the Five Armies]]'' in 2015, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] remained open to the idea of making more films, and mused about what Jackson jokingly calls "A fictitious film 3.5" which [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] goes on to call "The Hunt for Gollum".<ref name=":0">Peter Jackson, Philippa Boyens, "Director's Commentary," Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies'' (New Line Cinema: 2015).</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] said it could include "a few other things that go on which are really interesting" like [[Saruman]]'s search for the [[The One Ring|Ring]]. She elaborates:<blockquote>''[[Aragorn]] really is one who tracks Gollum and ends up...and finds him eventually in the [[Dead Marshes]], and he's taken [[Woodland Realm|to the Elves]]. And he's taken to the Elves, and because of the kindness of the Elves - and [[Legolas]] is one of his keepers... in [[Mirkwood]], and through their kindness he actually manages to escape. Or has he escaped? Or was he let loose?''<ref name=":0" /></blockquote>[[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had kept the possibility of returning to [[Middle-earth]] open<ref name=":0" /> but [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] revealed that they "had zero expectations of going back to this."<ref name=":7">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2024/05/the-lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-peter-jackson-andy-serkis-philippa-boyens-explain-23-years-after-cannes-saved-original-trilogy-1235917510/|articlename=Peter Jackson, Andy Serkis & Philippa Boyens Explain Why They’re Returning To Middle-Earth For ‘The Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum’ 23 Years After Cannes Saved The Billion-Dollar Franchise|author=Mike Fleming Junior|dated=15 May 2024|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://uk.movies.yahoo.com/don-t-expect--the-hobbit-3--to-lead-directly-into--the-lord-of-the-rings-140402150.html|articlename=The Hobbit 3 won't lead into The Lord of the Rings|author=Tom Butler|dated=11 December 2013|website=Yahoo Entertainment UK}}</ref> Their ultimate decision to return to this premise may have been stirred, in part, by other projects: first, Jackson had seen the in-development video game ''[[Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor|Shadow of Mordor]],'' on which [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]] and others from Jackson's crew had worked, and which had nestled itself into the gap between ''[[The Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]].''<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.ign.com/articles/2014/02/20/why-lord-of-the-rings-fans-should-be-excited-for-shadow-of-mordor|articlename=Why Lord of the Rings Fans Should Be Excited for Shadow of Mordor|author=Luke Karmali|dated=20 February 2014|website=IGN}}</ref>

Shortly afterwards, when the [[Tolkien Estate]] (still nominally under [[Christopher Tolkien]]) shopped the television rights, the idea of doing a show about young [[Aragorn]] was pitched, first by Netflix, and then - at the suggestion of the Russo brothers<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-features/the-rings-of-power-showrunners-interview-season-2-1235233124/|articlename=‘The Rings of Power’ Showrunners Break Silence on Backlash, Sauron and Season 2|author=James Hibberd|dated=5 October 2022|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> - by [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon Prime Video]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=http://newboards.theonering.net/forum/gforum/perl/gforum.cgi?post=946980;sb=post_time;so=DESC;forum_view=forum_view_collapsed;guest=206510448#947231|articlename=If you will indulge me in a story|author="Uncle Iorlas"|dated=21 July 2018|website=The One Ring.net Message Boards}}</ref> Upon hearing this, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]]' mind immediately went to the period of the hunt: "If you're telling the [story of] him hunting [[Gollum]], you're getting closer to [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]]."<ref name=":21">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.fandom.com/articles/peter-jackson-lord-of-the-rings-series|articlename=Peter Jackson’s Tips For Casting Aragorn in Lord of the Rings TV Show|author=Kim Taylor-Foster|dated=4 December 2018|website=Fandom.com}}</ref> She and Jackson had also expressed interest in the potential of [[Aragorn]]'s younger days and life in [[Rivendell]]: "He's probably going to have to start young,"<ref name=":21" /> remarked Boyens, concluding that "A lot of the early [[Aragorn]] story hasn't been told."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.stuff.co.nz/entertainment/film/108970711/philippa-boyens-on-mortal-engines-hobbits-and-going-solo|articlename=Philippa Boyens on Mortal Engines, Hobbits and going solo|author=Philip Matthews|dated=16 December 2018|website=Stuff.nz}}</ref> [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortesen]] also got wind of the rumours and said he's open to reprising his role.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/viggo-mortensen-interview-falling-lord-of-the-rings/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen on Falling, Directing, and LOTR TV Show Interest|author=Christina Radish|dated=14 February 2021|website=Collider}}</ref>

Toby Emmerich and Carolyn Blackwood from [[New Line Cinema]] were brought into the fold in the hopes of cooperating on the show. In early 2018 lawyer Peter Nelson set-up "dialogue between [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon]]" to participate as executive producer.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/how-lord-rings-tv-series-landed-at-amazon-not-netflix-1099213/|articlename=Inside Amazon’s $250M ‘Lord of the Rings’ Deal: “It’s Very Much a Creature of the Times”|author=Tatiana Siegel|dated=5 April 2018|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20210308114202/https://www.herr-der-ringe-film.de/v3/de/news/tolkienfilme/news_121920.php|articlename=Exklusiv: Zu den Kulissen der HERR DER RINGE Serie, Her Der Ringe Film (archived).|author=Cirdan|dated=20 June 2018|website=Herr der Ringe.de}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.stuff.co.nz/entertainment/celebrities/108520139/sir-peter-jackson-hasnt-given-up-hope-of-making-the-dam-busters|articlename=Sir Peter Jackson hasn't given up hope of making The Dam Busters|author=James Croot|dated=12 November 2018|website=NZStuff}}</ref> Preoccupied with ''Mortal Engines'' and ''They Shall Not Grow Old'', [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] proposed in June 2018 to review the scripts and put "the creative team together."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://de.ign.com/tv/129313/interview/peter-jackson-ist-fur-das-kreative-team-hinter-der-herr-der-ringe-serie-verantwortlich|articlename=Peter Jackson ist für das kreative Team hinter der Herr der Ringe-Serie verantwortlich|author=Valentin Aschenbrenner|dated=5 June 2018|website=IGN.de}}</ref> In July, Amazon landed on [[John D. Payne]] and [[Patrick McKay]] as showrunners, and before any work could be done, a regime change in [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon Prime Video]]<ref name=":19">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/peter-jackson-amazon-lord-of-the-rings-tv-series-1235193692/|articlename=Peter Jackson Says Amazon’s ‘Lord of the Rings’ TV Series Ghosted Him|author=James Hibberd|dated=5 August 2022|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> in early 2019 resulted in [[New Line Cinema]] being demoted to a "minority licensee stakeholder."<ref name=":20">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/lord-of-the-rings-amazon-vs-warner-bros-1235337625/|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings’: Amazon, Warner Bros. Ready for Tolkien Battle|author=James Hibberd|dated=28 February 2023|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> Although the showrunners had asked to meet [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]],<ref name=":19" /> COVID prevented this from taking place.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2022/02/10-burning-questions-about-amazons-the-rings-of-power?srsltid=AfmBOopmlhLKVkCtSqkuvTTAcUtyQUICWXopTWLQq_1tu4aEf1ICrDLp|articlename=10 Burning Questions About Amazon’s The Rings of Power|author=Joanna Robinson|dated=14 February 2022|website=Vanity Fair}}</ref> While the show used a substantial number of his crew, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] were reportedly "very frustrated that so many believed they were involved with [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon]]’s show."<ref name=":20" /> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had avoided watching the show to prevent "cross-contamination."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.slashfilm.com/1693866/why-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy-screenwriter-wont-watch-the-rings-of-power/|articlename=Why One Lord Of The Rings Trilogy Screenwriter Won't Watch The Rings Of Power|author=Jaron Pak|dated=21 October 2024|website=Slash Film}}</ref> Since then, the show had left [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s home country of [[New Zealand]].

Already in 2019, the show's development had galvanized Emmerich and Blackwood to pursue an animated film with [[Middle-earth Enterprises]] (who were not involved in the show) and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]. The bridge film might have been the "CG-animated" story that [[New Line Cinema|New Line]] "had been exploring with Sir [[Peter Jackson]]" but it failed to materialize and they decided to pursue ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim]]''<ref>Daniel Falconer, ''The Art of The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim'' (Wiliam Murrow: London, 2025), pp. 9-10.</ref>. Later on, Emmerich and Blackwood were replaced by Michael de Luca and Pam Abdy, who were "striving to keep [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon]] from blurring the lines too much between" the show and the films.<ref name=":20" /> Other projects like [[Tales of the Shire: A "The Lord of the Rings" Game|''Tales of the Shire'']], the remastering of the six films to Ultra High Definition and renovations of [[Hobbiton]] were begun shortly afterwards, as well.

After this long gestation period, ''The Hunt for Gollum'' entered development once again in 2022. [[Andy Serkis]] was attached as director in October 2023 and story meetings occurred as early as May 2024, along with early availability calls to actors like [[Ian McKellen]] and [[Viggo Mortensen]] between that time and early September. By that point, the writing of the treatment was underway, followed by the first draft in January-May. After some crew hiring in August, pre-production started in early September 2025 ahead of shooting in May 2026.

==Development==
In 2022 the new administration of [[Middle-earth Enterprises]] expressed a desire to make more films, including ones "based on iconic characters, such as [[Gandalf]], [[Aragorn]], [[Gollum]], [[Galadriel]], [[Éowyn|Eowyn]] and other characters."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/lord-of-the-rings-rights-embracer-1235201442/|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings,’ ‘The Hobbit’ Movie, Games and Other Rights Holder Sold to Swedish Gaming Company Embracer|author=Georg Szalai|dated=18 August 2022|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]], [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] kept updated throughout the negotiations to extend [[New Line Cinema]]'s lease on the rights.<ref name=":4" />

Having "really enjoyed working with [[Kenji Kamiyama]], who directed ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|War of the Rohirrim]]''," [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] signed on to produce two new films: [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] denied<ref name=":22" /> rumours that this involved splitting the [[Gollum]] story,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2024/05/lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-cast-plot-everything-we-know-1235919922/|articlename=‘The Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum’: Everything We Know So Far|author=Dessi Gomez|dated=16 May 2024|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://filmstories.co.uk/news/the-lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-its-two-films-says-ian-mckellen/|articlename=The Lord Of The Rings: Hunt For Gollum {{!}} “It’s two films” says Ian McKellen|author=Ryan Lambie|dated=11 September 2024|website=Film Stories}}</ref> and at various times her and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] expressed interest in subjects varying from the [[Battle of Dale|War in the North]], Young [[Aragorn]], or certain vignettes from [[Rohan]] or [[Gondor]]'s history, which are all possible for the second film.<ref name=":23">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1i97ctm/the_next_film_after_the_hunt_for_gollum/|articlename=The next film after The Hunt for Gollum: Everything we know so far|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=25 January 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> These are probably ''not'' the other two scripts [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had been working on, however.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.indiewire.com/news/general-news/peter-jackson-not-retired-working-on-three-scripts-1235138316/|articlename=Peter Jackson Is Working on Three Screenplays: ‘I’m Certainly Not Retired’|author=By Rance Collins|dated=13 July 2025|website=IndieWire}}</ref>

Signing on the films was done with the intention to jump-start a new slate of ''Lord of the Rings'' prequels for [[New Line Cinema]],<ref name=":18" /><ref name=":24" /> with [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also expressing interest in making an "epic trilogy", probably about the [[Angmar conflict|Angmar War]].<ref name=":23" /> However, having developed the [[Gollum]] premise for so long, they decided to start with it. Asked about unrealized projects in 2024, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] observed that "there's a lot of that in ''The Hunt for Gollum.''"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9LdzKS584wA&t=614s|articlename=Lord of the Rings: War of the Rohirrim Interviews! Peter Jackson Role Explained|author=Brandon Davis|dated=29 October 2024|website=YouTube}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis]], who played [[Gollum]], had directed second unit on ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King|The Return of the King]]'' and ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]<ref name=":7" />'' and had since become a director in his own right, as well as narrating audiobooks of Tolkien's novels. [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] approached [[Andy Serkis|Andy]] around October 2023.<ref name=":24">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ssUmmuU-Bmk&t=76s|articlename=Andy Serkis Talks Motion Capture, Gollum, and Directing {{!}} Superhero Comic Con San Antonio 2024 Q&A|author=Freeman Coliseum|dated=24 June 2024|website=YouTube}}</ref> While developing the story, they already made availability checks to key cast and crew members.

===Writing===
Story meetings have happened at least as early as May 2024<ref name=":7" /> and by July they were about to start writing,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/comconnireland/status/1835962321211904490|articlename=Andy Serkis took to the stage at Comic Con Northern Ireland to talk all things Lord of the Rings and more!|author=@comconnireland|dated=16 September 2024|website=Twitter}}</ref> with [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] spotted at the [[Hobbiton]] set in November with writers [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] and Arty Papageorgiou, producers [[Zane Weiner]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/05/lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-release-date-1236390022/|articlename=‘Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum’ Sets Pre-Christmas 2027 Release|author=Anthony D'Alessandro|dated=8 May 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> and Carlos Ramirez Laloli.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.elfenomeno.com/info/ver/23481/comienza-el-rodaje-de-el-senor-de-los-anillos-la-caza-de-gollum-en-hobbiton|articlename=¿Comienza el rodaje de El Señor de los Anillos: La Caza de Gollum en Hobbiton?|author=Elfenomeno|dated=6 November 2024|website=Elfenomeno.com}}</ref> By December they had been in the process of writing the story treatment.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/lord-of-the-rings-war-of-the-rohirrim-arty-papageorgiou-phoebe-gittins/|articlename="Who Better for a Gollum Film Than Gollum Himself?": 'War of the Rohirrim' Writers on Working with Andy Serkis in 'The Hunt for Gollum'|author=Therese Lacson|dated=16 December 2024|website=Collider}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] later estimated they would finish writing by the middle of the year - executive Pamela Abdy since put the completion of the script at May<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/04/warner-bros-mike-de-luca-pam-abdy-courage-in-face-of-brutal-press-coverage-1236366618/|articlename=Warner Bros’ Mike De Luca & Pam Abdy: Playing Long Game, Mixing IP Like ‘Bodyguard’ Revamp & Bold Originals & Animation Despite Brutal Press|author=Mike Fleming Junior|dated=11 April 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> - and begin "scouting locations and building [sets]" with shooting due to begin towards the beginning of 2026.<ref name=":5">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.1news.co.nz/2024/12/15/exclusive-andy-serkis-philippa-boyens-on-the-hunt-for-gollum/|articlename=Exclusive: Andy Serkis, Philippa Boyens on new Lord of the Rings film|author=Abbey Wakefield|dated=15 December 2024|website=1News}}</ref> As a result, the release date for the film was ultimately delayed from 2026 to 17 December 2027.<ref name="TheDirect2027Release">{{webcite|author=Klein Felt|articleurl=https://thedirect.com/article/hunt-for-gollum-movie-lord-of-the-rings-release-official|articlename=Lord of the Rings: Hunt for Gollum Movie Gets Release Window from Andy Serkis|dated=27 Feb 2025|website=[https://thedirect.com The Direct]|accessed=27 Feb 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://variety.com/2025/film/news/lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-release-date-december-2027-1236390820/|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum’ Sets December 2027 Release Date; Warner Bros. Also Dates New ‘Evil Dead’ and M. Night Shyamalan Movies for 2026|author=Zack Sharf|dated=8 May 2025|website=Variety}}</ref>

A draft of the screenplay had been sent to de Luca and Abdy in May, probably prior to the investor meeting on the 8th, when [[Warner Bros.|Warner]]'s CEO David Zaslav announced the official release date.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://voicefilm.com/david-zaslav-announces-that-the-release-date-for-the-next-lord-of-the-rings-movie-will-be-revealed-today/|articlename=David Zaslav Announces That the Release Date for the Next ‘Lord of the Rings’ Movie Will Be Revealed Today|author=Mark|dated=8 May 2025|website=Voice Film}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.comicbasics.com/warner-ceo-david-zaslav-says-they-will-focus-more-on-their-main-ips-like-harry-potter-and-dc-in-the-future-those-belong-to-us-and-theyll-only-belong-to-us-forever/|articlename=Warner CEO David Zaslav Says They Will Focus More on Their Main IPs Like ‘Harry Potter’ and DC in the Future: “Those belong to us, and they’ll only belong to us forever.”|author=Arthur S. Poe|dated=8 May 2025|website=Comic Basics}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had since revealed that the film is due to start pre production in August<ref name=":33">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1krwz8d/andy_serkis_the_lord_of_the_rings_the_hunt_for/|articlename=Andy Serkis Panel at Fan Expo Philadelphia 2025|author=FandomWire News|dated=19 May 2025}}</ref> - when the film started hiring crew - then ammended to "late August to early September"<ref name=":18" />, with [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] ultimately arriving in [[Wellington]] circa 8 September to begin work on the film.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://metro.co.uk/2025/09/03/andy-serkis-admits-cant-escape-gollum-ahead-lord-rings-return-24066270/amp/|articlename=Andy Serkis admits he ‘can’t escape Gollum’ ahead of Lord of the Rings return|author=Sabrina Barr|dated=3 September 2025|website=Metro UK}}</ref> Serkis had left New Zealand during the holiday season, attending the premiere of "28 Years Later: The Bone Temple" before flying back to New Zealand: en rote he landed in Los Angeles.<ref name=":41">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.tmz.com/2026/01/20/andy-serkis-wants-original-lord-of-the-rings-cast-in-new-film/|articlename=LOTR' Star Andy Serkis: OG Cast Is Precious, Love 'Em For New Flick|author=Anonymous|dated=20 January 20 2026|website=TMZ}}</ref>

==Pre production==
[[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had further said preproduction will last for six months,<ref name=":27">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.comingsoon.it/cinema/news/in-un-mondo-alla-deriva-gollum-ci-salvera-la-nostra-intervista-ad-andy/n203564/|articlename=In un mondo alla deriva Gollum ci salverà: la nostra intervista ad Andy Serkis|author=Carola Proto|dated=25 June 2025|website=Coming Soon.it}}</ref> with [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] later confirming it will start filming in May<ref name=":12">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1msw9fp/the_lord_of_the_rings_the_hunt_for_gollum_starts/|articlename=The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum starts shooting in May, says Sir Ian McKellen. "I'll tell you two secrets about the casting..."|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=17 August 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> for an extended shooting period:<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-filming-update-andy-serkis/|articlename=Director Andy Serkis Offers Huge Filming Update For 'The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum' [Exclusive]|author=Chris McPherson and Steven Weintraub|dated=10 June 2025|website=Collider}}</ref> This puts the beginning of filming in [[New Zealand]] winter and, deducting the holidays, six months after [[Andy Serkis|Andy]]'s arrival. Location scouting may have taken place at Hawke's Bay as early as June<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1lis26w/a_location_scout_for_the_lord_of_the_rings_the/|articlename=A location scout for The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum seems to be snooping around Hawke's Bay, New Zealand|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=23 June 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> and later at the Waikato.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.waikatotimes.co.nz/nz-news/360837801/aliens-warriors-heroes-princesses-and-gollum-big-productions-filmed-and-possibly-coming-waikato|articlename=Aliens, warriors, heroes, princesses ... and Gollum: The big productions filmed in (and possibly coming to) the Waikato|author=Mike Mather|dated=1 October 2025|website=Waikato Times}}</ref> They had also watched the films sometime prior to November.<ref>Latino USA TV, "How Movie Monsters Are Really Made!", YouTube, 26 November 2025.</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] also spoke appreciatively of [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s penchant for behind the scenes extras,.<ref name=":33" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/gu1jj7/one_zoom_to_rule_them_all_reunited_apart_lord_of/|articlename=One Zoom to Rule Them All {{!}} Reunited Apart LORD OF THE RINGS Edition|author=Josh Gad|dated=31 May 2021|website=}}</ref> and [[Peter Jackson|Peter]] himself had since confirmed they will do "little blogs." In October, [[Andy Serkis|Andy]] revealed that they're developing prosthetics.<ref name=":34">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1og2b4p/andy_serkis_says_all_the_art_department_from_lord/|articlename=Andy Serkis says "all the art department" from Lord of the Rings are "excited to come back." They started location scouting and camera tests.|author=u/Lord_Varys92|dated=25 October 2024|website=Reddit}}</ref>

Since [[Elijah Wood]], slated to appear in the film, is on tour through to early September,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://parade.com/news/lord-of-the-rings-hobbits-25-years-later-reunion-tour|articlename=The Hobbits Are Back Together — and Their Big News Has Fans Cheering|author=Whitney Danhauer|dated=25 October 2025|website=Parade}}</ref> his scenes might be scheduled for [[New Zealand]] summer, which could suggest shooting ''in situ'' in [[Hobbiton]], presumably depicting [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] dallying outside [[Bag End]] while [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]] and [[Gandalf]] argue within, as depicted in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]''. [[Ian McKellen]] is also hoping to join the production in [[New Zealand as Middle-earth|New Zealand]] during July.<ref>The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, "There's Nothing I Enjoy More Than Acting In The Theater" - Ian McKellen EXTENDED INTERVIEW," ''YouTub''e, 5 February 2026.</ref>

===Crew===
The film, said to be "one of the most expensive feature films to be shot in [[New Zealand]]"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/new-lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-film-will-be-shot-in-nz-set-for-2027-release/3BDNB3QFKJDAVGB4ODOTQ63YLY/|articlename=New Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum film will be shot in NZ, set for 2027 release|author=Tom Rose|dated=18 June 2025|website=New Zealand Herald}}</ref> is expected to draft alums of the ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|Lord of the Rings]]'', ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|War of the Rohirrim]]'' (many of whom will have also worked on ''[[The Rings of Power]]'' Season One and other projects) working in the [[Wellington]] and greater New Zealand screen sector.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thepost.co.nz/nz-news/350274670/film-heavyweights-alight-over-lotr-comeback|articlename=Film heavyweights ‘alight’ over LOTR comeback|author=Rachel Thomas|dated=10 May 2024|website=The New Zealand Post}}</ref><ref name=":5" /> Crewing began in early August, with Wood since confirming the involvement of production designer [[Dan Hennah]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IX5NhkyQ710|articlename=Elijah Wood en Monterrey/ conferencia de la DesertCon|author=Asi SoyTv|dated=6 October 2025|website=YouTube}}</ref> and set decorator Ra Vincent might also be involved.<ref name=":34" /> Although [[Janet Brennan Croft|Janet Brennan-Croft]] acted as [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] consultant on previous films, Beppe Pezzini will fill this role for this film.<ref>Educational Media Services | University of Oxford, "Beppe Pezzini on Classics and Fantasy | Fantasy Summer School ‪@facultyofenglishoxford‬," ''YouTube'', 23 September 2025.</ref>

IMDb credits Bob Buck as ''a'' costume designer for the film: it remains to be seen if Ngila Dickson, having just wrapped ''Predator: Badlands'' with [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]], might return. Kate Hawley, who was attached to del Toro's version of the film, is unlikely to take part due to work on "Bad Bridgets."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/10/daisy-edgar-jones-emilia-jones-bad-bridgets-luckychap-1236604481/|articlename=Daisy Edgar-Jones And Emilia Jones To Star In ‘Bad Bridgets’ From LuckyChap|author=Justin Kroll|dated=31 October 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> Liz Mullane and Rachel Bullock head the New Zealand casting sweep. Both [[Wētā FX|WetaFX]] and [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]] are confirmed for the project,<ref name=":8">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt32328070/companycredits/?ref_=tt_dt_cmpy|articlename=The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum (2027)|author=Anonymous|website=IMDb}}</ref> as are [[Gino Acevedo]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.instagram.com/p/DRy30vUkme7/|articlename="Oh no!"|author=Ginoacevedofx|dated=3 December 2025|website=Instagram}}</ref> [[John Howe]] and [[Alan Lee]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://ggba.swiss/en/the-lord-of-the-rings-nature-and-switzerlands-hidden-history-a-conversation-with-john-howe/|articlename=The Lord Of The Rings, Nature and Switzerland’s Hidden History (A Conversation with John Howe)|author=Woody Wade|dated=10 December 2025|website=Greater Geneva Bern Area}}</ref> In April - by which point a composer was already said to be attached to the project - [[Howard Shore]] said he was interested to "see how that all works out."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.classical-music.com/articles/howard-shore|articlename=Howard Shore: the film composer behind Hannibal Lecter and Bilbo Baggins|author=Michael Beek|dated=16 April 2025|website=Classical Music.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://en.softonic.com/articles/the-composer-of-the-soundtrack-for-the-lord-of-the-rings-made-a-cameo-in-the-movies-and-no-one-noticed#google_vignette|articlename=The composer of the soundtrack for The Lord of the Rings made a cameo in the movies and no one noticed|author=Agencias|dated=26 December 2025|website=Softonic}}</ref>

As early as October, [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] suggested that they're "doing camera tests."<ref name=":34" /> This is said to include miniature photography, with Alex Funke said to participate, even if only in an advisory position. On the live action side, although Robert Richardson had been rumoured as camerman, he will be preoccupied with Antoine Fuqua's Hannibal epic.<ref name=":34" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.worldofreel.com/blog/2025/7/23/michael-part-1-delayed-to-april-2026|articlename=‘Michael’ Delayed to April 2026|author=Jordan Ruimy|dated=23 July 2025|website=World of Reel}}</ref> While the film was in the story conference stage in July 2024, Richardson said he had "a number" of projects "on the constantly-shifting horizon of the film industry."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.filmlightcolourawards.com/colour-awards-2024/jury-colour-awards-2024/robert-richardson-cinematographer-asc-ack/|articlename=Robert Richardson, Cinematographer, ASC, ACK|author=Anonymous|dated=18 July 2024|website=Film Light Colour Awards}}</ref>

The film is a co-production of [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s [[WingNut Films|WingNut films]] and [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]]' ''Imaginarium''. [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] will executive produce with his ''Imaginarium'' partner John Cavendish and Jackson's agent [[Ken Kamins]].<ref name="Gollum">{{webcite|author=Jennifer Maas|articleurl=https://variety.com/2024/film/news/lord-of-the-rings-movie-2026-release-warner-bros-1235997102/|articlename=Warner Bros. to Release New ‘Lord of the Rings’ Movie ‘The Hunt for Gollum’ in 2026, Peter Jackson to Produce and Andy Serkis to Direct|dated=9 May 2024|website=[https://variety.com/ Variety]|accessed=8 June 2024}}</ref> IMDb also credits studio chiefs Michael de Luca (who helped produce [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'']]), Pam Abdy and David Zaslav as executive producers<ref name=":8" /> and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] mentioned [[Warner Bros.|Warners]]' business consultant Alan Horn (who had produced ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]])'' as a collaborator, but these credits have yet to become official.<ref name=":7" />

===Cast===
With [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] due to star as [[Gollum]], approaches had been made to [[Ian McKellen|Sir Ian McKellen]]<ref name=":2">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2024/09/ian-mckellen-return-gandalf-new-the-lord-of-the-rings-films-1236075547/|articlename=Ian McKellen Reveals He’s Been Approached To Reprise His Role As Gandalf In Andy Serkis’ New ‘The Lord Of The Rings’ Films|author=Jake Kanter|dated=2 September 2024|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> and [[Viggo Mortensen]] to reprise [[Gandalf]] and [[Aragorn]], respectively. [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] said he's in talks to reprise "a little bit" of [[Gandalf]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.mirror.co.uk/3am/celebrity-news/sir-ian-mckellan-i-thought-36196617|articlename=EXCLUSIVE: Sir Ian McKellan: 'I thought I was a goner, but I'm coming back as Gandalf'|author=Marc Baker and Jackie Annett|dated=5 November 2025|website=The Mirror}}</ref> in [[New Zealand]].<ref name=":42">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thetimes.com/culture/tv-radio/article/ian-mckellen-an-ark-lowry-lord-of-the-rings-f9wc9nmdq|articlename=Ian McKellen at 86: ‘I’ve had to accept that I’m not immortal’|author=Jonathan Dean|dated=14 February 2026|website=The Times}}</ref> As of December, the contracts with [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] and [[Elijah Wood|Wood]] hadn't been finalized,<ref name=":40" /> but [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] expressed a desire to return to [[New Zealand]] for filming. [[Liv Tyler]], [[Evangeline Lilly]] and, especially, [[Orlando Bloom]] have also expressed interest in reprising their parts,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.nme.com/news/film/the-lord-of-the-rings-cast-say-they-would-jump-to-return-for-new-spin-off-movies-3853893|articlename=‘The Lord Of The Rings’ cast say they would “jump” to return for new spin-off movies|author=Damian Jones|dated=11 April 2025|website=NME}}</ref> while [[Dominic Monaghan]] expressed a desire to visit the set.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://nypost.com/2025/11/06/entertainment/dominic-monaghan-reveals-plans-for-next-lord-of-the-rings-movie/|articlename=Dominic Monaghan reveals big plans for next ‘Lord of the Rings’ movie — including possible return as Merry
By|author=Eric Todisco|dated=6 November 2025|website=New York Post}}</ref> [[Evangeline Lilly|Lilly]] had proceeded to do so, but indicated that she will have no further involvement with the project. [[Orcs]] are set to appear in the film, with [[Shane Rangi]] and [[Lawrence Makoare]] having reportedly been contacted.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/thelegacyofnerd/status/1979621220246344016|articlename=BREAKING: ‘The Hunt For Gollum’ Begins Filming in May 2026|author=@thelegacyofnerd|dated=8 October 2025|website=Twitter}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]]' comments about seeing the interiors of [[Barad-dûr|Barad Dur]] might suggest the involvement of [[Benedict Cumberbatch]].<ref name=":36">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lYYSsook-4Y|articlename=Philippa Boyens ('ESDLA: LA GUERRA DE LOS ROHIRRIM'): "Queríamos que se sintiera como algo nuevo"|author=eCartelera|dated=10 December 2024}}</ref>

[[Andy Serkis|Serkis]], [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had all spoke to [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]],<ref name=":3">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://theplaylist.net/the-war-of-the-rohirrim-philippa-boyens-on-the-new-anime-the-hunt-for-gollum-the-future-of-the-lord-of-the-rings-20241223/|articlename=‘The War Of The Rohirrim’: Philippa Boyens On The New Anime, ‘The Hunt For Gollum’ & The Future Of ‘The Lord of the Rings’|author=Rodrigo Perez|dated=23 December 2024|website=The Playlist}}</ref> who had previously said he'd be "open to it" if it makes sense for "the age I am now"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.gq-magazine.co.uk/article/viggo-mortensen-interview-2024|articlename=Viggo Mortensen re-used Aragorn's sword in new movie The Dead Don't Hurt “Because it's really good”|author=Rafael Motamayor|dated=28 May 2024|website=GQ}}</ref> but after [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] pitched it to him as "Digital make-up" they agreed he'd wait to read the script: With the approach to [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] happening sometime between June<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thetimes.com/culture/film/article/ian-mckellen-if-this-is-my-last-job-id-better-get-it-right-hadnt-i-n3t38g6tb|articlename=Ian McKellen: ‘When a script arrives, I think this might be my last job’|author=Dominic Maxwell|dated=8 June 2024|website=The Times of London}}</ref> and September,<ref name=":2" /> the approach to [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] may have taken place in mid-June, just prior to an interview in which [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] said "The script is the most important thing to me", seemingly no longer harping on the age quota.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/viggo-mortensen-lord-of-the-rings-script-feminism-1235935628/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen on Respecting Audiences, How Scripts Are Key “Unless I’m Broke,” New ‘LOTR’ Films|author=Georg Szalai|dated=30 June 2024|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] said they need to "drag" him.<ref name=":36" /> Mortensen also said he'd be interested in appearing in later film projects if they were "true to Tolkien."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.the-independent.com/arts-entertainment/films/news/viggo-mortensen-movies-interview-b2561237.html|articlename=Go to Bat with Viggo Mortensen: My films that deserve more love|author=Jacob Stolworthy|dated=7 June 2024|website=The Independent}}</ref>

While in London for ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]]'' premiere, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also "had lunch with an [[Elves|Elf]] lord" who "would fall into that story."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.instagram.com/nerdoftherings/reel/DDgKw47uxkJ/|articlename="Philippa Boyens teases an “elf lord” returning for Hunt for Gollum! "|author=Matt Graf|dated=12 December 2024|website=Instagram}}</ref> Although this could refer to [[Orlando Bloom|Bloom]] or even [[Marton Csokas]], [[Lee Pace]] is the most likely as he was shooting ''The Running Man'' in London at the time.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://people.com/glen-powell-films-running-man-reboot-37-years-after-arnold-schwarzenegger-movie-8745529|articlename=Glen Powell Films Running Man Remake in London 37 Years After Original Arnold Schwarzenegger Movie|author=Jen Juneau|dated=14 November 2024|website=People}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had since divulged that they expect "some of the cast who were originally in" ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'', as well as "some incredible new talent."<ref name=":28">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.jedinews.com/events/articles/indiana-comic-con-andy-serkis-full-panel/|articlename=Indiana Comic Con: Andy Serkis Full Panel|author=James Burns|dated=11 April 2025,|website=Jedi News}}</ref> [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] had since confirmed that [[Gandalf]] and [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]], surely to be played by himself and [[Elijah Wood|Wood]], are scheduled to reappear in the piece.<ref name=":12" />

Casting seems to have started in November,<ref name=":40">Steve Schofield ''et al'', "25 Years of Fellowship", ''Empire'' (March 2026), pp. 46-70.</ref> with young boys auditioning for the boy [[Gollum|Smeagol]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/KnightGambit/status/2011815291198849220|articlename=Small Tidbit.....|author=Caleb Williams|dated=16 January 2026|website=Twitter}}</ref> and two of his fellow [[Stoors|Stoor]] riverfolk - a young girl and a young adult boy - in what looks like a setup for [[Gollum|Smeagol]]'s preoccupation with a birtday present. Andy had since confirmed Aragorn will be "recast" but it's unclear exactly what this means. Actors in their early thirties auditioned for a young "[[Aragorn|Strider]]",<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://knightedgemedia.com/2026/01/the-hunt-for-gollum-casting-call-teases-young-strider-and-his-fellow-dunedain-rangers/#google_vignette|articlename=‘The Hunt for Gollum’ Casting Call Teases Young Strider and His Fellow Dúnedain Rangers|author=Caleb Williams|dated=16 January 2026|website=Knight Edge Media}}</ref> with 29-year old Leo Woodall reportedly tipped for the role.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://knightedgemedia.com/2026/03/rumor-leo-woodall-cast-as-strider-in-lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum/#google_vignette|articlename=RUMOR: Leo Woodall Cast as Strider in ‘Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum’|author=Caleb Williams|dated=7 March 2026|website=Knight Edge Media}}</ref> While there had been reports that the studio is not hoping to get Viggo<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/ViewerAnon/status/1998489358849159181?s=20|articlename=I can confirm this|author=ViewerAnon|dated=9 December 2025|website=Twitter}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had spoken about potentially having to "hand off"<ref name=":3" /> from [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]], and rumours had pointed to the inexpediency of the deaging.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://3dvf.com/en/a-cult-actor-from-the-lord-of-the-rings-on-the-departure-the-question-arises-for-the-prequel-dedicated-to-gollum/#google_vignette|articlename=A Cult Actor from The Lord of the Rings on the Departure? The Question Arises for the Prequel Dedicated to Gollum|author=Quentin Couprie|dated=13 December 2025|accessed=3DVF}}</ref> The age differential - Mortensen was 42 while shooting ''Lord of the Rings'' - may well suggest a cameo to either an old [[Aragorn|Elessar]] and/or the "mature" [[Aragorn]] of the [[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|''Fellowship of the Ring'']] era.''<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://medium.com/p/dcf21faf019e|articlename=The Hunt for Gollum and the Aragorn problem|author=Chen Geller|website=Medium}}</ref>'' [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had earlier spoke of meeting [[Aragorn]] when he was "quite young" in ''[[The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies|The Battle of the Five Armies]],'' but not so young that it didn't seem plausible to her to have [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] play him circa 2011''.<ref name=":39" />'' The audition scene, although not necessarily representative of the film, also implies the presence of the other [[Rangers of the North|Rangers]], perhaps including [[Halbarad]]. A younger Strider could also feature in a "Young Aragorn" picture.

Serkis had since reaffirrmed that he would "love the old cast" back.<ref name=":41" /> Other roles auditioned for include women in their thirties and fifities: the latter is said to be Smeagol's grandmother, now confirmed as a "lead" role, with Kate Winslet relocating to New Zealand for five months. The thirties' part<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://knightedgemedia.com/2026/03/the-hunt-for-gollum-lead-female-characters-casting-are-underway-exclusive/#google_vignette|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum’ Lead Female Characters Casting Are Underway (EXCLUSIVE)|author=Caleb Williams|dated=5 March 2026|website=Knight Edge Media}}</ref> is reportedly circled by Anya Taylor-Joy. Some presume this to be [[Arwen]], but if so the quota is older than [[Liv Tyler]], who was 23 at the time of [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'']].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://medium.com/@chenngeller/on-aragorn-and-other-castings-a6e55668fce9?postPublishedType=repub|articlename=On Aragorn, Stoors and other castings|author=Chen Geller|dated=11 March 2026|website=Medium}}</ref> Winslet had previously been considered, at least by the studio, for [[Éowyn|Eowyn]].

==Plotline==
The exact events the film covers remain undisclosed. There's ambiguity concerning both the exact timeframe for the film, and whether it will focus more on [[Gollum]] or [[Aragorn]]. An official "blurb" for the movie reads: "The pic explores [[Aragorn]]’s adventures as a [[Rangers of the North|ranger]], specifically his quest to capture [[Gollum]] between [[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]] and [[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|Fellowship of the Ring]], tracking him to keep the [[The One Ring|Ring]]’s location from [[Sauron|Sauron."]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2026/01/box-office-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy-25th-anniversary-1236689724/|articlename=‘Lord Of The Rings’ Trilogy 25th Anniversary Event Rings Up $11M In Worldwide Box Office|author=Anthony D'Alessandro|dated=19 January 2026|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> A more extended synopsis had also been circulating:<blockquote>Before the Fellowship, one creature's obsession holds the key to Middle-earth's survival -- or its demise. In The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum, we meet young Smeagol -- an outsider drawn to trinkets and mischief -- long before The One Ring consumed him and began his tragic descent into the tortured, deceitful creature Gollum. With the ring lost and carried away by Bilbo Baggins, Gollum finds himself compelled to leave his cave in search of it. Gandalf the Grey calls upon Aragorn, still known as the ranger Strider, to track the elusive creature whose knowledge of the whereabouts of the ring could tip the balance toward the Dark Lord Sauron.
Set in the shadowed time between Bilbo's birthday disappearance and the Fellowship's formation, this perilous journey through Middle-earth's darkest corners reveals untold truths, tests the resolve of its future king, and explores the fractured soul and backstory of Gollum, one of Tolkien's most enigmatic characters.

Directed by original cast member Andy Serkis, produced by Peter Jackson, and written & produced by Fran Walsh and Phillipa Boyens -- the creative team behind the Oscar-winning trilogy -- this live-action movie bridges the beloved films with new characters, returning heroes, and a deeply engaging origin story that resets the stage for, and changes everything you know about the legendary Lord of the Rings trilogy.</blockquote>Strictly speaking, [[Aragorn]]'s hunt for [[Gollum]] begins during the events depicted in Jackson's [[The Fellowship of the Ring (2001 film)|''The Fellowship of the Ring'']], and in October, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] said the story "falls after the [[Bilbo's Farewell Party|birthday party of Bilbo]] and before the Mines Of [[Moria]]".<ref name=":22">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.empireonline.com/movies/news/lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-wont-be-two-films-second-philippa-boyens-exclusive/|articlename=The Hunt For Gollum Won’t Be Two Films, But A Second LOTR Film Is Incoming, Philippa Boyens Confirms|author=Ben Travis|dated=18 October 2024|website=Empire}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] added that the role of [[Aragorn]] is "very central" to the movie.<ref name=":36" /> Andy called the storyline "pivotal."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1md7lim/the_lord_of_the_rings_the_hunt_for_gollum_andy/|articlename=The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum - Andy Serkis says "this part of the story is pivotal"|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=30 July 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> [[Ian McKellen]] had described the plot as "[[Aragorn]] trying to find [[Gollum]] with [[Gandalf]] directing operations from the sidelines."<ref name=":42" />

However, ''a'' hunt for [[Gollum]] is begun by the [[Silvan Elves]] after Gollum first leaves the [[Misty Mountains|mountains]] in search of [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]], and in December Jackson said the film "tells us what happened to [[Gollum]] between ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' - end of [[The Hobbit (film series)|''The Hobbit'']] - and the beginning of ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]''".<ref name=":6">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/red-carpet-premiere-for-the-lord-of-the-rings-the-war-of-the-rohirrim/P3BS7U5NPS5EMFLPUV4SYSYFDU/|articlename=Red carpet premiere for The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|author=Mitchell Hageman|dated=11 December 2024|website=New Zealand Herald}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had since confirmed this timeframe: "It sits, kind of, in the timeline between ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' - between losing the [[The One Ring|Ring]] to [[Bilbo Baggins]] - and ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]''."<ref name=":18">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?t=1218&v=U-dw8DQDf90&feature=youtu.be|articlename=Kazakhstan feels like the center of the world - Andy Serkis {{!}} Interview of the Day|author=Silk Way / Qazaqstan|dated=15 July 2025|website=YouTube}}</ref> [[Dol Guldur]], the [[Nazgûl|Nazgul]] and [[Orcs]] are all said to potentially play part in the film.

[[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also alluded to other storylines: "we are finding a lot of threads of story that are surprising in there when you really go in there and examine it".<ref name=":29">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.slashfilm.com/1734018/philippa-boyens-lord-of-the-rings-war-of-the-rohirrim-exclusive-interview/|articlename=War Of The Rohirrim's Philippa Boyens Reveals Details About The Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum [Exclusive Interview]|author=Ben Pearson|dated=13 December 2024|website=/Film}}</ref> Events as varied as [[Aragorn]]'s sojourn in [[Lothlórien|Lórien]] with [[Arwen]], the fall of [[Balin's folk]], [[Boromir]]'s quest for [[Rivendell]] and much else occur concurrent to the time of the Hunt.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1iutc9r/building_bridges_so_what_happens_between_the/|articlename=Building Bridges: So, what happens between the trilogies that The Hunt for Gollum could possibly cover?|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=21 February 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> "You see the layers and layers of story that’s underneath there and how interconnected they all are", she adds.<ref name=":3" /> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] also made comments to this effect: "Some pretty interesting stuff happens that we reference in passing in [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The'' ''Lord of the Rings'']], but there’s a lot of more deep detail to it."<ref name=":6" />

[[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] adds that "We get to go to some places that we've never been before" in Middle-earth." One such place - only glimpsed in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|Fellowship of the Ring]]'' - is the interiors of [[Barad-dûr|Barad Dur]].<ref name=":36" /> Both she and Serkis alluded to new characters<ref name=":28" /><ref name=":5" /> and new dramatic situations, saying it's "surprising"<ref name=":7" /><ref name=":27" /><ref name=":29" /> and could be enjoyed be people wo don't know the novels.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.amica.it/video-post/andy-serkis-dirigero-signore-anelli-tornero-batman/|articlename=Andy Serkis, da Gollum a regista: «Dirigerò “Il Signore degli Anelli” e tornerò con Batman»|author=Emanuele Bigi|dated=27 June 2025|website=Amica}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also shared that one of the practicalities they were busy figuring out in the writing is "How does he [<nowiki/>[[Aragorn]]] pick up his scent? How does he find his trail, how does it happen?"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://nerdist.com/article/nerdist-philippa-boyens-interview-the-war-of-the-rohirrim-the-lord-of-the-rings-future/|articlename=Philippa Boyens Talks the Future of THE LORD OF THE RINGS Movies and Naming a Tolkien Character in THE WAR OF THE ROHIRRIM|author=by Rotem Rusak|dated=19 December 2024|website=Nerdist}}</ref>

==Cast==
{| class="wikitable mw-collapsible"
|- style="background: var(--tg-color-surface-2);"
!Actor!!Role
|-
|[[Andy Serkis]]||[[Gollum]]<ref name="Gollum"></ref>
|-
|[[Elijah Wood]]
|[[Frodo Baggins]]<ref name=":12" />
|-
|[[Ian McKellen]]
|[[Gandalf]]<ref name=":12" />
|-
|[[Kate Winslet]]
|Unconfirmed role<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2026/03/kate-winslet-lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-andy-serkis-1236749998/|articlename=Kate Winslet To Play Female Lead In Andy Serkis’ ‘LOTR: The Hunt For Gollum’|author=Baz Bamigboye|dated=11 March 2026|accessed=15 March 2026|website=Deadline|archiveurl=|archivename=|archivedate=}}</ref>
|}

{{Title|Italics}}

{{References}}

{{Screen}}

[[Category:Films]]

[[fi:The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum]]

The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum

2026-03-24T13:18:37Z

Chen Geller:

{{Disambig-two|the 2027 film adaptation|2009 fan film|[[The Hunt for Gollum]]}}
{{film infobox
| image =
| caption =
| name = The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum
| director = [[Andy Serkis]]
| producer = [[Peter Jackson]] [[Fran Walsh]] [[Philippa Boyens]] [[Zane Weiner]]
| writer = [[Fran Walsh]] [[Philippa Boyens]] Phoebe Gittins Arty Papageorgiou
| narrator =
| starring = [[Andy Serkis]]<ref name=Gollum></ref> [[Elijah Wood]] [[Ian McKellen]] Kate Winslet
| music =
| cinematography =
| editing =
| studio = WingNut films Imaginarium [[New Line Cinema]]<ref name=Gollum></ref>
| distributor = [[Warner Bros.|Warner Bros. Pictures]]<ref name=Gollum></ref>
| released = 17 December [[2027]]<ref name="TheDirect2027Release"/>
| runtime =
| country = [[New Zealand]]<ref name=Gollum></ref>
| language = English
| budget =
| website =
|imdb_id=32328070
|basedon=[[The Lord of the Rings]]|production design=[[Dan Hennah]] (Production designer)}}
'''''The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum''''' is the title (originally, working title<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/09/curtis-brown-jrr-tolkien-literary-estate-deal-1236526748/|articlename=Curtis Brown To Rep J.R.R. Tolkien’s Literary Estate|author=Jesse Whittock|dated=10 September 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref>) of a forthcoming film adaptation currently in pre-production and set for a [[2027]] release, the first of a planned series of Tolkien films to be produced by [[New Line Cinema]], a division of [[Warner Bros.|Warner Brothers]].<ref name=":4">{{webcite|author=Matt Donnelly|articleurl=https://variety.com/2023/film/news/lord-of-the-rings-new-movies-warner-bros-1235533672/|articlename=New ‘Lord of the Rings’ Movies Set at Warner Bros. |dated=23 February 2023|website=[https://variety.com/ Variety]|accessed=10 June 2024}}</ref>

The film will cover [[Gollum]]'s travels after losing [[The One Ring|the Ring]] to [[Bilbo Baggins]] (as depicted in [[The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey|''An Unexpected Journey'']]), through [[Gandalf]] setting out to track the creature after [[Bilbo's Farewell Party]] (as depicted in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]'') and down to [[Gollum]] intercepting [[Fellowship of the Ring|the Fellowship]] in [[Moria|Moria.]]

It will be directed by and star [[Andy Serkis]], who played [[Gollum]] in [[Peter Jackson]]'s previous films, as well as directing second unit. [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] will produce with his co-writing team of [[Fran Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens]], who will also write the screenplay with ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]]'' scribes Phoebe Gittins and Arty Papageorgiou.

The subject of this film is a longstanding fascination of [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s who developed it quite intensly in 2008 with [[Guillermo del Toro]]. The film is in preproduction with several cast and crew members from previous films already attached, including actor [[Elijah Wood]], concept artists [[John Howe]] and [[Alan Lee]] and others.

==Early Development==
Although the film was only announced in 2023, it had a long gestation period with [[Peter Jackson]], who considered filming this subject since circa 1997, and at least as late as July 2015. During 2008, in particular, the film was in development with a plot synopsis, a tentative budget and an initial cast and crew attached, and drew the attention of further talent like [[Viggo Mortensen]], as well as the press. Elements of this proposed "bridge film" were eventually put into ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' but mostly axed during the early months of the shoot. Jackson also negotiated in 2018 about producing a show for [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon Prime]] about the related subject of the travels of young [[Aragorn]], but ended up producing ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]]'' with [[New Line Cinema]] instead.

===During ''The'' ''Lord of the Rings''===
[[Peter Jackson]] read [[The Lord of the Rings|''The Lord of the Rings'']] circa 1979, and he claims that he "always loved the concept that when [[Gandalf]] leaves [[Bag End]] he goes and joins up with [[Aragorn]] and the two of them hunt [[Gollum]] down."<ref name=":26">Peter Jackson, Philippa Boyens, Fran Walsh, "Director's Commentary", Peter Jackson, ''The Lord of the Rings trilogy'' (New Line Cinema: 2004).</ref> This piece of backstory was also expanded upon in the [[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)|radio serial]], which [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] was very familiar with. He and [[Fran Walsh]] first pitched a trilogy based on [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']] and ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'' around November 1995.<ref>Brian Sibley, Peter Jackson: A Filmmaker's Journey (London: HarperCollins, 2006), pp. 312 ff.</ref><ref>J. W Braun, ''The lord of the films : the unofficial guide to Tolkien's Middle-Earth on the big screen'' (Toronto: ECW Press, 2009), pp. 20, 63, 68-69, 195.</ref><ref>Michael Pellerin, "Completing Middle-earth," Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit'' (Warner Brothers: 2015).</ref> They may well have had the [[Gollum]] episode in mind at some time between that point and early 1997. So long as they intended to start with ''The Hobbit'' (up to early 1996), they will have been mindful of the need to connect the two novels, and while their treatment (mid 1997) doesn't seem to cover the [[Gollum]] episode, it already dramatizes the remainder of the backstory that's given in "[[The Shadow of the Past]]", "[[The Council of Elrond]]" and [[appendix B]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1j06oqh/so_what_is_the_hunt_for_gollum_really_based_on/|articlename=So, what is The Hunt for Gollum REALLY based on?|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=28 February 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> When the project expanded (September 1998) to three films, Jackson tried to finally incorporate this storyline - some eight pages' worth - but realized that he "just couldn't put [the Hunt for [[Gollum]]] into the movie".<ref name=":26" />

[[Peter Jackson|Peter]] nevertheless publicly expressed a desire to film "[[Gandalf]] and [[Aragorn]] hunting [[Gollum]], and his capture by [[Orcs]]"<ref name=":25">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://members.tripod.com/peter_jackson_online/lotr/articles/20_questions2.htm|articlename=20 QUESTIONS WITH PETER JACKSON- PART 2|author=Harry Knowles|dated=31 December 1998|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> At the time, the idea was to shoot this as additional material and add it into the extended edition: although by early 2001 he would have realized this could not be accomodated in the pickups to ''The Fellowship of the Ring'', in 2003 he would still half-jokingly talk about shooting more pickups to "fatten these films out without technically going beyond ‘[[The Lord of the Rings]]’ as the licensed property." Elsewhere in the commentary, he jokes about "spinoff" entries.<ref name=":26" /> Other ideas for this treatment included [[Tom Bombadil]]<ref name=":25" /> and the [[Lothlórien|attack on Lorien]], with the entire expansion estimated at around three hours' worth.<ref name=":26" />

By the end of 2001, The success of ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]'' emboldened [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]<ref>Kristin Thompson, T''he Frodo Franchise: The Lord of the Rings and Modern Hollywoo''d (Berkeley: University of California Press, 2007), pp. 51, 327, 338.</ref> to pursue more films (he was also in discussions to "rekindle" ''King Kong'' at the time) and he had later discussed filming a "''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|Lord of the Rings]]'' prequel", along with ''[[The Hobbit]]'', with composer [[Howard Shore]] and executive producer [[Mark Ordesky]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2006/11/19/24053-peter-jackson-and-fran-walsh-talk-the-hobbit-2/|articlename=Peter Jackson and Fran Walsh Talk THE HOBBIT|author=Xoanon|dated=19 November 2006|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref><ref name=":35">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.rhino.com/article/interview-howard-shore-the-lord-of-the-rings|articlename=INTERVIEW: Howard Shore (“The Lord of the Rings”)|author=Will Harris|dated=27 April 2018|website=Rhino}}</ref> At a later premiere, [[New Line Cinema|New Line]]'s president Robert Shaye told [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s agent [[Ken Kamins]] that they "would want to have a conversation" about the two films.<ref name=":30" /> The idea at the time was to incorporate [[Arwen]] as a female character<ref name=":10">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20230327113046/https://ew.com/article/2003/12/06/peter-jackson-mulls-rings-prequel/|articlename=Peter Jackson mulls ''Rings'' prequel|author=Gary Susman|dated=6 December 2003|website=EW}}</ref> and produce both films back-to-back "in some short order"<ref name=":30">Ian Nathan, ''Anything You Can Imagine: Peter Jackson and the Making of Middle-earth'' (London: HarperCollins, 2019), pp. 827, 835.</ref> after ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'', in order to "complete the set of films.”<ref name=":10" /> Peter was referring to these two films, when talking in the behind the scenes documentaries in 2004 about "Maybe there'll be something we can do." Actors [[Andy Serkis]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2003/dec/09/jrrtolkien|articlename=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2003/dec/09/jrrtolkien|author=Anonymous|dated=9 Dec 2003|website=The Guardian}}</ref> [[Ian McKellen]], producer Barrie Osborne<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2002/12/16/25965-ttt-benefit-with-barrie-osborne-2/|articlename=TTT Benefit with Barrie Osborne
by|author=xoanon|dated=16 December 2002|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> and concept artist Paul Lasaine all expressed interest at the time.

Also around this time, [[Andy Serkis]] goes into some detail in his book ''[[Gollum: How We Made Movie Magic|Gollum: Howe We Made Movie Magic]]'' into how he imagined Smeagol's personality and upbringing. This conception of Smeagol would become imperative for the film all those years later: <blockquote>I was interested in trying to define Gollum's class and status in the community, and had thought that, coming from the wealthiest and largest Stoor family, he would probably never have really worked a day in his life. He probably skipped school and spent time squandering money that he had stolen from his grandmother's purse. It was a matriarchy and his grandmother was the head of his family, so I wondered how we might reflect this. We decided that some sort of neckerchief, maybe made of silk and a little flamboyant, might be a good idea. I liked the idea of carrying through the drug-addict metaphor, implying that he was like a young rich kid who had always had money in his pocket and was able to experiment with whatever took his fancy, like a Middle-earth version of a young playboy or a Victorian dandy.

We also examined the idea of his curious and inquisitive nature. I always saw Sméagol as a loner, not particularly liked, a bit of a Billy-no-friends, and not very good at team sports. He would have been thought of as a bit weird, and he would have secretly dreamed up vengeful scenarios for all the other Stoor hobbits, who completely ignored him. So, to cope with being so introverted and alienated, he became a collector, obsessed with the "roots and beginnings" of things. Objects became more important than people: at least they couldn't hurt him. Physically: I gave him a stoop from constantly looking down. I imagined him to be fairly narcissistic, spending hours fascinating himself by staring at his own reflection in the water while he fished. We decided to display this obsessive behavior through shiny pau shell buttons and little trophies of fish bones tied to his belt, as if he were adorning himself with fetishlike status symbols. Although he was dysfunctional, he was not evil or malicious, just, as the Travis Bickle character says of himself in Taxi Driver, full of "morbid self-attention.<ref>Andrew Serkis, [[Gollum: How We Made Movie Magic|''Gollum: How We Made Movie Magic'']] (London: HarperCollins, 2003), p. 58.</ref> </blockquote>While talking about ''[[The Hobbit]]'' in 16 September 2006, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] said they "have thought about it from time to time" and in fact "spent most of this morning" talking about the films. They talked of how "[[Elrond]], [[Galadriel]] and [[Arwen]] could all feature"<ref name=":11" /> and "[[Gollum]]'s sneaking into [[Mordor]] and [[Aragorn]] protecting [[The Shire]]. That's what we'd do. Love to work with [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] again".<ref name=":11">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/30085|articlename=Part 5: Quint and Peter Jackson talk THE HOBBIT and a potential return to low budget horror!!!|author=Eric Vespe|dated=16 September 2006|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]], hearing this remark in 2012, said it "sounds like a lot of fun".<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2012/03/13/54232-viggo-mortensens-visit-to-boston-part-2-new-video/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen’s visit to Boston – part 2 (new video!)|author=Greendragon|dated=13 March 2012|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref> At the time, [[Peter Jackson|Peter]] had a falling-out with [[New Line Cinema]] who had tipped Sam Raimi to direct both films.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2006/11/22/926-the-new-director-of-the-hobbit-is/|articlename=Sam Raimi to Direct Hobbit Movie??|author=xoanon|dated=22 November 2006|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref>

===During ''The Hobbit''===
Since the rights to [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']] were split with [[MGM|Metro Goldwyn-Mayer]], in March 2007 [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] pitched this to CEO Harry Sloan: he had already heard of it from [[New Line Cinema]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.ign.com/articles/2006/11/14/hobbit-crown-panther-news|articlename=Hobbit, Crown, Panther News|author=Anonymous|dated=15 Nov 2006|website=IGN}}</ref> but Sloan was won over by Jackson's pitch, which was apparently very detailed.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.kristinthompson.net/blog/2008/05/19/the-hobbit-films-pj-and-fw-know-every-scene-every-moment/|articlename=The Hobbit films: PJ and FW know “every scene, every moment”|author=Kristin Thompson|dated=19 May 2008|website=Kristinthompson.net}}</ref> By contrast, Shaye later said [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] "hasn't told us too much about it."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.screendaily.com/new-line-mgm-team-for-two-hobbit-movies-with-peter-jackson/4036350.article|articlename=New Line, MGM team for two Hobbit movies with Peter Jackson|author=Jeremy Kay|dated=18 December 2007|website=Screen Daily}}</ref>

By December, both films were moving forward with a budget of $150 million each: the idea was that [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]], [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] would write and produce and the films will be shot in 2009 for release in 2010 and 2011.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/del-toro-doubles-up-hobbit-103547/|articlename=Del Toro doubles up for ‘Hobbit’|author=Borys Kit|dated=28 January 2008|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> Robert Shaye, Michael Lynne and [[Mark Ordesky]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://variety.com/2008/film/columns/shaye-kept-new-line-afloat-1117982001/|articlename=Shaye kept New Line afloat|author=Anne Thompson|dated=7 March 2008|website=Variety}}</ref> were attached as executive producers until February, when they were replaced by Toby Emmerich (previously head of production since 2001) and Carolyn Blackwood. Actor [[Ian McKellen|Ian Mckellen]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2008/mar/26/lordoftherings.jrrtolkien|articlename=Hard Hobbit to break: McKellen set for return as Gandalf|author=Anonymous|dated=26 March 2008|website=The Guardian}}</ref> assistant Matthew Dravitzky,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://if.com.au/guillermo-wants-old-buddies-to-join-him-on-the-hobbit/|articlename=Guillermo wants old buddies to join him on The Hobbit|author=Anonymous|dated=23 March 2009|website=IF FX}}</ref> composer [[Howard Shore]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/09/28/30045-howard-shore-is-working-on-hobbit-score/|articlename=Howard Shore is Working on Hobbit Score|author=28 September 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/02/24/28408-howard-shore-talks-hobbit-in-switzerland/|articlename=Howard Shore Talks ‘Hobbit’ in Switzerland|author=Calisuri|dated=24 February 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref>, [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]]<ref name=":38">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/10/22/30352-del-toro-interview-part-3-%E2%80%9Ci-love-new-zealand%E2%80%9D/|articlename=Del Toro Interview Part 3: “I Love New Zealand!”|author=Xoanon|dated=22 October 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> and [[Wētā FX|Weta FX]]<ref name=":37" /> were attached to the project. Although [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] hadn't ruled out directing - he later aired the notion of shooting second unit<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20081012042437/http://moviesblog.mtv.com/2008/10/08/guillermo-del-toro-to-fly-solo-on-hobbit-directing-duties-says-no-to-peter-jackson-assist/|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro To Fly Solo On ‘Hobbit’ Directing Duties, Says No To Peter Jackson Assist|author=Shawn Adler|dated=8 October 2008|website=MTV}}</ref><ref name=":17" /> - he soon picked [[Guillermo del Toro]] to direct.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/01/30/28331-torn-exclusive-del-toro-%e2%80%9c99-percent-certain%e2%80%9d-says-nl-insider/|articlename=TORN exclusive: Del Toro “99 percent certain” says NL insider.|author=MrCere|dated=30 January 2008|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref>

Subsequently, actors [[Andy Serkis]],<ref name=":17" /> [[Ian Holm]]<ref name=":15">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080501020820/http://www.mtv.com/movies/news/articles/1586421/story.jhtml|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro Addresses 'Hobbit' Fans' Concerns, Talks Possible Casting|author=Shawn Adler, Josh Horowitz|dated=28 April 2008|website=Premiere.com}}</ref>; concept artists [[Alan Lee]] and [[John Howe]]; prosthetics supervisor [[Gino Acevedo]]<ref name=":37">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/04/25/28747-guillermo-del-toro-chats-with-torn-about-the-hobbit-films/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro Chats with TORN About ‘The Hobbit’ Films!|author=Xoanon|dated=25 April 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> were all attached. They had approached [[Grant Major]] but he declined<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=http://www.artstars.us/grant-major/8/|articlename=Grant Major|author=Tom Lisowski|dated=14 November 2011|website=Art Stars}}</ref> and hopped onboard ''Green Lantern'' with costume designer Ngila Dickson: they were substituted by [[Dan Hennah]]<ref name=":32">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/51948|articlename=An Unexpected Journey: Quint on the set of The Hobbit Part 3 – Beginnings and Endings|author=Eric Vespe|dated=14 November 2011|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> and Kate Hawley.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.whowhatwear.com/living/who-what-wear-podcast-kate-hawley|articlename=How the Frankenstein Costume Designer Brought the Film to Life|author=Madeline Hill|dated=17 November 2025|website=Who What Wear}}</ref> Actors [[Martin Freeman]]<ref>In "The Road Back to Middle-earth", Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit'' (New Line Cinema: 2015), Philippa Boyens recalls proposing Freeman as Bilbo Baggins when she saw him at the 2003 BAFTAs.</ref> and [[Hugo Weaving]];<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.slashfilm.com/504115/guillermo-del-toro-confirms-hugo-weaving-for-the-hobbit-and-much-more/|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro Confirms Hugo Weaving For The Hobbit... And Much More|author=Brendon Connolly|dated=11 June 2009|website=Slash Film}}</ref> as well as [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]]'s regular collaborators (including artists Wayne Barlowe and Francisco Ruiz Velasco<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20081201164150/http://bilbohobbit.com/del-toro-talks-hobbit-in-live-chat/|articlename="Del Toro talks 'Hobbit' in Live Chat"|author=Alex|dated=27 November 2008|website=BilboHobbit.com}}</ref>) were also being sought beginning at this time.

"We got really excited," said [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]], "because this second film is not a ‘tag on’, it’s not ‘filler,’ it’s an integral part of telling the story of those 50 years of history lost in the narrative".<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://theplaylist.net/60-year-period-between-hobbi-20080425/|articlename=60-Year Period Between ‘The Hobbit’ & ‘Fellowship’ For Hobbit Sequel Suddenly Gone? Or Not?|author=Rodrigo Perez|dated=25 April 2008|website=The Playlist}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.gamesradar.com/guillermo-del-toro-talks-hobbit-and-more/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro talks Hobbit and more|author=Anonymous|dated=25 April 2008|website=Total Film}}</ref> Although he had a radical new vision for the designs in the first film, <ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080915124607/http://www.premiere.com/features/4642/exclusive-guillermo-del-toro-on-hellboy-ii-page4.html|articlename=Exclusive: Guillermo del Toro on 'Hellboy II'|author=Anonymous|website=Premiere}}</ref> [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] intended to use the second film to affect a gradual change of style towards that of [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]: "We have to recreate a lot of the stuff they did on the [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|trilogy]]," he said: helpfully, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had kept the [[Bag End]] and [[Rivendell]] sets, and they set about rebuilding [[Hobbiton]].<ref name=":32" />

[[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] also rewatched the extended editions with [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]], [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] and intended to watch the making-ofs, dailies "the camera reports... everything," particularly for ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080914124349/http://www.comingsoon.net/news/nycomicconnews.php?id=44254|articlename=EXCL: Del Toro on Hellboy II and The Hobbit|author=Edward Douglas|dated=21 April 2008|website=Coming Soon.net}}</ref> The remastering of ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'' was also begun around this time. This was done because [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] felt that it "has to evolve into the lensing, the color palette, the texture palette, and the feel of the [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|trilogy]]…"<ref name=":13">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/37428|articlename=Quint and Guillermo del Toro chat about HELLBOY II, THE HOBBIT and more!!!|author=Eric Vespe|dated=12 July 2008|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> partially for this purpose, a break was to be scheduled partway through the shoot,<ref name=":31">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080712175117/http://www.ifmagazine.com/feature.asp?article=2879|articlename=GUILLERMO DEL TORO ESCAPES 'LABYRINTH' AND ENDS RIGHT BACK INTO 'HELLBOY'|author=Carl Cortez|dated=9 July 2008|website=iFMagazine}}</ref> which was estimated at over 370 days.<ref name=":31" />

[[Guillermo del Toro|Guillermo]] insisted the second film would add to the series.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wReRe8Si2aU|articlename=Guillermo del Toro: RT's Dinner & the Movies Interview Pt 5|author=OCR|dated=11 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> He said "it’s also expanding and illuminating some of the aspects of the trilogy in a slightly different way, like same characters in a different environment. I find that very attractive."<ref name=":13" /> The idea was that the first film would be a retelling of [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']], including the bulk of the [[Dol Guldur]] storyline, up to [[Smaug]]'s death: the second would wrap-up the remainder of [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']] in its first half, and concern itself with the Hunt for [[Gollum]] and other "bridging" plot threads in its second half.<ref name=":14">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20120831093447/http://moviesblog.mtv.com/2008/10/07/hobbit-films-will-be-one-continuous-journey-promises-guillermo-del-toro/|articlename='Hobbit' Films Will Be One 'Continuous Journey,' Promises Guillermo Del Toro|author=Shawn Adler|dated=7 October 2008|website=MTV}}</ref>

Although [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] predicted the second film would require the most work,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2P0dTo0yNpQ|articlename=THE HOBBIT 1 & 2 MOVIE UPDATE|author=ReelzChannel|dated=7 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> both he<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JVHzVKy_F8w|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro talks about Hobbit Movie|author=Brettmartintv|dated=7 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] showed a particular eagerness towards it, with [[Guillermo del Toro|Guillermo]] calling it a "treasure trove of possibilities."<ref name=":16">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080915084029/http://www.mtv.com/movies/news/articles/1590278/story.jhtml|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro Answers 'Hobbit' Fans' Questions About Returning 'Rings' Cast, Religion And More|author=Shawn Adler|dated=2 July 2008|website=MTV}}</ref> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] was also "really looking forward to developing Film Two. It gives us a freedom that we haven't really had on our [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] journey."<ref name=":17" /> [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] concluded that "the promise of that land is absolutely mind-boggling!"<ref name=":16" />

Referring specifically to [[Gollum]]'s part in the events, [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] said "[[Gollum]] has a rather fascinating arch to go through and his alliance to [[Shelob]] or his period of imprisonment in [[Thranduil]]'s". [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] added that "There's an awful lot of incident that happens during that 60 year gap. At this stage, we're not imagining a film that literally covers 60 years, like a bio-pic or documentary. We would figure out what happens during that 60 years, and choose one short section of time to drop in and dramatise for the screen". Both filmmakers said they agreed that "apart from extreme circumstances, we would never recast a character who appeared in the [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|LOTR trilogy]]".<ref name=":17">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080730161821/http://www.wetanz.com/holics/index.php?itemid=695&catid=2|articlename=An Unexpected Party Chat|author=Anonymous|dated=30 July 2008|website=Weta Workshop website}}</ref> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] later remarked that, in some cases, they'd sooner write around a character than recast the part.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/41848|articlename=Comic-Con '09: Peter Jackson talks to Capone about DISTRICT 9, THE HOBBIT, and the state of the film industry!!!|author="Capone"|dated=28 July 2009|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref>

As of the formulation of these comments in July, [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] said the second film is "too early"<ref name=":13" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5YoRDF12aRc|articlename=GDT the Hobbit 1|author=Garfeimao TheOneRing|dated=14 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> in its development process to know precisely what it might entail, estimating that it would take six months to formulate the storyline for the film.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.ign.com/articles/2008/07/09/exclusive-gdt-on-the-hobbit|articlename=Exclusive: GDT on The Hobbit|author=Eric Moro and Stax|dated=10 July 2008|website=IGN}}</ref> By September, however, [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] claimed they "found what reverberated."<ref name=":14" /> [[Guillermo del Toro|Guillermo]] had expressed reservations about the term "bridge film" from the outset, but by now he and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] disabused of the term completely, having come to see the films as five undifferentiated parts of a greater whole.

Although they apparently made an outline,<ref name=":15" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/10/16/30296-guillermo-del-toro-i%e2%80%99m-so-voracious-about-the-hobbit/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro: “I’m so voracious about The Hobbit!”|author=Xoanon|dated=16 October 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> it seems the film went no further than this. Up until this point, del Toro had been video-conferencing with Jackson and the other collaborators, meeting in person every three weeks.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://variety.com/2008/film/features/guillermo-del-toro-booked-thru-2017-1117991560/|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro booked thru 2017|author=Michael Fleming|dated=3 September, 2008|website=Variety}}</ref> By the time he arrived to concentrate on writing the story treatment in November 2008<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=http://newboards.theonering.net/forum/gforum/perl/gforum.cgi?post=147373;guest=501771554#147373|articlename="Hola"|author=Guillermo del Toro|dated=8 November 2008|website=The One Ring Discussion Boards}}</ref><ref>Alfio Leotta, ''Peter Jackson'' (London: Bloomsbury Publishing, 2015), p. 196.</ref> the contents of the "bridge" film were being gradually edged-out by the contents of ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]],'' to the point that by the time the completed treatment was greenlit in April 2009<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2009/08/03/32999-peter-jackson-speaks/|articlename=Peter Jackson speaks|author=MrCere|dated=3 August 2009|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref> the films could only be described as a two-part adaptation of ''[[The Hobbit]],'' albeit with elements of the bridge film "integrated''."''<ref>Anonymous, "The Hobbit: Gollum, Bilbo, del Toro and Jackson," ''Empire'', April 2009.</ref> Although [[John Howe]] apparently sent [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] some sketches,<ref name=":38" /> and [[Howard Shore]] had musical ideas,<ref>TheOneRing, Hobbit Desolation of Smaug Music Commentary Watch Along, ''YouTube'', 29 July 2020. Esp. 1:12:15. One such musical idea dates back to the composition of ''The Fellowship of the Ring:'' the flat sixth setting of the Hobbits' bassline that's heard when Gandalf glimpses Thorin's map: Howard was saving that as a "portent of an adventure" towards a potential adaptation of The Hobbit, but by the stage of discussing with del Toro he would have realized it would be applicable to the "bridge" film as well.</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/30722|articlename=ScoreKeeper Talks To Howard Shore About THE TWO TOWERS Complete Recordings, THE HOBBIT, And More!!|author=Merrick|dated=16 November 2006|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> no more work was done on the bridge film. At this time, a [[The Hunt for Gollum|fan film on the same subject was released]], followed shortly by [[Born of Hope|a fan film about Aragorn's errantries]]. The latter of this gained a measure of approbation from [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s camp.

Even so, elements of the bridge film clung to the project for a long time: in 2013 [[Philippa Boyens]] said that "When we started structuring this trilogy we honestly thought about telling some of that. How [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]] becomes the uncle of [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] and take care of him. The story of [[Gollum]]…"<ref name=":9" /> Casting calls had been issued for the roles of [[Primula Brandybuck]] and [[Drogo Baggins]]:<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20201024010428/http://www.movies.spoilertv.com/2010/01/hobbit-casting-call.html#ixzz0btnyJvCI|articlename=Hobbit - Official Casting Call and Plot Details|author=DarkUFO|dated=4 January 2010|website=SpoilerTV}}</ref> While Caroline Grace-Cassidy was considered for [[Primula Brandybuck|Primula]], [[Ryan Gage]] was cast in the role of [[Drogo Baggins|Drogo]] and remained attached to it well into shooting, only being recast as [[Alfrid]] around May.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/cate-blanchett-revisiting-rings-role-57193/|articlename=Cate Blanchett Revisiting ‘Rings’ Role In ‘Hobbit’|author=Gregg Kilday|dated=7 December 2010|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]]'s cameo, which was originally rumoured to include him "moving to live at [[Bag End]] after the untimely drowning of [[Drogo Baggins|Drogo]] and [[Primula Brandybuck|Primula]]" was probably rewritten into its present form around that time.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=theonering.net/torwp/2014/03/25/87789-how-would-have-peter-jacksons-the-hobbit-looked-as-a-duology/|articlename=How would have Peter Jackson’s The Hobbit looked as a duology?|author=Demosthenes|dated=25 March 2014|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> They had scouted locations for the [[Barrow-downs|Barrow Downs]], possibly with a connection to the aforementioned "[[Aragorn]] protecting the [[The Shire|Shire]]" plot point.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://narniafans.com/2019/08/interview-with-narnia-conceptual-designer-john-howe/|articlename=Interview with Narnia Conceptual Designer John Howe|author=David Sutton|dated=18 August 2019|website=Narnia Fans.com}}</ref> More scenes were planned for the [[Dol Guldur]] story and the [[Orcs]]: they had gone as far as designing a young [[Gothmog (Lieutenant of Morgul)#Gothmog in adaptations|Gothmog]] who would participate in the concluding battle, but didn't utilize him.<ref name=":0" />

Another storyline concerned Itarille (later [[Tauriel]]) and her romance with an Elf lord of [[Rivendell]]: clearly an outgrowth of the original idea of featuring [[Arwen]] in the film. [[Aidan Turner]] seems to have read for the part of this Elf Lord. Indeed, Jackson recalled in 2015 that "We did try to figure out a way to get a cameo, even if it was a cameo, for [[Aragorn]] and actually for [[Arwen]], too: we tried to have [[Liv Tyler]] in the film".<ref name=":0" /> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] remarked in 2013 that they envisioned [[Aragorn]] being "quite young" in the film, but concluded that [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] "could have absolutely played" him at the time. "It was incredibly tempting."<ref name=":39">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TapH7wM8MdI&t=85s|articlename=Philippa Boyens ci parla delle scene tagliate dello Hobbit: la Desolazione di Smaug e di... Aragorn!|author=Badtaste|dated=11 December 2013|website=YouTube}}</ref> It's unclear when the idea finally died out: the scene "invoking [[Aragorn]]" was scripted in early 2013, as a "homage" to their earlier plans.

[[Viggo Mortensen]] had been interested in the project since 2007.<ref name=":43">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/09/18/29885-viggo-mortensen-still-waiting-for-guillermo-del-toro%E2%80%99s-%E2%80%98hobbit%E2%80%99-call/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen Still Waiting For Guillermo Del Toro’s ‘Hobbit’ Call|author=Xoanon|dated=18 September 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref name=":44" /> Although it was reported that [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] had held conversations with him<ref name=":43" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thetimes.com/uk/law/article/hobbit-movies-meet-dire-foe-in-son-of-tolkien-lxnpmnsd2rp|articlename=Hobbit movies meet dire foe in son of Tolkien|author=John Harlow|dated=25 May 2008|website=The Times}}</ref> these appear to have not taken place before 2010. In 2008 [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] said he would "rather do it myself than see another actor finish the job for me,"<ref name=":44" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/12/17/30804-tv-watch-viggo-mortensen-on-night-talk/|articlename=TV Watch: Viggo Mortensen on ‘Night Talk’|author=Xoanon|dated=17 December 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/39305|articlename=Capone has a GOOD chat with Viggo Mortensen about politics, THE ROAD, APPALOOSA, and THE HOBBIT!!!|author=Steve Prokopy|dated=11 May 2009|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> saying "it would be fun."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://ohnotheydidnt.livejournal.com/41460224.html|articlename=Moviefone's Exclusive Viggo Mortensen Interview!|author=Anonymous|dated=25 November 2009|website=Moviefone}}</ref> Other actors from [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'']] have also expressed interest in appearing in the film, including [[Liv Tyler]], <ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2011/03/21/42863-liv-tyler-not-contacted-for-hobbit/|articlename=Liv Tyler Not Contacted For Hobbit|author=DiveTwin|dated=21 March 2011|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> [[Cate Blanchett]],<ref name=":16" /> [[Dominic Monaghan]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.firstshowing.net/2009/dominic-monaghan-ready-to-return-for-the-hobbit-movies/|articlename=Dominic Monaghan Ready to Return for The Hobbit Movies?|author=Brandon Lee Tenney|dated=19 January 2009|website=First Showing}}</ref> [[Sean Astin]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2009/03/10/31356-astin-up-for-hobbit-if-hobbit-up-for-him/|articlename=Astin up for Hobbit if Hobbit up for him|author=Xoanon|dated=10 March 2009|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref name=":44" /> [[John Noble]] and [[Sean Bean]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.digitalspy.com/movies/a434476/sean-bean-on-the-hobbit-absence-theyre-sticklers-for-detail/|articlename=Sean Bean on 'The Hobbit' absence: 'They're sticklers for detail'|author=Emma Dibdin|dated=30 October 2012|website=Digital Spy}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://theplaylist.net/viggo-mortensen-optimistic-about-role-20090401/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen Optimistic About Role In Del Toro’s ‘Hobbit’, Project Extends To A Trilogy?|author=Simon Dang|dated=1 April 2009|website=The Playlist}}</ref> [[Christopher Lee]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://whatculture.com/film/christopher-lee-wants-sarumann-return-in-the-hobbit|articlename=Christopher Lee wants Saruman return in THE HOBBIT|author=Matt Holmes|dated=25 June 2011|website=WhatCulture}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5qGFbBNnodw&t=77s|articlename=Christopher Lee about possibly returning to Middle Earth|author="Rushblogg"|dated=12 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> [[Brad Dourif]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/09/12/29751-brad-dourif-on-returning-to-middle-earth/|articlename=Brad Dourif on Returning to Middle-earth|author=Deej|dated=12 September 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> [[John Rhys-Davies]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/the-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy-makeup-difficulties-explained-john-rhys-davies/|articlename=John Rhys-Davies Reveals Gruesome Makeup Process for Gimli in The Lord of the Rings [Exclusive]|author=Aidan Kelley and Steven Weintraub|dated=9 August 2025|website=Collider}}</ref> and [[Elijah Wood]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/11/16/30565-elijah-hobbit-appearance-concievably-possible/|articlename=Elijah – Hobbit appearance ‘concievably possible’|author=Altaira|dated=16 November 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.firstshowing.net/2008/elijah-wood-confirms-dual-hobbit-movie-details/|articlename=Elijah Wood Confirms Dual Hobbit Movie Details|author=Alex Billington|dated=11 January 2008|website=First Showing}}</ref>

Around 2010, [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] recieved an availability call<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2013/may/28/viggo-mortensen-interview|articlename=Viggo Mortensen interview: 'If I think a film's beyond me – that's a good sign'|author=Imogen Tilden|dated=28 May 2013|website=The Guardian}}</ref> from [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]: "I said sure, if [[Aragorn]] is supposed to be in the bridge story, because he’s not in [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']]."<ref name=":1">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2013/05/30/72294-viggo-turned-down-role-as-aragorn-not-so-fast/|articlename=Viggo ‘Turned Down’ Role as Aragorn? Not so fast…|author=Newsfrombree|dated=30 May 2013|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.wired.com/2012/03/viggo-mortensen-speaks-2/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen Speaks: Part 2 of 3|author=Ethan Gilsdorf|dated=11 March 2012|website=Wired.com}}</ref> Informed that they "can take certain liberties" he said he'd "love to revisit him."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/films/features/viggo-mortensen-interview-captain-fantastic-lord-of-the-rings-aragorn-hobbit-david-cronenberg-a7231826.html|articlename=Viggo Mortensen interview: 'I didn't throw Peter Jackson under the bus'|author=Jacob Stolworthy|dated=23 January 2017|website=The Independent}}</ref> However, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] later revealed that since that call, they "could think of no way of doing it".<ref name=":0" /> Having no further contact, and knowing that "[[Orlando Bloom]] and [[Cate Blanchett]] shot something,"<ref name=":44">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://viggo-works.com/?fromday=1&frommonth=6&fromyear=2006&today=25&tomonth=2&toyear=2026&order=date&page=243&selectedcat=262&ascdesc=DESC&filter=Go&m=on|articlename=Viggo Mortenson Dangerous Method Interview|author=Anonymous|dated=25 November 2011|website=Movies.com}}</ref>[[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] concluded in November 2011 that "[[Aragorn]] is half [[Elves|elf]] [sic] and also lives a couple hundred years or more and he could be in a bridge, but I have to assume it isn't going to happen".<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reuters.com/article/lifestyle/rings-actor-mortensen-unlikely-to-repeat-role-idUSTRE7AM2U9/|articlename="Rings" actor Mortensen unlikely to repeat role|author=Kurt Orzeck|dated=24 November 2011|website=Reuters}}</ref> Although he still has misgivings - "It would make sense if Aragorn was part of the story and he's not"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.scotsman.com/arts-and-culture/interview-viggo-mortensen-is-lord-of-all-things-1573949|articlename=Interview: Viggo Mortensen is lord of all things|author=Chitra Ramaswamy|dated=25 May 2013|website=The Scotsman}}</ref> - he said he would still be open to playing [[Aragorn]] "if it seemed sensible to do so".<ref name=":1" />

===After ''The Hobbit''===

Conversations about making the "bridge film" as a third instalment<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.firstshowing.net/2009/guillermo-del-toro-updates-on-the-hobbit/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro Briefly Talks More About The Hobbit Split|author=Alex Billington|dated=5 June 2009|website=First Showing}}</ref> continued well into 2010:<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://geeksofdoom.com/2009/08/19/bridge-between-the-hobbit-lord-of-the-rings-still-to-be-built-peter-jackson-to-direct-third-movie|articlename=[Updated] Bridge Between ‘The Hobbit’ & ‘Lord Of The Rings’ Still To Be Built? Peter Jackson To Direct Third Movie?|author="The Movie God"|dated=19 August 2009|website=Geeks of Doom}}</ref> In 2012, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had revealed that "a third movie has always been in discussion."<ref>Michael Pellerin, "The Clouds Burst", Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies'' (New Line Cinema: 2015).</ref> These conversations resumed - now with the film situated as a fourth movie - as [[The Hobbit (film series)|''The Hobbit'']] was winding down in 2013. Says [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]]: "There’s enough story there to make a bridge movie, you know, there’s 60 years between ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'' and a lot of things happened."<ref name=":9">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.heyuguys.com/interview-peter-jackson-the-hobbit-the-desolation-of-smaug/|articlename=The HeyUGuys Interview: The Hobbit director Peter Jackson all but rules out a return to Middle Earth|author=Stefan Pape|dated=13 December 2013|website=HeyUGuys}}</ref> In the director's commentary to ''[[The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies|The Battle of the Five Armies]]'' in 2015, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] remained open to the idea of making more films, and mused about what Jackson jokingly calls "A fictitious film 3.5" which [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] goes on to call "The Hunt for Gollum".<ref name=":0">Peter Jackson, Philippa Boyens, "Director's Commentary," Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies'' (New Line Cinema: 2015).</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] said it could include "a few other things that go on which are really interesting" like [[Saruman]]'s search for the [[The One Ring|Ring]]. She elaborates:<blockquote>''[[Aragorn]] really is one who tracks Gollum and ends up...and finds him eventually in the [[Dead Marshes]], and he's taken [[Woodland Realm|to the Elves]]. And he's taken to the Elves, and because of the kindness of the Elves - and [[Legolas]] is one of his keepers... in [[Mirkwood]], and through their kindness he actually manages to escape. Or has he escaped? Or was he let loose?''<ref name=":0" /></blockquote>[[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had kept the possibility of returning to [[Middle-earth]] open<ref name=":0" /> but [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] revealed that they "had zero expectations of going back to this."<ref name=":7">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2024/05/the-lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-peter-jackson-andy-serkis-philippa-boyens-explain-23-years-after-cannes-saved-original-trilogy-1235917510/|articlename=Peter Jackson, Andy Serkis & Philippa Boyens Explain Why They’re Returning To Middle-Earth For ‘The Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum’ 23 Years After Cannes Saved The Billion-Dollar Franchise|author=Mike Fleming Junior|dated=15 May 2024|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://uk.movies.yahoo.com/don-t-expect--the-hobbit-3--to-lead-directly-into--the-lord-of-the-rings-140402150.html|articlename=The Hobbit 3 won't lead into The Lord of the Rings|author=Tom Butler|dated=11 December 2013|website=Yahoo Entertainment UK}}</ref> Their ultimate decision to return to this premise may have been stirred, in part, by other projects: first, Jackson had seen the in-development video game ''[[Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor|Shadow of Mordor]],'' on which [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]] and others from Jackson's crew had worked, and which had nestled itself into the gap between ''[[The Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]].''<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.ign.com/articles/2014/02/20/why-lord-of-the-rings-fans-should-be-excited-for-shadow-of-mordor|articlename=Why Lord of the Rings Fans Should Be Excited for Shadow of Mordor|author=Luke Karmali|dated=20 February 2014|website=IGN}}</ref>

Shortly afterwards, when the [[Tolkien Estate]] (still nominally under [[Christopher Tolkien]]) shopped the television rights, the idea of doing a show about young [[Aragorn]] was pitched, first by Netflix, and then - at the suggestion of the Russo brothers<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-features/the-rings-of-power-showrunners-interview-season-2-1235233124/|articlename=‘The Rings of Power’ Showrunners Break Silence on Backlash, Sauron and Season 2|author=James Hibberd|dated=5 October 2022|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> - by [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon Prime Video]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=http://newboards.theonering.net/forum/gforum/perl/gforum.cgi?post=946980;sb=post_time;so=DESC;forum_view=forum_view_collapsed;guest=206510448#947231|articlename=If you will indulge me in a story|author="Uncle Iorlas"|dated=21 July 2018|website=The One Ring.net Message Boards}}</ref> Upon hearing this, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]]' mind immediately went to the period of the hunt: "If you're telling the [story of] him hunting [[Gollum]], you're getting closer to [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]]."<ref name=":21">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.fandom.com/articles/peter-jackson-lord-of-the-rings-series|articlename=Peter Jackson’s Tips For Casting Aragorn in Lord of the Rings TV Show|author=Kim Taylor-Foster|dated=4 December 2018|website=Fandom.com}}</ref> She and Jackson had also expressed interest in the potential of [[Aragorn]]'s younger days and life in [[Rivendell]]: "He's probably going to have to start young,"<ref name=":21" /> remarked Boyens, concluding that "A lot of the early [[Aragorn]] story hasn't been told."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.stuff.co.nz/entertainment/film/108970711/philippa-boyens-on-mortal-engines-hobbits-and-going-solo|articlename=Philippa Boyens on Mortal Engines, Hobbits and going solo|author=Philip Matthews|dated=16 December 2018|website=Stuff.nz}}</ref> [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortesen]] also got wind of the rumours and said he's open to reprising his role.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/viggo-mortensen-interview-falling-lord-of-the-rings/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen on Falling, Directing, and LOTR TV Show Interest|author=Christina Radish|dated=14 February 2021|website=Collider}}</ref>

Toby Emmerich and Carolyn Blackwood from [[New Line Cinema]] were brought into the fold in the hopes of cooperating on the show. In early 2018 lawyer Peter Nelson set-up "dialogue between [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon]]" to participate as executive producer.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/how-lord-rings-tv-series-landed-at-amazon-not-netflix-1099213/|articlename=Inside Amazon’s $250M ‘Lord of the Rings’ Deal: “It’s Very Much a Creature of the Times”|author=Tatiana Siegel|dated=5 April 2018|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20210308114202/https://www.herr-der-ringe-film.de/v3/de/news/tolkienfilme/news_121920.php|articlename=Exklusiv: Zu den Kulissen der HERR DER RINGE Serie, Her Der Ringe Film (archived).|author=Cirdan|dated=20 June 2018|website=Herr der Ringe.de}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.stuff.co.nz/entertainment/celebrities/108520139/sir-peter-jackson-hasnt-given-up-hope-of-making-the-dam-busters|articlename=Sir Peter Jackson hasn't given up hope of making The Dam Busters|author=James Croot|dated=12 November 2018|website=NZStuff}}</ref> Preoccupied with ''Mortal Engines'' and ''They Shall Not Grow Old'', [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] proposed in June 2018 to review the scripts and put "the creative team together."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://de.ign.com/tv/129313/interview/peter-jackson-ist-fur-das-kreative-team-hinter-der-herr-der-ringe-serie-verantwortlich|articlename=Peter Jackson ist für das kreative Team hinter der Herr der Ringe-Serie verantwortlich|author=Valentin Aschenbrenner|dated=5 June 2018|website=IGN.de}}</ref> In July, Amazon landed on [[John D. Payne]] and [[Patrick McKay]] as showrunners, and before any work could be done, a regime change in [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon Prime Video]]<ref name=":19">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/peter-jackson-amazon-lord-of-the-rings-tv-series-1235193692/|articlename=Peter Jackson Says Amazon’s ‘Lord of the Rings’ TV Series Ghosted Him|author=James Hibberd|dated=5 August 2022|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> in early 2019 resulted in [[New Line Cinema]] being demoted to a "minority licensee stakeholder."<ref name=":20">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/lord-of-the-rings-amazon-vs-warner-bros-1235337625/|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings’: Amazon, Warner Bros. Ready for Tolkien Battle|author=James Hibberd|dated=28 February 2023|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> Although the showrunners had asked to meet [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]],<ref name=":19" /> COVID prevented this from taking place.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2022/02/10-burning-questions-about-amazons-the-rings-of-power?srsltid=AfmBOopmlhLKVkCtSqkuvTTAcUtyQUICWXopTWLQq_1tu4aEf1ICrDLp|articlename=10 Burning Questions About Amazon’s The Rings of Power|author=Joanna Robinson|dated=14 February 2022|website=Vanity Fair}}</ref> While the show used a substantial number of his crew, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] were reportedly "very frustrated that so many believed they were involved with [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon]]’s show."<ref name=":20" /> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had avoided watching the show to prevent "cross-contamination."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.slashfilm.com/1693866/why-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy-screenwriter-wont-watch-the-rings-of-power/|articlename=Why One Lord Of The Rings Trilogy Screenwriter Won't Watch The Rings Of Power|author=Jaron Pak|dated=21 October 2024|website=Slash Film}}</ref> Since then, the show had left [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s home country of [[New Zealand]].

Already in 2019, the show's development had galvanized Emmerich and Blackwood to pursue an animated film with [[Middle-earth Enterprises]] (who were not involved in the show) and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]. The bridge film might have been the "CG-animated" story that [[New Line Cinema|New Line]] "had been exploring with Sir [[Peter Jackson]]" but it failed to materialize and they decided to pursue ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim]]''<ref>Daniel Falconer, ''The Art of The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim'' (Wiliam Murrow: London, 2025), pp. 9-10.</ref>. Later on, Emmerich and Blackwood were replaced by Michael de Luca and Pam Abdy, who were "striving to keep [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon]] from blurring the lines too much between" the show and the films.<ref name=":20" /> Other projects like [[Tales of the Shire: A "The Lord of the Rings" Game|''Tales of the Shire'']], the remastering of the six films to Ultra High Definition and renovations of [[Hobbiton]] were begun shortly afterwards, as well.

After this long gestation period, ''The Hunt for Gollum'' entered development once again in 2022. [[Andy Serkis]] was attached as director in October 2023 and story meetings occurred as early as May 2024, along with early availability calls to actors like [[Ian McKellen]] and [[Viggo Mortensen]] between that time and early September. By that point, the writing of the treatment was underway, followed by the first draft in January-May. After some crew hiring in August, pre-production started in early September 2025 ahead of shooting in May 2026.

==Development==
In 2022 the new administration of [[Middle-earth Enterprises]] expressed a desire to make more films, including ones "based on iconic characters, such as [[Gandalf]], [[Aragorn]], [[Gollum]], [[Galadriel]], [[Éowyn|Eowyn]] and other characters."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/lord-of-the-rings-rights-embracer-1235201442/|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings,’ ‘The Hobbit’ Movie, Games and Other Rights Holder Sold to Swedish Gaming Company Embracer|author=Georg Szalai|dated=18 August 2022|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]], [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] kept updated throughout the negotiations to extend [[New Line Cinema]]'s lease on the rights.<ref name=":4" />

Having "really enjoyed working with [[Kenji Kamiyama]], who directed ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|War of the Rohirrim]]''," [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] signed on to produce two new films: [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] denied<ref name=":22" /> rumours that this involved splitting the [[Gollum]] story,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2024/05/lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-cast-plot-everything-we-know-1235919922/|articlename=‘The Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum’: Everything We Know So Far|author=Dessi Gomez|dated=16 May 2024|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://filmstories.co.uk/news/the-lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-its-two-films-says-ian-mckellen/|articlename=The Lord Of The Rings: Hunt For Gollum {{!}} “It’s two films” says Ian McKellen|author=Ryan Lambie|dated=11 September 2024|website=Film Stories}}</ref> and at various times her and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] expressed interest in subjects varying from the [[Battle of Dale|War in the North]], Young [[Aragorn]], or certain vignettes from [[Rohan]] or [[Gondor]]'s history, which are all possible for the second film.<ref name=":23">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1i97ctm/the_next_film_after_the_hunt_for_gollum/|articlename=The next film after The Hunt for Gollum: Everything we know so far|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=25 January 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> These are probably ''not'' the other two scripts [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had been working on, however.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.indiewire.com/news/general-news/peter-jackson-not-retired-working-on-three-scripts-1235138316/|articlename=Peter Jackson Is Working on Three Screenplays: ‘I’m Certainly Not Retired’|author=By Rance Collins|dated=13 July 2025|website=IndieWire}}</ref>

Signing on the films was done with the intention to jump-start a new slate of ''Lord of the Rings'' prequels for [[New Line Cinema]],<ref name=":18" /><ref name=":24" /> with [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also expressing interest in making an "epic trilogy", probably about the [[Angmar conflict|Angmar War]].<ref name=":23" /> However, having developed the [[Gollum]] premise for so long, they decided to start with it. Asked about unrealized projects in 2024, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] observed that "there's a lot of that in ''The Hunt for Gollum.''"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9LdzKS584wA&t=614s|articlename=Lord of the Rings: War of the Rohirrim Interviews! Peter Jackson Role Explained|author=Brandon Davis|dated=29 October 2024|website=YouTube}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis]], who played [[Gollum]], had directed second unit on ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King|The Return of the King]]'' and ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]<ref name=":7" />'' and had since become a director in his own right, as well as narrating audiobooks of Tolkien's novels. [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] approached [[Andy Serkis|Andy]] around October 2023.<ref name=":24">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ssUmmuU-Bmk&t=76s|articlename=Andy Serkis Talks Motion Capture, Gollum, and Directing {{!}} Superhero Comic Con San Antonio 2024 Q&A|author=Freeman Coliseum|dated=24 June 2024|website=YouTube}}</ref> While developing the story, they already made availability checks to key cast and crew members.

===Writing===
Story meetings have happened at least as early as May 2024<ref name=":7" /> and by July they were about to start writing,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/comconnireland/status/1835962321211904490|articlename=Andy Serkis took to the stage at Comic Con Northern Ireland to talk all things Lord of the Rings and more!|author=@comconnireland|dated=16 September 2024|website=Twitter}}</ref> with [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] spotted at the [[Hobbiton]] set in November with writers [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] and Arty Papageorgiou, producers [[Zane Weiner]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/05/lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-release-date-1236390022/|articlename=‘Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum’ Sets Pre-Christmas 2027 Release|author=Anthony D'Alessandro|dated=8 May 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> and Carlos Ramirez Laloli.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.elfenomeno.com/info/ver/23481/comienza-el-rodaje-de-el-senor-de-los-anillos-la-caza-de-gollum-en-hobbiton|articlename=¿Comienza el rodaje de El Señor de los Anillos: La Caza de Gollum en Hobbiton?|author=Elfenomeno|dated=6 November 2024|website=Elfenomeno.com}}</ref> By December they had been in the process of writing the story treatment.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/lord-of-the-rings-war-of-the-rohirrim-arty-papageorgiou-phoebe-gittins/|articlename="Who Better for a Gollum Film Than Gollum Himself?": 'War of the Rohirrim' Writers on Working with Andy Serkis in 'The Hunt for Gollum'|author=Therese Lacson|dated=16 December 2024|website=Collider}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] later estimated they would finish writing by the middle of the year - executive Pamela Abdy since put the completion of the script at May<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/04/warner-bros-mike-de-luca-pam-abdy-courage-in-face-of-brutal-press-coverage-1236366618/|articlename=Warner Bros’ Mike De Luca & Pam Abdy: Playing Long Game, Mixing IP Like ‘Bodyguard’ Revamp & Bold Originals & Animation Despite Brutal Press|author=Mike Fleming Junior|dated=11 April 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> - and begin "scouting locations and building [sets]" with shooting due to begin towards the beginning of 2026.<ref name=":5">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.1news.co.nz/2024/12/15/exclusive-andy-serkis-philippa-boyens-on-the-hunt-for-gollum/|articlename=Exclusive: Andy Serkis, Philippa Boyens on new Lord of the Rings film|author=Abbey Wakefield|dated=15 December 2024|website=1News}}</ref> As a result, the release date for the film was ultimately delayed from 2026 to 17 December 2027.<ref name="TheDirect2027Release">{{webcite|author=Klein Felt|articleurl=https://thedirect.com/article/hunt-for-gollum-movie-lord-of-the-rings-release-official|articlename=Lord of the Rings: Hunt for Gollum Movie Gets Release Window from Andy Serkis|dated=27 Feb 2025|website=[https://thedirect.com The Direct]|accessed=27 Feb 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://variety.com/2025/film/news/lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-release-date-december-2027-1236390820/|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum’ Sets December 2027 Release Date; Warner Bros. Also Dates New ‘Evil Dead’ and M. Night Shyamalan Movies for 2026|author=Zack Sharf|dated=8 May 2025|website=Variety}}</ref>

A draft of the screenplay had been sent to de Luca and Abdy in May, probably prior to the investor meeting on the 8th, when [[Warner Bros.|Warner]]'s CEO David Zaslav announced the official release date.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://voicefilm.com/david-zaslav-announces-that-the-release-date-for-the-next-lord-of-the-rings-movie-will-be-revealed-today/|articlename=David Zaslav Announces That the Release Date for the Next ‘Lord of the Rings’ Movie Will Be Revealed Today|author=Mark|dated=8 May 2025|website=Voice Film}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.comicbasics.com/warner-ceo-david-zaslav-says-they-will-focus-more-on-their-main-ips-like-harry-potter-and-dc-in-the-future-those-belong-to-us-and-theyll-only-belong-to-us-forever/|articlename=Warner CEO David Zaslav Says They Will Focus More on Their Main IPs Like ‘Harry Potter’ and DC in the Future: “Those belong to us, and they’ll only belong to us forever.”|author=Arthur S. Poe|dated=8 May 2025|website=Comic Basics}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had since revealed that the film is due to start pre production in August<ref name=":33">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1krwz8d/andy_serkis_the_lord_of_the_rings_the_hunt_for/|articlename=Andy Serkis Panel at Fan Expo Philadelphia 2025|author=FandomWire News|dated=19 May 2025}}</ref> - when the film started hiring crew - then ammended to "late August to early September"<ref name=":18" />, with [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] ultimately arriving in [[Wellington]] circa 8 September to begin work on the film.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://metro.co.uk/2025/09/03/andy-serkis-admits-cant-escape-gollum-ahead-lord-rings-return-24066270/amp/|articlename=Andy Serkis admits he ‘can’t escape Gollum’ ahead of Lord of the Rings return|author=Sabrina Barr|dated=3 September 2025|website=Metro UK}}</ref> Serkis had left New Zealand during the holiday season, attending the premiere of "28 Years Later: The Bone Temple" before flying back to New Zealand: en rote he landed in Los Angeles.<ref name=":41">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.tmz.com/2026/01/20/andy-serkis-wants-original-lord-of-the-rings-cast-in-new-film/|articlename=LOTR' Star Andy Serkis: OG Cast Is Precious, Love 'Em For New Flick|author=Anonymous|dated=20 January 20 2026|website=TMZ}}</ref>

==Pre production==
[[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had further said preproduction will last for six months,<ref name=":27">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.comingsoon.it/cinema/news/in-un-mondo-alla-deriva-gollum-ci-salvera-la-nostra-intervista-ad-andy/n203564/|articlename=In un mondo alla deriva Gollum ci salverà: la nostra intervista ad Andy Serkis|author=Carola Proto|dated=25 June 2025|website=Coming Soon.it}}</ref> with [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] later confirming it will start filming in May<ref name=":12">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1msw9fp/the_lord_of_the_rings_the_hunt_for_gollum_starts/|articlename=The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum starts shooting in May, says Sir Ian McKellen. "I'll tell you two secrets about the casting..."|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=17 August 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> for an extended shooting period:<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-filming-update-andy-serkis/|articlename=Director Andy Serkis Offers Huge Filming Update For 'The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum' [Exclusive]|author=Chris McPherson and Steven Weintraub|dated=10 June 2025|website=Collider}}</ref> This puts the beginning of filming in [[New Zealand]] winter and, deducting the holidays, six months after [[Andy Serkis|Andy]]'s arrival. Location scouting may have taken place at Hawke's Bay as early as June<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1lis26w/a_location_scout_for_the_lord_of_the_rings_the/|articlename=A location scout for The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum seems to be snooping around Hawke's Bay, New Zealand|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=23 June 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> and later at the Waikato.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.waikatotimes.co.nz/nz-news/360837801/aliens-warriors-heroes-princesses-and-gollum-big-productions-filmed-and-possibly-coming-waikato|articlename=Aliens, warriors, heroes, princesses ... and Gollum: The big productions filmed in (and possibly coming to) the Waikato|author=Mike Mather|dated=1 October 2025|website=Waikato Times}}</ref> They had also watched the films sometime prior to November.<ref>Latino USA TV, "How Movie Monsters Are Really Made!", YouTube, 26 November 2025.</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] also spoke appreciatively of [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s penchant for behind the scenes extras, suggesting a similar approach to the film.<ref name=":33" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/gu1jj7/one_zoom_to_rule_them_all_reunited_apart_lord_of/|articlename=One Zoom to Rule Them All {{!}} Reunited Apart LORD OF THE RINGS Edition|author=Josh Gad|dated=31 May 2021|website=}}</ref> In October, [[Andy Serkis|Andy]] revealed that they're developing prosthetics.<ref name=":34">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1og2b4p/andy_serkis_says_all_the_art_department_from_lord/|articlename=Andy Serkis says "all the art department" from Lord of the Rings are "excited to come back." They started location scouting and camera tests.|author=u/Lord_Varys92|dated=25 October 2024|website=Reddit}}</ref>

Since [[Elijah Wood]], slated to appear in the film, is on tour through to early September,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://parade.com/news/lord-of-the-rings-hobbits-25-years-later-reunion-tour|articlename=The Hobbits Are Back Together — and Their Big News Has Fans Cheering|author=Whitney Danhauer|dated=25 October 2025|website=Parade}}</ref> his scenes might be scheduled for [[New Zealand]] summer, which could suggest shooting ''in situ'' in [[Hobbiton]], presumably depicting [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] dallying outside [[Bag End]] while [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]] and [[Gandalf]] argue within, as depicted in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]''. [[Ian McKellen]] is also hoping to join the production in [[New Zealand as Middle-earth|New Zealand]] during July.<ref>The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, "There's Nothing I Enjoy More Than Acting In The Theater" - Ian McKellen EXTENDED INTERVIEW," ''YouTub''e, 5 February 2026.</ref>

===Crew===
The film, said to be "one of the most expensive feature films to be shot in [[New Zealand]]"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/new-lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-film-will-be-shot-in-nz-set-for-2027-release/3BDNB3QFKJDAVGB4ODOTQ63YLY/|articlename=New Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum film will be shot in NZ, set for 2027 release|author=Tom Rose|dated=18 June 2025|website=New Zealand Herald}}</ref> is expected to draft alums of the ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|Lord of the Rings]]'', ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|War of the Rohirrim]]'' (many of whom will have also worked on ''[[The Rings of Power]]'' Season One and other projects) working in the [[Wellington]] and greater New Zealand screen sector.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thepost.co.nz/nz-news/350274670/film-heavyweights-alight-over-lotr-comeback|articlename=Film heavyweights ‘alight’ over LOTR comeback|author=Rachel Thomas|dated=10 May 2024|website=The New Zealand Post}}</ref><ref name=":5" /> Crewing began in early August, with Wood since confirming the involvement of production designer [[Dan Hennah]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IX5NhkyQ710|articlename=Elijah Wood en Monterrey/ conferencia de la DesertCon|author=Asi SoyTv|dated=6 October 2025|website=YouTube}}</ref> and set decorator Ra Vincent might also be involved.<ref name=":34" /> Although [[Janet Brennan Croft|Janet Brennan-Croft]] acted as [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] consultant on previous films, Beppe Pezzini will fill this role for this film.<ref>Educational Media Services | University of Oxford, "Beppe Pezzini on Classics and Fantasy | Fantasy Summer School ‪@facultyofenglishoxford‬," ''YouTube'', 23 September 2025.</ref>

IMDb credits Bob Buck as ''a'' costume designer for the film: it remains to be seen if Ngila Dickson, having just wrapped ''Predator: Badlands'' with [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]], might return. Kate Hawley, who was attached to del Toro's version of the film, is unlikely to take part due to work on "Bad Bridgets."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/10/daisy-edgar-jones-emilia-jones-bad-bridgets-luckychap-1236604481/|articlename=Daisy Edgar-Jones And Emilia Jones To Star In ‘Bad Bridgets’ From LuckyChap|author=Justin Kroll|dated=31 October 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> Liz Mullane and Rachel Bullock head the New Zealand casting sweep. Both [[Wētā FX|WetaFX]] and [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]] are confirmed for the project,<ref name=":8">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt32328070/companycredits/?ref_=tt_dt_cmpy|articlename=The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum (2027)|author=Anonymous|website=IMDb}}</ref> as are [[Gino Acevedo]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.instagram.com/p/DRy30vUkme7/|articlename="Oh no!"|author=Ginoacevedofx|dated=3 December 2025|website=Instagram}}</ref> [[John Howe]] and [[Alan Lee]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://ggba.swiss/en/the-lord-of-the-rings-nature-and-switzerlands-hidden-history-a-conversation-with-john-howe/|articlename=The Lord Of The Rings, Nature and Switzerland’s Hidden History (A Conversation with John Howe)|author=Woody Wade|dated=10 December 2025|website=Greater Geneva Bern Area}}</ref> In April - by which point a composer was already said to be attached to the project - [[Howard Shore]] said he was interested to "see how that all works out."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.classical-music.com/articles/howard-shore|articlename=Howard Shore: the film composer behind Hannibal Lecter and Bilbo Baggins|author=Michael Beek|dated=16 April 2025|website=Classical Music.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://en.softonic.com/articles/the-composer-of-the-soundtrack-for-the-lord-of-the-rings-made-a-cameo-in-the-movies-and-no-one-noticed#google_vignette|articlename=The composer of the soundtrack for The Lord of the Rings made a cameo in the movies and no one noticed|author=Agencias|dated=26 December 2025|website=Softonic}}</ref>

As early as October, [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] suggested that they're "doing camera tests."<ref name=":34" /> This is said to include miniature photography, with Alex Funke said to participate, even if only in an advisory position. On the live action side, although Robert Richardson had been rumoured as camerman, he will be preoccupied with Antoine Fuqua's Hannibal epic.<ref name=":34" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.worldofreel.com/blog/2025/7/23/michael-part-1-delayed-to-april-2026|articlename=‘Michael’ Delayed to April 2026|author=Jordan Ruimy|dated=23 July 2025|website=World of Reel}}</ref> While the film was in the story conference stage in July 2024, Richardson said he had "a number" of projects "on the constantly-shifting horizon of the film industry."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.filmlightcolourawards.com/colour-awards-2024/jury-colour-awards-2024/robert-richardson-cinematographer-asc-ack/|articlename=Robert Richardson, Cinematographer, ASC, ACK|author=Anonymous|dated=18 July 2024|website=Film Light Colour Awards}}</ref>

The film is a co-production of [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s [[WingNut Films|WingNut films]] and [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]]' ''Imaginarium''. [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] will executive produce with his ''Imaginarium'' partner John Cavendish and Jackson's agent [[Ken Kamins]].<ref name="Gollum">{{webcite|author=Jennifer Maas|articleurl=https://variety.com/2024/film/news/lord-of-the-rings-movie-2026-release-warner-bros-1235997102/|articlename=Warner Bros. to Release New ‘Lord of the Rings’ Movie ‘The Hunt for Gollum’ in 2026, Peter Jackson to Produce and Andy Serkis to Direct|dated=9 May 2024|website=[https://variety.com/ Variety]|accessed=8 June 2024}}</ref> IMDb also credits studio chiefs Michael de Luca (who helped produce [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'']]), Pam Abdy and David Zaslav as executive producers<ref name=":8" /> and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] mentioned [[Warner Bros.|Warners]]' business consultant Alan Horn (who had produced ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]])'' as a collaborator, but these credits have yet to become official.<ref name=":7" />

===Cast===
With [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] due to star as [[Gollum]], approaches had been made to [[Ian McKellen|Sir Ian McKellen]]<ref name=":2">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2024/09/ian-mckellen-return-gandalf-new-the-lord-of-the-rings-films-1236075547/|articlename=Ian McKellen Reveals He’s Been Approached To Reprise His Role As Gandalf In Andy Serkis’ New ‘The Lord Of The Rings’ Films|author=Jake Kanter|dated=2 September 2024|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> and [[Viggo Mortensen]] to reprise [[Gandalf]] and [[Aragorn]], respectively. [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] said he's in talks to reprise "a little bit" of [[Gandalf]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.mirror.co.uk/3am/celebrity-news/sir-ian-mckellan-i-thought-36196617|articlename=EXCLUSIVE: Sir Ian McKellan: 'I thought I was a goner, but I'm coming back as Gandalf'|author=Marc Baker and Jackie Annett|dated=5 November 2025|website=The Mirror}}</ref> in [[New Zealand]].<ref name=":42">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thetimes.com/culture/tv-radio/article/ian-mckellen-an-ark-lowry-lord-of-the-rings-f9wc9nmdq|articlename=Ian McKellen at 86: ‘I’ve had to accept that I’m not immortal’|author=Jonathan Dean|dated=14 February 2026|website=The Times}}</ref> As of December, the contracts with [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] and [[Elijah Wood|Wood]] hadn't been finalized,<ref name=":40" /> but [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] expressed a desire to return to [[New Zealand]] for filming. [[Liv Tyler]], [[Evangeline Lilly]] and, especially, [[Orlando Bloom]] have also expressed interest in reprising their parts,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.nme.com/news/film/the-lord-of-the-rings-cast-say-they-would-jump-to-return-for-new-spin-off-movies-3853893|articlename=‘The Lord Of The Rings’ cast say they would “jump” to return for new spin-off movies|author=Damian Jones|dated=11 April 2025|website=NME}}</ref> while [[Dominic Monaghan]] expressed a desire to visit the set.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://nypost.com/2025/11/06/entertainment/dominic-monaghan-reveals-plans-for-next-lord-of-the-rings-movie/|articlename=Dominic Monaghan reveals big plans for next ‘Lord of the Rings’ movie — including possible return as Merry
By|author=Eric Todisco|dated=6 November 2025|website=New York Post}}</ref> [[Evangeline Lilly|Lilly]] had proceeded to do so, but indicated that she will have no further involvement with the project. [[Orcs]] are set to appear in the film, with [[Shane Rangi]] and [[Lawrence Makoare]] having reportedly been contacted.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/thelegacyofnerd/status/1979621220246344016|articlename=BREAKING: ‘The Hunt For Gollum’ Begins Filming in May 2026|author=@thelegacyofnerd|dated=8 October 2025|website=Twitter}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]]' comments about seeing the interiors of [[Barad-dûr|Barad Dur]] might suggest the involvement of [[Benedict Cumberbatch]].<ref name=":36">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lYYSsook-4Y|articlename=Philippa Boyens ('ESDLA: LA GUERRA DE LOS ROHIRRIM'): "Queríamos que se sintiera como algo nuevo"|author=eCartelera|dated=10 December 2024}}</ref>

[[Andy Serkis|Serkis]], [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had all spoke to [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]],<ref name=":3">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://theplaylist.net/the-war-of-the-rohirrim-philippa-boyens-on-the-new-anime-the-hunt-for-gollum-the-future-of-the-lord-of-the-rings-20241223/|articlename=‘The War Of The Rohirrim’: Philippa Boyens On The New Anime, ‘The Hunt For Gollum’ & The Future Of ‘The Lord of the Rings’|author=Rodrigo Perez|dated=23 December 2024|website=The Playlist}}</ref> who had previously said he'd be "open to it" if it makes sense for "the age I am now"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.gq-magazine.co.uk/article/viggo-mortensen-interview-2024|articlename=Viggo Mortensen re-used Aragorn's sword in new movie The Dead Don't Hurt “Because it's really good”|author=Rafael Motamayor|dated=28 May 2024|website=GQ}}</ref> but after [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] pitched it to him as "Digital make-up" they agreed he'd wait to read the script: With the approach to [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] happening sometime between June<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thetimes.com/culture/film/article/ian-mckellen-if-this-is-my-last-job-id-better-get-it-right-hadnt-i-n3t38g6tb|articlename=Ian McKellen: ‘When a script arrives, I think this might be my last job’|author=Dominic Maxwell|dated=8 June 2024|website=The Times of London}}</ref> and September,<ref name=":2" /> the approach to [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] may have taken place in mid-June, just prior to an interview in which [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] said "The script is the most important thing to me", seemingly no longer harping on the age quota.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/viggo-mortensen-lord-of-the-rings-script-feminism-1235935628/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen on Respecting Audiences, How Scripts Are Key “Unless I’m Broke,” New ‘LOTR’ Films|author=Georg Szalai|dated=30 June 2024|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] said they need to "drag" him.<ref name=":36" /> Mortensen also said he'd be interested in appearing in later film projects if they were "true to Tolkien."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.the-independent.com/arts-entertainment/films/news/viggo-mortensen-movies-interview-b2561237.html|articlename=Go to Bat with Viggo Mortensen: My films that deserve more love|author=Jacob Stolworthy|dated=7 June 2024|website=The Independent}}</ref>

While in London for ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]]'' premiere, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also "had lunch with an [[Elves|Elf]] lord" who "would fall into that story."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.instagram.com/nerdoftherings/reel/DDgKw47uxkJ/|articlename="Philippa Boyens teases an “elf lord” returning for Hunt for Gollum! "|author=Matt Graf|dated=12 December 2024|website=Instagram}}</ref> Although this could refer to [[Orlando Bloom|Bloom]] or even [[Marton Csokas]], [[Lee Pace]] is the most likely as he was shooting ''The Running Man'' in London at the time.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://people.com/glen-powell-films-running-man-reboot-37-years-after-arnold-schwarzenegger-movie-8745529|articlename=Glen Powell Films Running Man Remake in London 37 Years After Original Arnold Schwarzenegger Movie|author=Jen Juneau|dated=14 November 2024|website=People}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had since divulged that they expect "some of the cast who were originally in" ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'', as well as "some incredible new talent."<ref name=":28">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.jedinews.com/events/articles/indiana-comic-con-andy-serkis-full-panel/|articlename=Indiana Comic Con: Andy Serkis Full Panel|author=James Burns|dated=11 April 2025,|website=Jedi News}}</ref> [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] had since confirmed that [[Gandalf]] and [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]], surely to be played by himself and [[Elijah Wood|Wood]], are scheduled to reappear in the piece.<ref name=":12" />

Casting seems to have started in November,<ref name=":40">Steve Schofield ''et al'', "25 Years of Fellowship", ''Empire'' (March 2026), pp. 46-70.</ref> with young boys auditioning for the boy [[Gollum|Smeagol]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/KnightGambit/status/2011815291198849220|articlename=Small Tidbit.....|author=Caleb Williams|dated=16 January 2026|website=Twitter}}</ref> and two of his fellow [[Stoors|Stoor]] riverfolk - a young girl and a young adult boy - in what looks like a setup for [[Gollum|Smeagol]]'s preoccupation with a birtday present. Actors in their early thirties auditioned for a young "[[Aragorn|Strider]]",<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://knightedgemedia.com/2026/01/the-hunt-for-gollum-casting-call-teases-young-strider-and-his-fellow-dunedain-rangers/#google_vignette|articlename=‘The Hunt for Gollum’ Casting Call Teases Young Strider and His Fellow Dúnedain Rangers|author=Caleb Williams|dated=16 January 2026|website=Knight Edge Media}}</ref> with 29-year old Leo Woodall reportedly tipped for the role.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://knightedgemedia.com/2026/03/rumor-leo-woodall-cast-as-strider-in-lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum/#google_vignette|articlename=RUMOR: Leo Woodall Cast as Strider in ‘Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum’|author=Caleb Williams|dated=7 March 2026|website=Knight Edge Media}}</ref> While there had been reports that the studio is not hoping to get Viggo<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/ViewerAnon/status/1998489358849159181?s=20|articlename=I can confirm this|author=ViewerAnon|dated=9 December 2025|website=Twitter}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had spoken about potentially having to "hand off"<ref name=":3" /> from [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]], and rumours had pointed to the inexpediency of the deaging.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://3dvf.com/en/a-cult-actor-from-the-lord-of-the-rings-on-the-departure-the-question-arises-for-the-prequel-dedicated-to-gollum/#google_vignette|articlename=A Cult Actor from The Lord of the Rings on the Departure? The Question Arises for the Prequel Dedicated to Gollum|author=Quentin Couprie|dated=13 December 2025|accessed=3DVF}}</ref> The age differential - Mortensen was 42 while shooting ''Lord of the Rings'' - may well suggest scenes alternating between this younger character, and either an old [[Aragorn|Elessar]] and/or the "mature" [[Aragorn]] of the [[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|''Fellowship of the Ring'']] era.''<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://medium.com/p/dcf21faf019e|articlename=The Hunt for Gollum and the Aragorn problem|author=Chen Geller|website=Medium}}</ref>'' [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had earlier spoke of meeting [[Aragorn]] when he was "quite young" in ''[[The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies|The Battle of the Five Armies]],'' but not so young that it didn't seem plausible to her to have [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] play him circa 2011''.<ref name=":39" />'' The audition scene, although not necessarily representative of the film, also implies the presence of the other [[Rangers of the North|Rangers]], perhaps including [[Halbarad]]. A younger Strider could also feature in a "Young Aragorn" picture.

Serkis had since reaffirrmed that he would "love the old cast" back.<ref name=":41" /> Other roles auditioned for include women in their thirties and fifities: the latter is said to be Smeagol's grandmother, now confirmed as a "lead" role, with Kate Winslet relocating to New Zealand for five months. The thirties' part<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://knightedgemedia.com/2026/03/the-hunt-for-gollum-lead-female-characters-casting-are-underway-exclusive/#google_vignette|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum’ Lead Female Characters Casting Are Underway (EXCLUSIVE)|author=Caleb Williams|dated=5 March 2026|website=Knight Edge Media}}</ref> is reportedly circled by Anya Taylor-Joy. Some presume this to be [[Arwen]], but if so the quota is older than [[Liv Tyler]], who was 23 at the time of [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'']].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://medium.com/@chenngeller/on-aragorn-and-other-castings-a6e55668fce9?postPublishedType=repub|articlename=On Aragorn, Stoors and other castings|author=Chen Geller|dated=11 March 2026|website=Medium}}</ref> Winslet had previously been considered, at least by the studio, for [[Éowyn|Eowyn]].

==Plotline==
The exact events the film covers remain undisclosed. There's ambiguity concerning both the exact timeframe for the film, and whether it will focus more on [[Gollum]] or [[Aragorn]]. An official "blurb" for the movie reads: "The pic explores [[Aragorn]]’s adventures as a [[Rangers of the North|ranger]], specifically his quest to capture [[Gollum]] between [[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]] and [[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|Fellowship of the Ring]], tracking him to keep the [[The One Ring|Ring]]’s location from [[Sauron|Sauron."]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2026/01/box-office-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy-25th-anniversary-1236689724/|articlename=‘Lord Of The Rings’ Trilogy 25th Anniversary Event Rings Up $11M In Worldwide Box Office|author=Anthony D'Alessandro|dated=19 January 2026|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> A more extended synopsis had also been circulating:<blockquote>Before the Fellowship, one creature's obsession holds the key to Middle-earth's survival -- or its demise. In The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum, we meet young Smeagol -- an outsider drawn to trinkets and mischief -- long before The One Ring consumed him and began his tragic descent into the tortured, deceitful creature Gollum. With the ring lost and carried away by Bilbo Baggins, Gollum finds himself compelled to leave his cave in search of it. Gandalf the Grey calls upon Aragorn, still known as the ranger Strider, to track the elusive creature whose knowledge of the whereabouts of the ring could tip the balance toward the Dark Lord Sauron.
Set in the shadowed time between Bilbo's birthday disappearance and the Fellowship's formation, this perilous journey through Middle-earth's darkest corners reveals untold truths, tests the resolve of its future king, and explores the fractured soul and backstory of Gollum, one of Tolkien's most enigmatic characters.

Directed by original cast member Andy Serkis, produced by Peter Jackson, and written & produced by Fran Walsh and Phillipa Boyens -- the creative team behind the Oscar-winning trilogy -- this live-action movie bridges the beloved films with new characters, returning heroes, and a deeply engaging origin story that resets the stage for, and changes everything you know about the legendary Lord of the Rings trilogy.</blockquote>Strictly speaking, [[Aragorn]]'s hunt for [[Gollum]] begins during the events depicted in Jackson's [[The Fellowship of the Ring (2001 film)|''The Fellowship of the Ring'']], and in October, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] said the story "falls after the [[Bilbo's Farewell Party|birthday party of Bilbo]] and before the Mines Of [[Moria]]".<ref name=":22">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.empireonline.com/movies/news/lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-wont-be-two-films-second-philippa-boyens-exclusive/|articlename=The Hunt For Gollum Won’t Be Two Films, But A Second LOTR Film Is Incoming, Philippa Boyens Confirms|author=Ben Travis|dated=18 October 2024|website=Empire}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] added that the role of [[Aragorn]] is "very central" to the movie.<ref name=":36" /> Andy called the storyline "pivotal."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1md7lim/the_lord_of_the_rings_the_hunt_for_gollum_andy/|articlename=The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum - Andy Serkis says "this part of the story is pivotal"|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=30 July 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> [[Ian McKellen]] had described the plot as "[[Aragorn]] trying to find [[Gollum]] with [[Gandalf]] directing operations from the sidelines."<ref name=":42" />

However, ''a'' hunt for [[Gollum]] is begun by the [[Silvan Elves]] after Gollum first leaves the [[Misty Mountains|mountains]] in search of [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]], and in December Jackson said the film "tells us what happened to [[Gollum]] between ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' - end of [[The Hobbit (film series)|''The Hobbit'']] - and the beginning of ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]''".<ref name=":6">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/red-carpet-premiere-for-the-lord-of-the-rings-the-war-of-the-rohirrim/P3BS7U5NPS5EMFLPUV4SYSYFDU/|articlename=Red carpet premiere for The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|author=Mitchell Hageman|dated=11 December 2024|website=New Zealand Herald}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had since confirmed this timeframe: "It sits, kind of, in the timeline between ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' - between losing the [[The One Ring|Ring]] to [[Bilbo Baggins]] - and ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]''."<ref name=":18">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?t=1218&v=U-dw8DQDf90&feature=youtu.be|articlename=Kazakhstan feels like the center of the world - Andy Serkis {{!}} Interview of the Day|author=Silk Way / Qazaqstan|dated=15 July 2025|website=YouTube}}</ref> [[Dol Guldur]], the [[Nazgûl|Nazgul]] and [[Orcs]] are all said to potentially play part in the film.

[[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also alluded to other storylines: "we are finding a lot of threads of story that are surprising in there when you really go in there and examine it".<ref name=":29">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.slashfilm.com/1734018/philippa-boyens-lord-of-the-rings-war-of-the-rohirrim-exclusive-interview/|articlename=War Of The Rohirrim's Philippa Boyens Reveals Details About The Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum [Exclusive Interview]|author=Ben Pearson|dated=13 December 2024|website=/Film}}</ref> Events as varied as [[Aragorn]]'s sojourn in [[Lothlórien|Lórien]] with [[Arwen]], the fall of [[Balin's folk]], [[Boromir]]'s quest for [[Rivendell]] and much else occur concurrent to the time of the Hunt.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1iutc9r/building_bridges_so_what_happens_between_the/|articlename=Building Bridges: So, what happens between the trilogies that The Hunt for Gollum could possibly cover?|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=21 February 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> "You see the layers and layers of story that’s underneath there and how interconnected they all are", she adds.<ref name=":3" /> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] also made comments to this effect: "Some pretty interesting stuff happens that we reference in passing in [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The'' ''Lord of the Rings'']], but there’s a lot of more deep detail to it."<ref name=":6" />

[[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] adds that "We get to go to some places that we've never been before" in Middle-earth." One such place - only glimpsed in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|Fellowship of the Ring]]'' - is the interiors of [[Barad-dûr|Barad Dur]].<ref name=":36" /> Both she and Serkis alluded to new characters<ref name=":28" /><ref name=":5" /> and new dramatic situations, saying it's "surprising"<ref name=":7" /><ref name=":27" /><ref name=":29" /> and could be enjoyed be people wo don't know the novels.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.amica.it/video-post/andy-serkis-dirigero-signore-anelli-tornero-batman/|articlename=Andy Serkis, da Gollum a regista: «Dirigerò “Il Signore degli Anelli” e tornerò con Batman»|author=Emanuele Bigi|dated=27 June 2025|website=Amica}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also shared that one of the practicalities they were busy figuring out in the writing is "How does he [<nowiki/>[[Aragorn]]] pick up his scent? How does he find his trail, how does it happen?"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://nerdist.com/article/nerdist-philippa-boyens-interview-the-war-of-the-rohirrim-the-lord-of-the-rings-future/|articlename=Philippa Boyens Talks the Future of THE LORD OF THE RINGS Movies and Naming a Tolkien Character in THE WAR OF THE ROHIRRIM|author=by Rotem Rusak|dated=19 December 2024|website=Nerdist}}</ref>

==Cast==
{| class="wikitable mw-collapsible"
|- style="background: var(--tg-color-surface-2);"
!Actor!!Role
|-
|[[Andy Serkis]]||[[Gollum]]<ref name="Gollum"></ref>
|-
|[[Elijah Wood]]
|[[Frodo Baggins]]<ref name=":12" />
|-
|[[Ian McKellen]]
|[[Gandalf]]<ref name=":12" />
|-
|Kate Winslet
|Unconfirmed role
|}

{{title|italics}}

{{references}}

{{screen}}

[[Category:Films]]

[[fi:The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum]]

The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum

2026-03-23T10:56:01Z

Chen Geller:

{{Disambig-two|the 2027 film adaptation|2009 fan film|[[The Hunt for Gollum]]}}
{{film infobox
| image =
| caption =
| name = The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum
| director = [[Andy Serkis]]
| producer = [[Peter Jackson]] [[Fran Walsh]] [[Philippa Boyens]] [[Zane Weiner]]
| writer = [[Fran Walsh]] [[Philippa Boyens]] Phoebe Gittins Arty Papageorgiou
| narrator =
| starring = [[Andy Serkis]]<ref name=Gollum></ref> [[Elijah Wood]] [[Ian McKellen]] Kate Winslet
| music =
| cinematography =
| editing =
| studio = WingNut films Imaginarium [[New Line Cinema]]<ref name=Gollum></ref>
| distributor = [[Warner Bros.|Warner Bros. Pictures]]<ref name=Gollum></ref>
| released = 17 December [[2027]]<ref name="TheDirect2027Release"/>
| runtime =
| country = [[New Zealand]]<ref name=Gollum></ref>
| language = English
| budget =
| website =
|imdb_id=32328070
|basedon=[[The Lord of the Rings]]|production design=[[Dan Hennah]] (Production designer)}}
'''''The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum''''' is the title (originally, working title<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/09/curtis-brown-jrr-tolkien-literary-estate-deal-1236526748/|articlename=Curtis Brown To Rep J.R.R. Tolkien’s Literary Estate|author=Jesse Whittock|dated=10 September 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref>) of a forthcoming film adaptation currently in pre-production and set for a [[2027]] release, the first of a planned series of Tolkien films to be produced by [[New Line Cinema]], a division of [[Warner Bros.|Warner Brothers]].<ref name=":4">{{webcite|author=Matt Donnelly|articleurl=https://variety.com/2023/film/news/lord-of-the-rings-new-movies-warner-bros-1235533672/|articlename=New ‘Lord of the Rings’ Movies Set at Warner Bros. |dated=23 February 2023|website=[https://variety.com/ Variety]|accessed=10 June 2024}}</ref>

The film will cover [[Gollum]]'s travels after losing [[The One Ring|the Ring]] to [[Bilbo Baggins]] (as depicted in [[The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey|''An Unexpected Journey'']]), through [[Gandalf]] setting out to track the creature after [[Bilbo's Farewell Party]] (as depicted in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]'') and down to [[Gollum]] intercepting [[Fellowship of the Ring|the Fellowship]] in [[Moria|Moria.]]

It will be directed by and star [[Andy Serkis]], who played [[Gollum]] in [[Peter Jackson]]'s previous films, as well as directing second unit. [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] will produce with his co-writing team of [[Fran Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens]], who will also write the screenplay with ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]]'' scribes Phoebe Gittins and Arty Papageorgiou.

The subject of this film is a longstanding fascination of [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s who developed it quite intensly in 2008 with [[Guillermo del Toro]]. The film is in preproduction with several cast and crew members from previous films already attached, including actor [[Elijah Wood]], concept artists [[John Howe]] and [[Alan Lee]] and others.

==Early Development==
Although the film was only announced in 2023, it had a long gestation period with [[Peter Jackson]], who considered filming this subject since circa 1997, and at least as late as July 2015. During 2008, in particular, the film was in development with a plot synopsis, a tentative budget and an initial cast and crew attached, and drew the attention of further talent like [[Viggo Mortensen]], as well as the press. Elements of this proposed "bridge film" were eventually put into ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' but mostly axed during the early months of the shoot. Jackson also negotiated in 2018 about producing a show for [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon Prime]] about the related subject of the travels of young [[Aragorn]], but ended up producing ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]]'' with [[New Line Cinema]] instead.

===During ''The'' ''Lord of the Rings''===
[[Peter Jackson]] read [[The Lord of the Rings|''The Lord of the Rings'']] circa 1979, and he claims that he "always loved the concept that when [[Gandalf]] leaves [[Bag End]] he goes and joins up with [[Aragorn]] and the two of them hunt [[Gollum]] down."<ref name=":26">Peter Jackson, Philippa Boyens, Fran Walsh, "Director's Commentary", Peter Jackson, ''The Lord of the Rings trilogy'' (New Line Cinema: 2004).</ref> This piece of backstory was also expanded upon in the [[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)|radio serial]], which [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] was very familiar with. He and [[Fran Walsh]] first pitched a trilogy based on [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']] and ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'' around November 1995.<ref>Brian Sibley, Peter Jackson: A Filmmaker's Journey (London: HarperCollins, 2006), pp. 312 ff.</ref><ref>J. W Braun, ''The lord of the films : the unofficial guide to Tolkien's Middle-Earth on the big screen'' (Toronto: ECW Press, 2009), pp. 20, 63, 68-69, 195.</ref><ref>Michael Pellerin, "Completing Middle-earth," Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit'' (Warner Brothers: 2015).</ref> They may well have had the [[Gollum]] episode in mind at some time between that point and early 1997. So long as they intended to start with ''The Hobbit'' (up to early 1996), they will have been mindful of the need to connect the two novels, and while their treatment (mid 1997) doesn't seem to cover the [[Gollum]] episode, it already dramatizes the remainder of the backstory that's given in "[[The Shadow of the Past]]", "[[The Council of Elrond]]" and [[appendix B]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1j06oqh/so_what_is_the_hunt_for_gollum_really_based_on/|articlename=So, what is The Hunt for Gollum REALLY based on?|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=28 February 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> When the project expanded (September 1998) to three films, Jackson tried to finally incorporate this storyline - some eight pages' worth - but realized that he "just couldn't put [the Hunt for [[Gollum]]] into the movie".<ref name=":26" />

[[Peter Jackson|Peter]] nevertheless publicly expressed a desire to film "[[Gandalf]] and [[Aragorn]] hunting [[Gollum]], and his capture by [[Orcs]]"<ref name=":25">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://members.tripod.com/peter_jackson_online/lotr/articles/20_questions2.htm|articlename=20 QUESTIONS WITH PETER JACKSON- PART 2|author=Harry Knowles|dated=31 December 1998|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> At the time, the idea was to shoot this as additional material and add it into the extended edition: although by early 2001 he would have realized this could not be accomodated in the pickups to ''The Fellowship of the Ring'', in 2003 he would still half-jokingly talk about shooting more pickups to "fatten these films out without technically going beyond ‘[[The Lord of the Rings]]’ as the licensed property." Elsewhere in the commentary, he jokes about "spinoff" entries.<ref name=":26" /> Other ideas for this treatment included [[Tom Bombadil]]<ref name=":25" /> and the [[Lothlórien|attack on Lorien]], with the entire expansion estimated at around three hours' worth.<ref name=":26" />

By the end of 2001, The success of ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]'' emboldened [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]<ref>Kristin Thompson, T''he Frodo Franchise: The Lord of the Rings and Modern Hollywoo''d (Berkeley: University of California Press, 2007), pp. 51, 327, 338.</ref> to pursue more films (he was also in discussions to "rekindle" ''King Kong'' at the time) and he had later discussed filming a "''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|Lord of the Rings]]'' prequel", along with ''[[The Hobbit]]'', with composer [[Howard Shore]] and executive producer [[Mark Ordesky]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2006/11/19/24053-peter-jackson-and-fran-walsh-talk-the-hobbit-2/|articlename=Peter Jackson and Fran Walsh Talk THE HOBBIT|author=Xoanon|dated=19 November 2006|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref><ref name=":35">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.rhino.com/article/interview-howard-shore-the-lord-of-the-rings|articlename=INTERVIEW: Howard Shore (“The Lord of the Rings”)|author=Will Harris|dated=27 April 2018|website=Rhino}}</ref> At a later premiere, [[New Line Cinema|New Line]]'s president Robert Shaye told [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s agent [[Ken Kamins]] that they "would want to have a conversation" about the two films.<ref name=":30" /> The idea at the time was to incorporate [[Arwen]] as a female character<ref name=":10">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20230327113046/https://ew.com/article/2003/12/06/peter-jackson-mulls-rings-prequel/|articlename=Peter Jackson mulls ''Rings'' prequel|author=Gary Susman|dated=6 December 2003|website=EW}}</ref> and produce both films back-to-back "in some short order"<ref name=":30">Ian Nathan, ''Anything You Can Imagine: Peter Jackson and the Making of Middle-earth'' (London: HarperCollins, 2019), pp. 827, 835.</ref> after ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'', in order to "complete the set of films.”<ref name=":10" /> Peter was referring to these two films, when talking in the behind the scenes documentaries in 2004 about "Maybe there'll be something we can do." Actors [[Andy Serkis]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2003/dec/09/jrrtolkien|articlename=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2003/dec/09/jrrtolkien|author=Anonymous|dated=9 Dec 2003|website=The Guardian}}</ref> [[Ian McKellen]], producer Barrie Osborne<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2002/12/16/25965-ttt-benefit-with-barrie-osborne-2/|articlename=TTT Benefit with Barrie Osborne
by|author=xoanon|dated=16 December 2002|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> and concept artist Paul Lasaine all expressed interest at the time.

Also around this time, [[Andy Serkis]] goes into some detail in his book ''[[Gollum: How We Made Movie Magic|Gollum: Howe We Made Movie Magic]]'' into how he imagined Smeagol's personality and upbringing. This conception of Smeagol would become imperative for the film all those years later: <blockquote>I was interested in trying to define Gollum's class and status in the community, and had thought that, coming from the wealthiest and largest Stoor family, he would probably never have really worked a day in his life. He probably skipped school and spent time squandering money that he had stolen from his grandmother's purse. It was a matriarchy and his grandmother was the head of his family, so I wondered how we might reflect this. We decided that some sort of neckerchief, maybe made of silk and a little flamboyant, might be a good idea. I liked the idea of carrying through the drug-addict metaphor, implying that he was like a young rich kid who had always had money in his pocket and was able to experiment with whatever took his fancy, like a Middle-earth version of a young playboy or a Victorian dandy.

We also examined the idea of his curious and inquisitive nature. I always saw Sméagol as a loner, not particularly liked, a bit of a Billy-no-friends, and not very good at team sports. He would have been thought of as a bit weird, and he would have secretly dreamed up vengeful scenarios for all the other Stoor hobbits, who completely ignored him. So, to cope with being so introverted and alienated, he became a collector, obsessed with the "roots and beginnings" of things. Objects became more important than people: at least they couldn't hurt him. Physically: I gave him a stoop from constantly looking down. I imagined him to be fairly narcissistic, spending hours fascinating himself by staring at his own reflection in the water while he fished. We decided to display this obsessive behavior through shiny pau shell buttons and little trophies of fish bones tied to his belt, as if he were adorning himself with fetishlike status symbols. Although he was dysfunctional, he was not evil or malicious, just, as the Travis Bickle character says of himself in Taxi Driver, full of "morbid self-attention.<ref>Andrew Serkis, [[Gollum: How We Made Movie Magic|''Gollum: How We Made Movie Magic'']] (London: HarperCollins, 2003), p. 58.</ref> </blockquote>While talking about ''[[The Hobbit]]'' in 16 September 2006, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] said they "have thought about it from time to time" and in fact "spent most of this morning" talking about the films. They talked of how "[[Elrond]], [[Galadriel]] and [[Arwen]] could all feature"<ref name=":11" /> and "[[Gollum]]'s sneaking into [[Mordor]] and [[Aragorn]] protecting [[The Shire]]. That's what we'd do. Love to work with [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] again".<ref name=":11">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/30085|articlename=Part 5: Quint and Peter Jackson talk THE HOBBIT and a potential return to low budget horror!!!|author=Eric Vespe|dated=16 September 2006|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]], hearing this remark in 2012, said it "sounds like a lot of fun".<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2012/03/13/54232-viggo-mortensens-visit-to-boston-part-2-new-video/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen’s visit to Boston – part 2 (new video!)|author=Greendragon|dated=13 March 2012|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref> At the time, [[Peter Jackson|Peter]] had a falling-out with [[New Line Cinema]] who had tipped Sam Raimi to direct both films.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2006/11/22/926-the-new-director-of-the-hobbit-is/|articlename=Sam Raimi to Direct Hobbit Movie??|author=xoanon|dated=22 November 2006|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref>

===During ''The Hobbit''===
Since the rights to [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']] were split with [[MGM|Metro Goldwyn-Mayer]], in March 2007 [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] pitched this to CEO Harry Sloan: he had already heard of it from [[New Line Cinema]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.ign.com/articles/2006/11/14/hobbit-crown-panther-news|articlename=Hobbit, Crown, Panther News|author=Anonymous|dated=15 Nov 2006|website=IGN}}</ref> but Sloan was won over by Jackson's pitch, which was apparently very detailed.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.kristinthompson.net/blog/2008/05/19/the-hobbit-films-pj-and-fw-know-every-scene-every-moment/|articlename=The Hobbit films: PJ and FW know “every scene, every moment”|author=Kristin Thompson|dated=19 May 2008|website=Kristinthompson.net}}</ref> By contrast, Shaye later said [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] "hasn't told us too much about it."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.screendaily.com/new-line-mgm-team-for-two-hobbit-movies-with-peter-jackson/4036350.article|articlename=New Line, MGM team for two Hobbit movies with Peter Jackson|author=Jeremy Kay|dated=18 December 2007|website=Screen Daily}}</ref>

By December, both films were moving forward with a budget of $150 million each: the idea was that [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]], [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] would write and produce and the films will be shot in 2009 for release in 2010 and 2011.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/del-toro-doubles-up-hobbit-103547/|articlename=Del Toro doubles up for ‘Hobbit’|author=Borys Kit|dated=28 January 2008|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> Robert Shaye, Michael Lynne and [[Mark Ordesky]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://variety.com/2008/film/columns/shaye-kept-new-line-afloat-1117982001/|articlename=Shaye kept New Line afloat|author=Anne Thompson|dated=7 March 2008|website=Variety}}</ref> were attached as executive producers until February, when they were replaced by Toby Emmerich (previously head of production since 2001) and Carolyn Blackwood. Actor [[Ian McKellen|Ian Mckellen]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2008/mar/26/lordoftherings.jrrtolkien|articlename=Hard Hobbit to break: McKellen set for return as Gandalf|author=Anonymous|dated=26 March 2008|website=The Guardian}}</ref> assistant Matthew Dravitzky,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://if.com.au/guillermo-wants-old-buddies-to-join-him-on-the-hobbit/|articlename=Guillermo wants old buddies to join him on The Hobbit|author=Anonymous|dated=23 March 2009|website=IF FX}}</ref> composer [[Howard Shore]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/09/28/30045-howard-shore-is-working-on-hobbit-score/|articlename=Howard Shore is Working on Hobbit Score|author=28 September 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/02/24/28408-howard-shore-talks-hobbit-in-switzerland/|articlename=Howard Shore Talks ‘Hobbit’ in Switzerland|author=Calisuri|dated=24 February 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref>, [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]]<ref name=":38">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/10/22/30352-del-toro-interview-part-3-%E2%80%9Ci-love-new-zealand%E2%80%9D/|articlename=Del Toro Interview Part 3: “I Love New Zealand!”|author=Xoanon|dated=22 October 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> and [[Wētā FX|Weta FX]]<ref name=":37" /> were attached to the project. Although [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] hadn't ruled out directing - he later aired the notion of shooting second unit<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20081012042437/http://moviesblog.mtv.com/2008/10/08/guillermo-del-toro-to-fly-solo-on-hobbit-directing-duties-says-no-to-peter-jackson-assist/|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro To Fly Solo On ‘Hobbit’ Directing Duties, Says No To Peter Jackson Assist|author=Shawn Adler|dated=8 October 2008|website=MTV}}</ref><ref name=":17" /> - he soon picked [[Guillermo del Toro]] to direct.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/01/30/28331-torn-exclusive-del-toro-%e2%80%9c99-percent-certain%e2%80%9d-says-nl-insider/|articlename=TORN exclusive: Del Toro “99 percent certain” says NL insider.|author=MrCere|dated=30 January 2008|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref>

Subsequently, actors [[Andy Serkis]],<ref name=":17" /> [[Ian Holm]]<ref name=":15">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080501020820/http://www.mtv.com/movies/news/articles/1586421/story.jhtml|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro Addresses 'Hobbit' Fans' Concerns, Talks Possible Casting|author=Shawn Adler, Josh Horowitz|dated=28 April 2008|website=Premiere.com}}</ref>; concept artists [[Alan Lee]] and [[John Howe]]; prosthetics supervisor [[Gino Acevedo]]<ref name=":37">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/04/25/28747-guillermo-del-toro-chats-with-torn-about-the-hobbit-films/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro Chats with TORN About ‘The Hobbit’ Films!|author=Xoanon|dated=25 April 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> were all attached. They had approached [[Grant Major]] but he declined<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=http://www.artstars.us/grant-major/8/|articlename=Grant Major|author=Tom Lisowski|dated=14 November 2011|website=Art Stars}}</ref> and hopped onboard ''Green Lantern'' with costume designer Ngila Dickson: they were substituted by [[Dan Hennah]]<ref name=":32">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/51948|articlename=An Unexpected Journey: Quint on the set of The Hobbit Part 3 – Beginnings and Endings|author=Eric Vespe|dated=14 November 2011|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> and Kate Hawley.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.whowhatwear.com/living/who-what-wear-podcast-kate-hawley|articlename=How the Frankenstein Costume Designer Brought the Film to Life|author=Madeline Hill|dated=17 November 2025|website=Who What Wear}}</ref> Actors [[Martin Freeman]]<ref>In "The Road Back to Middle-earth", Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit'' (New Line Cinema: 2015), Philippa Boyens recalls proposing Freeman as Bilbo Baggins when she saw him at the 2003 BAFTAs.</ref> and [[Hugo Weaving]];<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.slashfilm.com/504115/guillermo-del-toro-confirms-hugo-weaving-for-the-hobbit-and-much-more/|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro Confirms Hugo Weaving For The Hobbit... And Much More|author=Brendon Connolly|dated=11 June 2009|website=Slash Film}}</ref> as well as [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]]'s regular collaborators (including artists Wayne Barlowe and Francisco Ruiz Velasco<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20081201164150/http://bilbohobbit.com/del-toro-talks-hobbit-in-live-chat/|articlename="Del Toro talks 'Hobbit' in Live Chat"|author=Alex|dated=27 November 2008|website=BilboHobbit.com}}</ref>) were also being sought beginning at this time.

"We got really excited," said [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]], "because this second film is not a ‘tag on’, it’s not ‘filler,’ it’s an integral part of telling the story of those 50 years of history lost in the narrative".<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://theplaylist.net/60-year-period-between-hobbi-20080425/|articlename=60-Year Period Between ‘The Hobbit’ & ‘Fellowship’ For Hobbit Sequel Suddenly Gone? Or Not?|author=Rodrigo Perez|dated=25 April 2008|website=The Playlist}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.gamesradar.com/guillermo-del-toro-talks-hobbit-and-more/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro talks Hobbit and more|author=Anonymous|dated=25 April 2008|website=Total Film}}</ref> Although he had a radical new vision for the designs in the first film, <ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080915124607/http://www.premiere.com/features/4642/exclusive-guillermo-del-toro-on-hellboy-ii-page4.html|articlename=Exclusive: Guillermo del Toro on 'Hellboy II'|author=Anonymous|website=Premiere}}</ref> [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] intended to use the second film to affect a gradual change of style towards that of [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]: "We have to recreate a lot of the stuff they did on the [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|trilogy]]," he said: helpfully, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had kept the [[Bag End]] and [[Rivendell]] sets, and they set about rebuilding [[Hobbiton]].<ref name=":32" />

[[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] also rewatched the extended editions with [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]], [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] and intended to watch the making-ofs, dailies "the camera reports... everything," particularly for ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080914124349/http://www.comingsoon.net/news/nycomicconnews.php?id=44254|articlename=EXCL: Del Toro on Hellboy II and The Hobbit|author=Edward Douglas|dated=21 April 2008|website=Coming Soon.net}}</ref> The remastering of ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'' was also begun around this time. This was done because [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] felt that it "has to evolve into the lensing, the color palette, the texture palette, and the feel of the [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|trilogy]]…"<ref name=":13">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/37428|articlename=Quint and Guillermo del Toro chat about HELLBOY II, THE HOBBIT and more!!!|author=Eric Vespe|dated=12 July 2008|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> partially for this purpose, a break was to be scheduled partway through the shoot,<ref name=":31">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080712175117/http://www.ifmagazine.com/feature.asp?article=2879|articlename=GUILLERMO DEL TORO ESCAPES 'LABYRINTH' AND ENDS RIGHT BACK INTO 'HELLBOY'|author=Carl Cortez|dated=9 July 2008|website=iFMagazine}}</ref> which was estimated at over 370 days.<ref name=":31" />

[[Guillermo del Toro|Guillermo]] insisted the second film would add to the series.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wReRe8Si2aU|articlename=Guillermo del Toro: RT's Dinner & the Movies Interview Pt 5|author=OCR|dated=11 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> He said "it’s also expanding and illuminating some of the aspects of the trilogy in a slightly different way, like same characters in a different environment. I find that very attractive."<ref name=":13" /> The idea was that the first film would be a retelling of [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']], including the bulk of the [[Dol Guldur]] storyline, up to [[Smaug]]'s death: the second would wrap-up the remainder of [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']] in its first half, and concern itself with the Hunt for [[Gollum]] and other "bridging" plot threads in its second half.<ref name=":14">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20120831093447/http://moviesblog.mtv.com/2008/10/07/hobbit-films-will-be-one-continuous-journey-promises-guillermo-del-toro/|articlename='Hobbit' Films Will Be One 'Continuous Journey,' Promises Guillermo Del Toro|author=Shawn Adler|dated=7 October 2008|website=MTV}}</ref>

Although [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] predicted the second film would require the most work,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2P0dTo0yNpQ|articlename=THE HOBBIT 1 & 2 MOVIE UPDATE|author=ReelzChannel|dated=7 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> both he<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JVHzVKy_F8w|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro talks about Hobbit Movie|author=Brettmartintv|dated=7 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] showed a particular eagerness towards it, with [[Guillermo del Toro|Guillermo]] calling it a "treasure trove of possibilities."<ref name=":16">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080915084029/http://www.mtv.com/movies/news/articles/1590278/story.jhtml|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro Answers 'Hobbit' Fans' Questions About Returning 'Rings' Cast, Religion And More|author=Shawn Adler|dated=2 July 2008|website=MTV}}</ref> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] was also "really looking forward to developing Film Two. It gives us a freedom that we haven't really had on our [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] journey."<ref name=":17" /> [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] concluded that "the promise of that land is absolutely mind-boggling!"<ref name=":16" />

Referring specifically to [[Gollum]]'s part in the events, [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] said "[[Gollum]] has a rather fascinating arch to go through and his alliance to [[Shelob]] or his period of imprisonment in [[Thranduil]]'s". [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] added that "There's an awful lot of incident that happens during that 60 year gap. At this stage, we're not imagining a film that literally covers 60 years, like a bio-pic or documentary. We would figure out what happens during that 60 years, and choose one short section of time to drop in and dramatise for the screen". Both filmmakers said they agreed that "apart from extreme circumstances, we would never recast a character who appeared in the [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|LOTR trilogy]]".<ref name=":17">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080730161821/http://www.wetanz.com/holics/index.php?itemid=695&catid=2|articlename=An Unexpected Party Chat|author=Anonymous|dated=30 July 2008|website=Weta Workshop website}}</ref> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] later remarked that, in some cases, they'd sooner write around a character than recast the part.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/41848|articlename=Comic-Con '09: Peter Jackson talks to Capone about DISTRICT 9, THE HOBBIT, and the state of the film industry!!!|author="Capone"|dated=28 July 2009|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref>

As of the formulation of these comments in July, [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] said the second film is "too early"<ref name=":13" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5YoRDF12aRc|articlename=GDT the Hobbit 1|author=Garfeimao TheOneRing|dated=14 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> in its development process to know precisely what it might entail, estimating that it would take six months to formulate the storyline for the film.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.ign.com/articles/2008/07/09/exclusive-gdt-on-the-hobbit|articlename=Exclusive: GDT on The Hobbit|author=Eric Moro and Stax|dated=10 July 2008|website=IGN}}</ref> By September, however, [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] claimed they "found what reverberated."<ref name=":14" /> [[Guillermo del Toro|Guillermo]] had expressed reservations about the term "bridge film" from the outset, but by now he and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] disabused of the term completely, having come to see the films as five undifferentiated parts of a greater whole.

Although they apparently made an outline,<ref name=":15" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/10/16/30296-guillermo-del-toro-i%e2%80%99m-so-voracious-about-the-hobbit/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro: “I’m so voracious about The Hobbit!”|author=Xoanon|dated=16 October 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> it seems the film went no further than this. Up until this point, del Toro had been video-conferencing with Jackson and the other collaborators, meeting in person every three weeks.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://variety.com/2008/film/features/guillermo-del-toro-booked-thru-2017-1117991560/|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro booked thru 2017|author=Michael Fleming|dated=3 September, 2008|website=Variety}}</ref> By the time he arrived to concentrate on writing the story treatment in November 2008<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=http://newboards.theonering.net/forum/gforum/perl/gforum.cgi?post=147373;guest=501771554#147373|articlename="Hola"|author=Guillermo del Toro|dated=8 November 2008|website=The One Ring Discussion Boards}}</ref><ref>Alfio Leotta, ''Peter Jackson'' (London: Bloomsbury Publishing, 2015), p. 196.</ref> the contents of the "bridge" film were being gradually edged-out by the contents of ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]],'' to the point that by the time the completed treatment was greenlit in April 2009<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2009/08/03/32999-peter-jackson-speaks/|articlename=Peter Jackson speaks|author=MrCere|dated=3 August 2009|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref> the films could only be described as a two-part adaptation of ''[[The Hobbit]],'' albeit with elements of the bridge film "integrated''."''<ref>Anonymous, "The Hobbit: Gollum, Bilbo, del Toro and Jackson," ''Empire'', April 2009.</ref> Although [[John Howe]] apparently sent [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] some sketches,<ref name=":38" /> and [[Howard Shore]] had musical ideas,<ref>TheOneRing, Hobbit Desolation of Smaug Music Commentary Watch Along, ''YouTube'', 29 July 2020. Esp. 1:12:15. One such musical idea dates back to the composition of ''The Fellowship of the Ring:'' the flat sixth setting of the Hobbits' bassline that's heard when Gandalf glimpses Thorin's map: Howard was saving that as a "portent of an adventure" towards a potential adaptation of The Hobbit, but by the stage of discussing with del Toro he would have realized it would be applicable to the "bridge" film as well.</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/30722|articlename=ScoreKeeper Talks To Howard Shore About THE TWO TOWERS Complete Recordings, THE HOBBIT, And More!!|author=Merrick|dated=16 November 2006|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> no more work was done on the bridge film. At this time, a [[The Hunt for Gollum|fan film on the same subject was released]], followed shortly by [[Born of Hope|a fan film about Aragorn's errantries]]. The latter of this gained a measure of approbation from [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s camp.

Even so, elements of the bridge film clung to the project for a long time: in 2013 [[Philippa Boyens]] said that "When we started structuring this trilogy we honestly thought about telling some of that. How [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]] becomes the uncle of [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] and take care of him. The story of [[Gollum]]…"<ref name=":9" /> Casting calls had been issued for the roles of [[Primula Brandybuck]] and [[Drogo Baggins]]:<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20201024010428/http://www.movies.spoilertv.com/2010/01/hobbit-casting-call.html#ixzz0btnyJvCI|articlename=Hobbit - Official Casting Call and Plot Details|author=DarkUFO|dated=4 January 2010|website=SpoilerTV}}</ref> While Caroline Grace-Cassidy was considered for [[Primula Brandybuck|Primula]], [[Ryan Gage]] was cast in the role of [[Drogo Baggins|Drogo]] and remained attached to it well into shooting, only being recast as [[Alfrid]] around May.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/cate-blanchett-revisiting-rings-role-57193/|articlename=Cate Blanchett Revisiting ‘Rings’ Role In ‘Hobbit’|author=Gregg Kilday|dated=7 December 2010|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]]'s cameo, which was originally rumoured to include him "moving to live at [[Bag End]] after the untimely drowning of [[Drogo Baggins|Drogo]] and [[Primula Brandybuck|Primula]]" was probably rewritten into its present form around that time.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=theonering.net/torwp/2014/03/25/87789-how-would-have-peter-jacksons-the-hobbit-looked-as-a-duology/|articlename=How would have Peter Jackson’s The Hobbit looked as a duology?|author=Demosthenes|dated=25 March 2014|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> They had scouted locations for the [[Barrow-downs|Barrow Downs]], possibly with a connection to the aforementioned "[[Aragorn]] protecting the [[The Shire|Shire]]" plot point.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://narniafans.com/2019/08/interview-with-narnia-conceptual-designer-john-howe/|articlename=Interview with Narnia Conceptual Designer John Howe|author=David Sutton|dated=18 August 2019|website=Narnia Fans.com}}</ref> More scenes were planned for the [[Dol Guldur]] story and the [[Orcs]]: they had gone as far as designing a young [[Gothmog (Lieutenant of Morgul)#Gothmog in adaptations|Gothmog]] who would participate in the concluding battle, but didn't utilize him.<ref name=":0" />

Another storyline concerned Itarille (later [[Tauriel]]) and her romance with an Elf lord of [[Rivendell]]: clearly an outgrowth of the original idea of featuring [[Arwen]] in the film. [[Aidan Turner]] seems to have read for the part of this Elf Lord. Indeed, Jackson recalled in 2015 that "We did try to figure out a way to get a cameo, even if it was a cameo, for [[Aragorn]] and actually for [[Arwen]], too: we tried to have [[Liv Tyler]] in the film".<ref name=":0" /> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] remarked in 2013 that they envisioned [[Aragorn]] being "quite young" in the film, but concluded that [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] "could have absolutely played" him at the time. "It was incredibly tempting."<ref name=":39">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TapH7wM8MdI&t=85s|articlename=Philippa Boyens ci parla delle scene tagliate dello Hobbit: la Desolazione di Smaug e di... Aragorn!|author=Badtaste|dated=11 December 2013|website=YouTube}}</ref> It's unclear when the idea finally died out: the scene "invoking [[Aragorn]]" was scripted in early 2013, as a "homage" to their earlier plans.

[[Viggo Mortensen]] had been interested in the project since 2007.<ref name=":43">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/09/18/29885-viggo-mortensen-still-waiting-for-guillermo-del-toro%E2%80%99s-%E2%80%98hobbit%E2%80%99-call/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen Still Waiting For Guillermo Del Toro’s ‘Hobbit’ Call|author=Xoanon|dated=18 September 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref name=":44" /> Although it was reported that [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] had held conversations with him<ref name=":43" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thetimes.com/uk/law/article/hobbit-movies-meet-dire-foe-in-son-of-tolkien-lxnpmnsd2rp|articlename=Hobbit movies meet dire foe in son of Tolkien|author=John Harlow|dated=25 May 2008|website=The Times}}</ref> these appear to have not taken place before 2010. In 2008 [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] said he would "rather do it myself than see another actor finish the job for me,"<ref name=":44" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/12/17/30804-tv-watch-viggo-mortensen-on-night-talk/|articlename=TV Watch: Viggo Mortensen on ‘Night Talk’|author=Xoanon|dated=17 December 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/39305|articlename=Capone has a GOOD chat with Viggo Mortensen about politics, THE ROAD, APPALOOSA, and THE HOBBIT!!!|author=Steve Prokopy|dated=11 May 2009|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> saying "it would be fun."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://ohnotheydidnt.livejournal.com/41460224.html|articlename=Moviefone's Exclusive Viggo Mortensen Interview!|author=Anonymous|dated=25 November 2009|website=Moviefone}}</ref> Other actors from [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'']] have also expressed interest in appearing in the film, including [[Liv Tyler]], <ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2011/03/21/42863-liv-tyler-not-contacted-for-hobbit/|articlename=Liv Tyler Not Contacted For Hobbit|author=DiveTwin|dated=21 March 2011|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> [[Cate Blanchett]],<ref name=":16" /> [[Dominic Monaghan]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.firstshowing.net/2009/dominic-monaghan-ready-to-return-for-the-hobbit-movies/|articlename=Dominic Monaghan Ready to Return for The Hobbit Movies?|author=Brandon Lee Tenney|dated=19 January 2009|website=First Showing}}</ref> [[Sean Astin]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2009/03/10/31356-astin-up-for-hobbit-if-hobbit-up-for-him/|articlename=Astin up for Hobbit if Hobbit up for him|author=Xoanon|dated=10 March 2009|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref name=":44" /> [[John Noble]] and [[Sean Bean]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.digitalspy.com/movies/a434476/sean-bean-on-the-hobbit-absence-theyre-sticklers-for-detail/|articlename=Sean Bean on 'The Hobbit' absence: 'They're sticklers for detail'|author=Emma Dibdin|dated=30 October 2012|website=Digital Spy}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://theplaylist.net/viggo-mortensen-optimistic-about-role-20090401/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen Optimistic About Role In Del Toro’s ‘Hobbit’, Project Extends To A Trilogy?|author=Simon Dang|dated=1 April 2009|website=The Playlist}}</ref> [[Christopher Lee]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://whatculture.com/film/christopher-lee-wants-sarumann-return-in-the-hobbit|articlename=Christopher Lee wants Saruman return in THE HOBBIT|author=Matt Holmes|dated=25 June 2011|website=WhatCulture}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5qGFbBNnodw&t=77s|articlename=Christopher Lee about possibly returning to Middle Earth|author="Rushblogg"|dated=12 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> [[Brad Dourif]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/09/12/29751-brad-dourif-on-returning-to-middle-earth/|articlename=Brad Dourif on Returning to Middle-earth|author=Deej|dated=12 September 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> [[John Rhys-Davies]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/the-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy-makeup-difficulties-explained-john-rhys-davies/|articlename=John Rhys-Davies Reveals Gruesome Makeup Process for Gimli in The Lord of the Rings [Exclusive]|author=Aidan Kelley and Steven Weintraub|dated=9 August 2025|website=Collider}}</ref> and [[Elijah Wood]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/11/16/30565-elijah-hobbit-appearance-concievably-possible/|articlename=Elijah – Hobbit appearance ‘concievably possible’|author=Altaira|dated=16 November 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.firstshowing.net/2008/elijah-wood-confirms-dual-hobbit-movie-details/|articlename=Elijah Wood Confirms Dual Hobbit Movie Details|author=Alex Billington|dated=11 January 2008|website=First Showing}}</ref>

Around 2010, [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] recieved an availability call<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2013/may/28/viggo-mortensen-interview|articlename=Viggo Mortensen interview: 'If I think a film's beyond me – that's a good sign'|author=Imogen Tilden|dated=28 May 2013|website=The Guardian}}</ref> from [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]: "I said sure, if [[Aragorn]] is supposed to be in the bridge story, because he’s not in [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']]."<ref name=":1">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2013/05/30/72294-viggo-turned-down-role-as-aragorn-not-so-fast/|articlename=Viggo ‘Turned Down’ Role as Aragorn? Not so fast…|author=Newsfrombree|dated=30 May 2013|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.wired.com/2012/03/viggo-mortensen-speaks-2/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen Speaks: Part 2 of 3|author=Ethan Gilsdorf|dated=11 March 2012|website=Wired.com}}</ref> Informed that they "can take certain liberties" he said he'd "love to revisit him."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/films/features/viggo-mortensen-interview-captain-fantastic-lord-of-the-rings-aragorn-hobbit-david-cronenberg-a7231826.html|articlename=Viggo Mortensen interview: 'I didn't throw Peter Jackson under the bus'|author=Jacob Stolworthy|dated=23 January 2017|website=The Independent}}</ref> However, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] later revealed that since that call, they "could think of no way of doing it".<ref name=":0" /> Having no further contact, and knowing that "[[Orlando Bloom]] and [[Cate Blanchett]] shot something,"<ref name=":44">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://viggo-works.com/?fromday=1&frommonth=6&fromyear=2006&today=25&tomonth=2&toyear=2026&order=date&page=243&selectedcat=262&ascdesc=DESC&filter=Go&m=on|articlename=Viggo Mortenson Dangerous Method Interview|author=Anonymous|dated=25 November 2011|website=Movies.com}}</ref>[[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] concluded in November 2011 that "[[Aragorn]] is half [[Elves|elf]] [sic] and also lives a couple hundred years or more and he could be in a bridge, but I have to assume it isn't going to happen".<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reuters.com/article/lifestyle/rings-actor-mortensen-unlikely-to-repeat-role-idUSTRE7AM2U9/|articlename="Rings" actor Mortensen unlikely to repeat role|author=Kurt Orzeck|dated=24 November 2011|website=Reuters}}</ref> Although he still has misgivings - "It would make sense if Aragorn was part of the story and he's not"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.scotsman.com/arts-and-culture/interview-viggo-mortensen-is-lord-of-all-things-1573949|articlename=Interview: Viggo Mortensen is lord of all things|author=Chitra Ramaswamy|dated=25 May 2013|website=The Scotsman}}</ref> - he said he would still be open to playing [[Aragorn]] "if it seemed sensible to do so".<ref name=":1" />

===After ''The Hobbit''===

Conversations about making the "bridge film" as a third instalment<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.firstshowing.net/2009/guillermo-del-toro-updates-on-the-hobbit/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro Briefly Talks More About The Hobbit Split|author=Alex Billington|dated=5 June 2009|website=First Showing}}</ref> continued well into 2010:<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://geeksofdoom.com/2009/08/19/bridge-between-the-hobbit-lord-of-the-rings-still-to-be-built-peter-jackson-to-direct-third-movie|articlename=[Updated] Bridge Between ‘The Hobbit’ & ‘Lord Of The Rings’ Still To Be Built? Peter Jackson To Direct Third Movie?|author="The Movie God"|dated=19 August 2009|website=Geeks of Doom}}</ref> In 2012, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had revealed that "a third movie has always been in discussion."<ref>Michael Pellerin, "The Clouds Burst", Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies'' (New Line Cinema: 2015).</ref> These conversations resumed - now with the film situated as a fourth movie - as [[The Hobbit (film series)|''The Hobbit'']] was winding down in 2013. Says [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]]: "There’s enough story there to make a bridge movie, you know, there’s 60 years between ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'' and a lot of things happened."<ref name=":9">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.heyuguys.com/interview-peter-jackson-the-hobbit-the-desolation-of-smaug/|articlename=The HeyUGuys Interview: The Hobbit director Peter Jackson all but rules out a return to Middle Earth|author=Stefan Pape|dated=13 December 2013|website=HeyUGuys}}</ref> In the director's commentary to ''[[The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies|The Battle of the Five Armies]]'' in 2015, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] remained open to the idea of making more films, and mused about what Jackson jokingly calls "A fictitious film 3.5" which [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] goes on to call "The Hunt for Gollum".<ref name=":0">Peter Jackson, Philippa Boyens, "Director's Commentary," Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies'' (New Line Cinema: 2015).</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] said it could include "a few other things that go on which are really interesting" like [[Saruman]]'s search for the [[The One Ring|Ring]]. She elaborates:<blockquote>''[[Aragorn]] really is one who tracks Gollum and ends up...and finds him eventually in the [[Dead Marshes]], and he's taken [[Woodland Realm|to the Elves]]. And he's taken to the Elves, and because of the kindness of the Elves - and [[Legolas]] is one of his keepers... in [[Mirkwood]], and through their kindness he actually manages to escape. Or has he escaped? Or was he let loose?''<ref name=":0" /></blockquote>[[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had kept the possibility of returning to [[Middle-earth]] open<ref name=":0" /> but [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] revealed that they "had zero expectations of going back to this."<ref name=":7">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2024/05/the-lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-peter-jackson-andy-serkis-philippa-boyens-explain-23-years-after-cannes-saved-original-trilogy-1235917510/|articlename=Peter Jackson, Andy Serkis & Philippa Boyens Explain Why They’re Returning To Middle-Earth For ‘The Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum’ 23 Years After Cannes Saved The Billion-Dollar Franchise|author=Mike Fleming Junior|dated=15 May 2024|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://uk.movies.yahoo.com/don-t-expect--the-hobbit-3--to-lead-directly-into--the-lord-of-the-rings-140402150.html|articlename=The Hobbit 3 won't lead into The Lord of the Rings|author=Tom Butler|dated=11 December 2013|website=Yahoo Entertainment UK}}</ref> Their ultimate decision to return to this premise may have been stirred, in part, by other projects: first, Jackson had seen the in-development video game ''[[Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor|Shadow of Mordor]],'' on which [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]] and others from Jackson's crew had worked, and which had nestled itself into the gap between ''[[The Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]].''<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.ign.com/articles/2014/02/20/why-lord-of-the-rings-fans-should-be-excited-for-shadow-of-mordor|articlename=Why Lord of the Rings Fans Should Be Excited for Shadow of Mordor|author=Luke Karmali|dated=20 February 2014|website=IGN}}</ref>

Shortly afterwards, when the [[Tolkien Estate]] (still nominally under [[Christopher Tolkien]]) shopped the television rights, the idea of doing a show about young [[Aragorn]] was pitched, first by Netflix, and then - at the suggestion of the Russo brothers<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-features/the-rings-of-power-showrunners-interview-season-2-1235233124/|articlename=‘The Rings of Power’ Showrunners Break Silence on Backlash, Sauron and Season 2|author=James Hibberd|dated=5 October 2022|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> - by [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon Prime Video]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=http://newboards.theonering.net/forum/gforum/perl/gforum.cgi?post=946980;sb=post_time;so=DESC;forum_view=forum_view_collapsed;guest=206510448#947231|articlename=If you will indulge me in a story|author="Uncle Iorlas"|dated=21 July 2018|website=The One Ring.net Message Boards}}</ref> Upon hearing this, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]]' mind immediately went to the period of the hunt: "If you're telling the [story of] him hunting [[Gollum]], you're getting closer to [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]]."<ref name=":21">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.fandom.com/articles/peter-jackson-lord-of-the-rings-series|articlename=Peter Jackson’s Tips For Casting Aragorn in Lord of the Rings TV Show|author=Kim Taylor-Foster|dated=4 December 2018|website=Fandom.com}}</ref> She and Jackson had also expressed interest in the potential of [[Aragorn]]'s younger days and life in [[Rivendell]]: "He's probably going to have to start young,"<ref name=":21" /> remarked Boyens, concluding that "A lot of the early [[Aragorn]] story hasn't been told."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.stuff.co.nz/entertainment/film/108970711/philippa-boyens-on-mortal-engines-hobbits-and-going-solo|articlename=Philippa Boyens on Mortal Engines, Hobbits and going solo|author=Philip Matthews|dated=16 December 2018|website=Stuff.nz}}</ref> [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortesen]] also got wind of the rumours and said he's open to reprising his role.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/viggo-mortensen-interview-falling-lord-of-the-rings/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen on Falling, Directing, and LOTR TV Show Interest|author=Christina Radish|dated=14 February 2021|website=Collider}}</ref>

Toby Emmerich and Carolyn Blackwood from [[New Line Cinema]] were brought into the fold in the hopes of cooperating on the show. In early 2018 lawyer Peter Nelson set-up "dialogue between [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon]]" to participate as executive producer.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/how-lord-rings-tv-series-landed-at-amazon-not-netflix-1099213/|articlename=Inside Amazon’s $250M ‘Lord of the Rings’ Deal: “It’s Very Much a Creature of the Times”|author=Tatiana Siegel|dated=5 April 2018|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20210308114202/https://www.herr-der-ringe-film.de/v3/de/news/tolkienfilme/news_121920.php|articlename=Exklusiv: Zu den Kulissen der HERR DER RINGE Serie, Her Der Ringe Film (archived).|author=Cirdan|dated=20 June 2018|website=Herr der Ringe.de}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.stuff.co.nz/entertainment/celebrities/108520139/sir-peter-jackson-hasnt-given-up-hope-of-making-the-dam-busters|articlename=Sir Peter Jackson hasn't given up hope of making The Dam Busters|author=James Croot|dated=12 November 2018|website=NZStuff}}</ref> Preoccupied with ''Mortal Engines'' and ''They Shall Not Grow Old'', [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] proposed in June 2018 to review the scripts and put "the creative team together."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://de.ign.com/tv/129313/interview/peter-jackson-ist-fur-das-kreative-team-hinter-der-herr-der-ringe-serie-verantwortlich|articlename=Peter Jackson ist für das kreative Team hinter der Herr der Ringe-Serie verantwortlich|author=Valentin Aschenbrenner|dated=5 June 2018|website=IGN.de}}</ref> In July, Amazon landed on [[John D. Payne]] and [[Patrick McKay]] as showrunners, and before any work could be done, a regime change in [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon Prime Video]]<ref name=":19">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/peter-jackson-amazon-lord-of-the-rings-tv-series-1235193692/|articlename=Peter Jackson Says Amazon’s ‘Lord of the Rings’ TV Series Ghosted Him|author=James Hibberd|dated=5 August 2022|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> in early 2019 resulted in [[New Line Cinema]] being demoted to a "minority licensee stakeholder."<ref name=":20">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/lord-of-the-rings-amazon-vs-warner-bros-1235337625/|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings’: Amazon, Warner Bros. Ready for Tolkien Battle|author=James Hibberd|dated=28 February 2023|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> Although the showrunners had asked to meet [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]],<ref name=":19" /> COVID prevented this from taking place.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2022/02/10-burning-questions-about-amazons-the-rings-of-power?srsltid=AfmBOopmlhLKVkCtSqkuvTTAcUtyQUICWXopTWLQq_1tu4aEf1ICrDLp|articlename=10 Burning Questions About Amazon’s The Rings of Power|author=Joanna Robinson|dated=14 February 2022|website=Vanity Fair}}</ref> While the show used a substantial number of his crew, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] were reportedly "very frustrated that so many believed they were involved with [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon]]’s show."<ref name=":20" /> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had avoided watching the show to prevent "cross-contamination."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.slashfilm.com/1693866/why-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy-screenwriter-wont-watch-the-rings-of-power/|articlename=Why One Lord Of The Rings Trilogy Screenwriter Won't Watch The Rings Of Power|author=Jaron Pak|dated=21 October 2024|website=Slash Film}}</ref> Since then, the show had left [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s home country of [[New Zealand]].

Already in 2019, the show's development had galvanized Emmerich and Blackwood to pursue an animated film with [[Middle-earth Enterprises]] (who were not involved in the show) and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]. The bridge film might have been the "CG-animated" story that [[New Line Cinema|New Line]] "had been exploring with Sir [[Peter Jackson]]" but it failed to materialize and they decided to pursue ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim]]''<ref>Daniel Falconer, ''The Art of The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim'' (Wiliam Murrow: London, 2025), pp. 9-10.</ref>. Later on, Emmerich and Blackwood were replaced by Michael de Luca and Pam Abdy, who were "striving to keep [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon]] from blurring the lines too much between" the show and the films.<ref name=":20" /> Other projects like [[Tales of the Shire: A "The Lord of the Rings" Game|''Tales of the Shire'']], the remastering of the six films to Ultra High Definition and renovations of [[Hobbiton]] were begun shortly afterwards, as well.

After this long gestation period, ''The Hunt for Gollum'' entered development once again in 2022. [[Andy Serkis]] was attached as director in October 2023 and story meetings occurred as early as May 2024, along with early availability calls to actors like [[Ian McKellen]] and [[Viggo Mortensen]] between that time and early September. By that point, the writing of the treatment was underway, followed by the first draft in January-May. After some crew hiring in August, pre-production started in early September 2025 ahead of shooting in May 2026.

==Development==
In 2022 the new administration of [[Middle-earth Enterprises]] expressed a desire to make more films, including ones "based on iconic characters, such as [[Gandalf]], [[Aragorn]], [[Gollum]], [[Galadriel]], [[Éowyn|Eowyn]] and other characters."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/lord-of-the-rings-rights-embracer-1235201442/|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings,’ ‘The Hobbit’ Movie, Games and Other Rights Holder Sold to Swedish Gaming Company Embracer|author=Georg Szalai|dated=18 August 2022|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]], [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] kept updated throughout the negotiations to extend [[New Line Cinema]]'s lease on the rights.<ref name=":4" />

Having "really enjoyed working with [[Kenji Kamiyama]], who directed ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|War of the Rohirrim]]''," [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] signed on to produce two new films: [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] denied<ref name=":22" /> rumours that this involved splitting the [[Gollum]] story,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2024/05/lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-cast-plot-everything-we-know-1235919922/|articlename=‘The Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum’: Everything We Know So Far|author=Dessi Gomez|dated=16 May 2024|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://filmstories.co.uk/news/the-lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-its-two-films-says-ian-mckellen/|articlename=The Lord Of The Rings: Hunt For Gollum {{!}} “It’s two films” says Ian McKellen|author=Ryan Lambie|dated=11 September 2024|website=Film Stories}}</ref> and at various times her and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] expressed interest in subjects varying from the [[Battle of Dale|War in the North]], Young [[Aragorn]], or certain vignettes from [[Rohan]] or [[Gondor]]'s history, which are all possible for the second film.<ref name=":23">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1i97ctm/the_next_film_after_the_hunt_for_gollum/|articlename=The next film after The Hunt for Gollum: Everything we know so far|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=25 January 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> These are probably ''not'' the other two scripts [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had been working on, however.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.indiewire.com/news/general-news/peter-jackson-not-retired-working-on-three-scripts-1235138316/|articlename=Peter Jackson Is Working on Three Screenplays: ‘I’m Certainly Not Retired’|author=By Rance Collins|dated=13 July 2025|website=IndieWire}}</ref>

Signing on the films was done with the intention to jump-start a new slate of ''Lord of the Rings'' prequels for [[New Line Cinema]],<ref name=":18" /><ref name=":24" /> with [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also expressing interest in making an "epic trilogy", probably about the [[Angmar conflict|Angmar War]].<ref name=":23" /> However, having developed the [[Gollum]] premise for so long, they decided to start with it. Asked about unrealized projects in 2024, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] observed that "there's a lot of that in ''The Hunt for Gollum.''"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9LdzKS584wA&t=614s|articlename=Lord of the Rings: War of the Rohirrim Interviews! Peter Jackson Role Explained|author=Brandon Davis|dated=29 October 2024|website=YouTube}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis]], who played [[Gollum]], had directed second unit on ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King|The Return of the King]]'' and ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]<ref name=":7" />'' and had since become a director in his own right, as well as narrating audiobooks of Tolkien's novels. [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] approached [[Andy Serkis|Andy]] around October 2023.<ref name=":24">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ssUmmuU-Bmk&t=76s|articlename=Andy Serkis Talks Motion Capture, Gollum, and Directing {{!}} Superhero Comic Con San Antonio 2024 Q&A|author=Freeman Coliseum|dated=24 June 2024|website=YouTube}}</ref> While developing the story, they already made availability checks to key cast and crew members.

===Writing===
Story meetings have happened at least as early as May 2024<ref name=":7" /> and by July they were about to start writing,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/comconnireland/status/1835962321211904490|articlename=Andy Serkis took to the stage at Comic Con Northern Ireland to talk all things Lord of the Rings and more!|author=@comconnireland|dated=16 September 2024|website=Twitter}}</ref> with [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] spotted at the [[Hobbiton]] set in November with writers [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] and Arty Papageorgiou, producers [[Zane Weiner]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/05/lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-release-date-1236390022/|articlename=‘Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum’ Sets Pre-Christmas 2027 Release|author=Anthony D'Alessandro|dated=8 May 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> and Carlos Ramirez Laloli.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.elfenomeno.com/info/ver/23481/comienza-el-rodaje-de-el-senor-de-los-anillos-la-caza-de-gollum-en-hobbiton|articlename=¿Comienza el rodaje de El Señor de los Anillos: La Caza de Gollum en Hobbiton?|author=Elfenomeno|dated=6 November 2024|website=Elfenomeno.com}}</ref> By December they had been in the process of writing the story treatment.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/lord-of-the-rings-war-of-the-rohirrim-arty-papageorgiou-phoebe-gittins/|articlename="Who Better for a Gollum Film Than Gollum Himself?": 'War of the Rohirrim' Writers on Working with Andy Serkis in 'The Hunt for Gollum'|author=Therese Lacson|dated=16 December 2024|website=Collider}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] later estimated they would finish writing by the middle of the year - executive Pamela Abdy since put the completion of the script at May<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/04/warner-bros-mike-de-luca-pam-abdy-courage-in-face-of-brutal-press-coverage-1236366618/|articlename=Warner Bros’ Mike De Luca & Pam Abdy: Playing Long Game, Mixing IP Like ‘Bodyguard’ Revamp & Bold Originals & Animation Despite Brutal Press|author=Mike Fleming Junior|dated=11 April 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> - and begin "scouting locations and building [sets]" with shooting due to begin towards the beginning of 2026.<ref name=":5">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.1news.co.nz/2024/12/15/exclusive-andy-serkis-philippa-boyens-on-the-hunt-for-gollum/|articlename=Exclusive: Andy Serkis, Philippa Boyens on new Lord of the Rings film|author=Abbey Wakefield|dated=15 December 2024|website=1News}}</ref> As a result, the release date for the film was ultimately delayed from 2026 to 17 December 2027.<ref name="TheDirect2027Release">{{webcite|author=Klein Felt|articleurl=https://thedirect.com/article/hunt-for-gollum-movie-lord-of-the-rings-release-official|articlename=Lord of the Rings: Hunt for Gollum Movie Gets Release Window from Andy Serkis|dated=27 Feb 2025|website=[https://thedirect.com The Direct]|accessed=27 Feb 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://variety.com/2025/film/news/lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-release-date-december-2027-1236390820/|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum’ Sets December 2027 Release Date; Warner Bros. Also Dates New ‘Evil Dead’ and M. Night Shyamalan Movies for 2026|author=Zack Sharf|dated=8 May 2025|website=Variety}}</ref>

A draft of the screenplay had been sent to de Luca and Abdy in May, probably prior to the investor meeting on the 8th, when [[Warner Bros.|Warner]]'s CEO David Zaslav announced the official release date.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://voicefilm.com/david-zaslav-announces-that-the-release-date-for-the-next-lord-of-the-rings-movie-will-be-revealed-today/|articlename=David Zaslav Announces That the Release Date for the Next ‘Lord of the Rings’ Movie Will Be Revealed Today|author=Mark|dated=8 May 2025|website=Voice Film}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.comicbasics.com/warner-ceo-david-zaslav-says-they-will-focus-more-on-their-main-ips-like-harry-potter-and-dc-in-the-future-those-belong-to-us-and-theyll-only-belong-to-us-forever/|articlename=Warner CEO David Zaslav Says They Will Focus More on Their Main IPs Like ‘Harry Potter’ and DC in the Future: “Those belong to us, and they’ll only belong to us forever.”|author=Arthur S. Poe|dated=8 May 2025|website=Comic Basics}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had since revealed that the film is due to start pre production in August<ref name=":33">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1krwz8d/andy_serkis_the_lord_of_the_rings_the_hunt_for/|articlename=Andy Serkis Panel at Fan Expo Philadelphia 2025|author=FandomWire News|dated=19 May 2025}}</ref> - when the film started hiring crew - then ammended to "late August to early September"<ref name=":18" />, with [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] ultimately arriving in [[Wellington]] circa 8 September to begin work on the film.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://metro.co.uk/2025/09/03/andy-serkis-admits-cant-escape-gollum-ahead-lord-rings-return-24066270/amp/|articlename=Andy Serkis admits he ‘can’t escape Gollum’ ahead of Lord of the Rings return|author=Sabrina Barr|dated=3 September 2025|website=Metro UK}}</ref> Serkis had left New Zealand during the holiday season, attending the premiere of "28 Years Later: The Bone Temple" before flying back to New Zealand: en rote he landed in Los Angeles.<ref name=":41">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.tmz.com/2026/01/20/andy-serkis-wants-original-lord-of-the-rings-cast-in-new-film/|articlename=LOTR' Star Andy Serkis: OG Cast Is Precious, Love 'Em For New Flick|author=Anonymous|dated=20 January 20 2026|website=TMZ}}</ref>

==Pre production==
[[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had further said preproduction will last for six months,<ref name=":27">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.comingsoon.it/cinema/news/in-un-mondo-alla-deriva-gollum-ci-salvera-la-nostra-intervista-ad-andy/n203564/|articlename=In un mondo alla deriva Gollum ci salverà: la nostra intervista ad Andy Serkis|author=Carola Proto|dated=25 June 2025|website=Coming Soon.it}}</ref> with [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] later confirming it will start filming in May<ref name=":12">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1msw9fp/the_lord_of_the_rings_the_hunt_for_gollum_starts/|articlename=The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum starts shooting in May, says Sir Ian McKellen. "I'll tell you two secrets about the casting..."|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=17 August 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> for an extended shooting period:<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-filming-update-andy-serkis/|articlename=Director Andy Serkis Offers Huge Filming Update For 'The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum' [Exclusive]|author=Chris McPherson and Steven Weintraub|dated=10 June 2025|website=Collider}}</ref> This puts the beginning of filming in [[New Zealand]] winter and, deducting the holidays, six months after [[Andy Serkis|Andy]]'s arrival. Location scouting may have taken place at Hawke's Bay as early as June<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1lis26w/a_location_scout_for_the_lord_of_the_rings_the/|articlename=A location scout for The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum seems to be snooping around Hawke's Bay, New Zealand|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=23 June 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> and later at the Waikato.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.waikatotimes.co.nz/nz-news/360837801/aliens-warriors-heroes-princesses-and-gollum-big-productions-filmed-and-possibly-coming-waikato|articlename=Aliens, warriors, heroes, princesses ... and Gollum: The big productions filmed in (and possibly coming to) the Waikato|author=Mike Mather|dated=1 October 2025|website=Waikato Times}}</ref> They had also watched the films sometime prior to November.<ref>Latino USA TV, "How Movie Monsters Are Really Made!", YouTube, 26 November 2025.</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] also spoke appreciatively of [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s penchant for behind the scenes extras, suggesting a similar approach to the film.<ref name=":33" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/gu1jj7/one_zoom_to_rule_them_all_reunited_apart_lord_of/|articlename=One Zoom to Rule Them All {{!}} Reunited Apart LORD OF THE RINGS Edition|author=Josh Gad|dated=31 May 2021|website=}}</ref> In October, [[Andy Serkis|Andy]] revealed that they're developing prosthetics.<ref name=":34">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1og2b4p/andy_serkis_says_all_the_art_department_from_lord/|articlename=Andy Serkis says "all the art department" from Lord of the Rings are "excited to come back." They started location scouting and camera tests.|author=u/Lord_Varys92|dated=25 October 2024|website=Reddit}}</ref>

Since [[Elijah Wood]], slated to appear in the film, is on tour through to early September,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://parade.com/news/lord-of-the-rings-hobbits-25-years-later-reunion-tour|articlename=The Hobbits Are Back Together — and Their Big News Has Fans Cheering|author=Whitney Danhauer|dated=25 October 2025|website=Parade}}</ref> his scenes might be scheduled for [[New Zealand]] summer, which could suggest shooting ''in situ'' in [[Hobbiton]], presumably depicting [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] dallying outside [[Bag End]] while [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]] and [[Gandalf]] argue within, as depicted in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]''. [[Ian McKellen]] is also hoping to join the production in [[New Zealand as Middle-earth|New Zealand]] during July.<ref>The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, "There's Nothing I Enjoy More Than Acting In The Theater" - Ian McKellen EXTENDED INTERVIEW," ''YouTub''e, 5 February 2026.</ref>

===Crew===
The film, said to be "one of the most expensive feature films to be shot in [[New Zealand]]"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/new-lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-film-will-be-shot-in-nz-set-for-2027-release/3BDNB3QFKJDAVGB4ODOTQ63YLY/|articlename=New Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum film will be shot in NZ, set for 2027 release|author=Tom Rose|dated=18 June 2025|website=New Zealand Herald}}</ref> is expected to draft alums of the ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|Lord of the Rings]]'', ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|War of the Rohirrim]]'' (many of whom will have also worked on ''[[The Rings of Power]]'' Season One and other projects) working in the [[Wellington]] and greater New Zealand screen sector.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thepost.co.nz/nz-news/350274670/film-heavyweights-alight-over-lotr-comeback|articlename=Film heavyweights ‘alight’ over LOTR comeback|author=Rachel Thomas|dated=10 May 2024|website=The New Zealand Post}}</ref><ref name=":5" /> Crewing began in early August, with Wood since confirming the involvement of production designer [[Dan Hennah]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IX5NhkyQ710|articlename=Elijah Wood en Monterrey/ conferencia de la DesertCon|author=Asi SoyTv|dated=6 October 2025|website=YouTube}}</ref> and set decorator Ra Vincent might also be involved.<ref name=":34" /> Although [[Janet Brennan Croft|Janet Brennan-Croft]] acted as [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] consultant on previous films, Beppe Pezzini will fill this role for this film.<ref>Educational Media Services | University of Oxford, "Beppe Pezzini on Classics and Fantasy | Fantasy Summer School ‪@facultyofenglishoxford‬," ''YouTube'', 23 September 2025.</ref>

IMDb credits Bob Buck as ''a'' costume designer for the film: it remains to be seen if Ngila Dickson, having just wrapped ''Predator: Badlands'' with [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]], might return. Kate Hawley, who was attached to del Toro's version of the film, is unlikely to take part due to work on "Bad Bridgets."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/10/daisy-edgar-jones-emilia-jones-bad-bridgets-luckychap-1236604481/|articlename=Daisy Edgar-Jones And Emilia Jones To Star In ‘Bad Bridgets’ From LuckyChap|author=Justin Kroll|dated=31 October 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> Liz Mullane and Rachel Bullock head the New Zealand casting sweep. Both [[Wētā FX|WetaFX]] and [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]] are confirmed for the project,<ref name=":8">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt32328070/companycredits/?ref_=tt_dt_cmpy|articlename=The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum (2027)|author=Anonymous|website=IMDb}}</ref> as are [[Gino Acevedo]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.instagram.com/p/DRy30vUkme7/|articlename="Oh no!"|author=Ginoacevedofx|dated=3 December 2025|website=Instagram}}</ref> [[John Howe]] and [[Alan Lee]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://ggba.swiss/en/the-lord-of-the-rings-nature-and-switzerlands-hidden-history-a-conversation-with-john-howe/|articlename=The Lord Of The Rings, Nature and Switzerland’s Hidden History (A Conversation with John Howe)|author=Woody Wade|dated=10 December 2025|website=Greater Geneva Bern Area}}</ref> In April - by which point a composer was already said to be attached to the project - [[Howard Shore]] said he was interested to "see how that all works out."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.classical-music.com/articles/howard-shore|articlename=Howard Shore: the film composer behind Hannibal Lecter and Bilbo Baggins|author=Michael Beek|dated=16 April 2025|website=Classical Music.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://en.softonic.com/articles/the-composer-of-the-soundtrack-for-the-lord-of-the-rings-made-a-cameo-in-the-movies-and-no-one-noticed#google_vignette|articlename=The composer of the soundtrack for The Lord of the Rings made a cameo in the movies and no one noticed|author=Agencias|dated=26 December 2025|website=Softonic}}</ref>

As early as October, [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] suggested that they're "doing camera tests."<ref name=":34" /> This is said to include miniature photography, with Alex Funke said to participate, even if only in an advisory position. On the live action side, although Robert Richardson had been rumoured as camerman, he will be preoccupied with Antoine Fuqua's Hannibal epic.<ref name=":34" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.worldofreel.com/blog/2025/7/23/michael-part-1-delayed-to-april-2026|articlename=‘Michael’ Delayed to April 2026|author=Jordan Ruimy|dated=23 July 2025|website=World of Reel}}</ref> While the film was in the story conference stage in July 2024, Richardson said he had "a number" of projects "on the constantly-shifting horizon of the film industry."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.filmlightcolourawards.com/colour-awards-2024/jury-colour-awards-2024/robert-richardson-cinematographer-asc-ack/|articlename=Robert Richardson, Cinematographer, ASC, ACK|author=Anonymous|dated=18 July 2024|website=Film Light Colour Awards}}</ref>

The film is a co-production of [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s [[WingNut Films|WingNut films]] and [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]]' ''Imaginarium''. [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] will executive produce with his ''Imaginarium'' partner John Cavendish and Jackson's agent [[Ken Kamins]].<ref name="Gollum">{{webcite|author=Jennifer Maas|articleurl=https://variety.com/2024/film/news/lord-of-the-rings-movie-2026-release-warner-bros-1235997102/|articlename=Warner Bros. to Release New ‘Lord of the Rings’ Movie ‘The Hunt for Gollum’ in 2026, Peter Jackson to Produce and Andy Serkis to Direct|dated=9 May 2024|website=[https://variety.com/ Variety]|accessed=8 June 2024}}</ref> IMDb also credits studio chiefs Michael de Luca (who helped produce [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'']]), Pam Abdy and David Zaslav as executive producers<ref name=":8" /> and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] mentioned [[Warner Bros.|Warners]]' business consultant Alan Horn (who had produced ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]])'' as a collaborator, but these credits have yet to become official.<ref name=":7" />

===Cast===
With [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] due to star as [[Gollum]], approaches had been made to [[Ian McKellen|Sir Ian McKellen]]<ref name=":2">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2024/09/ian-mckellen-return-gandalf-new-the-lord-of-the-rings-films-1236075547/|articlename=Ian McKellen Reveals He’s Been Approached To Reprise His Role As Gandalf In Andy Serkis’ New ‘The Lord Of The Rings’ Films|author=Jake Kanter|dated=2 September 2024|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> and [[Viggo Mortensen]] to reprise [[Gandalf]] and [[Aragorn]], respectively. [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] said he's in talks to reprise "a little bit" of [[Gandalf]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.mirror.co.uk/3am/celebrity-news/sir-ian-mckellan-i-thought-36196617|articlename=EXCLUSIVE: Sir Ian McKellan: 'I thought I was a goner, but I'm coming back as Gandalf'|author=Marc Baker and Jackie Annett|dated=5 November 2025|website=The Mirror}}</ref> in [[New Zealand]].<ref name=":42">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thetimes.com/culture/tv-radio/article/ian-mckellen-an-ark-lowry-lord-of-the-rings-f9wc9nmdq|articlename=Ian McKellen at 86: ‘I’ve had to accept that I’m not immortal’|author=Jonathan Dean|dated=14 February 2026|website=The Times}}</ref> As of December, the contracts with [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] and [[Elijah Wood|Wood]] hadn't been finalized,<ref name=":40" /> but [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] expressed a desire to return to [[New Zealand]] for filming. [[Liv Tyler]], [[Evangeline Lilly]] and, especially, [[Orlando Bloom]] have also expressed interest in reprising their parts,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.nme.com/news/film/the-lord-of-the-rings-cast-say-they-would-jump-to-return-for-new-spin-off-movies-3853893|articlename=‘The Lord Of The Rings’ cast say they would “jump” to return for new spin-off movies|author=Damian Jones|dated=11 April 2025|website=NME}}</ref> while [[Dominic Monaghan]] expressed a desire to visit the set.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://nypost.com/2025/11/06/entertainment/dominic-monaghan-reveals-plans-for-next-lord-of-the-rings-movie/|articlename=Dominic Monaghan reveals big plans for next ‘Lord of the Rings’ movie — including possible return as Merry
By|author=Eric Todisco|dated=6 November 2025|website=New York Post}}</ref> [[Evangeline Lilly|Lilly]] had proceeded to do so, but indicated that she will have no further involvement with the project. [[Orcs]] are set to appear in the film, with [[Shane Rangi]] and [[Lawrence Makoare]] having reportedly been contacted.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/thelegacyofnerd/status/1979621220246344016|articlename=BREAKING: ‘The Hunt For Gollum’ Begins Filming in May 2026|author=@thelegacyofnerd|dated=8 October 2025|website=Twitter}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]]' comments about seeing the interiors of [[Barad-dûr|Barad Dur]] might suggest the involvement of [[Benedict Cumberbatch]].<ref name=":36">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lYYSsook-4Y|articlename=Philippa Boyens ('ESDLA: LA GUERRA DE LOS ROHIRRIM'): "Queríamos que se sintiera como algo nuevo"|author=eCartelera|dated=10 December 2024}}</ref>

[[Andy Serkis|Serkis]], [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had all spoke to [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]],<ref name=":3">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://theplaylist.net/the-war-of-the-rohirrim-philippa-boyens-on-the-new-anime-the-hunt-for-gollum-the-future-of-the-lord-of-the-rings-20241223/|articlename=‘The War Of The Rohirrim’: Philippa Boyens On The New Anime, ‘The Hunt For Gollum’ & The Future Of ‘The Lord of the Rings’|author=Rodrigo Perez|dated=23 December 2024|website=The Playlist}}</ref> who had previously said he'd be "open to it" if it makes sense for "the age I am now"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.gq-magazine.co.uk/article/viggo-mortensen-interview-2024|articlename=Viggo Mortensen re-used Aragorn's sword in new movie The Dead Don't Hurt “Because it's really good”|author=Rafael Motamayor|dated=28 May 2024|website=GQ}}</ref> but after [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] pitched it to him as "Digital make-up" they agreed he'd wait to read the script: With the approach to [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] happening sometime between June<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thetimes.com/culture/film/article/ian-mckellen-if-this-is-my-last-job-id-better-get-it-right-hadnt-i-n3t38g6tb|articlename=Ian McKellen: ‘When a script arrives, I think this might be my last job’|author=Dominic Maxwell|dated=8 June 2024|website=The Times of London}}</ref> and September,<ref name=":2" /> the approach to [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] may have taken place in mid-June, just prior to an interview in which [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] said "The script is the most important thing to me", seemingly no longer harping on the age quota.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/viggo-mortensen-lord-of-the-rings-script-feminism-1235935628/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen on Respecting Audiences, How Scripts Are Key “Unless I’m Broke,” New ‘LOTR’ Films|author=Georg Szalai|dated=30 June 2024|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] said they need to "drag" him.<ref name=":36" /> Mortensen also said he'd be interested in appearing in later film projects if they were "true to Tolkien."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.the-independent.com/arts-entertainment/films/news/viggo-mortensen-movies-interview-b2561237.html|articlename=Go to Bat with Viggo Mortensen: My films that deserve more love|author=Jacob Stolworthy|dated=7 June 2024|website=The Independent}}</ref>

While in London for ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]]'' premiere, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also "had lunch with an [[Elves|Elf]] lord" who "would fall into that story."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.instagram.com/nerdoftherings/reel/DDgKw47uxkJ/|articlename="Philippa Boyens teases an “elf lord” returning for Hunt for Gollum! "|author=Matt Graf|dated=12 December 2024|website=Instagram}}</ref> Although this could refer to [[Orlando Bloom|Bloom]] or even [[Marton Csokas]], [[Lee Pace]] is the most likely as he was shooting ''The Running Man'' in London at the time.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://people.com/glen-powell-films-running-man-reboot-37-years-after-arnold-schwarzenegger-movie-8745529|articlename=Glen Powell Films Running Man Remake in London 37 Years After Original Arnold Schwarzenegger Movie|author=Jen Juneau|dated=14 November 2024|website=People}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had since divulged that they expect "some of the cast who were originally in" ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'', as well as "some incredible new talent."<ref name=":28">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.jedinews.com/events/articles/indiana-comic-con-andy-serkis-full-panel/|articlename=Indiana Comic Con: Andy Serkis Full Panel|author=James Burns|dated=11 April 2025,|website=Jedi News}}</ref> [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] had since confirmed that [[Gandalf]] and [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]], surely to be played by himself and [[Elijah Wood|Wood]], are scheduled to reappear in the piece.<ref name=":12" />

Casting seems to have started in November,<ref name=":40">Steve Schofield ''et al'', "25 Years of Fellowship", ''Empire'' (March 2026), pp. 46-70.</ref> with young boys auditioning for the boy [[Gollum|Smeagol]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/KnightGambit/status/2011815291198849220|articlename=Small Tidbit.....|author=Caleb Williams|dated=16 January 2026|website=Twitter}}</ref> and two of his fellow [[Stoors|Stoor]] riverfolk - a young girl and a young adult boy - in what looks like a setup for [[Gollum|Smeagol]]'s preoccupation with a birtday present. Actors in their early thirties auditioned for a young "[[Aragorn|Strider]]",<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://knightedgemedia.com/2026/01/the-hunt-for-gollum-casting-call-teases-young-strider-and-his-fellow-dunedain-rangers/#google_vignette|articlename=‘The Hunt for Gollum’ Casting Call Teases Young Strider and His Fellow Dúnedain Rangers|author=Caleb Williams|dated=16 January 2026|website=Knight Edge Media}}</ref> with 29-year old Leo Woodall reportedly tipped for the role.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://knightedgemedia.com/2026/03/rumor-leo-woodall-cast-as-strider-in-lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum/#google_vignette|articlename=RUMOR: Leo Woodall Cast as Strider in ‘Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum’|author=Caleb Williams|dated=7 March 2026|website=Knight Edge Media}}</ref> While there had been reports that the studio is not hoping to get Viggo<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/ViewerAnon/status/1998489358849159181?s=20|articlename=I can confirm this|author=ViewerAnon|dated=9 December 2025|website=Twitter}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had spoken about potentially having to "hand off"<ref name=":3" /> from [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]], and rumours had pointed to the inexpediency of the deaging.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://3dvf.com/en/a-cult-actor-from-the-lord-of-the-rings-on-the-departure-the-question-arises-for-the-prequel-dedicated-to-gollum/#google_vignette|articlename=A Cult Actor from The Lord of the Rings on the Departure? The Question Arises for the Prequel Dedicated to Gollum|author=Quentin Couprie|dated=13 December 2025|accessed=3DVF}}</ref> The age differential - Mortensen was 42 while shooting ''Lord of the Rings'' - may well suggest scenes alternating between this younger character, and either an old [[Aragorn|Elessar]] and/or the "mature" [[Aragorn]] of the [[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|''Fellowship of the Ring'']] era.''<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://medium.com/p/dcf21faf019e|articlename=The Hunt for Gollum and the Aragorn problem|author=Chen Geller|website=Medium}}</ref>'' [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had earlier spoke of meeting [[Aragorn]] when he was "quite young" in ''[[The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies|The Battle of the Five Armies]],'' but not so young that it didn't seem plausible to her to have [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] play him circa 2011''.<ref name=":39" />'' The audition scene, although not necessarily representative of the film, also implies the presence of the other [[Rangers of the North|Rangers]], perhaps including [[Halbarad]]. A younger Strider could also feature in a "Young Aragorn" picture.

Serkis had since reaffirrmed that he would "love the old cast" back.<ref name=":41" /> Other roles auditioned for include women in their thirties and fifities: the latter is said to be Smeagol's grandmother, now confirmed as a "lead" role, with Kate Winslet relocating to New Zealand for five months. The thirties' part<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://knightedgemedia.com/2026/03/the-hunt-for-gollum-lead-female-characters-casting-are-underway-exclusive/#google_vignette|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum’ Lead Female Characters Casting Are Underway (EXCLUSIVE)|author=Caleb Williams|dated=5 March 2026|website=Knight Edge Media}}</ref> is reportedly circled by Anya Taylor-Joy. Some presume this to be [[Arwen]], but if so the quota is older than [[Liv Tyler]], who was 23 at the time of [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'']].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://medium.com/@chenngeller/on-aragorn-and-other-castings-a6e55668fce9?postPublishedType=repub|articlename=On Aragorn, Stoors and other castings|author=Chen Geller|dated=11 March 2026|website=Medium}}</ref> Winslet had previously been considered, at least by the studio, for [[Éowyn|Eowyn]].

==Plotline==
The exact events the film covers remain undisclosed. There's ambiguity concerning both the exact timeframe for the film, and whether it will focus more on [[Gollum]] or [[Aragorn]]. An official "blurb" for the movie reads: "The pic explores [[Aragorn]]’s adventures as a [[Rangers of the North|ranger]], specifically his quest to capture [[Gollum]] between [[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]] and [[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|Fellowship of the Ring]], tracking him to keep the [[The One Ring|Ring]]’s location from [[Sauron|Sauron."]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2026/01/box-office-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy-25th-anniversary-1236689724/|articlename=‘Lord Of The Rings’ Trilogy 25th Anniversary Event Rings Up $11M In Worldwide Box Office|author=Anthony D'Alessandro|dated=19 January 2026|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> A more extended synopsis had also been circulating:<blockquote>Before the Fellowship, one creature's obsession holds the key to Middle-earth's survival -- or its demise. In The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum, we meet young Smeagol -- an outsider drawn to trinkets and mischief -- long before The One Ring consumed him and began his tragic descent into the tortured, deceitful creature Gollum. With the ring lost and carried away by Bilbo Baggins, Gollum finds himself compelled to leave his cave in search of it. Gandalf the Grey calls upon Aragorn, still known as the ranger Strider, to track the elusive creature whose knowledge of the whereabouts of the ring could tip the balance toward the Dark Lord Sauron.
Set in the shadowed time between Bilbo's birthday disappearance and the Fellowship's formation, this perilous journey through Middle-earth's darkest corners reveals untold truths, tests the resolve of its future king, and explores the fractured soul and backstory of Gollum, one of Tolkien's most enigmatic characters.

Directed by original cast member Andy Serkis, produced by Peter Jackson, and written & produced by Fran Walsh and Phillipa Boyens -- the creative team behind the Oscar-winning trilogy -- this live-action movie bridges the beloved films with new characters, returning heroes, and a deeply engaging origin story that resets the stage for, and changes everything you know about the legendary Lord of the Rings trilogy.</blockquote>Strictly speaking, [[Aragorn]]'s hunt for [[Gollum]] begins during the events depicted in Jackson's [[The Fellowship of the Ring (2001 film)|''The Fellowship of the Ring'']], and in October, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] said the story "falls after the [[Bilbo's Farewell Party|birthday party of Bilbo]] and before the Mines Of [[Moria]]".<ref name=":22">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.empireonline.com/movies/news/lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-wont-be-two-films-second-philippa-boyens-exclusive/|articlename=The Hunt For Gollum Won’t Be Two Films, But A Second LOTR Film Is Incoming, Philippa Boyens Confirms|author=Ben Travis|dated=18 October 2024|website=Empire}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] added that the role of [[Aragorn]] is "very central" to the movie.<ref name=":36" /> Andy called the storyline "pivotal."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1md7lim/the_lord_of_the_rings_the_hunt_for_gollum_andy/|articlename=The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum - Andy Serkis says "this part of the story is pivotal"|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=30 July 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> [[Ian McKellen]] had described the plot as "[[Aragorn]] trying to find [[Gollum]] with [[Gandalf]] directing operations from the sidelines."<ref name=":42" />

However, ''a'' hunt for [[Gollum]] is begun by the [[Silvan Elves]] after Gollum first leaves the [[Misty Mountains|mountains]] in search of [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]], and in December Jackson said the film "tells us what happened to [[Gollum]] between ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' - end of [[The Hobbit (film series)|''The Hobbit'']] - and the beginning of ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]''".<ref name=":6">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/red-carpet-premiere-for-the-lord-of-the-rings-the-war-of-the-rohirrim/P3BS7U5NPS5EMFLPUV4SYSYFDU/|articlename=Red carpet premiere for The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|author=Mitchell Hageman|dated=11 December 2024|website=New Zealand Herald}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had since confirmed this timeframe: "It sits, kind of, in the timeline between ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' - between losing the [[The One Ring|Ring]] to [[Bilbo Baggins]] - and ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]''."<ref name=":18">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?t=1218&v=U-dw8DQDf90&feature=youtu.be|articlename=Kazakhstan feels like the center of the world - Andy Serkis {{!}} Interview of the Day|author=Silk Way / Qazaqstan|dated=15 July 2025|website=YouTube}}</ref> [[Dol Guldur]], the [[Nazgûl|Nazgul]] and [[Orcs]] are all said to potentially play part in the film.

[[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also alluded to other storylines: "we are finding a lot of threads of story that are surprising in there when you really go in there and examine it".<ref name=":29">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.slashfilm.com/1734018/philippa-boyens-lord-of-the-rings-war-of-the-rohirrim-exclusive-interview/|articlename=War Of The Rohirrim's Philippa Boyens Reveals Details About The Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum [Exclusive Interview]|author=Ben Pearson|dated=13 December 2024|website=/Film}}</ref> Events as varied as [[Aragorn]]'s sojourn in [[Lothlórien|Lórien]] with [[Arwen]], the fall of [[Balin's folk]], [[Boromir]]'s quest for [[Rivendell]] and much else occur concurrent to the time of the Hunt.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1iutc9r/building_bridges_so_what_happens_between_the/|articlename=Building Bridges: So, what happens between the trilogies that The Hunt for Gollum could possibly cover?|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=21 February 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> "You see the layers and layers of story that’s underneath there and how interconnected they all are", she adds.<ref name=":3" /> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] also made comments to this effect: "Some pretty interesting stuff happens that we reference in passing in [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The'' ''Lord of the Rings'']], but there’s a lot of more deep detail to it."<ref name=":6" />

[[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] adds that "We get to go to some places that we've never been before" in Middle-earth." One such place - only glimpsed in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|Fellowship of the Ring]]'' - is the interiors of [[Barad-dûr|Barad Dur]].<ref name=":36" /> Both she and Serkis alluded to new characters<ref name=":28" /><ref name=":5" /> and new dramatic situations, saying it's "surprising"<ref name=":7" /><ref name=":27" /><ref name=":29" /> and could be enjoyed be people wo don't know the novels.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.amica.it/video-post/andy-serkis-dirigero-signore-anelli-tornero-batman/|articlename=Andy Serkis, da Gollum a regista: «Dirigerò “Il Signore degli Anelli” e tornerò con Batman»|author=Emanuele Bigi|dated=27 June 2025|website=Amica}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also shared that one of the practicalities they were busy figuring out in the writing is "How does he [<nowiki/>[[Aragorn]]] pick up his scent? How does he find his trail, how does it happen?"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://nerdist.com/article/nerdist-philippa-boyens-interview-the-war-of-the-rohirrim-the-lord-of-the-rings-future/|articlename=Philippa Boyens Talks the Future of THE LORD OF THE RINGS Movies and Naming a Tolkien Character in THE WAR OF THE ROHIRRIM|author=by Rotem Rusak|dated=19 December 2024|website=Nerdist}}</ref>

==Cast==
{| class="wikitable mw-collapsible"
|- style="background: var(--tg-color-surface-2);"
!Actor!!Role
|-
|[[Andy Serkis]]||[[Gollum]]<ref name="Gollum"></ref>
|-
|[[Elijah Wood]]
|[[Frodo Baggins]]<ref name=":12" />
|-
|[[Ian McKellen]]
|[[Gandalf]]<ref name=":12" />
|}

{{title|italics}}

{{references}}

{{screen}}

[[Category:Films]]

[[fi:The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum]]

The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum

2026-03-19T14:22:35Z

Chen Geller:

{{Disambig-two|the 2027 film adaptation|2009 fan film|[[The Hunt for Gollum]]}}
{{film infobox
| image =
| caption =
| name = The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum
| director = [[Andy Serkis]]
| producer = [[Peter Jackson]] [[Fran Walsh]] [[Philippa Boyens]] [[Zane Weiner]]
| writer = [[Fran Walsh]] [[Philippa Boyens]] Phoebe Gittins Arty Papageorgiou
| narrator =
| starring = [[Andy Serkis]]<ref name=Gollum></ref> [[Elijah Wood]] [[Ian McKellen]] Kate Winslet
| music =
| cinematography =
| editing =
| studio = WingNut films Imaginarium [[New Line Cinema]]<ref name=Gollum></ref>
| distributor = [[Warner Bros.|Warner Bros. Pictures]]<ref name=Gollum></ref>
| released = 17 December [[2027]]<ref name="TheDirect2027Release"/>
| runtime =
| country = [[New Zealand]]<ref name=Gollum></ref>
| language = English
| budget =
| website =
|imdb_id=32328070
|basedon=[[The Lord of the Rings]]|production design=[[Dan Hennah]] (Production designer)}}
'''''The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum''''' is the title (originally, working title<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/09/curtis-brown-jrr-tolkien-literary-estate-deal-1236526748/|articlename=Curtis Brown To Rep J.R.R. Tolkien’s Literary Estate|author=Jesse Whittock|dated=10 September 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref>) of a forthcoming film adaptation currently in pre-production and set for a [[2027]] release, the first of a planned series of Tolkien films to be produced by [[New Line Cinema]], a division of [[Warner Bros.|Warner Brothers]].<ref name=":4">{{webcite|author=Matt Donnelly|articleurl=https://variety.com/2023/film/news/lord-of-the-rings-new-movies-warner-bros-1235533672/|articlename=New ‘Lord of the Rings’ Movies Set at Warner Bros. |dated=23 February 2023|website=[https://variety.com/ Variety]|accessed=10 June 2024}}</ref>

The film will cover [[Gollum]]'s travels after losing [[The One Ring|the Ring]] to [[Bilbo Baggins]] (as depicted in [[The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey|''An Unexpected Journey'']]), through [[Gandalf]] setting out to track the creature after [[Bilbo's Farewell Party]] (as depicted in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]'') and down to [[Gollum]] intercepting [[Fellowship of the Ring|the Fellowship]] in [[Moria|Moria.]]

It will be directed by and star [[Andy Serkis]], who played [[Gollum]] in [[Peter Jackson]]'s previous films, as well as directing second unit. [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] will produce with his co-writing team of [[Fran Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens]], who will also write the screenplay with ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]]'' scribes Phoebe Gittins and Arty Papageorgiou.

The subject of this film is a longstanding fascination of [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s who developed it quite intensly in 2008 with [[Guillermo del Toro]]. The film is in preproduction with several cast and crew members from previous films already attached, including actor [[Elijah Wood]], concept artists [[John Howe]] and [[Alan Lee]] and others.

==Early Development==
Although the film was only announced in 2023, it had a long gestation period with [[Peter Jackson]], who considered filming this subject since circa 1997, and at least as late as July 2015. During 2008, in particular, the film was in development with a plot synopsis, a tentative budget and an initial cast and crew attached, and drew the attention of further talent like [[Viggo Mortensen]], as well as the press. Elements of this proposed "bridge film" were eventually put into ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' but mostly axed during the early months of the shoot. Jackson also negotiated in 2018 about producing a show for [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon Prime]] about the related subject of the travels of young [[Aragorn]], but ended up producing ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]]'' with [[New Line Cinema]] instead.

===During ''The'' ''Lord of the Rings''===
[[Peter Jackson]] read [[The Lord of the Rings|''The Lord of the Rings'']] circa 1979, and he claims that he "always loved the concept that when [[Gandalf]] leaves [[Bag End]] he goes and joins up with [[Aragorn]] and the two of them hunt [[Gollum]] down."<ref name=":26">Peter Jackson, Philippa Boyens, Fran Walsh, "Director's Commentary", Peter Jackson, ''The Lord of the Rings trilogy'' (New Line Cinema: 2004).</ref> This piece of backstory was also expanded upon in the [[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)|radio serial]], which [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] was very familiar with. He and [[Fran Walsh]] first pitched a trilogy based on [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']] and ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'' around November 1995.<ref>Brian Sibley, Peter Jackson: A Filmmaker's Journey (London: HarperCollins, 2006), pp. 312 ff.</ref><ref>J. W Braun, ''The lord of the films : the unofficial guide to Tolkien's Middle-Earth on the big screen'' (Toronto: ECW Press, 2009), pp. 20, 63, 68-69, 195.</ref><ref>Michael Pellerin, "Completing Middle-earth," Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit'' (Warner Brothers: 2015).</ref> They may well have had the [[Gollum]] episode in mind at some time between that point and early 1997. So long as they intended to start with ''The Hobbit'' (up to early 1996), they will have been mindful of the need to connect the two novels, and while their treatment (mid 1997) doesn't seem to cover the [[Gollum]] episode, it already dramatizes the remainder of the backstory that's given in "[[The Shadow of the Past]]", "[[The Council of Elrond]]" and [[appendix B]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1j06oqh/so_what_is_the_hunt_for_gollum_really_based_on/|articlename=So, what is The Hunt for Gollum REALLY based on?|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=28 February 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> When the project expanded (September 1998) to three films, Jackson tried to finally incorporate this storyline - some eight pages' worth - but realized that he "just couldn't put [the Hunt for [[Gollum]]] into the movie".<ref name=":26" />

[[Peter Jackson|Peter]] nevertheless publicly expressed a desire to film "[[Gandalf]] and [[Aragorn]] hunting [[Gollum]], and his capture by [[Orcs]]"<ref name=":25">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://members.tripod.com/peter_jackson_online/lotr/articles/20_questions2.htm|articlename=20 QUESTIONS WITH PETER JACKSON- PART 2|author=Harry Knowles|dated=31 December 1998|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> At the time, the idea was to shoot this as additional material and add it into the extended edition: although by early 2001 he would have realized this could not be accomodated in the pickups to ''The Fellowship of the Ring'', in 2003 he would still half-jokingly talk about shooting more pickups to "fatten these films out without technically going beyond ‘[[The Lord of the Rings]]’ as the licensed property." Elsewhere in the commentary, he jokes about "spinoff" entries.<ref name=":26" /> Other ideas for this treatment included [[Tom Bombadil]]<ref name=":25" /> and the [[Lothlórien|attack on Lorien]], with the entire expansion estimated at around three hours' worth.<ref name=":26" />

By the end of 2001, The success of ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]'' emboldened [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]<ref>Kristin Thompson, T''he Frodo Franchise: The Lord of the Rings and Modern Hollywoo''d (Berkeley: University of California Press, 2007), pp. 51, 327, 338.</ref> to pursue more films (he was also in discussions to "rekindle" ''King Kong'' at the time) and he had later discussed filming a "''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|Lord of the Rings]]'' prequel", along with ''[[The Hobbit]]'', with composer [[Howard Shore]] and executive producer [[Mark Ordesky]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2006/11/19/24053-peter-jackson-and-fran-walsh-talk-the-hobbit-2/|articlename=Peter Jackson and Fran Walsh Talk THE HOBBIT|author=Xoanon|dated=19 November 2006|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref><ref name=":35">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.rhino.com/article/interview-howard-shore-the-lord-of-the-rings|articlename=INTERVIEW: Howard Shore (“The Lord of the Rings”)|author=Will Harris|dated=27 April 2018|website=Rhino}}</ref> At a later premiere, [[New Line Cinema|New Line]]'s president Robert Shaye told [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s agent [[Ken Kamins]] that they "would want to have a conversation" about the two films.<ref name=":30" /> The idea at the time was to incorporate [[Arwen]] as a female character<ref name=":10">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20230327113046/https://ew.com/article/2003/12/06/peter-jackson-mulls-rings-prequel/|articlename=Peter Jackson mulls ''Rings'' prequel|author=Gary Susman|dated=6 December 2003|website=EW}}</ref> and produce both films back-to-back "in some short order"<ref name=":30">Ian Nathan, ''Anything You Can Imagine: Peter Jackson and the Making of Middle-earth'' (London: HarperCollins, 2019), pp. 827, 835.</ref> after ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'', in order to "complete the set of films.”<ref name=":10" /> Actors [[Andy Serkis]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2003/dec/09/jrrtolkien|articlename=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2003/dec/09/jrrtolkien|author=Anonymous|dated=9 Dec 2003|website=The Guardian}}</ref> [[Ian McKellen]], producer Barrie Osborne<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2002/12/16/25965-ttt-benefit-with-barrie-osborne-2/|articlename=TTT Benefit with Barrie Osborne
by|author=xoanon|dated=16 December 2002|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> and concept artist Paul Lasaine all expressed interest at the time.

Also around this time, [[Andy Serkis]] goes into some detail in his book ''[[Gollum: How We Made Movie Magic|Gollum: Howe We Made Movie Magic]]'' into how he imagined Smeagol's personality and upbringing. This conception of Smeagol would become imperative for the film all those years later: <blockquote>I was interested in trying to define Gollum's class and status in the community, and had thought that, coming from the wealthiest and largest Stoor family, he would probably never have really worked a day in his life. He probably skipped school and spent time squandering money that he had stolen from his grandmother's purse. It was a matriarchy and his grandmother was the head of his family, so I wondered how we might reflect this. We decided that some sort of neckerchief, maybe made of silk and a little flamboyant, might be a good idea. I liked the idea of carrying through the drug-addict metaphor, implying that he was like a young rich kid who had always had money in his pocket and was able to experiment with whatever took his fancy, like a Middle-earth version of a young playboy or a Victorian dandy.

We also examined the idea of his curious and inquisitive nature. I always saw Sméagol as a loner, not particularly liked, a bit of a Billy-no-friends, and not very good at team sports. He would have been thought of as a bit weird, and he would have secretly dreamed up vengeful scenarios for all the other Stoor hobbits, who completely ignored him. So, to cope with being so introverted and alienated, he became a collector, obsessed with the "roots and beginnings" of things. Objects became more important than people: at least they couldn't hurt him. Physically: I gave him a stoop from constantly looking down. I imagined him to be fairly narcissistic, spending hours fascinating himself by staring at his own reflection in the water while he fished. We decided to display this obsessive behavior through shiny pau shell buttons and little trophies of fish bones tied to his belt, as if he were adorning himself with fetishlike status symbols. Although he was dysfunctional, he was not evil or malicious, just, as the Travis Bickle character says of himself in Taxi Driver, full of "morbid self-attention.<ref>Andrew Serkis, [[Gollum: How We Made Movie Magic|''Gollum: How We Made Movie Magic'']] (London: HarperCollins, 2003), p. 58.</ref> </blockquote>While talking about ''[[The Hobbit]]'' in 16 September 2006, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] said they "have thought about it from time to time" and in fact "spent most of this morning" talking about the films. They talked of how "[[Elrond]], [[Galadriel]] and [[Arwen]] could all feature"<ref name=":11" /> and "[[Gollum]]'s sneaking into [[Mordor]] and [[Aragorn]] protecting [[The Shire]]. That's what we'd do. Love to work with [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] again".<ref name=":11">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/30085|articlename=Part 5: Quint and Peter Jackson talk THE HOBBIT and a potential return to low budget horror!!!|author=Eric Vespe|dated=16 September 2006|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]], hearing this remark in 2012, said it "sounds like a lot of fun".<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2012/03/13/54232-viggo-mortensens-visit-to-boston-part-2-new-video/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen’s visit to Boston – part 2 (new video!)|author=Greendragon|dated=13 March 2012|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref>

===During ''The Hobbit''===
Since the rights to [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']] were split with [[MGM|Metro Goldwyn-Mayer]], in March 2007 [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] pitched this to CEO Harry Sloan: he had already heard of it from [[New Line Cinema]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.ign.com/articles/2006/11/14/hobbit-crown-panther-news|articlename=Hobbit, Crown, Panther News|author=Anonymous|dated=15 Nov 2006|website=IGN}}</ref> who had previously fallen-out with [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]], but Sloan was won over by Jackson's pitch, which was apparently very detailed.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.kristinthompson.net/blog/2008/05/19/the-hobbit-films-pj-and-fw-know-every-scene-every-moment/|articlename=The Hobbit films: PJ and FW know “every scene, every moment”|author=Kristin Thompson|dated=19 May 2008|website=Kristinthompson.net}}</ref> By contrast, Shaye later said [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] "hasn't told us too much about it."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.screendaily.com/new-line-mgm-team-for-two-hobbit-movies-with-peter-jackson/4036350.article|articlename=New Line, MGM team for two Hobbit movies with Peter Jackson|author=Jeremy Kay|dated=18 December 2007|website=Screen Daily}}</ref>

By December, both films were moving forward with a budget of $150 million each: the idea was that [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]], [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] would write and produce and the films will be shot in 2009 for release in 2010 and 2011.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/del-toro-doubles-up-hobbit-103547/|articlename=Del Toro doubles up for ‘Hobbit’|author=Borys Kit|dated=28 January 2008|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> Robert Shaye, Michael Lynne and [[Mark Ordesky]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://variety.com/2008/film/columns/shaye-kept-new-line-afloat-1117982001/|articlename=Shaye kept New Line afloat|author=Anne Thompson|dated=7 March 2008|website=Variety}}</ref> were attached as executive producers until February, when they were replaced by Toby Emmerich and Carolyn Blackwood. Actor [[Ian McKellen|Ian Mckellen]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2008/mar/26/lordoftherings.jrrtolkien|articlename=Hard Hobbit to break: McKellen set for return as Gandalf|author=Anonymous|dated=26 March 2008|website=The Guardian}}</ref> assistant Matthew Dravitzky,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://if.com.au/guillermo-wants-old-buddies-to-join-him-on-the-hobbit/|articlename=Guillermo wants old buddies to join him on The Hobbit|author=Anonymous|dated=23 March 2009|website=IF FX}}</ref> composer [[Howard Shore]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/09/28/30045-howard-shore-is-working-on-hobbit-score/|articlename=Howard Shore is Working on Hobbit Score|author=28 September 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/02/24/28408-howard-shore-talks-hobbit-in-switzerland/|articlename=Howard Shore Talks ‘Hobbit’ in Switzerland|author=Calisuri|dated=24 February 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref>, [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]]<ref name=":38">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/10/22/30352-del-toro-interview-part-3-%E2%80%9Ci-love-new-zealand%E2%80%9D/|articlename=Del Toro Interview Part 3: “I Love New Zealand!”|author=Xoanon|dated=22 October 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> and [[Wētā FX|Weta FX]]<ref name=":37" /> were attached to the project. Although [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] hadn't ruled out directing - he later aired the notion of shooting second unit<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20081012042437/http://moviesblog.mtv.com/2008/10/08/guillermo-del-toro-to-fly-solo-on-hobbit-directing-duties-says-no-to-peter-jackson-assist/|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro To Fly Solo On ‘Hobbit’ Directing Duties, Says No To Peter Jackson Assist|author=Shawn Adler|dated=8 October 2008|website=MTV}}</ref><ref name=":17" /> - he soon picked [[Guillermo del Toro]] to direct.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/01/30/28331-torn-exclusive-del-toro-%e2%80%9c99-percent-certain%e2%80%9d-says-nl-insider/|articlename=TORN exclusive: Del Toro “99 percent certain” says NL insider.|author=MrCere|dated=30 January 2008|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref>

Subsequently, actors [[Andy Serkis]],<ref name=":17" /> [[Ian Holm]]<ref name=":15">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080501020820/http://www.mtv.com/movies/news/articles/1586421/story.jhtml|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro Addresses 'Hobbit' Fans' Concerns, Talks Possible Casting|author=Shawn Adler, Josh Horowitz|dated=28 April 2008|website=Premiere.com}}</ref>; concept artists [[Alan Lee]] and [[John Howe]]; prosthetics supervisor [[Gino Acevedo]]<ref name=":37">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/04/25/28747-guillermo-del-toro-chats-with-torn-about-the-hobbit-films/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro Chats with TORN About ‘The Hobbit’ Films!|author=Xoanon|dated=25 April 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> were all attached. They had approached [[Grant Major]] but he declined<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=http://www.artstars.us/grant-major/8/|articlename=Grant Major|author=Tom Lisowski|dated=14 November 2011|website=Art Stars}}</ref> and hopped onboard ''Green Lantern'' with costume designer Ngila Dickson: they were substituted by [[Dan Hennah]]<ref name=":32">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/51948|articlename=An Unexpected Journey: Quint on the set of The Hobbit Part 3 – Beginnings and Endings|author=Eric Vespe|dated=14 November 2011|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> and Kate Hawley.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.whowhatwear.com/living/who-what-wear-podcast-kate-hawley|articlename=How the Frankenstein Costume Designer Brought the Film to Life|author=Madeline Hill|dated=17 November 2025|website=Who What Wear}}</ref> Actors [[Martin Freeman]]<ref>In "The Road Back to Middle-earth", Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit'' (New Line Cinema: 2015), Philippa Boyens recalls proposing Freeman as Bilbo Baggins when she saw him at the 2003 BAFTAs.</ref> and [[Hugo Weaving]];<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.slashfilm.com/504115/guillermo-del-toro-confirms-hugo-weaving-for-the-hobbit-and-much-more/|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro Confirms Hugo Weaving For The Hobbit... And Much More|author=Brendon Connolly|dated=11 June 2009|website=Slash Film}}</ref> as well as [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]]'s regular collaborators (including artists Wayne Barlowe and Francisco Ruiz Velasco<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20081201164150/http://bilbohobbit.com/del-toro-talks-hobbit-in-live-chat/|articlename="Del Toro talks 'Hobbit' in Live Chat"|author=Alex|dated=27 November 2008|website=BilboHobbit.com}}</ref>) were also being sought beginning at this time.

"We got really excited," said [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]], "because this second film is not a ‘tag on’, it’s not ‘filler,’ it’s an integral part of telling the story of those 50 years of history lost in the narrative".<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://theplaylist.net/60-year-period-between-hobbi-20080425/|articlename=60-Year Period Between ‘The Hobbit’ & ‘Fellowship’ For Hobbit Sequel Suddenly Gone? Or Not?|author=Rodrigo Perez|dated=25 April 2008|website=The Playlist}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.gamesradar.com/guillermo-del-toro-talks-hobbit-and-more/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro talks Hobbit and more|author=Anonymous|dated=25 April 2008|website=Total Film}}</ref> Although he had a radical new vision for the designs in the first film, <ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080915124607/http://www.premiere.com/features/4642/exclusive-guillermo-del-toro-on-hellboy-ii-page4.html|articlename=Exclusive: Guillermo del Toro on 'Hellboy II'|author=Anonymous|website=Premiere}}</ref> [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] intended to use the second film to affect a gradual change of style towards that of [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]: "We have to recreate a lot of the stuff they did on the [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|trilogy]]," he said: helpfully, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had kept the [[Bag End]] and [[Rivendell]] sets, and they set about rebuilding [[Hobbiton]].<ref name=":32" />

[[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] also rewatched the extended editions with [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]], [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] and intended to watch the making-ofs, dailies "the camera reports... everything," particularly for ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080914124349/http://www.comingsoon.net/news/nycomicconnews.php?id=44254|articlename=EXCL: Del Toro on Hellboy II and The Hobbit|author=Edward Douglas|dated=21 April 2008|website=Coming Soon.net}}</ref> The remastering of ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'' was also begun around this time. This was done because [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] felt that it "has to evolve into the lensing, the color palette, the texture palette, and the feel of the [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|trilogy]]…"<ref name=":13">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/37428|articlename=Quint and Guillermo del Toro chat about HELLBOY II, THE HOBBIT and more!!!|author=Eric Vespe|dated=12 July 2008|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> partially for this purpose, a break was to be scheduled partway through the shoot,<ref name=":31">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080712175117/http://www.ifmagazine.com/feature.asp?article=2879|articlename=GUILLERMO DEL TORO ESCAPES 'LABYRINTH' AND ENDS RIGHT BACK INTO 'HELLBOY'|author=Carl Cortez|dated=9 July 2008|website=iFMagazine}}</ref> which was estimated at over 370 days.<ref name=":31" />

[[Guillermo del Toro|Guillermo]] insisted the second film would add to the series.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wReRe8Si2aU|articlename=Guillermo del Toro: RT's Dinner & the Movies Interview Pt 5|author=OCR|dated=11 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> He said "it’s also expanding and illuminating some of the aspects of the trilogy in a slightly different way, like same characters in a different environment. I find that very attractive."<ref name=":13" /> The idea was that the first film would be a retelling of [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']], including the bulk of the [[Dol Guldur]] storyline, up to [[Smaug]]'s death: the second would wrap-up the remainder of [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']] in its first half, and concern itself with the Hunt for [[Gollum]] and other "bridging" plot threads in its second half.<ref name=":14">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20120831093447/http://moviesblog.mtv.com/2008/10/07/hobbit-films-will-be-one-continuous-journey-promises-guillermo-del-toro/|articlename='Hobbit' Films Will Be One 'Continuous Journey,' Promises Guillermo Del Toro|author=Shawn Adler|dated=7 October 2008|website=MTV}}</ref>

Although [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] predicted the second film would require the most work,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2P0dTo0yNpQ|articlename=THE HOBBIT 1 & 2 MOVIE UPDATE|author=ReelzChannel|dated=7 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> both he<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JVHzVKy_F8w|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro talks about Hobbit Movie|author=Brettmartintv|dated=7 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] showed a particular eagerness towards it, with [[Guillermo del Toro|Guillermo]] calling it a "treasure trove of possibilities."<ref name=":16">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080915084029/http://www.mtv.com/movies/news/articles/1590278/story.jhtml|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro Answers 'Hobbit' Fans' Questions About Returning 'Rings' Cast, Religion And More|author=Shawn Adler|dated=2 July 2008|website=MTV}}</ref> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] was also "really looking forward to developing Film Two. It gives us a freedom that we haven't really had on our [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] journey."<ref name=":17" /> [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] concluded that "the promise of that land is absolutely mind-boggling!"<ref name=":16" />

Referring specifically to [[Gollum]]'s part in the events, [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] said "[[Gollum]] has a rather fascinating arch to go through and his alliance to [[Shelob]] or his period of imprisonment in [[Thranduil]]'s". [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] added that "There's an awful lot of incident that happens during that 60 year gap. At this stage, we're not imagining a film that literally covers 60 years, like a bio-pic or documentary. We would figure out what happens during that 60 years, and choose one short section of time to drop in and dramatise for the screen". Both filmmakers said they agreed that "apart from extreme circumstances, we would never recast a character who appeared in the [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|LOTR trilogy]]".<ref name=":17">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080730161821/http://www.wetanz.com/holics/index.php?itemid=695&catid=2|articlename=An Unexpected Party Chat|author=Anonymous|dated=30 July 2008|website=Weta Workshop website}}</ref> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] later remarked that, in some cases, they'd sooner write around a character than recast the part.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/41848|articlename=Comic-Con '09: Peter Jackson talks to Capone about DISTRICT 9, THE HOBBIT, and the state of the film industry!!!|author="Capone"|dated=28 July 2009|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref>

As of the formulation of these comments in July, [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] said the second film is "too early"<ref name=":13" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5YoRDF12aRc|articlename=GDT the Hobbit 1|author=Garfeimao TheOneRing|dated=14 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> in its development process to know precisely what it might entail, estimating that it would take six months to formulate the storyline for the film.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.ign.com/articles/2008/07/09/exclusive-gdt-on-the-hobbit|articlename=Exclusive: GDT on The Hobbit|author=Eric Moro and Stax|dated=10 July 2008|website=IGN}}</ref> By September, however, [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] claimed they "found what reverberated."<ref name=":14" /> [[Guillermo del Toro|Guillermo]] had expressed reservations about the term "bridge film" from the outset, but by now he and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] disabused of the term completely, having come to see the films as five undifferentiated parts of a greater whole.

Although they apparently made an outline,<ref name=":15" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/10/16/30296-guillermo-del-toro-i%e2%80%99m-so-voracious-about-the-hobbit/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro: “I’m so voracious about The Hobbit!”|author=Xoanon|dated=16 October 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> it seems the film went no further than this. Up until this point, del Toro had been video-conferencing with Jackson and the other collaborators, meeting in person every three weeks.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://variety.com/2008/film/features/guillermo-del-toro-booked-thru-2017-1117991560/|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro booked thru 2017|author=Michael Fleming|dated=3 September, 2008|website=Variety}}</ref> By the time he arrived to concentrate on writing the story treatment in November 2008<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=http://newboards.theonering.net/forum/gforum/perl/gforum.cgi?post=147373;guest=501771554#147373|articlename="Hola"|author=Guillermo del Toro|dated=8 November 2008|website=The One Ring Discussion Boards}}</ref><ref>Alfio Leotta, ''Peter Jackson'' (London: Bloomsbury Publishing, 2015), p. 196.</ref> the contents of the "bridge" film were being gradually edged-out by the contents of ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]],'' to the point that by the time the completed treatment was greenlit in April 2009<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2009/08/03/32999-peter-jackson-speaks/|articlename=Peter Jackson speaks|author=MrCere|dated=3 August 2009|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref> the films could only be described as a two-part adaptation of ''[[The Hobbit]],'' albeit with elements of the bridge film "integrated''."''<ref>Anonymous, "The Hobbit: Gollum, Bilbo, del Toro and Jackson," ''Empire'', April 2009.</ref> Although [[John Howe]] apparently sent [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] some sketches,<ref name=":38" /> and [[Howard Shore]] had musical ideas,<ref>TheOneRing, Hobbit Desolation of Smaug Music Commentary Watch Along, ''YouTube'', 29 July 2020. Esp. 1:12:15. One such musical idea dates back to the composition of ''The Fellowship of the Ring:'' the flat sixth setting of the Hobbits' bassline that's heard when Gandalf glimpses Thorin's map: Howard was saving that as a "portent of an adventure" towards a potential adaptation of The Hobbit, but by the stage of discussing with del Toro he would have realized it would be applicable to the "bridge" film as well.</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/30722|articlename=ScoreKeeper Talks To Howard Shore About THE TWO TOWERS Complete Recordings, THE HOBBIT, And More!!|author=Merrick|dated=16 November 2006|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> no more work was done on the bridge film. At this time, a [[The Hunt for Gollum|fan film on the same subject was released]], followed shortly by [[Born of Hope|a fan film about Aragorn's errantries]]. The latter of this gained a measure of approbation from [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s camp.

Even so, elements of the bridge film clung to the project for a long time: in 2013 [[Philippa Boyens]] said that "When we started structuring this trilogy we honestly thought about telling some of that. How [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]] becomes the uncle of [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] and take care of him. The story of [[Gollum]]…"<ref name=":9" /> Casting calls had been issued for the roles of [[Primula Brandybuck]] and [[Drogo Baggins]]:<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20201024010428/http://www.movies.spoilertv.com/2010/01/hobbit-casting-call.html#ixzz0btnyJvCI|articlename=Hobbit - Official Casting Call and Plot Details|author=DarkUFO|dated=4 January 2010|website=SpoilerTV}}</ref> While Caroline Grace-Cassidy was considered for [[Primula Brandybuck|Primula]], [[Ryan Gage]] was cast in the role of [[Drogo Baggins|Drogo]] and remained attached to it well into shooting, only being recast as [[Alfrid]] around May.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/cate-blanchett-revisiting-rings-role-57193/|articlename=Cate Blanchett Revisiting ‘Rings’ Role In ‘Hobbit’|author=Gregg Kilday|dated=7 December 2010|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]]'s cameo, which was originally rumoured to include him "moving to live at [[Bag End]] after the untimely drowning of [[Drogo Baggins|Drogo]] and [[Primula Brandybuck|Primula]]" was probably rewritten into its present form around that time.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=theonering.net/torwp/2014/03/25/87789-how-would-have-peter-jacksons-the-hobbit-looked-as-a-duology/|articlename=How would have Peter Jackson’s The Hobbit looked as a duology?|author=Demosthenes|dated=25 March 2014|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> They had scouted locations for the [[Barrow-downs|Barrow Downs]], possibly with a connection to the aforementioned "[[Aragorn]] protecting the [[The Shire|Shire]]" plot point.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://narniafans.com/2019/08/interview-with-narnia-conceptual-designer-john-howe/|articlename=Interview with Narnia Conceptual Designer John Howe|author=David Sutton|dated=18 August 2019|website=Narnia Fans.com}}</ref> More scenes were planned for the [[Dol Guldur]] story and the [[Orcs]]: they had gone as far as designing a young [[Gothmog (Lieutenant of Morgul)#Gothmog in adaptations|Gothmog]] who would participate in the concluding battle, but didn't utilize him.<ref name=":0" />

Another storyline concerned Itarille (later [[Tauriel]]) and her romance with an Elf lord of [[Rivendell]]: clearly an outgrowth of the original idea of featuring [[Arwen]] in the film. [[Aidan Turner]] seems to have read for the part of this Elf Lord. Indeed, Jackson recalled in 2015 that "We did try to figure out a way to get a cameo, even if it was a cameo, for [[Aragorn]] and actually for [[Arwen]], too: we tried to have [[Liv Tyler]] in the film".<ref name=":0" /> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] remarked in 2013 that they envisioned [[Aragorn]] being "quite young" in the film, but concluded that [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] "could have absolutely played" him at the time. "It was incredibly tempting."<ref name=":39">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TapH7wM8MdI&t=85s|articlename=Philippa Boyens ci parla delle scene tagliate dello Hobbit: la Desolazione di Smaug e di... Aragorn!|author=Badtaste|dated=11 December 2013|website=YouTube}}</ref> It's unclear when the idea finally died out: the scene "invoking [[Aragorn]]" was scripted in early 2013, as a "homage" to their earlier plans.

[[Viggo Mortensen]] had been interested in the project since 2007.<ref name=":43">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/09/18/29885-viggo-mortensen-still-waiting-for-guillermo-del-toro%E2%80%99s-%E2%80%98hobbit%E2%80%99-call/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen Still Waiting For Guillermo Del Toro’s ‘Hobbit’ Call|author=Xoanon|dated=18 September 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref name=":44" /> Although it was reported that [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] had held conversations with him<ref name=":43" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thetimes.com/uk/law/article/hobbit-movies-meet-dire-foe-in-son-of-tolkien-lxnpmnsd2rp|articlename=Hobbit movies meet dire foe in son of Tolkien|author=John Harlow|dated=25 May 2008|website=The Times}}</ref> these appear to have not taken place before 2010. In 2008 [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] said he would "rather do it myself than see another actor finish the job for me,"<ref name=":44" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/12/17/30804-tv-watch-viggo-mortensen-on-night-talk/|articlename=TV Watch: Viggo Mortensen on ‘Night Talk’|author=Xoanon|dated=17 December 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/39305|articlename=Capone has a GOOD chat with Viggo Mortensen about politics, THE ROAD, APPALOOSA, and THE HOBBIT!!!|author=Steve Prokopy|dated=11 May 2009|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> saying "it would be fun."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://ohnotheydidnt.livejournal.com/41460224.html|articlename=Moviefone's Exclusive Viggo Mortensen Interview!|author=Anonymous|dated=25 November 2009|website=Moviefone}}</ref> Other actors from [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'']] have also expressed interest in appearing in the film, including [[Liv Tyler]], <ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2011/03/21/42863-liv-tyler-not-contacted-for-hobbit/|articlename=Liv Tyler Not Contacted For Hobbit|author=DiveTwin|dated=21 March 2011|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> [[Cate Blanchett]],<ref name=":16" /> [[Dominic Monaghan]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.firstshowing.net/2009/dominic-monaghan-ready-to-return-for-the-hobbit-movies/|articlename=Dominic Monaghan Ready to Return for The Hobbit Movies?|author=Brandon Lee Tenney|dated=19 January 2009|website=First Showing}}</ref> [[Sean Astin]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2009/03/10/31356-astin-up-for-hobbit-if-hobbit-up-for-him/|articlename=Astin up for Hobbit if Hobbit up for him|author=Xoanon|dated=10 March 2009|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref name=":44" /> [[John Noble]] and [[Sean Bean]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.digitalspy.com/movies/a434476/sean-bean-on-the-hobbit-absence-theyre-sticklers-for-detail/|articlename=Sean Bean on 'The Hobbit' absence: 'They're sticklers for detail'|author=Emma Dibdin|dated=30 October 2012|website=Digital Spy}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://theplaylist.net/viggo-mortensen-optimistic-about-role-20090401/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen Optimistic About Role In Del Toro’s ‘Hobbit’, Project Extends To A Trilogy?|author=Simon Dang|dated=1 April 2009|website=The Playlist}}</ref> [[Christopher Lee]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://whatculture.com/film/christopher-lee-wants-sarumann-return-in-the-hobbit|articlename=Christopher Lee wants Saruman return in THE HOBBIT|author=Matt Holmes|dated=25 June 2011|website=WhatCulture}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5qGFbBNnodw&t=77s|articlename=Christopher Lee about possibly returning to Middle Earth|author="Rushblogg"|dated=12 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> [[Brad Dourif]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/09/12/29751-brad-dourif-on-returning-to-middle-earth/|articlename=Brad Dourif on Returning to Middle-earth|author=Deej|dated=12 September 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> [[John Rhys-Davies]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/the-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy-makeup-difficulties-explained-john-rhys-davies/|articlename=John Rhys-Davies Reveals Gruesome Makeup Process for Gimli in The Lord of the Rings [Exclusive]|author=Aidan Kelley and Steven Weintraub|dated=9 August 2025|website=Collider}}</ref> and [[Elijah Wood]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/11/16/30565-elijah-hobbit-appearance-concievably-possible/|articlename=Elijah – Hobbit appearance ‘concievably possible’|author=Altaira|dated=16 November 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.firstshowing.net/2008/elijah-wood-confirms-dual-hobbit-movie-details/|articlename=Elijah Wood Confirms Dual Hobbit Movie Details|author=Alex Billington|dated=11 January 2008|website=First Showing}}</ref>

Around 2010, [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] recieved an availability call<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2013/may/28/viggo-mortensen-interview|articlename=Viggo Mortensen interview: 'If I think a film's beyond me – that's a good sign'|author=Imogen Tilden|dated=28 May 2013|website=The Guardian}}</ref> from [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]: "I said sure, if [[Aragorn]] is supposed to be in the bridge story, because he’s not in [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']]."<ref name=":1">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2013/05/30/72294-viggo-turned-down-role-as-aragorn-not-so-fast/|articlename=Viggo ‘Turned Down’ Role as Aragorn? Not so fast…|author=Newsfrombree|dated=30 May 2013|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.wired.com/2012/03/viggo-mortensen-speaks-2/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen Speaks: Part 2 of 3|author=Ethan Gilsdorf|dated=11 March 2012|website=Wired.com}}</ref> Informed that they "can take certain liberties" he said he'd "love to revisit him."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/films/features/viggo-mortensen-interview-captain-fantastic-lord-of-the-rings-aragorn-hobbit-david-cronenberg-a7231826.html|articlename=Viggo Mortensen interview: 'I didn't throw Peter Jackson under the bus'|author=Jacob Stolworthy|dated=23 January 2017|website=The Independent}}</ref> However, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] later revealed that since that call, they "could think of no way of doing it".<ref name=":0" /> Having no further contact, and knowing that "[[Orlando Bloom]] and [[Cate Blanchett]] shot something,"<ref name=":44">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://viggo-works.com/?fromday=1&frommonth=6&fromyear=2006&today=25&tomonth=2&toyear=2026&order=date&page=243&selectedcat=262&ascdesc=DESC&filter=Go&m=on|articlename=Viggo Mortenson Dangerous Method Interview|author=Anonymous|dated=25 November 2011|website=Movies.com}}</ref>[[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] concluded in November 2011 that "[[Aragorn]] is half [[Elves|elf]] [sic] and also lives a couple hundred years or more and he could be in a bridge, but I have to assume it isn't going to happen".<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reuters.com/article/lifestyle/rings-actor-mortensen-unlikely-to-repeat-role-idUSTRE7AM2U9/|articlename="Rings" actor Mortensen unlikely to repeat role|author=Kurt Orzeck|dated=24 November 2011|website=Reuters}}</ref> Although he still has misgivings - "It would make sense if Aragorn was part of the story and he's not"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.scotsman.com/arts-and-culture/interview-viggo-mortensen-is-lord-of-all-things-1573949|articlename=Interview: Viggo Mortensen is lord of all things|author=Chitra Ramaswamy|dated=25 May 2013|website=The Scotsman}}</ref> - he said he would still be open to playing [[Aragorn]] "if it seemed sensible to do so".<ref name=":1" />

===After ''The Hobbit''===

Conversations about making the "bridge film" as a third instalment<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.firstshowing.net/2009/guillermo-del-toro-updates-on-the-hobbit/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro Briefly Talks More About The Hobbit Split|author=Alex Billington|dated=5 June 2009|website=First Showing}}</ref> continued well into 2010:<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://geeksofdoom.com/2009/08/19/bridge-between-the-hobbit-lord-of-the-rings-still-to-be-built-peter-jackson-to-direct-third-movie|articlename=[Updated] Bridge Between ‘The Hobbit’ & ‘Lord Of The Rings’ Still To Be Built? Peter Jackson To Direct Third Movie?|author="The Movie God"|dated=19 August 2009|website=Geeks of Doom}}</ref> In 2012, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had revealed that "a third movie has always been in discussion."<ref>Michael Pellerin, "The Clouds Burst", Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies'' (New Line Cinema: 2015).</ref> These conversations resumed - now with the film situated as a fourth movie - as [[The Hobbit (film series)|''The Hobbit'']] was winding down in 2013. Says [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]]: "There’s enough story there to make a bridge movie, you know, there’s 60 years between ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'' and a lot of things happened."<ref name=":9">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.heyuguys.com/interview-peter-jackson-the-hobbit-the-desolation-of-smaug/|articlename=The HeyUGuys Interview: The Hobbit director Peter Jackson all but rules out a return to Middle Earth|author=Stefan Pape|dated=13 December 2013|website=HeyUGuys}}</ref> In the director's commentary to ''[[The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies|The Battle of the Five Armies]]'' in 2015, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] remained open to the idea of making more films, and mused about what Jackson jokingly calls "A fictitious film 3.5" which [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] goes on to call "The Hunt for Gollum".<ref name=":0">Peter Jackson, Philippa Boyens, "Director's Commentary," Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies'' (New Line Cinema: 2015).</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] said it could include "a few other things that go on which are really interesting" like [[Saruman]]'s search for the [[The One Ring|Ring]]. She elaborates:<blockquote>''[[Aragorn]] really is one who tracks Gollum and ends up...and finds him eventually in the [[Dead Marshes]], and he's taken [[Woodland Realm|to the Elves]]. And he's taken to the Elves, and because of the kindness of the Elves - and [[Legolas]] is one of his keepers... in [[Mirkwood]], and through their kindness he actually manages to escape. Or has he escaped? Or was he let loose?''<ref name=":0" /></blockquote>[[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had kept the possibility of returning to [[Middle-earth]] open<ref name=":0" /> but [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] revealed that they "had zero expectations of going back to this."<ref name=":7">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2024/05/the-lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-peter-jackson-andy-serkis-philippa-boyens-explain-23-years-after-cannes-saved-original-trilogy-1235917510/|articlename=Peter Jackson, Andy Serkis & Philippa Boyens Explain Why They’re Returning To Middle-Earth For ‘The Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum’ 23 Years After Cannes Saved The Billion-Dollar Franchise|author=Mike Fleming Junior|dated=15 May 2024|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://uk.movies.yahoo.com/don-t-expect--the-hobbit-3--to-lead-directly-into--the-lord-of-the-rings-140402150.html|articlename=The Hobbit 3 won't lead into The Lord of the Rings|author=Tom Butler|dated=11 December 2013|website=Yahoo Entertainment UK}}</ref> Their ultimate decision to return to this premise may have been stirred, in part, by other projects: first, Jackson had seen the in-development video game ''[[Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor|Shadow of Mordor]],'' on which [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]] and others from Jackson's crew had worked, and which had nestled itself into the gap between ''[[The Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]].''<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.ign.com/articles/2014/02/20/why-lord-of-the-rings-fans-should-be-excited-for-shadow-of-mordor|articlename=Why Lord of the Rings Fans Should Be Excited for Shadow of Mordor|author=Luke Karmali|dated=20 February 2014|website=IGN}}</ref>

Shortly afterwards, when the [[Tolkien Estate]] (still nominally under [[Christopher Tolkien]]) shopped the television rights, the idea of doing a show about young [[Aragorn]] was pitched, first by Netflix, and then - at the suggestion of the Russo brothers<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-features/the-rings-of-power-showrunners-interview-season-2-1235233124/|articlename=‘The Rings of Power’ Showrunners Break Silence on Backlash, Sauron and Season 2|author=James Hibberd|dated=5 October 2022|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> - by [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon Prime Video]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=http://newboards.theonering.net/forum/gforum/perl/gforum.cgi?post=946980;sb=post_time;so=DESC;forum_view=forum_view_collapsed;guest=206510448#947231|articlename=If you will indulge me in a story|author="Uncle Iorlas"|dated=21 July 2018|website=The One Ring.net Message Boards}}</ref> Upon hearing this, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]]' mind immediately went to the period of the hunt: "If you're telling the [story of] him hunting [[Gollum]], you're getting closer to [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]]."<ref name=":21">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.fandom.com/articles/peter-jackson-lord-of-the-rings-series|articlename=Peter Jackson’s Tips For Casting Aragorn in Lord of the Rings TV Show|author=Kim Taylor-Foster|dated=4 December 2018|website=Fandom.com}}</ref> She and Jackson had also expressed interest in the potential of [[Aragorn]]'s younger days and life in [[Rivendell]]: "He's probably going to have to start young,"<ref name=":21" /> remarked Boyens, concluding that "A lot of the early [[Aragorn]] story hasn't been told."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.stuff.co.nz/entertainment/film/108970711/philippa-boyens-on-mortal-engines-hobbits-and-going-solo|articlename=Philippa Boyens on Mortal Engines, Hobbits and going solo|author=Philip Matthews|dated=16 December 2018|website=Stuff.nz}}</ref> [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortesen]] also got wind of the rumours and said he's open to reprising his role.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/viggo-mortensen-interview-falling-lord-of-the-rings/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen on Falling, Directing, and LOTR TV Show Interest|author=Christina Radish|dated=14 February 2021|website=Collider}}</ref>

Toby Emmerich and Carolyn Blackwood from [[New Line Cinema]] were brought into the fold in the hopes of cooperating on the show. In early 2018 lawyer Peter Nelson set-up "dialogue between [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon]]" to participate as executive producer.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/how-lord-rings-tv-series-landed-at-amazon-not-netflix-1099213/|articlename=Inside Amazon’s $250M ‘Lord of the Rings’ Deal: “It’s Very Much a Creature of the Times”|author=Tatiana Siegel|dated=5 April 2018|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20210308114202/https://www.herr-der-ringe-film.de/v3/de/news/tolkienfilme/news_121920.php|articlename=Exklusiv: Zu den Kulissen der HERR DER RINGE Serie, Her Der Ringe Film (archived).|author=Cirdan|dated=20 June 2018|website=Herr der Ringe.de}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.stuff.co.nz/entertainment/celebrities/108520139/sir-peter-jackson-hasnt-given-up-hope-of-making-the-dam-busters|articlename=Sir Peter Jackson hasn't given up hope of making The Dam Busters|author=James Croot|dated=12 November 2018|website=NZStuff}}</ref> Preoccupied with ''Mortal Engines'' and ''They Shall Not Grow Old'', [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] proposed in June 2018 to review the scripts and put "the creative team together."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://de.ign.com/tv/129313/interview/peter-jackson-ist-fur-das-kreative-team-hinter-der-herr-der-ringe-serie-verantwortlich|articlename=Peter Jackson ist für das kreative Team hinter der Herr der Ringe-Serie verantwortlich|author=Valentin Aschenbrenner|dated=5 June 2018|website=IGN.de}}</ref> In July, Amazon landed on [[John D. Payne]] and [[Patrick McKay]] as showrunners, and before any work could be done, a regime change in [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon Prime Video]]<ref name=":19">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/peter-jackson-amazon-lord-of-the-rings-tv-series-1235193692/|articlename=Peter Jackson Says Amazon’s ‘Lord of the Rings’ TV Series Ghosted Him|author=James Hibberd|dated=5 August 2022|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> in early 2019 resulted in [[New Line Cinema]] being demoted to a "minority licensee stakeholder."<ref name=":20">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/lord-of-the-rings-amazon-vs-warner-bros-1235337625/|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings’: Amazon, Warner Bros. Ready for Tolkien Battle|author=James Hibberd|dated=28 February 2023|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> Although the showrunners had asked to meet [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]],<ref name=":19" /> COVID prevented this from taking place.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2022/02/10-burning-questions-about-amazons-the-rings-of-power?srsltid=AfmBOopmlhLKVkCtSqkuvTTAcUtyQUICWXopTWLQq_1tu4aEf1ICrDLp|articlename=10 Burning Questions About Amazon’s The Rings of Power|author=Joanna Robinson|dated=14 February 2022|website=Vanity Fair}}</ref> While the show used a substantial number of his crew, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] were reportedly "very frustrated that so many believed they were involved with [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon]]’s show."<ref name=":20" /> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had avoided watching the show to prevent "cross-contamination."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.slashfilm.com/1693866/why-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy-screenwriter-wont-watch-the-rings-of-power/|articlename=Why One Lord Of The Rings Trilogy Screenwriter Won't Watch The Rings Of Power|author=Jaron Pak|dated=21 October 2024|website=Slash Film}}</ref> Since then, the show had left [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s home country of [[New Zealand]].

Already in 2019, the show's development had galvanized Emmerich and Blackwood to pursue an animated film with [[Middle-earth Enterprises]] (who were not involved in the show) and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]. The bridge film might have been the "CG-animated" story that [[New Line Cinema|New Line]] "had been exploring with Sir [[Peter Jackson]]" but it failed to materialize and they decided to pursue ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim]]''<ref>Daniel Falconer, ''The Art of The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim'' (Wiliam Murrow: London, 2025), pp. 9-10.</ref>. Later on, Emmerich and Blackwood were replaced by Michael de Luca and Pam Abdy, who were "striving to keep [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon]] from blurring the lines too much between" the show and the films.<ref name=":20" /> Other projects like [[Tales of the Shire: A "The Lord of the Rings" Game|''Tales of the Shire'']], the remastering of the six films to Ultra High Definition and renovations of [[Hobbiton]] were begun shortly afterwards, as well.

After this long gestation period, ''The Hunt for Gollum'' entered development once again in 2022. [[Andy Serkis]] was attached as director in October 2023 and story meetings occurred as early as May 2024, along with early availability calls to actors like [[Ian McKellen]] and [[Viggo Mortensen]] between that time and early September. By that point, the writing of the treatment was underway, followed by the first draft in January-May. After some crew hiring in August, pre-production started in early September 2025 ahead of shooting in May 2026.

==Development==
In 2022 the new administration of [[Middle-earth Enterprises]] expressed a desire to make more films, including ones "based on iconic characters, such as [[Gandalf]], [[Aragorn]], [[Gollum]], [[Galadriel]], [[Éowyn|Eowyn]] and other characters."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/lord-of-the-rings-rights-embracer-1235201442/|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings,’ ‘The Hobbit’ Movie, Games and Other Rights Holder Sold to Swedish Gaming Company Embracer|author=Georg Szalai|dated=18 August 2022|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]], [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] kept updated throughout the negotiations to extend [[New Line Cinema]]'s lease on the rights.<ref name=":4" />

Having "really enjoyed working with [[Kenji Kamiyama]], who directed ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|War of the Rohirrim]]''," [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] signed on to produce two new films: [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] denied<ref name=":22" /> rumours that this involved splitting the [[Gollum]] story,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2024/05/lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-cast-plot-everything-we-know-1235919922/|articlename=‘The Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum’: Everything We Know So Far|author=Dessi Gomez|dated=16 May 2024|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://filmstories.co.uk/news/the-lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-its-two-films-says-ian-mckellen/|articlename=The Lord Of The Rings: Hunt For Gollum {{!}} “It’s two films” says Ian McKellen|author=Ryan Lambie|dated=11 September 2024|website=Film Stories}}</ref> and at various times her and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] expressed interest in subjects varying from the [[Battle of Dale|War in the North]], Young [[Aragorn]], or certain vignettes from [[Rohan]] or [[Gondor]]'s history, which are all possible for the second film.<ref name=":23">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1i97ctm/the_next_film_after_the_hunt_for_gollum/|articlename=The next film after The Hunt for Gollum: Everything we know so far|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=25 January 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> These are probably ''not'' the other two scripts [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had been working on, however.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.indiewire.com/news/general-news/peter-jackson-not-retired-working-on-three-scripts-1235138316/|articlename=Peter Jackson Is Working on Three Screenplays: ‘I’m Certainly Not Retired’|author=By Rance Collins|dated=13 July 2025|website=IndieWire}}</ref>

Signing on the films was done with the intention to jump-start a new slate of ''Lord of the Rings'' prequels for [[New Line Cinema]],<ref name=":18" /><ref name=":24" /> with [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also expressing interest in making an "epic trilogy", probably about the [[Angmar conflict|Angmar War]].<ref name=":23" /> However, having developed the [[Gollum]] premise for so long, they decided to start with it. Asked about unrealized projects in 2024, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] observed that "there's a lot of that in ''The Hunt for Gollum.''"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9LdzKS584wA&t=614s|articlename=Lord of the Rings: War of the Rohirrim Interviews! Peter Jackson Role Explained|author=Brandon Davis|dated=29 October 2024|website=YouTube}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis]], who played [[Gollum]], had directed second unit on ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King|The Return of the King]]'' and ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]<ref name=":7" />'' and had since become a director in his own right, as well as narrating audiobooks of Tolkien's novels. [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] approached [[Andy Serkis|Andy]] around October 2023.<ref name=":24">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ssUmmuU-Bmk&t=76s|articlename=Andy Serkis Talks Motion Capture, Gollum, and Directing {{!}} Superhero Comic Con San Antonio 2024 Q&A|author=Freeman Coliseum|dated=24 June 2024|website=YouTube}}</ref> While developing the story, they already made availability checks to key cast and crew members.

===Writing===
Story meetings have happened at least as early as May 2024<ref name=":7" /> and by July they were about to start writing,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/comconnireland/status/1835962321211904490|articlename=Andy Serkis took to the stage at Comic Con Northern Ireland to talk all things Lord of the Rings and more!|author=@comconnireland|dated=16 September 2024|website=Twitter}}</ref> with [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] spotted at the [[Hobbiton]] set in November with writers [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] and Arty Papageorgiou, producers [[Zane Weiner]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/05/lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-release-date-1236390022/|articlename=‘Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum’ Sets Pre-Christmas 2027 Release|author=Anthony D'Alessandro|dated=8 May 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> and Carlos Ramirez Laloli.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.elfenomeno.com/info/ver/23481/comienza-el-rodaje-de-el-senor-de-los-anillos-la-caza-de-gollum-en-hobbiton|articlename=¿Comienza el rodaje de El Señor de los Anillos: La Caza de Gollum en Hobbiton?|author=Elfenomeno|dated=6 November 2024|website=Elfenomeno.com}}</ref> By December they had been in the process of writing the story treatment.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/lord-of-the-rings-war-of-the-rohirrim-arty-papageorgiou-phoebe-gittins/|articlename="Who Better for a Gollum Film Than Gollum Himself?": 'War of the Rohirrim' Writers on Working with Andy Serkis in 'The Hunt for Gollum'|author=Therese Lacson|dated=16 December 2024|website=Collider}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] later estimated they would finish writing by the middle of the year - executive Pamela Abdy since put the completion of the script at May<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/04/warner-bros-mike-de-luca-pam-abdy-courage-in-face-of-brutal-press-coverage-1236366618/|articlename=Warner Bros’ Mike De Luca & Pam Abdy: Playing Long Game, Mixing IP Like ‘Bodyguard’ Revamp & Bold Originals & Animation Despite Brutal Press|author=Mike Fleming Junior|dated=11 April 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> - and begin "scouting locations and building [sets]" with shooting due to begin towards the beginning of 2026.<ref name=":5">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.1news.co.nz/2024/12/15/exclusive-andy-serkis-philippa-boyens-on-the-hunt-for-gollum/|articlename=Exclusive: Andy Serkis, Philippa Boyens on new Lord of the Rings film|author=Abbey Wakefield|dated=15 December 2024|website=1News}}</ref> As a result, the release date for the film was ultimately delayed from 2026 to 17 December 2027.<ref name="TheDirect2027Release">{{webcite|author=Klein Felt|articleurl=https://thedirect.com/article/hunt-for-gollum-movie-lord-of-the-rings-release-official|articlename=Lord of the Rings: Hunt for Gollum Movie Gets Release Window from Andy Serkis|dated=27 Feb 2025|website=[https://thedirect.com The Direct]|accessed=27 Feb 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://variety.com/2025/film/news/lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-release-date-december-2027-1236390820/|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum’ Sets December 2027 Release Date; Warner Bros. Also Dates New ‘Evil Dead’ and M. Night Shyamalan Movies for 2026|author=Zack Sharf|dated=8 May 2025|website=Variety}}</ref>

A draft of the screenplay had been sent to de Luca and Abdy in May, probably prior to the investor meeting on the 8th, when [[Warner Bros.|Warner]]'s CEO David Zaslav announced the official release date.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://voicefilm.com/david-zaslav-announces-that-the-release-date-for-the-next-lord-of-the-rings-movie-will-be-revealed-today/|articlename=David Zaslav Announces That the Release Date for the Next ‘Lord of the Rings’ Movie Will Be Revealed Today|author=Mark|dated=8 May 2025|website=Voice Film}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.comicbasics.com/warner-ceo-david-zaslav-says-they-will-focus-more-on-their-main-ips-like-harry-potter-and-dc-in-the-future-those-belong-to-us-and-theyll-only-belong-to-us-forever/|articlename=Warner CEO David Zaslav Says They Will Focus More on Their Main IPs Like ‘Harry Potter’ and DC in the Future: “Those belong to us, and they’ll only belong to us forever.”|author=Arthur S. Poe|dated=8 May 2025|website=Comic Basics}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had since revealed that the film is due to start pre production in August<ref name=":33">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1krwz8d/andy_serkis_the_lord_of_the_rings_the_hunt_for/|articlename=Andy Serkis Panel at Fan Expo Philadelphia 2025|author=FandomWire News|dated=19 May 2025}}</ref> - when the film started hiring crew - then ammended to "late August to early September"<ref name=":18" />, with [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] ultimately arriving in [[Wellington]] circa 8 September to begin work on the film.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://metro.co.uk/2025/09/03/andy-serkis-admits-cant-escape-gollum-ahead-lord-rings-return-24066270/amp/|articlename=Andy Serkis admits he ‘can’t escape Gollum’ ahead of Lord of the Rings return|author=Sabrina Barr|dated=3 September 2025|website=Metro UK}}</ref> Serkis had left New Zealand during the holiday season, attending the premiere of "28 Years Later: The Bone Temple" before flying back to New Zealand: en rote he landed in Los Angeles.<ref name=":41">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.tmz.com/2026/01/20/andy-serkis-wants-original-lord-of-the-rings-cast-in-new-film/|articlename=LOTR' Star Andy Serkis: OG Cast Is Precious, Love 'Em For New Flick|author=Anonymous|dated=20 January 20 2026|website=TMZ}}</ref>

==Pre production==
[[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had further said preproduction will last for six months,<ref name=":27">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.comingsoon.it/cinema/news/in-un-mondo-alla-deriva-gollum-ci-salvera-la-nostra-intervista-ad-andy/n203564/|articlename=In un mondo alla deriva Gollum ci salverà: la nostra intervista ad Andy Serkis|author=Carola Proto|dated=25 June 2025|website=Coming Soon.it}}</ref> with [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] later confirming it will start filming in May<ref name=":12">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1msw9fp/the_lord_of_the_rings_the_hunt_for_gollum_starts/|articlename=The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum starts shooting in May, says Sir Ian McKellen. "I'll tell you two secrets about the casting..."|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=17 August 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> for an extended shooting period:<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-filming-update-andy-serkis/|articlename=Director Andy Serkis Offers Huge Filming Update For 'The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum' [Exclusive]|author=Chris McPherson and Steven Weintraub|dated=10 June 2025|website=Collider}}</ref> This puts the beginning of filming in [[New Zealand]] winter and, deducting the holidays, six months after [[Andy Serkis|Andy]]'s arrival. Location scouting may have taken place at Hawke's Bay as early as June<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1lis26w/a_location_scout_for_the_lord_of_the_rings_the/|articlename=A location scout for The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum seems to be snooping around Hawke's Bay, New Zealand|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=23 June 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> and later at the Waikato.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.waikatotimes.co.nz/nz-news/360837801/aliens-warriors-heroes-princesses-and-gollum-big-productions-filmed-and-possibly-coming-waikato|articlename=Aliens, warriors, heroes, princesses ... and Gollum: The big productions filmed in (and possibly coming to) the Waikato|author=Mike Mather|dated=1 October 2025|website=Waikato Times}}</ref> They had also watched the films sometime prior to November.<ref>Latino USA TV, "How Movie Monsters Are Really Made!", YouTube, 26 November 2025.</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] also spoke appreciatively of [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s penchant for behind the scenes extras, suggesting a similar approach to the film.<ref name=":33" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/gu1jj7/one_zoom_to_rule_them_all_reunited_apart_lord_of/|articlename=One Zoom to Rule Them All {{!}} Reunited Apart LORD OF THE RINGS Edition|author=Josh Gad|dated=31 May 2021|website=}}</ref> In October, [[Andy Serkis|Andy]] revealed that they're developing prosthetics.<ref name=":34">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1og2b4p/andy_serkis_says_all_the_art_department_from_lord/|articlename=Andy Serkis says "all the art department" from Lord of the Rings are "excited to come back." They started location scouting and camera tests.|author=u/Lord_Varys92|dated=25 October 2024|website=Reddit}}</ref>

Since [[Elijah Wood]], slated to appear in the film, is on tour through to early September,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://parade.com/news/lord-of-the-rings-hobbits-25-years-later-reunion-tour|articlename=The Hobbits Are Back Together — and Their Big News Has Fans Cheering|author=Whitney Danhauer|dated=25 October 2025|website=Parade}}</ref> his scenes might be scheduled for [[New Zealand]] summer, which could suggest shooting ''in situ'' in [[Hobbiton]], presumably depicting [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] dallying outside [[Bag End]] while [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]] and [[Gandalf]] argue within, as depicted in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]''. [[Ian McKellen]] is also hoping to join the production in [[New Zealand as Middle-earth|New Zealand]] during July.<ref>The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, "There's Nothing I Enjoy More Than Acting In The Theater" - Ian McKellen EXTENDED INTERVIEW," ''YouTub''e, 5 February 2026.</ref>

===Crew===
The film, said to be "one of the most expensive feature films to be shot in [[New Zealand]]"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/new-lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-film-will-be-shot-in-nz-set-for-2027-release/3BDNB3QFKJDAVGB4ODOTQ63YLY/|articlename=New Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum film will be shot in NZ, set for 2027 release|author=Tom Rose|dated=18 June 2025|website=New Zealand Herald}}</ref> is expected to draft alums of the ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|Lord of the Rings]]'', ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|War of the Rohirrim]]'' (many of whom will have also worked on ''[[The Rings of Power]]'' Season One and other projects) working in the [[Wellington]] and greater New Zealand screen sector.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thepost.co.nz/nz-news/350274670/film-heavyweights-alight-over-lotr-comeback|articlename=Film heavyweights ‘alight’ over LOTR comeback|author=Rachel Thomas|dated=10 May 2024|website=The New Zealand Post}}</ref><ref name=":5" /> Crewing began in early August, with Wood since confirming the involvement of production designer [[Dan Hennah]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IX5NhkyQ710|articlename=Elijah Wood en Monterrey/ conferencia de la DesertCon|author=Asi SoyTv|dated=6 October 2025|website=YouTube}}</ref> and set decorator Ra Vincent might also be involved.<ref name=":34" /> Although [[Janet Brennan Croft|Janet Brennan-Croft]] acted as [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] consultant on previous films, Beppe Pezzini will fill this role for this film.<ref>Educational Media Services | University of Oxford, "Beppe Pezzini on Classics and Fantasy | Fantasy Summer School ‪@facultyofenglishoxford‬," ''YouTube'', 23 September 2025.</ref>

IMDb credits Bob Buck as ''a'' costume designer for the film: it remains to be seen if Ngila Dickson, having just wrapped ''Predator: Badlands'' with [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]], might return. Kate Hawley, who was attached to del Toro's version of the film, is unlikely to take part due to work on "Bad Bridgets."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/10/daisy-edgar-jones-emilia-jones-bad-bridgets-luckychap-1236604481/|articlename=Daisy Edgar-Jones And Emilia Jones To Star In ‘Bad Bridgets’ From LuckyChap|author=Justin Kroll|dated=31 October 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> Liz Mullane and Rachel Bullock head the New Zealand casting sweep. Both [[Wētā FX|WetaFX]] and [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]] are confirmed for the project,<ref name=":8">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt32328070/companycredits/?ref_=tt_dt_cmpy|articlename=The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum (2027)|author=Anonymous|website=IMDb}}</ref> as are [[Gino Acevedo]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.instagram.com/p/DRy30vUkme7/|articlename="Oh no!"|author=Ginoacevedofx|dated=3 December 2025|website=Instagram}}</ref> [[John Howe]] and [[Alan Lee]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://ggba.swiss/en/the-lord-of-the-rings-nature-and-switzerlands-hidden-history-a-conversation-with-john-howe/|articlename=The Lord Of The Rings, Nature and Switzerland’s Hidden History (A Conversation with John Howe)|author=Woody Wade|dated=10 December 2025|website=Greater Geneva Bern Area}}</ref> In April - by which point a composer was already said to be attached to the project - [[Howard Shore]] said he was interested to "see how that all works out."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.classical-music.com/articles/howard-shore|articlename=Howard Shore: the film composer behind Hannibal Lecter and Bilbo Baggins|author=Michael Beek|dated=16 April 2025|website=Classical Music.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://en.softonic.com/articles/the-composer-of-the-soundtrack-for-the-lord-of-the-rings-made-a-cameo-in-the-movies-and-no-one-noticed#google_vignette|articlename=The composer of the soundtrack for The Lord of the Rings made a cameo in the movies and no one noticed|author=Agencias|dated=26 December 2025|website=Softonic}}</ref>

As early as October, [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] suggested that they're "doing camera tests."<ref name=":34" /> This is said to include miniature photography, with Alex Funke said to participate, even if only in an advisory position. On the live action side, although Robert Richardson had been rumoured as camerman, he might be preoccupied with Antoine Fuqua's Hannibal epic.<ref name=":34" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.worldofreel.com/blog/2025/7/23/michael-part-1-delayed-to-april-2026|articlename=‘Michael’ Delayed to April 2026|author=Jordan Ruimy|dated=23 July 2025|website=World of Reel}}</ref> While the film was in the story conference stage in July 2024, Richardson said he had "a number" of projects "on the constantly-shifting horizon of the film industry."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.filmlightcolourawards.com/colour-awards-2024/jury-colour-awards-2024/robert-richardson-cinematographer-asc-ack/|articlename=Robert Richardson, Cinematographer, ASC, ACK|author=Anonymous|dated=18 July 2024|website=Film Light Colour Awards}}</ref>

The film is a co-production of [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s [[WingNut Films|WingNut films]] and [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]]' ''Imaginarium''. [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] will executive produce with his ''Imaginarium'' partner John Cavendish and Jackson's agent [[Ken Kamins]].<ref name="Gollum">{{webcite|author=Jennifer Maas|articleurl=https://variety.com/2024/film/news/lord-of-the-rings-movie-2026-release-warner-bros-1235997102/|articlename=Warner Bros. to Release New ‘Lord of the Rings’ Movie ‘The Hunt for Gollum’ in 2026, Peter Jackson to Produce and Andy Serkis to Direct|dated=9 May 2024|website=[https://variety.com/ Variety]|accessed=8 June 2024}}</ref> IMDb also credits studio chiefs Michael de Luca (who helped produce [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'']]), Pam Abdy and David Zaslav as executive producers<ref name=":8" /> and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] mentioned [[Warner Bros.|Warners]]' business consultant Alan Horn (who had produced ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]])'' as a collaborator, but these credits have yet to become official.<ref name=":7" />

===Cast===
With [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] due to star as [[Gollum]], approaches had been made to [[Ian McKellen|Sir Ian McKellen]]<ref name=":2">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2024/09/ian-mckellen-return-gandalf-new-the-lord-of-the-rings-films-1236075547/|articlename=Ian McKellen Reveals He’s Been Approached To Reprise His Role As Gandalf In Andy Serkis’ New ‘The Lord Of The Rings’ Films|author=Jake Kanter|dated=2 September 2024|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> and [[Viggo Mortensen]] to reprise [[Gandalf]] and [[Aragorn]], respectively. [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] said he's in talks to reprise "a little bit" of [[Gandalf]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.mirror.co.uk/3am/celebrity-news/sir-ian-mckellan-i-thought-36196617|articlename=EXCLUSIVE: Sir Ian McKellan: 'I thought I was a goner, but I'm coming back as Gandalf'|author=Marc Baker and Jackie Annett|dated=5 November 2025|website=The Mirror}}</ref> in [[New Zealand]].<ref name=":42">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thetimes.com/culture/tv-radio/article/ian-mckellen-an-ark-lowry-lord-of-the-rings-f9wc9nmdq|articlename=Ian McKellen at 86: ‘I’ve had to accept that I’m not immortal’|author=Jonathan Dean|dated=14 February 2026|website=The Times}}</ref> As of December, the contracts with [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] and [[Elijah Wood|Wood]] hadn't been finalized,<ref name=":40" /> but [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] expressed a desire to return to [[New Zealand]] for filming. [[Liv Tyler]], [[Evangeline Lilly]] and, especially, [[Orlando Bloom]] have also expressed interest in reprising their parts,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.nme.com/news/film/the-lord-of-the-rings-cast-say-they-would-jump-to-return-for-new-spin-off-movies-3853893|articlename=‘The Lord Of The Rings’ cast say they would “jump” to return for new spin-off movies|author=Damian Jones|dated=11 April 2025|website=NME}}</ref> while [[Dominic Monaghan]] expressed a desire to visit the set.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://nypost.com/2025/11/06/entertainment/dominic-monaghan-reveals-plans-for-next-lord-of-the-rings-movie/|articlename=Dominic Monaghan reveals big plans for next ‘Lord of the Rings’ movie — including possible return as Merry
By|author=Eric Todisco|dated=6 November 2025|website=New York Post}}</ref> [[Evangeline Lilly|Lilly]] had proceeded to do so, but indicated that she will have no further involvement with the project. [[Orcs]] are set to appear in the film, with [[Shane Rangi]] and [[Lawrence Makoare]] having reportedly been contacted.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/thelegacyofnerd/status/1979621220246344016|articlename=BREAKING: ‘The Hunt For Gollum’ Begins Filming in May 2026|author=@thelegacyofnerd|dated=8 October 2025|website=Twitter}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]]' comments about seeing the interiors of [[Barad-dûr|Barad Dur]] might suggest the involvement of [[Benedict Cumberbatch]].<ref name=":36">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lYYSsook-4Y|articlename=Philippa Boyens ('ESDLA: LA GUERRA DE LOS ROHIRRIM'): "Queríamos que se sintiera como algo nuevo"|author=eCartelera|dated=10 December 2024}}</ref>

[[Andy Serkis|Serkis]], [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had all spoke to [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]],<ref name=":3">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://theplaylist.net/the-war-of-the-rohirrim-philippa-boyens-on-the-new-anime-the-hunt-for-gollum-the-future-of-the-lord-of-the-rings-20241223/|articlename=‘The War Of The Rohirrim’: Philippa Boyens On The New Anime, ‘The Hunt For Gollum’ & The Future Of ‘The Lord of the Rings’|author=Rodrigo Perez|dated=23 December 2024|website=The Playlist}}</ref> who had previously said he'd be "open to it" if it makes sense for "the age I am now"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.gq-magazine.co.uk/article/viggo-mortensen-interview-2024|articlename=Viggo Mortensen re-used Aragorn's sword in new movie The Dead Don't Hurt “Because it's really good”|author=Rafael Motamayor|dated=28 May 2024|website=GQ}}</ref> but after [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] pitched it to him as "Digital make-up" they agreed he'd wait to read the script: With the approach to [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] happening sometime between June<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thetimes.com/culture/film/article/ian-mckellen-if-this-is-my-last-job-id-better-get-it-right-hadnt-i-n3t38g6tb|articlename=Ian McKellen: ‘When a script arrives, I think this might be my last job’|author=Dominic Maxwell|dated=8 June 2024|website=The Times of London}}</ref> and September,<ref name=":2" /> the approach to [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] may have taken place in mid-June, just prior to an interview in which [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] said "The script is the most important thing to me", seemingly no longer harping on the age quota.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/viggo-mortensen-lord-of-the-rings-script-feminism-1235935628/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen on Respecting Audiences, How Scripts Are Key “Unless I’m Broke,” New ‘LOTR’ Films|author=Georg Szalai|dated=30 June 2024|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] said they need to "drag" him.<ref name=":36" /> Mortensen also said he'd be interested in appearing in later film projects if they were "true to Tolkien."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.the-independent.com/arts-entertainment/films/news/viggo-mortensen-movies-interview-b2561237.html|articlename=Go to Bat with Viggo Mortensen: My films that deserve more love|author=Jacob Stolworthy|dated=7 June 2024|website=The Independent}}</ref>

While in London for ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]]'' premiere, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also "had lunch with an [[Elves|Elf]] lord" who "would fall into that story."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.instagram.com/nerdoftherings/reel/DDgKw47uxkJ/|articlename="Philippa Boyens teases an “elf lord” returning for Hunt for Gollum! "|author=Matt Graf|dated=12 December 2024|website=Instagram}}</ref> Although this could refer to [[Orlando Bloom|Bloom]] or even [[Marton Csokas]], [[Lee Pace]] is the most likely as he was shooting ''The Running Man'' in London at the time.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://people.com/glen-powell-films-running-man-reboot-37-years-after-arnold-schwarzenegger-movie-8745529|articlename=Glen Powell Films Running Man Remake in London 37 Years After Original Arnold Schwarzenegger Movie|author=Jen Juneau|dated=14 November 2024|website=People}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had since divulged that they expect "some of the cast who were originally in" ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'', as well as "some incredible new talent."<ref name=":28">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.jedinews.com/events/articles/indiana-comic-con-andy-serkis-full-panel/|articlename=Indiana Comic Con: Andy Serkis Full Panel|author=James Burns|dated=11 April 2025,|website=Jedi News}}</ref> [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] had since confirmed that [[Gandalf]] and [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]], surely to be played by himself and [[Elijah Wood|Wood]], are scheduled to reappear in the piece.<ref name=":12" />

Casting seems to have started in November,<ref name=":40">Steve Schofield ''et al'', "25 Years of Fellowship", ''Empire'' (March 2026), pp. 46-70.</ref> with young boys auditioning for the boy [[Gollum|Smeagol]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/KnightGambit/status/2011815291198849220|articlename=Small Tidbit.....|author=Caleb Williams|dated=16 January 2026|website=Twitter}}</ref> and two of his fellow [[Stoors|Stoor]] riverfolk - a young girl and a young adult boy - in what looks like a setup for [[Gollum|Smeagol]]'s preoccupation with a birtday present. Actors in their early thirties auditioned for a young "[[Aragorn|Strider]]",<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://knightedgemedia.com/2026/01/the-hunt-for-gollum-casting-call-teases-young-strider-and-his-fellow-dunedain-rangers/#google_vignette|articlename=‘The Hunt for Gollum’ Casting Call Teases Young Strider and His Fellow Dúnedain Rangers|author=Caleb Williams|dated=16 January 2026|website=Knight Edge Media}}</ref> with 29-year old Leo Woodall reportedly tipped for the role.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://knightedgemedia.com/2026/03/rumor-leo-woodall-cast-as-strider-in-lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum/#google_vignette|articlename=RUMOR: Leo Woodall Cast as Strider in ‘Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum’|author=Caleb Williams|dated=7 March 2026|website=Knight Edge Media}}</ref> While there had been reports that the studio is not hoping to get Viggo<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/ViewerAnon/status/1998489358849159181?s=20|articlename=I can confirm this|author=ViewerAnon|dated=9 December 2025|website=Twitter}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had spoken about potentially having to "hand off"<ref name=":3" /> from [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]], and rumours had pointed to the inexpediency of the deaging.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://3dvf.com/en/a-cult-actor-from-the-lord-of-the-rings-on-the-departure-the-question-arises-for-the-prequel-dedicated-to-gollum/#google_vignette|articlename=A Cult Actor from The Lord of the Rings on the Departure? The Question Arises for the Prequel Dedicated to Gollum|author=Quentin Couprie|dated=13 December 2025|accessed=3DVF}}</ref> The age differential - Mortensen was 42 while shooting ''Lord of the Rings'' - may well suggest scenes alternating between this younger character, and either an old [[Aragorn|Elessar]] and/or the "mature" [[Aragorn]] of the [[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|''Fellowship of the Ring'']] era.''<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://medium.com/p/dcf21faf019e|articlename=The Hunt for Gollum and the Aragorn problem|author=Chen Geller|website=Medium}}</ref>'' [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had earlier spoke of meeting [[Aragorn]] when he was "quite young" in ''[[The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies|The Battle of the Five Armies]],'' but not so young that it didn't seem plausible to her to have [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] play him circa 2011''.<ref name=":39" />'' The audition scene, although not necessarily representative of the film, also implies the presence of the other [[Rangers of the North|Rangers]], perhaps including [[Halbarad]]. A younger Strider could also feature in a "Young Aragorn" picture.

Serkis had since reaffirrmed that he would "love the old cast" back.<ref name=":41" /> Other roles auditioned for include women in their thirties and fifities: the latter is said to be Smeagol's grandmother, now confirmed as a "lead" role, with Kate Winslet relocating to New Zealand for five months. The thirties' part<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://knightedgemedia.com/2026/03/the-hunt-for-gollum-lead-female-characters-casting-are-underway-exclusive/#google_vignette|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum’ Lead Female Characters Casting Are Underway (EXCLUSIVE)|author=Caleb Williams|dated=5 March 2026|website=Knight Edge Media}}</ref> is reportedly circled by Anya Taylor-Joy. Some presume this to be [[Arwen]], but if so the quota is older than [[Liv Tyler]], who was 23 at the time of [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'']].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://medium.com/@chenngeller/on-aragorn-and-other-castings-a6e55668fce9?postPublishedType=repub|articlename=On Aragorn, Stoors and other castings|author=Chen Geller|dated=11 March 2026|website=Medium}}</ref> Winslet had previously been considered, at least by the studio, for [[Éowyn|Eowyn]].

==Plotline==
The exact events the film covers remain undisclosed. There's ambiguity concerning both the exact timeframe for the film, and whether it will focus more on [[Gollum]] or [[Aragorn]]. An official "blurb" for the movie reads: "The pic explores [[Aragorn]]’s adventures as a [[Rangers of the North|ranger]], specifically his quest to capture [[Gollum]] between [[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]] and [[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|Fellowship of the Ring]], tracking him to keep the [[The One Ring|Ring]]’s location from [[Sauron|Sauron."]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2026/01/box-office-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy-25th-anniversary-1236689724/|articlename=‘Lord Of The Rings’ Trilogy 25th Anniversary Event Rings Up $11M In Worldwide Box Office|author=Anthony D'Alessandro|dated=19 January 2026|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> A more extended synopsis had also been circulating:<blockquote>Before the Fellowship, one creature's obsession holds the key to Middle-earth's survival -- or its demise. In The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum, we meet young Smeagol -- an outsider drawn to trinkets and mischief -- long before The One Ring consumed him and began his tragic descent into the tortured, deceitful creature Gollum. With the ring lost and carried away by Bilbo Baggins, Gollum finds himself compelled to leave his cave in search of it. Gandalf the Grey calls upon Aragorn, still known as the ranger Strider, to track the elusive creature whose knowledge of the whereabouts of the ring could tip the balance toward the Dark Lord Sauron.
Set in the shadowed time between Bilbo's birthday disappearance and the Fellowship's formation, this perilous journey through Middle-earth's darkest corners reveals untold truths, tests the resolve of its future king, and explores the fractured soul and backstory of Gollum, one of Tolkien's most enigmatic characters.

Directed by original cast member Andy Serkis, produced by Peter Jackson, and written & produced by Fran Walsh and Phillipa Boyens -- the creative team behind the Oscar-winning trilogy -- this live-action movie bridges the beloved films with new characters, returning heroes, and a deeply engaging origin story that resets the stage for, and changes everything you know about the legendary Lord of the Rings trilogy.</blockquote>Strictly speaking, [[Aragorn]]'s hunt for [[Gollum]] begins during the events depicted in Jackson's [[The Fellowship of the Ring (2001 film)|''The Fellowship of the Ring'']], and in October, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] said the story "falls after the [[Bilbo's Farewell Party|birthday party of Bilbo]] and before the Mines Of [[Moria]]".<ref name=":22">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.empireonline.com/movies/news/lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-wont-be-two-films-second-philippa-boyens-exclusive/|articlename=The Hunt For Gollum Won’t Be Two Films, But A Second LOTR Film Is Incoming, Philippa Boyens Confirms|author=Ben Travis|dated=18 October 2024|website=Empire}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] added that the role of [[Aragorn]] is "very central" to the movie.<ref name=":36" /> Andy called the storyline "pivotal."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1md7lim/the_lord_of_the_rings_the_hunt_for_gollum_andy/|articlename=The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum - Andy Serkis says "this part of the story is pivotal"|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=30 July 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> [[Ian McKellen]] had described the plot as "[[Aragorn]] trying to find [[Gollum]] with [[Gandalf]] directing operations from the sidelines."<ref name=":42" />

However, ''a'' hunt for [[Gollum]] is begun by the [[Silvan Elves]] after Gollum first leaves the [[Misty Mountains|mountains]] in search of [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]], and in December Jackson said the film "tells us what happened to [[Gollum]] between ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' - end of [[The Hobbit (film series)|''The Hobbit'']] - and the beginning of ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]''".<ref name=":6">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/red-carpet-premiere-for-the-lord-of-the-rings-the-war-of-the-rohirrim/P3BS7U5NPS5EMFLPUV4SYSYFDU/|articlename=Red carpet premiere for The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|author=Mitchell Hageman|dated=11 December 2024|website=New Zealand Herald}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had since confirmed this timeframe: "It sits, kind of, in the timeline between ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' - between losing the [[The One Ring|Ring]] to [[Bilbo Baggins]] - and ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]''."<ref name=":18">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?t=1218&v=U-dw8DQDf90&feature=youtu.be|articlename=Kazakhstan feels like the center of the world - Andy Serkis {{!}} Interview of the Day|author=Silk Way / Qazaqstan|dated=15 July 2025|website=YouTube}}</ref> [[Dol Guldur]], the [[Nazgûl|Nazgul]] and [[Orcs]] are all said to potentially play part in the film.

[[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also alluded to other storylines: "we are finding a lot of threads of story that are surprising in there when you really go in there and examine it".<ref name=":29">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.slashfilm.com/1734018/philippa-boyens-lord-of-the-rings-war-of-the-rohirrim-exclusive-interview/|articlename=War Of The Rohirrim's Philippa Boyens Reveals Details About The Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum [Exclusive Interview]|author=Ben Pearson|dated=13 December 2024|website=/Film}}</ref> Events as varied as [[Aragorn]]'s sojourn in [[Lothlórien|Lórien]] with [[Arwen]], the fall of [[Balin's folk]], [[Boromir]]'s quest for [[Rivendell]] and much else occur concurrent to the time of the Hunt.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1iutc9r/building_bridges_so_what_happens_between_the/|articlename=Building Bridges: So, what happens between the trilogies that The Hunt for Gollum could possibly cover?|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=21 February 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> "You see the layers and layers of story that’s underneath there and how interconnected they all are", she adds.<ref name=":3" /> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] also made comments to this effect: "Some pretty interesting stuff happens that we reference in passing in [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The'' ''Lord of the Rings'']], but there’s a lot of more deep detail to it."<ref name=":6" />

[[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] adds that "We get to go to some places that we've never been before" in Middle-earth." One such place - only glimpsed in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|Fellowship of the Ring]]'' - is the interiors of [[Barad-dûr|Barad Dur]].<ref name=":36" /> Both she and Serkis alluded to new characters<ref name=":28" /><ref name=":5" /> and new dramatic situations, saying it's "surprising"<ref name=":7" /><ref name=":27" /><ref name=":29" /> and could be enjoyed be people wo don't know the novels.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.amica.it/video-post/andy-serkis-dirigero-signore-anelli-tornero-batman/|articlename=Andy Serkis, da Gollum a regista: «Dirigerò “Il Signore degli Anelli” e tornerò con Batman»|author=Emanuele Bigi|dated=27 June 2025|website=Amica}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also shared that one of the practicalities they were busy figuring out in the writing is "How does he [<nowiki/>[[Aragorn]]] pick up his scent? How does he find his trail, how does it happen?"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://nerdist.com/article/nerdist-philippa-boyens-interview-the-war-of-the-rohirrim-the-lord-of-the-rings-future/|articlename=Philippa Boyens Talks the Future of THE LORD OF THE RINGS Movies and Naming a Tolkien Character in THE WAR OF THE ROHIRRIM|author=by Rotem Rusak|dated=19 December 2024|website=Nerdist}}</ref>

==Cast==
{| class="wikitable mw-collapsible"
|- style="background: var(--tg-color-surface-2);"
!Actor!!Role
|-
|[[Andy Serkis]]||[[Gollum]]<ref name="Gollum"></ref>
|-
|[[Elijah Wood]]
|[[Frodo Baggins]]<ref name=":12" />
|-
|[[Ian McKellen]]
|[[Gandalf]]<ref name=":12" />
|}

{{title|italics}}

{{references}}

{{screen}}

[[Category:Films]]

[[fi:The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum]]

The Music of the Lord of the Rings Films (composition)

2026-03-13T19:29:41Z

Chen Geller:

{{cleanup}}
{{Disambig-two|the music composition for the Lord of the Rings films|book about the composition for The Lord of the Rings trilogy|[[The Music of the Lord of the Rings Films]]}}Howard Shore's compositions for ''The Lord of the Rings'' and ''The Hobbit'', together with work by Howard, Plan 9, David Long and Stephen Gallagher for ''The War of the Rohirrim'', ''The Rings of Power'' Season One and other projects represent a musico-dramatic oeuvre covering about 24 hours of music. This music is based on folk-like melodies, often stepwise; triadic harmony (though not generally stable in terms of key) and massed orchestrations, often ornamented by worldly instruments outside the orchestral replete.

The compositions include:

#[[:Category:The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power (Season One: Amazon Original Series Soundtrack)|The Rings of Power season one]]: Only the opening titles ([[Howard Shore]]) and source songs (Plan 9 and David Long).
#[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]] ([[Stephen Gallagher]], David Long using themes by Howard Shore and Plan 9)
#[[:Category:The Hobbit (film series) soundtracks|The Hobbit film trilogy (soundtracks)]], including the announcement trailer (Shore, Plan 9, Long, Gallagher ''et al'')
#[[:Category:The Lord of the Rings (film series) soundtracks|The Lord of the Rings film trilogy (soundtracks)]], including the second Return of the King trailer (Shore, Plan 9, Long ''et al'')
#Additional pieces for the concert stage (Howard Shore) or ''in situ'' for the Hobbiton set (Plan 9 and David Long).

==Orchestration==
Howard's orchestra varies in size between different pieces. Many instruments are used to colour certain narrative elements and related themes. Taken in whole, and together with instruments utilized by Plan 9 and David Long, it comprises:

'''Strings''': At least 16 first violins (concertmaster doubling hardinfelle, double violin), 16 second violins, 12 violas, 10 violoncelli, 8 double basses. 2 harps (one doubling celtic harp).

'''Woodwinds''': 4 flutes (doubling alto flute, piccoli, recorder, wood flute, tin whistle, low whistle, shakuhachi, dizi, nay), 4 oboes (one doubling cor anglais and heckelphone), 4 clarinets (one doubling bass clarinet and contrabass clarinet) and 3 bassoons (one doubling contrabassoon and contraforte). Also putorino, Rhaita (doubling rauschpfeife), 2 shawms, 2 crumhorns, dulcian.

'''Brass''': At least seven horns in F (doubling Wagner ''tuben''), eight trumpets (doubling rotary-valve trumpets), seven trombones (four tenor-bass and three bass trombones) and two tubas (doubling contrabass tuba). Also 20 didgeridoos, pukea, cow horn, tibetan horn.

'''Keyboards''': one grand piano (doubling upright piano, celesta, harpsichord, clavichord), synthesizer, grand pipe organ.

'''Percussion:''' Two Timpanists. At least seven players on bass drum, snare drums, side-drums (or field drums), toms and bass drum kit, triangle, glockenspiel, gong bass drum, tambourine, taiko drums (three sizes: large, medium and small), cymbals (including a splash cymbal cut into ribbons, antique cymbals, crotales), tubular bells, mark tree, carillon, tamtams, bossed gongs, woodblocks, temple blocks, log drums, slit drum, dudun drum, waterphone, shakers (including eggshakers, cabasa, caxixi and jingles), tibetan singing bowls, goblet drum, friction drum, frame drum, transceleste, marimba, 2 bodhrain, bell plates, anvil, "prepared" piano, castanets, tuned artillery shells, cans, wind machine.

"'''Hobbit band'''": 3 guitars (6 and 12-string, including bass guitar, doubling mandolin, caipira viola, lute, theorbo), 2 bagpipes (highland bapipes, doubling uileann pipes), 2 accordions (mussette, doubling concertina and harmonium), 1 hammered dulcimer (doubling cimbalom), hurdy-gurdy, banjo (doubling banjolele), euphonium.

'''Gamelan''': 1 kempul (doubling gong ageng), 1 kendhang, 4 saron players, 3 gender players (doubling slenthem), 4 kenong players (doubling kethuk), 2 bonang players, 1 gambang. Also doubling rebab, finger cymbals, ceng cengs, hyōshigi, kine, japanese cymbals, monochord, tanpura, sarangi (doubling dilruba).

'''Choir:''' 60 boys, at least 100 men and women, soloists (tenors, baritone, bass, soprano, treble).

==Themes==
The score relies on a large number of recurring associative themes (also known as ''Leitmotive'' or "Leading musical motives"). These appear independent of each other, in two more non-adjacent scenes. Most of these run through the entire series and lend it a sense of musical cohesion. These themes, which also develop according to the dramatic situation, are loosely divided into "family groups" and further delineated by associative keys and tone colour. They are as follows:

{| class="wikitable sortable"
!#
!Name
!Description
|-
|1
|'''"Impediment" theme'''
|This theme is a chromatic arpeggio (A minor: 1-3-5-♭6), sequenced a flat sixth apart. It is usually harmonized in minor triads a flat sixth apart (sometimes retrograded), and this sonority also appears on its own. It is introduced in the ''Rings of Power'' titles, where it is transformed as an F Lydian arpeggio (F: 1-3-♯4-5) over chords a minor third apart. The chords then appear in ''The War of the Rohirrim'' to depict the antagonists: Gm: ♯vi-i Freca, then G♭m: ♭vi-i under Wulf. The definitive theme appears throughout the live-action films, always representing impediment.
|-
|2
|'''Scales'''
|This is one of the basic devices Howard uses throughout the scores. Scalar motion may depict the Hobbits (usually as C: 1-2-3 starting on a quaver) but since scalar motion is inherent in many themes, it is used more generally in the scores, in any key or modality. Later, chromatic scales also begin appearing.
|-
|3
|'''"There and back Again"'''
|This idea rises and falls through a single scale degree. It can appear minor (minor seconds, usually rising and falling) to depict evil, or major (major seconds, usually falling and rising) to depict the Fellowship.
|-
|4
|'''Cluster'''
|This is a version of [2] which stacks the pitches to create a tone pyramid. It is used as a danger figure throughout, until it is resolved diatonically when Frodo awakes in Minas Tirith.
|-
|5
|'''"This Wandering Day"'''
|This walking song by Plan 9 and David Long is reprised a few times. Its diatonicism looks forward to the music of the Hobbits at large. All the themes associated with the Hobbits are diatonic or pentatonic, usually stepwise.
|-
|6
|'''The Ring'''
|This theme is based on the rising and falling minor second [3a]. It is stated in strings on A♭ minor, then sequenced in F minor, all harmonized in minor triads a minor second apart (F minor to E minor).
|-
|7
|'''Eowyn and Theoden'''
|This theme, voiced in open chords, depicts Eowyn, particularly in her relationship to Theoden.
|-
|8
|'''Rohan:'''
|This major theme is usually set in A Dorian and played by either ''hardingfelle'' or high brass. It has several detachable parts:
*'''Rhythm''': The opening unison quavers evoke galloping horse hooves.
*'''Melody''': This rises a minor third, then proceeds stepwise along the Dorian mode. In the fullest statements, the consequent phrase concludes with a plagal cadence. In the Pelennor fields, this is reshaped into driving triplets, and these then appear on their own. A countermelody emphasizes the falling and rising major second [3b]. Later, the melody is sometimes altered to begin on a major third or even perfect fourth.
*'''Chords:''' in keeping with the Dorian setting, the theme is usually harmonized in A Dorian: i-IV but in the fullest statements this is expanded to i-VII-III-IV.
Henceforth, all the themes associated with mankind will be modal, usually incorporating a prominent leap into the melodic contour.
|-
|9
|'''Eowyn:'''
|Eowyn's main theme is first hinted at in Hera's music. The theme leaps a fifth then proceeds stepwise over C Lydian: I-II-iii. Eowyn's first two scenes feature a similar progression under a scale, the perfect fifth ironed out. When she rebukes Grima, this theme which had since taken to the minor mode, regains the perfect fifth. Gallagher's score features other themes unique to it:
*The secondary theme leaps a perfect fifth and major sixth, then subsides in a stepwise figure. It mostly represents Helm and his sons.
*Olwyn is represented by a lyrical idea in thirds.
*Another idea in major and minor seconds represents Hera's relationship to Helm.
|-
|10
|'''First danger motif'''
|These paired, accented crotchets appear when Wulf confronts Helm. Later, they lend their rhyhtm to the Ring chord, mostly to depict the Ringwraiths, but these crotchets are also used on their own as a danger motif throughout.
|-
|11
|'''Horns'''
|Leaps ranging from a minor third to a perfect fifth appear throughout the scores, either in the score or as horn sound effects. Again, since these intervals are shared between multiple themes, they can be used in various contexts. Howard also frequently uses open fifths.
|-
|12
|'''Gondor'''
|This theme shares the Dorian setting, but leaps a perfect fifth (recalling Eowyn [7, 9], who will end up in Gondor) on D. Later, Howard will set it in rotary-valve trumpets.
|-
|13
|'''Rohan lament'''
|Versions of this lament (composed by plan 9 and David Long) appear both for Helm (in ''The War of the Rohirirm'') and for Theodred (in ''The Two Towers'').
|-
|14
|'''Nature'''
|This theme begins with a major-mode transformation of the impediment figure (over A minor: i-VI-i) and continues into chromatically rising chords. This second part is sometimes used on its own and, in the most extroverted statements, is embellished with unison brass triplets. Both parts are varied for other themes of the natural world. This theme first appears under the letter Gandalf sends to Hera, then appears through the bulk of the cycle to depict nature. In the end of ''The Two Towers'', it parallels the charge out of Helm's Deep with the concurrent Ent attack, and from this point on the theme becomes temporarily associated with the Rohirrim.
|-
|15
|'''Saruman or Orcs'''
|This theme first appears retrograded, as a lyrical triple-time woodwind idea for Saruman's appearance in ''The War of the Rohirrim''. It later assumes its definitive 5/4 setting in trombones. Notice that it reorganizes the pitches of the Ring [6], but now the seasawing minor seconds [3a] rise and fall. Later, the theme appears for Saruman's Uruks, and later for Orcs in general.
|-
|16
|'''The Hobbits (main theme)'''
|This theme, along with the Ring [6] is the nearest the series has to a main theme. It is almost always set in D pentatonic or C pentatonic, usually in strings, solo clarinet or tin whistle: this latter instrument is replaced by flute in ''The Return of the King''. It is again in detachable parts:
*'''First phrase''': This rises through four scale degrees, then falls back down. It is typically harmonized in D: I-IV-I-V.
*'''Second phrase''': By sequencing the initial stepwise motif upwards and harmonizing it with D: vii-IV-V-I, this part of the theme depicts the Shire as "the place that makes your heart swell when you think about it."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.woodzie.org/lotr/expansive.htm|articlename=Musical Themes in "The Lord of the Rings"|author=Eric Rawlins|dated=17 July 2006|website=Woodzie}}</ref>
*'''Accompaniment''': the first part is often accompanied by this bumptious outline in fifths and fourths. Howard omits this when a more sobering effect is called for, but he also uses it on its own.
|-
|17
|'''The Ring (fragment)'''
|Howard derives several fragments from the Ring that appear on their own:
*Ascending second: Both in ''An Unexpected Journey'' and ''The Fellowship of the Ring'', Bilbo blows smoke rings to the sound of a tritone gliding into the fifth. This recreates the rising major second that opens the ring [6] but over a major chord: it returns after the Ring's destruction when characters recall it, reaffirming that the Ring is indeed gone. The figure does also appear in the minor as a more pointed allusion to the Ring throughout the quest.
*Chords: Howard also harmonizes this motion as minor triads a minor second apart, or as a minor triad resolving to a major triad: this latter gesture concludes the prologue of ''Fellowship of the Ring'' (E♭: i-I) and both Weathertop (on album) and the walls of Moria are revealed to the sound of fanfares derived from this gesture.
|-
|18
|'''Bilbo Baggins, first theme'''
|This theme reshapes the Hobbits' theme to depict Bilbo Baggins. In the announcement trailer, only its first phrase is heard, but in ''An Unexpected Journey'' it is sometimes extended into a second phrase which, with its melodic leaps and horn scoring hints at Bilbo's more outgoing, "Tookish" side. This phrase is later used on its own.
|-
|19
|'''The Company, main theme'''
|This theme is first sung by Thorin and company (over string clusters [4] in the trailer, ''a-cappella'' in the film), but then appears orchestrally. At the end of ''An Unexpected Journey,'' it is transformed into the Song of the Lonely Mountain. After this, as the quest loses its swashbuckling sheen, the theme is no longer heard. Its harmony (triads a major second apart) is shared between all the ''melodic'' Dwarven themes.
|-
|20
|'''First Dwarven theme (Thorin):'''
|The stepwise nature of this theme depicts the influence Bilbo will play in Thorin's life. As in the announcement trailer, it is often heard as a countermelody for [19]. The theme is not, however, Thorin's theme in ''strictu sensu'': it scores most of the establishing montage of Erebor, and several scenes of the company at large. Again, notice the "Dwarven" Am-G harmony.
|-
|21
|'''Second Dwarven theme, first form'''
|This theme is used more generally for the Dwarves (it's called "The House of Durin" in Howard's sketches). This first form, heard over the opening titles of ''An Unexpected Journey'', combines the contour of the definitive theme with the pitches of the Ring fragment [17]. It also appears during the eagle resuce (only on album) and when the Dwarves reunite in Erebor after Smaug's attack.
|-
|22
|'''Bilbo Baggins, second theme'''
|This theme (A-B-C♯-E-E-G♯-G♯-A-E-C♯-E-D) also appears in the opening titles of ''An Unexpected Journey''. It is also heard, heroically in horns, when Bilbo rescues Thorin.
|-
|23
|'''First tragic theme (transcendant)'''
|This theme first appears during the opening shots of ''An Unexpected Journey'': this creates a sense of bookends with an identical statement in the Grey Havens, when Gandalf says farewel to the Hobbits. It also laments Gandalf's death (Doug Adams calls it "Gandalf's farewells") and is embedded into the farewell from Lorien. But it also appears during the final scenes on the slopes of Mount Doom. It is a chord progression atypical of the rest of the score: A♭: vi-IV-I-V. This results in the top voices rising and falling a minor second (cf. [3]) but then falling another major second. Combinations of rising and falling major and minor seconds, as well as minor scales, unite all the themes that depict Sauron's influence on Middle-earth (also [1]).
|-
|24
|'''The Journey Back'''
|This theme, first appearing over the map transition to Erebor, again creates bookends with the map transition from Minas Tirith back to the Shire in ''The Return of the King''. Appearing throughout the denoument of the film, it depicts the journey back from Mordor. It is a rising scale harmonized in chromatic mediants.
|-
|25
|'''Third Dwarven theme (Erebor)'''
|This theme is three rising horncalls outlining an A Aeolian scale: 1-3, 1-4, 1-5. It subsides in a descending, syncopated pattern that is later also used on its own. Again, it is not Erebor's theme in ''stricto sensu'': statements of it appear for the company, and for Thorin (it is played diegetically for his obsequies), as well as for the Iron Hill Dwarves. Henceforth, non-melodic Dwarven music will be characterized by its intervallic nature, often parallel fifths.
|-
|26
|'''Arkenstone, first theme'''
|In keeping with the intervallic Dwarven style, this theme begins on an open fifth, but then clusters in the chorus [4]. It depicts the mysterious aspect of the stone, but also appears when Gandalf hands Thorin the map and the key: the means towards finding the Arkenstone.
|-
|27
|'''Arkenstone, second theme'''
|This syncopated, B minor string figure first appears with [26] but they become increasingly independent as the score continues. In The Battle of the Five Armies, this idea often appears unresolved to depict Thorin's mounting obsession to retrieve the stone.
|-
|28
|'''Woodland Elves:'''
|This D Phrygian theme depicts the Woodland Elves as closer to Men, but the emphasis on the third degree in the harmony gives it an Elven sheen. Henceforth, Elven themes will be characterized by more "advanced" harmony than the rest of Middle-earth: mediant and chromatic mediant harmony, whole tone scales, chromatic lines, seventh chords and so forth.
|-
|29
|'''Smaug, first theme'''
|This theme is in three parts:
*'''Melody''': The F Phrygian Dominant setting denotes the old age of the Dragon. Henceforth, everything old in Middle earth (Galadriel, Sauron) will be depicted by this mode. The theme emphasizes the rising and falling minor second [6] and augmented second inherent to this mode.
*'''Chords''': This progression (F: I-i-I) sequences [17] to depict the Dragon's breath.
*'''Accompaniment''': The theme is accompanied by semiquavers in Gamelan. The ensemble sometimes doubles the melody inharmonically, and lends its texture to the treasure hoard sequence.
|-
|30
|'''Dwarvish Wanderers'''
|This scalar figure bemoans the Dwarves' downfall and loss of their homeland. It is also heard when Thorin is struck down by Azog in ''An Unexpected Journey'', and during their arrival to the Hidden Door.
|-
|31
|'''Impediment (Dwarven form)'''
|This form of the Impediment arpeggio relates that the Dwarves blame the Elves for their misfortune. It is also heard when, in surveying the Troll hoard, they are reminded of the hoard in Erebor.
|-
|32
|'''Hobbit party music'''
|This Plan 9 tune embellishes the Hobbits' diatonic harmonies with some light chromaticism. It is heard briefly in the Old Took's birthday, and in extenso during Bilbo's Farewell Party.
|-
|33
|'''Hobbits (mysterious variant)'''
|This augments the Shire's accompaniment [16.3] to the contour of the Impediment theme. It depicts many of the early scenes of ''An Unexpected Journey'', and returns in ''Fellowship of the Ring'' when Gandalf glimpses Thorin's map.
|-
|34
|'''Hobbits (folk variant)'''
|This version mostly appears for scenes in Hobbiton, but also in the cornfield in ''Fellowship of the Ring'' and, slow and retrograded, in the concert piece ''Ironfoot''. Notice that, on the theme's first appearance, it concludes with a "fiddle fanfare" as Bilbo realizes it's the day of the farewell party: another statement of the theme concluding with the same fanfare will score the erecting of the sign to the party in ''Fellowship of the Ring''. It is in two parts:
*Melody: this is a staccato version of the Hobbits theme.
*Accompaniment: This "Um pa-pah" rhyhtm is later used on its own and with other themes. The theme is also accompanied by a tapping on the bodhrain drums which also appears with other themes.
|-
|35
|'''Smeagol'''
|This theme, which brings out the pitiful Smeagol side of Gollum's character, is first alluded to when the chords of the second Shire phrase [16.2] turn minor.
|-
|36
|'''First Playful motif'''
|This elides the first pitch of [16.3] and sequences it to create a rhyhtmic figure in perfect fourths that skips the first beat of the measure. It often appears with [34] but both also appear in their own.
|-
|37
|'''Second playful motif'''
|The accompaniment of the folksy Hobbit theme sometimes appears in a cadential form (Doug Adams calls this the "Hobbit end-cap." This is gradually sequenced in a chromatic progression that comes to depict the lighter moments of the Hobbits (especially Merry and Pippin) in ''The Two Towers'' and ''The Return of the King''.
|-
|38
|'''Gandalf the Grey'''
|This wry figure in minor thirds and fourths depicts Gandalf the Grey throughout ''The Hobbit''. It does not appear in ''Fellowship of the Ring,'' where Gandalf's demise is imminent.
|-
|39
|'''First playful motif (first variant)'''
|This melds [36] and [16.3] into a driving figure. It is variously associated with Gandalf's fireworks (in ''An Unexpected Journey'' and ''Fellowship of the Ring''), his Smaug-like firework (the opening credits of ''The Desolation of Smaug'' anticipating ''Fellowship of the Ring'') and the mischief of Bilbo (sneaking out of the Farewell Party) and Merry and Pippin, in the cornfield. This latter statement is reprised in the closing credits.
|-
|40
|'''The Ring (chord, first form)'''
|Gandalf peering threateningly into Bilbo's window merits a triad with an added ninth. Minor triads with an added ninth also appear in the Warg and Goblin scenes. These chords verticalize the Ring, and tend to resolve as a minor plagal cadence (D minor: vi-i). Combined with the rhythm [10] these depict the Ringwraiths, but not only: they appear for Azog (film only), Saruman, Sauron himself, and the Orc armies.
|-
|41
|'''Fourth Dwarven theme (Dwarrowdelf)'''
|This theme, which will usher the Fellowship into the 21st hall of Dwarrowdelf, is first hinted at when the Dwarves introduce themselves to Bilbo, and again when they are introduced to Beorn. Both these scenes feature a 3-4-5 rise concluding on an open fifth. In ''Fellowship of the Ring,'' this is elaborated into a aeolian melody similar to [21], which also appears when the Cave Troll is slain.
|-
|42
|'''Fussy Bilbo'''
|This waltzing, D minor theme contains the same pitches as the Ring, but depicts Bilbo's out-of-sorts mannerism around the Dwarves. Later, it is applied to the Company in general, as when they emerge into Bard's house.
|-
|43
|'''Smaug (second theme)'''
|This retrogrades Smaug's original motif, then ascends chromatically: the effect is more subtly sinister and will also depict Thorin's Dragon Sickness, usually in more discordant string settings. Again, accompanied by major-minor triads built on F and semiquaver figures on Gamelan.
|-
|44
|'''Fifth Dwarven theme (The Company)'''
|This theme, which appears when Dwalin and Gandalf talk about Thorin's absence, repeats during the Hidden Door sequence and when the Dwarves retreat before Azog's forces in ''The Battle of the Five Armies''. It is elaborated upon in the concert piece "The Dwarf Lords." As originally stated, it takes the melodic Dwarven harmonies and turns them major: A-G.
|-
|45
|'''Hobbits, kinetic version'''
|This sequences the initial 1-2-3 rise of the Hobbits [16.1] over canonical imitation of the accompaniment [16.3] in quavers and semiquavers. It depicts Bilbo rushing out of his door, and Merry and Pippin rushing through the cornfield.
|-
|46
|'''The Company, second theme'''
|a more robust, "Dwarven" form of Bilbo's second theme. This appears when Bilbo sets out with the company and when Kili attempts to rescue him from the Trolls, for example. It is elaborated upon in the concert piece "Erebor."
|-
|47
|'''First Moria danger motif'''
|This theme, appearing in the Battle of Azanulbizar, takes a Dwarven perfect fifth and reduces it to a tritone. It appears in the later Moria scenes of ''The Fellowship of the Ring'' and Gandalf falling after the Balrog in ''The Two Towers''.
|-
|48
|'''Battle with Azog'''
|A similar figure in parallel fourths depicts the battle of Azanulbizar. It returns for the confrontation with Azog in the ''Battle of the Five Armies''.
|-
|49
|'''Second danger motif (Azog form)'''
|This theme is a pair of descending thirds, therefore a melodic form of the Ring chords. Here, they are major thirds an augmented second apart, thus outlining the Phrygian Dominant mode of Sauron. Azog's form concludes with a chromatic "barb" evoking his crude prosthetic arm. But it also appears for Azog's pack, Bolg and later the army he leads to the Erebor valley.
|-
|50
|'''Second tragic theme'''
|After the battle of Azanulbizar, this theme appears after Thorin's, answering his rising scale with a falling scale that accomodates upon itself. In doing so, it falls a major second, then falls and rises a minor one. This will appear increasingly by itself in ''The Battle of the Five Armies,'' always depicting death and tragedy (for instance, when Legolas speaks about his mother's death). In Fellowship of the Ring, the notes turn into a figure that rises and drops a minor second, then falls and rises a major second. This always depicts the suffering incurred by the War of the Ring.
|-
|51
|'''Wizards'''
|Another falling minor scale figure depicts the five Wizards. Naturally, it mostly appears with Gandalf, as when he arrives at Goblintown or during his parting with Bilbo in ''An Unexpected Journey''. But it also appears with Radagast.
|-
|52
|'''Radagast'''
|This nervous melody in major and minor seconds, only appears on album. But its accompaniments are heard in the film during Radagast's scenes, as well as when Bilbo escapes Goblintown.
|-
|53
|'''Mirkwood'''
|This line also alternates major and mind seconds. It depicts the shadow falling over Mirkwood. In The Desolation of Smaug, it becomes the definitive Mirkwood theme, reshaping [50]. This almost depicts the Elven Road, becoming gradually masked by the texture which features clusters, aleatoric figures, bowed cymbals, portamenti and sprechstimme vocals. Similar textures will appear in other places in the scores, always in relation to confusion and danger.
|-
|54
|'''Second danger motif (Necromancer form)'''
|The major thirds an augmented second apart are here played slower, without the chromatic "barb" characteristic of Azog. It depicts Dol Guldur and the Necromancer.
|-
|55
|'''Mirkwood spiders, first theme'''
|This theme is based on an eight-note tone row, accompanied by clusters. Both also appear in ''The Desolation of Smaug''. Henceforth, all spider music will be atonal, although Denethor merits similar music in the most intense moments.
|-
|56
|'''Mountain Trolls'''
|This theme, in waltz time, recalls Bilbo's fussy theme, but instead arpeggiates a triad with an added flat sixth. It thus relates to the later Cave Troll (a variant of [47] also repeated in the scene where Gollum brings rabbits to Frodo).
|-
|57
|'''Impediment (first variant)'''
|This sequences minor triads a minor third apart going up.
|-
|58
|'''Hobbits (developed)'''
|Two developments of the Hobbits theme depict the Hobbits' personal growth, loss of innoncence, discovery of compassion and so forth:

* A fuller version of the original theme, the harmony filled in to D: I-iii-IV-I-IV-V.
* A melodic development of [16.2] with a gruppeto figure similar to [6]. It depicts Bilbo's act of compassion towards Gollum, but also scenes that depict the growing maturity and worldliness of the Hobbits in ''Fellowship of the Ring'' and ''The Two Towers.''
|-
|59
|'''Third danger motif (first form)'''
|This is another rhythmic figure that skips the first beat, but here outlining a minor scale. It has a more dynamic effect than [54].
|-
|60
|'''Main evil theme'''
|This adapts the Ring [6] to the Phrygian Dominant setting of the dragon. Its definitive form is set in muted trumpets and rhaita. Here, cor anglais imitates the rhaita. In ''The Battle of the Five Armies'', a pipe organ produces a similarly reedy sound.
|-
|61
|'''First Orc theme (Warg riders)'''
|This driving, descending minor scale figure depicts Azog company, especially the Warg riders. It appears all through The Hobbit, and then resurfaces in The Two Towers are a descending cluster which first depicts Saruman's warg riders. Afterwards, it continues to represent the artfulness of the Orc armies.
|-
|62
|'''Lothlorien or Galadriel'''
|This theme is also characterized by the F Phrygian Dominant mode. It's brassy appearance for Elrond's company attacking Yazneg's Orcs creates a parallel with the arrival of Haldir's Elves to Helm's Deep (heralded by the same rendition of [11]). The theme also appears in guises that emphasize the pitches of [50], inherent in the theme, or changed to double harmonic minor. When Frodo is struck by a vision of Galadriel in Shelob's lair, the theme is shifted into standard Phrygian mode.
|-
|63
|'''Rivendell, main theme'''
|This theme changes the impediment theme [1] to A major. It is rhythmically altered and overlaid with a melody based on the same pitches. The theme is typically set in female choir and harp over tolling chimes.
|-
|64
|'''Rivendell, second theme'''
|This theme first appears in a martial guise when Elrond's riders stride into Rivendell, inadvertently antagonizing the Dwarves. It is soon repeated diegetically on wood flute, lute, theorbo and harp.
|-
|65
|'''Erebor-Rivendell hybrid'''
|This puts Rivendell's arpeggios in the low, "dwarven" strings and the Erebor horncalls in the high "Elven" choir. It ostensibly depicts the moonlight revealing the moon runes, then the Hidden Door. But it also appears when Thorin lingers over the defeated Azog. The same pride that almost stopped him from giving the map to Elrond, will be his downfall as Gandalf warned.
|-
|66
|'''Second danger motif (Sauron form)'''
|At the sight of Sauron's mural, the descending thirds turn into minor thirds a minor second apart. This version will continue into The Lord of the Rings. During the Minas Morgul scene, it is inverted into rising thirds.
|-
|67
|'''Second Dwarven theme (definitive)'''
|This theme now acquires its definitive pitches and tonality. Like Thorin's theme, it ascends but more resolutely in thirds spanning an octave. It then restarts on the low A but only reaches up the seventh scale degree. Notice that Thorin and his line are associated with A minor, as compared to Elrond's chromaticized A major.
|-
|68
|'''Goblins'''
|This theme in low brass over a hammering pattern that shifts time signatures (circling 7/5). It appears in all the goblin scenes and, on album, for their reappearance in ''The Battle of the Five Armies''. Going forward, rhythmic themes particularly in odd time signatures, will be associated with Orcs.
|-
|69
|'''Gollum'''
|This theme is in major and minor seconds played tremolando on cimbalom. This compares the spindly quality of Gollum, in his more menacing persona, with the hammered dulcimer that often plays [36]. In the early scenes of ''The Two Towers'', this figure is sequenced up so that it spans two chromatically interlocking fifths: this is similar to the music of Loge, the god of deception, in Wagner's Ring, a similarity that will become important later in the score.
|-
|70
|'''Fishing Song'''
|Gollum sings this song in ''An Unexpected Journey'', ''The Two Towers'' and ''The Return of the King''. In the latter, Gollum sings another song in a same vein, when he gloats over Frodo caught in Shelob's web.
|-
|71
|'''Smeagol (variant)'''
|The riddle scene in ''An Unexpected Journey'' begins combining Smeagol's theme [35] with that of the Ring [6]. This relationship is further explored in ''The Two Towers'', and in effect culminates in Gollum's Song (itself prefigured in the sewer scenes).
|-
|72
|'''Eagles'''
|A variant of the Nature theme hails the eagles in ''An Unexpected Journey'' and ''The Battle of the Five Armies''. The album features another idea that looks forward to the eagles rescuing Sam and Frodo from Mount Doom.
|-
|73
|'''Second Gondor theme (developed)'''
|This variant, in E minor, appears in the film when Thorin embraces Frodo. This parallels the climax of ''The Return of the King'' when Barad dur collapses. It is a transformation of a Gondorian theme that appears in ''Fellowship of the Ring''.
|-
|74
|'''Fourth danger motif (first form)'''
|This theme appears in ''An Unexpected Journey'' only on album. It shares the contour of Saruman's theme [15] and will resurface in ''The Return of the King'' to depict the Orc armies attacking Gondor.
|-
|75
|'''Entering Bree'''
|Thorin's entrance to Bree mirrors the Hobbits' entrance to it in ''Fellowship of the Ring'', with minor moded forms of the Hobbit accompaniments ([36] and the accompaniment of [34]) over minor triads ascending in thirds [57]. This music also depicts Pippin's exit from Edoras.
|-
|76
|'''Beorn'''
|Yet another variant of the Nature theme depicts Beorn and his lands. Now the Am: i-VI chords depict the tread of the bear's feet.
|-
|77
|'''Mirkwood, second theme'''
|This falling figure also depicts Mirkwood separately from the original theme.
|-
|78
|'''Ring "chord" (second form)'''
|The chord is redressed as a sinister, but less overtly threatening soprano solo. It relates to the Ringwraiths entombed in the High Fells. In the film it also appears in Dol Guldur. Later, it is transformed into a rising line built on the same chords, now depicting Mordor's strident power.
|-
|79
|'''White gems'''
|this theme relates the Woodland Elves to Mirkwood via the minor sixth. Since the gems were fashioned for Thranduil's wife, the appearance of this theme when Gandalf sees her statue at the Elven gate is apposite.
|-
|80
|'''Spiders, second theme'''
|This descending figure, which first appears when Bilbo plays with the cobwebs, also returns during the scene at the Spiders' nest.
|-
|81
|'''Legolas'''
|Legolas is associated with an up-tempo version of the Woodland realm theme, but also with string figurations that then adorn the Fellowship theme when he defeats a Mumak in The Return of the King.
|-
|82
|'''Tauriel'''
|This theme is based on a figure that concludes the Woodland realm theme.
|-
|83
|'''Woodland Guards'''
|Since Tauriel is the head of the guard, slow, lyrical versions of this theme acts as her secondary theme. Again, the Woodland Elves are set in "human" scales, in this case natural minor.
|-
|84
|'''Impediment (Thranduil form)'''
|This arpeggio idea contrasts Thranduil's covetousness with Elrond's wisdom, and compares him with similar attributes of Thorin's.
|-
|85
|'''Tauriel and Kili'''
|This theme begins with a duet for flute (a variant on Tauriel's theme) and oboe (answering with a variant of Thorin's theme). This is followed by a choral theme which incorporates the tragic theme, harmonized in "Elven" mediant chords and elaborated with a Dwarven open fifth.
|-
|86
|'''Assertive Bilbo'''
|Beginning as a "Dwarven" version of Bilbo's fussy theme, applying more to the Dwarves' bewilderment at their own rescue, this becomes the theme of the self-actualized Bilbo who smuggles the Arkenstone to Dale in ''The Battle of the Five Armies''. It also depicts his return to the Shire as a changed person. It is mirrored in "Dwarven" forms of the Hobbit accompaniment figures that accompany the inebriated Gimli in ''The Return of the King'': one last ode to Dwarven music.
|-
|87
|'''Bard, first theme'''
|starting on a minor third and perfect fourth, this theme plays on a similarity to Erebor. The Dwarves hope Bard will bring them nearer to the mountain.
|-
|88
|'''Bard, second theme'''
|This chordal device alternates B♭ minor and G minor. It appears in several scenes of Bard's, often but not always with [87].
|-
|89
|'''Laketown'''
|This theme combines figures similar to Gondor (leaping a perfect fifth on D Dorian, then descending stepwise) and Rohan (semiquaver figure evoking rowing).
|-
|90
|'''Politicians of Laketown'''
|This clavichord theme, constantly modulating, relates the Master of Laketown and his aide Alfrid to the forces of corruption that represent Sauron's influence on Middle earth. Alfrid tends to be accompanied with just a fragment of the unabridged theme. The theme also appears retrograded when Thorin and Company are brought before the Master.
|-
|91
|'''Bard's family'''
|First appearing briefly when Bard arrives home, this is a diatonic transformation of the Master's music, similar to Bilbo's music.
|-
|92
|'''Black Arrow'''
|This theme first scores Girion who shares the opening pitches of Bard, his descendent. It depicts the Black Arrow that will slay Smaug.
|-
|93
|'''Fourth danger motif (second form)'''
|This form ascends through the Phrygian Dominant scale, then curls upon itself. Again, this more emphatic, swelling form is then suppressed until ''The Return of the King''.
|-
|94
|'''Thrain'''
|Thrain is depicted in his deranged form by another danger motif. When he returns to his senses, it is replaced by a slow version of Erebor, punctuated by a harp arpeggio.
|-
|95
|'''Third danger motif (second form)'''
|still skipping the first beat, this theme now appears in any number of forms. These can be sequenced up, down or at pitch.
*'''Ascending scale:''' This is similar to the first form.
*'''Clustering:''' repeated note, then adding a scale degree on each subsequent measure.
*'''Rising and falling:''' This most aggressive form uses the opening notes of the Ring [3a], rising and falling a minor second.
|-
|96
|'''Fourth danger motif (third form)'''
|This form, which will be the most frequent, leaps a minor sixth, then falls down the minor scale.
|-
|97
|'''Evil (second form)'''
|This rhythmic augmentation of the original theme is another theme that depicts Sauron at force. Once he is driven out of Dol Guldur, it is deferred until ''The Return of the King'' where it depicts the Witch King emerging from Dol Guldur.
|-
|98
|'''Arwen'''
|This theme, which later introduces Arwen in Fellowship of the Ring and again in The Return of the King, first appears in the minor when Tauriel heals Kili. This parallels Arwen healing Frodo. It is a Phrygian line harmonized in F: I-iii.
|-
|99
|'''Smaug's death'''
|This combines all of Smaug's themes. It depicts his flight to Laketown, and his death. Afterwards, Smaug's theme is appropriated by the deranged Thorin.
|-
|100
|'''Bard, third theme'''
|This more heroic theme depicts Bard's new role as the leader of the exiled Lakemen.
|-
|101
|'''Gundabad'''
|This theme also features the rising and falling minor second. Notice the doubling by twenty didgeridoos.
|-
|102
|'''Orcs'''
|The Gundabad theme is always accompanied by five-four beat. This is reshaped for Saruman's Uruks (percussion in five beats, usually accented on the first and third). Sauron's Orcs are depicted by more hectic forms of the same idea (accents varying randomly across the line).
|-
|103
|'''The Ring (chord, transformed)'''
|This idea depicts other characters becoming touched by darkness. It is in two parts:
*'''Rising:''' This inverts a triad with brass adding a ninth to recreate the Ring chord. This appears during the fight in Dol Guldur and Galadriel banishing Sauron. It is hinted at when the Fellowship glimpse Caras Galadhon, and repeats when Galadriel appears wraith-like to Frodo.
*'''Falling:''' the two big statements then descending F minor arpeggios as Galadriel reels back from her episode. This also depicts Bilbo reeling from his Gollum-like episode.
|-
|104
|'''Dwarf warriors'''
|The minor sixth of this idea makes this a Dwarven counterpart of the Elvish warrior theme. It is accompanied by unpitched "grunts" from the Dwarven chorus, a texture that already appeared in the Rings of Power opening titles, and will appear again in Moria.
|-
|105
|'''Mithril shirt'''
|This quartal melody depicts the shirt (which was fashioned for an Elven prince). It appears when Thorin gives it Bilbo, and when Bilbo gives it to Frodo.
|-
|106
|'''Iron Hill Dwarves'''
|This theme is similar to the other major-moded Dwarven theme. The tattoo-like accompaniment evokes the riding of the Dwarven cavalry, and later appears on its own with the chariot.
|-
|107
|'''Tragic theme (transformed)'''
|This reharmonizes the original theme to depict valour and death on the battlefield. It ushers the conflict between Dwarves and Elves, then the offensive against the Orcs, and returns during the sequence where Gandalf and Pippin save Denethor, and the following skirmish in Pelennor.
|-
|108
|'''War Beasts'''
|Azog's horn is answered by this bestial motif, depicting the Trolls and Ogres he fields to the battle.
|-
|109
|'''The Fellowship'''
|This theme harmonizes the down-and-up figure [3b] in D: I-♭III-I and extending it to a nine note phrase. All themes emphasizing [3b] will be associated with the Fellowship.
|-
|110
|'''Third tragic theme'''
|This theme, in rising minor seconds an augmented second apart, contrasts Elendil and Isildur's fall with Boromir's, and later Denethor's.
|-
|111
|'''Impediment (second variant)'''
|This depicts the "Nameless fear" Galadriel mentions. It is reprised in Bag End and in The Two Towers.
|-
|112
|'''Walking Song'''
|Another diatonic song reintroduces Gandalf into the Shire, then ushers Bilbo away from it.
|-
|113
|'''Seduction of the Ring'''
|This is another variant of the Ring, in a standard minor mode and usually sung by boy choir. In The Return of the King, it is doubled by female choir to depict Smeagol's seduction.
|-
|114
|'''Journey there'''
|This theme reshapes the impediment arpeggio melodically. It depicts the journey to Mordor.
|-
|115
|'''Fifth danger motif'''
|This percussion quaver figure is the most overtly martial of the danger motifs. It depicts the turncoat Saruman overpowering Gandalf, then the forces Sauron fields in Osgiliath and during the Haradrim attack. It returns for the Mount Doom scene.
|-
|116
|'''Strider'''
|This figure leaps a perfect fourth, then ascends another step. It thus reorders the pitches of Gondor.
|-
|117
|'''Second Orc theme'''
|This is derived from the end of Saruman's theme. It depicts the Orc company he sends after the Fellowship.
|-
|118
|'''Mount Doom'''
|This aggressive, augmented form of the Impediment theme depicts both scenes set at the cracks of Doom.
|-
|119
|'''Tragic theme (Gondor form)'''
|This embellishes the theme by appending a perfect fifth. It appears with Boromir's first meeting with Aragorn, then scenes of Arwen envisioning Aragorn's mortality and leaving Rivendell.
|-
|121
|'''Diminishment of the Elves'''
|This theme for the scene in Gilraen's grave, brings the Phrygian Dominant setting of Lothlorien to Rivendell. It also repeats when Aragorn parts with Arwen.
|-
|122
|'''"Dangerous passes"'''
|This C minor theme depicts members of the Fellowship traversing difficult terrain: Caradhras, the approach to the walls of Moria and – on album – the secret stair.
|-
|123
|'''"Elvish pledge"'''
|This theme parallels the alliance of Celebrimbor and Narvi (as objectified in the Doors of Durin) with that of Haldir and Aragorn, when he shows up at Helm's Deep. It is a sequence of chords outlining a whole-tone scale.
|-
|124
|'''Second Moria danger motif'''
|This is a rising minor scale in parallel fifths. It first appears when the Doors crack open. Later, it assumes a more menacing form. In the film, it also appears when Legolas espies the Warg riders over the brow.
|-
|125
|'''Fellowship (fragment)'''
|This is the rhythm of the second phrase of the Fellowship. It appears in the Mazarbul chamber as they prepare to fight the Orcs. It is implied in the end of the Warg scene, the attack on Osgiliath, and restated in Sam's confrontation with Shelob.
|-
|126
|'''Durin's Bane'''
|By doubling the Moria theme at the octave, Howard Shore creates a sequence of power chords which depict the Balrog in Fellowship of the Ring and again in the opening scene of The Two Towers.
|-
|127
|'''Secondary Gondor theme'''
|This is a more lyrical depiction of Gondor. Triumphant forms depict the reforged Anduril.
|-
|128
|'''Aragorn'''
|This figure starts with the Strider theme, and sequences the opening three notes of the Fellowship [3b] upward.
|-
|129
|'''Fourth tragic theme'''
|This theme laments Boromir's death, and returns with every reminiscence of his death. It is also alluded to in scenes with Theoden and the dying Frodo.
|-
|130
|'''Impediment theme (third variant)'''
|This figure compares Frodo and Sam being stuck in the beginning of The Two Towers, and Merry and Pippin near the end of The Two Towers.
|-
|131
|'''Fourth danger motif (fourth form)'''
|This reduces the figure to the opening minor sixth and falling second. In the skirmish with the Haradrim troops it is reduced to a minor third, and this form returns in the attack on Osgiliath.
|-
|132
|'''First danger motive (second form)'''
|This combines the rhythm of the original danger motif with the contour of the Uruk theme. It appears when Merry and Pippin are marched along with the Uruks, then when a disguised Frodo and Sam are.
|-
|133
|'''Rohan (fragment)'''
|This sequences the galloping quavers so the first pitch is a unison, and the second is raised with every iteration. It appears in both early scenes with Eomer, and a similar style of writing is harkened when Aragorn arrives at Helm's Deep, when he rides out with Theoden and when Eomer is ordered to muster the Rohirrim.
|-
|134
|'''The Fellowship in Rohan'''
|This leaps a fifth and continues in the countermelody of Rohan, which is based on the Fellowship pitches. It depicts the growing allegiance of the members of the Fellowship and the Rohirrim through The Two Towers.
|-
|135
|'''The Ents'''
|This theme has two components: major triads a tritone apart, then a tremolando line in bass marimba and contrabassoon voiced in open chords a tritone apart.
|-
|136
|'''Gandalf the White'''
|This is another transformation of the original nature. It introduces the reborn Gandalf in Fangorn, at Helm's Deep and reprised in the credits.
|-
|137
|'''"Small stones"'''
|These chords (initially F# minor – G major – F# minor – A minor) depict Merry and Pippins effect on Treebeard. Later it assumes a form redolent of Treebeard's tritone progression. It is last recalled in The Return of the King when Gandalf and Pippin have a quiet moment, but this can only be heard on album.
|-
|138
|'''The White rider'''
|This reshaping of the Fellowship theme turns Gandalf, always astride Shadowfax, into "Saruman as he should have been."
|-
|139
|'''Hobbits (playful form)'''
|This first takes the form of a nocturne as Treebeard puts the Hobbits, sound asleep, in Wellinghall. It is transformed by the Fellowship chords and appears in the subsequent scenes in The Two Towers.
|-
|140
|'''The Fate of the Ring'''
|This reharmonizes [50] in D major. It thus turns the Ring's theme major. The basic shape reappears throughout The Return of the King as a melodic continuation of [50] and [6]. When Barad dur collapses, it becomes a fanfare, harmonized by the Fellowship chords, signaling Sauron's demise. This creates a harmonic resolution to Sauron's disonant minor second.
|-
|141
|'''Grima'''
|This theme, always in C minor and sometimes in the "Orcish" 5/4, is a dark counterpart to [134] in presenting one static pitch and one rising pitch: minor third, tritone, fifth, and concluding with a minor sixth dropping back into the fifth. It accompanies all of Grima's scene since Gandalf's arrival at Meduseld and is even hinted at when he stabs Saruman.
|-
|142
|'''Smeagol (variant)'''
|This form of Smeagol's chords always depict him leading the Hobbits through Ithilien.
|-
|143
|'''Eowyn and Aragorn'''
|Eowyn's attraction to Aragorn is scored with this F Lydian theme. Notice the "sighing" appoggiaturas.
|-
|144
|'''Arwen and Aragorn'''
|an E Phrygian reshaping of Aragorn's theme, accompanied by the Rivendell arpeggio and redolent of sighing appoggiaturas.
|-
|145
|'''Battle of Helm's Deep'''
|this is a bolero-like rhythm that accompanies many of the Hornburg scenes.
|-
|146
|'''Third Orc theme'''
|This figure is reiterated a flat third away to depict the Uruk attempts to breach the Hornburg.
|-
|147
|'''Gondor (transformed)'''
|This version of Gondor, which replaces the descending final notes with Aragorn's ascending notes, is first heard in the Return of the King trailer. On album, it was hinted in an alternate version of the Fellowship prologue where another ascending version of the theme appeared in D major. Otherwise, this thematic complex - which appears in Gandalf's ascent to Minas Tirith, and in the Pelennor fields (theatrical cut) - is always heard in D minor until Aragorn's coronation. Notice that the original descending phrase also appears in the major, but only on album.
|-
|148
|'''The Ring (second form)'''
|This begins as a canon based on the Ring theme and the seduction theme, when Smeagol and Deagol fight. Afterwards, the Ring theme and the main evil theme are fused into a sinister Ab Phrygian Dominant theme. In the Cracks of Doom, this theme appears in two voices over the seduction theme.
|-
|149
|'''Shire (transformed)'''
|throughout The Return of the King, the Shire music and the Fellowship's become mingled. This initiates a process that culminates in the final Shire scenes: the melody is still the same, but the accompaniment had been reduced to thirds. When Sam returns home, this returns with a transformed melodic line, still in D major.
|-
|150
|'''Dead Men of Dunharrow'''
|This bitonal idea features a bassline similar to Gondor, while the top voices cluster. When the ghosts lend aid on the Pelennor fields, the clusters resolve diatonically.
|-
|151
|'''Meriadoc, squire of Rohan'''
|This theme leaps a perfect fifth like Eowyn's and proceeds in the contour of the second phrase of the Fellowship. It later returns when Merry confesses his doubts to Eowyn. When he stabs the Witch King, the opening leap is recalled, but extended to a major sixth.
|-
|152
|'''Denethor and Faramir'''
|The confrontation between Faramir and Denethor, and Faramir's subsequent march to certain death are scored with this variant of [74].
|-
|153
|'''There and back again (variant)'''
|this sequences the original motif in pitch. It underscores much of the Grey Havens scene.
|-
|154
|'''Shelob'''
|Another near tone-row. It is later spun into a pair of octatonic quadruple figures.
|-
|155
|'''Valinor'''
|The theme of the song "Into the West" appears when Gandalf describes Valinor to Pippin, when Sam hoists Frodo on his shoulders and at the conclusion of the Grey Havens scene.
|-
|156
|'''Hobbits (heroic form)'''
|This theme is spun out of the figure that depicts Sam's fight with Shelob. It later depicts Sam galivanting through Cirith Ungol. Its harmonies depict him hoisting Frodo on his shoulders, and pulling him up from the crack of doom.
|-
|157
|'''Magic Fire'''
|This figure homages Wagner's Loge theme (the interlocking falling fifths) in a form that most closely recalls the fires that guard Brunnhilde's enchanted sleep at the end of Valkyrie.
|-
|158
|'''Bilbo's Song'''
|This final transformation of the Shire, at the very end of the credits, recalls Bilbo's return to Bag End in The Battle of the Five Armies. Notice that the last stanza concludes with a perfect A major cadence: this resolves the A minor-A5 resolution of the Rings of Power titles. The cycle is now complete.
|}

[[Category:Music]]

The Music of the Lord of the Rings Films (composition)

2026-03-13T07:07:59Z

Chen Geller:

{{cleanup}}
{{Disambig-two|the music composition for the Lord of the Rings films|book about the composition for The Lord of the Rings trilogy|[[The Music of the Lord of the Rings Films]]}}Howard Shore's compositions for ''The Lord of the Rings'' and ''The Hobbit'', together with work by Howard, Plan 9, David Long and Stephen Gallagher for ''The War of the Rohirrim'', ''The Rings of Power'' Season One and other projects represent a musico-dramatic oeuvre covering about 24 hours of music. This music is based on folk-like melodies, often stepwise; triadic harmony (though not generally stable in terms of key) and massed orchestrations, often ornamented by worldly instruments outside the orchestral replete.

The compositions include:

#[[:Category:The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power (Season One: Amazon Original Series Soundtrack)|The Rings of Power season one]]: Only the opening titles ([[Howard Shore]]) and source songs (Plan 9 and David Long).
#[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]] ([[Stephen Gallagher]], David Long using themes by Howard Shore and Plan 9)
#[[:Category:The Hobbit (film series) soundtracks|The Hobbit film trilogy (soundtracks)]], including the announcement trailer (Shore, Plan 9, Long, Gallagher ''et al'')
#[[:Category:The Lord of the Rings (film series) soundtracks|The Lord of the Rings film trilogy (soundtracks)]], including the second Return of the King trailer (Shore, Plan 9, Long ''et al'')
#Additional pieces for the concert stage (Howard Shore) or ''in situ'' for the Hobbiton set (Plan 9 and David Long).

==Orchestration==
Howard's orchestra varies in size between different pieces. Many instruments are used to colour certain narrative elements and related themes. Taken in whole, and together with instruments utilized by Plan 9 and David Long, it comprises:

'''Strings''': At least 16 first violins (concertmaster doubling hardinfelle, double violin), 16 second violins, 12 violas, 10 violoncelli, 8 double basses. 2 harps (one doubling celtic harp).

'''Woodwinds''': 4 flutes (doubling alto flute, piccoli, recorder, wood flute, tin whistle, low whistle, shakuhachi, dizi, nay), 4 oboes (one doubling cor anglais and heckelphone), 4 clarinets (one doubling bass clarinet and contrabass clarinet) and 3 bassoons (one doubling contrabassoon and contraforte). Also putorino, Rhaita (doubling rauschpfeife), 2 shawms, 2 crumhorns, dulcian.

'''Brass''': At least seven horns in F (doubling Wagner ''tuben''), eight trumpets (doubling rotary-valve trumpets), seven trombones (four tenor-bass and three bass trombones) and two tubas (doubling contrabass tuba). Also 20 didgeridoos, pukea, cow horn, tibetan horn.

'''Keyboards''': one grand piano (doubling upright piano, celesta, harpsichord, clavichord), synthesizer, grand pipe organ.

'''Percussion:''' Two Timpanists. At least seven players on bass drum, snare drums, side-drums (or field drums), toms and bass drum kit, triangle, glockenspiel, gong bass drum, tambourine, taiko drums (three sizes: large, medium and small), cymbals (including a splash cymbal cut into ribbons, antique cymbals, crotales), tubular bells, mark tree, carillon, tamtams, bossed gongs, woodblocks, temple blocks, log drums, slit drum, dudun drum, waterphone, shakers (including eggshakers, cabasa, caxixi and jingles), tibetan singing bowls, goblet drum, friction drum, frame drum, transceleste, marimba, 2 bodhrain, bell plates, anvil, "prepared" piano, castanets, tuned artillery shells, cans, wind machine.

"'''Hobbit band'''": 3 guitars (6 and 12-string, including bass guitar, doubling mandolin, caipira viola, lute, theorbo), 2 bagpipes (highland bapipes, doubling uileann pipes), 2 accordions (mussette, doubling concertina and harmonium), 1 hammered dulcimer (doubling cimbalom), hurdy-gurdy, banjo (doubling banjolele), euphonium.

'''Gamelan''': 1 kempul (doubling gong ageng), 1 kendhang, 4 saron players, 3 gender players (doubling slenthem), 4 kenong players (doubling kethuk), 2 bonang players, 1 gambang. Also doubling rebab, finger cymbals, ceng cengs, hyōshigi, kine, japanese cymbals, monochord, tanpura, sarangi (doubling dilruba).

'''Choir:''' 60 boys, at least 100 men and women, soloists (tenors, baritone, bass, soprano, treble).

==Themes==
The score relies on a large number of recurring associative themes (also known as leitmotive or "Leading musical motives"). These appear independent of each other, in two more non-adjacent scenes. Most of these run through the entire series and lend it a sense of musical cohesion. These themes, which also develop according to the dramatic situation, are loosely divided into "family groups" and further delineated by associative keys and tone colour. They are as follows:

{| class="wikitable sortable"
!#
!Name
!Description
|-
|1
|'''"Impediment" theme'''
|This theme is a chromatic arpeggio (A minor: 1-3-5-♭6), sequenced a flat sixth apart. It is usually harmonized in minor triads a flat sixth apart (sometimes retrograded), and this sonority also appears on its own. It is introduced in the ''Rings of Power'' titles, where it is transformed as an F Lydian arpeggio (F: 1-3-♯4-5) over chords a minor third apart. The chords then appear in ''The War of the Rohirrim'' to depict the antagonists: Gm: ♯vi-i Freca, then G♭m: ♭vi-i under Wulf. The definitive theme appears throughout the live-action films, always representing impediment.
|-
|2
|'''Scales'''
|This is one of the basic devices Howard uses throughout the scores. Scalar motion may depict the Hobbits (usually as C: 1-2-3 starting one a quaver) but since scalar motion is inherent in many themes, it is used more generally in the scores, in any key or modality. Later, chromatic scales also begin appearing.
|-
|3
|'''"There and back Again"'''
|This idea rises and falls through a single scale degree. It can appear minor (minor seconds, usually rising and falling) to depict evil, or major (major seconds, usually falling and rising) to depict the Fellowship.
|-
|4
|'''Cluster'''
|This is a version of [2] which stacks the pitches to create a tone pyramid. It is used as a danger figure throughout, until it is resolved diatonically when Frodo awakes in Minas Tirith.
|-
|5
|'''This Wandering Day'''
|This walking song by Plan 9 and David Long is reprised a few times. Its diatonicism looks forward to the music of the Hobbits at large. All the themes associated with the Hobbits are diatonic or pentatonic, usually stepwise.
|-
|6
|'''The Ring'''
|This theme is based on the rising and falling minor second [3a]. It is stated in strings on A♭ minor, then sequenced in F minor, all harmonized in minor triads a minor second apart (F minor to E minor).
|-
|7
|'''Eowyn and Theoden'''
|This theme, voiced in open chords, depicts Eowyn, particularly in her relationship to Theoden.
|-
|8
|'''Rohan:'''
|This major theme is usually set in A Dorian and played by either hardinfelle or high brass. It has several detachable parts:
*'''Rhythm''': The opening unison quavers evoke galloping horse hooves.
*'''Melody''': This rises a minor third, then proceeds stepwise along the Dorian mode. In the fullest statements, the consequent phrase concludes with a plagal cadence. In the Pelennor fields, this is reshaped into driving triplets, and these then appear on their own. A countermelody emphasizes the falling and rising major second [3b]. Later, the melody is sometimes altered to begin on a major third or even perfect fourth.
*'''Chords:''' in keeping with the Dorian setting, the theme is usually harmonized in A Dorian: i-IV but in the fullest statements this is expanded to i-VII-III-IV. Henceforth, all the themes associated with mankind will be modal, usually incorporating a prominent leap into the melodic contour.
|-
|9
|'''Eowyn:'''
|Eowyn's main theme is first hinted at in Hera's music. The theme leaps a fifth then proceeds stepwise over C Lydian: I-II-iii. Eowyn's first two scenes feature a similar progression under a scale, the perfect fifth ironed out. When she rebukes Grima, this theme which had since taken to the minor mode, regains the perfect fifth. Gallagher's score features other themes unique to it:
*The secondary theme leaps a perfect fifth and major sixth, then subsides in a stepwise figure. It mostly represents Helm and his sons.
*Olwyn is represented by a lyrical idea in thirds.
*Another idea in major and minor seconds represents Hera's relationship to Helm.
|-
|10
|'''First danger motif'''
|These paired, accented crotchets appear when Wulf confronts Helm. Later, they lend their rhyhtm to the Ring chord, mostly to depict the Ringwraiths, but these crotchets are also used on their own as a danger motif throughout.
|-
|11
|'''Horns:'''
|Leaps ranging from a minor third to a perfect fifth appear throughout the scores, either in the score or as horn sound effects. Again, since these intervals are shared between multiple themes, they can be used in various contexts. Howard also frequently uses open fifths.
|-
|12
|'''Gondor'''
|This theme shares the Dorian setting, but leaps a perfect fifth (recalling Eowyn [7, 9], who will end up in Gondor) on D. Later, Howard will set it in rotary-valve trumpets.
|-
|13
|'''Rohan lament'''
|Versions of this lament (composed by plan 9 and David Long) appear both for Helm (in The War of the Rohirirm) and for Theodred (in The Two Towers).
|-
|14
|'''Nature'''
|This theme begins with a major-mode transformation of the impediment figure (over A minor: i-VI-i) and continues into chromatically rising chords. This second part is sometimes used on its own and, in the most extroverted statements, is embellished with unison brass triplets. Both parts are varied for other themes of the natural world. This theme first appears under the letter Gandalf sends to Hera, then appears through the bulk of the cycle to depict nature. In the end of The Two Towers, it parallels the charge out of Helm's Deep with the concurrent Ent attack, and from this point on the theme becomes temporarily associated with the Rohirrim.
|-
|15
|'''Saruman or Orcs'''
|This theme first appears retrograded, as a lyrical triple-time woodwind idea for Saruman's appearance in The War of the Rohirrim. It later assumes its definitive 5/4 setting in trombones. Notice that it reorganizes the pitches of the Ring [6], but now the seasawing minor seoconds [3a] rise and fall. Later, the theme appears for Saruman's Uruks, and later for Orcs in general.
|-
|16
|'''The Hobbits (main theme):'''
|This theme, along with the Ring [6] is the nearest the series has to a main theme. It is almost always set in D pentatonic or C pentatonic, usually in strings, solo clarinet or tin whistle: this latter instrument is replaced by flute in ''The Return of the King''. It is again in detachable parts:
*'''First phrase''': This rises through four scale degrees, then falls back down. It is typically harmonized in D: I-IV-I-V.
*'''Second phrase''': By sequencing the initial stepwise motif upwards and harmonizing it with D: vii-IV-V-I, this part of the theme depicts the Shire as "the place that makes your heart swell when you think about it."
*'''Accompaniment''': the first part is often accompanied by this bumptious outline in fifths and fourths. Howard omits this when a more sobering effect is called for, but he also uses it on its own.
|-
|17
|'''The Ring (fragment)'''
|Howard derives several fragments from the Ring that appear on their own:
*Ascending second: Both in ''An Unexpected Journey'' and ''The Fellowship of the Ring'', Bilbo blows smoke rings to the sound of a tritone gliding into the fifth. This recreates the rising major second that opens the ring [6] but over a major chord: it returns after the Ring's destruction when characters recall it, reaffirming that the Ring is indeed gone. The figure does also appear in the minor as a more pointed allusion to the Ring throughout the quest.
*Chords: Howard also harmonizes this motion as minor triads a minor second apart, or as a minor triad resolving to a major triad: this latter gesture concludes the prologue of ''Fellowship of the Ring'' (E♭: i-I) and both Weathertop (on album) and the walls of Moria are revealed to the sound of fanfares derived from this gesture.
|-
|18
|'''Bilbo Baggins, first theme'''
|This theme reshapes the Hobbits' theme to depict Bilbo Baggins. In the announcement trailer, only its first phrase is heard, but in ''An Unexpected Journey'' it is sometimes extended into a second phrase which, with its melodic leaps and horn scoring hints at Bilbo's more outgoing, "Tookish" side. This phrase is later used on its own.
|-
|19
|'''The Company, main theme'''
|This theme is first sung by Thorin and company (over string clusters [4] in the trailer, a-cappella in the film), but then appears orchestrally. At the end of ''An Unexpected Journey,'' it is transformed into the Song of the Lonely Mountain. After this, as the quest loses its swashbuckling sheen, the theme is no longer heard. Its harmony (triads a major second apart) is shared between all the ''melodic'' Dwarven themes.
|-
|20
|'''First Dwarven theme (Thorin):'''
|The stepwise nature of this theme depicts the influence Bilbo will play in Thorin's life. As in the announcement trailer, it is often heard as a countermelody for [19]. The theme is not, however, Thorin's theme in ''strictu sensu'': it scores most of the establishing montage of Erebor, and several scenes of the company at large. Again, notice the "Dwarven" Am-G harmony.
|-
|21
|'''Second Dwarven theme, first form'''
|This theme is used more generally for the Dwarves (it's called "The House of Durin" in Howard's sketches). This first form, heard over the opening titles of ''An Unexpected Journey'', combines the contour of the definitive theme with the pitches of the Ring fragment [17]. It also appears during the eagle resuce (only on album) and when the Dwarves reunite in Erebor after Smaug's attack.
|-
|22
|'''Bilbo Baggins, second theme'''
|This theme (A-B-C♯-E-E-G♯-G♯-A-E-C♯-E-D) also appears in the opening titles of ''An Unexpected Journey''. It is also heard, heroically in horns, when Bilbo rescues Thorin.
|-
|23
|'''First tragic theme (transcendant)'''
|This theme first appears during the opening shots of ''An Unexpected Journey'': this creates a sense of bookends with an identical statement in the Grey Havens, when Gandalf says farewel to the Hobbits. It also laments Gandalf's death (Doug Adams calls it "Gandalf's farewells") and is embedded into the farewell from Lorien. But it also appears during the final scenes on the slopes of Mount Doom. It is a chord progression atypical of the rest of the score: A♭: vi-IV-I-V. This results in the top voices rising and falling a minor second (cf. [3]) but then falling another major second. Combinations of rising and falling major and minor seconds, as well as minor scales, unite all the themes that depict Sauron's influence on Middle-earth (also [1]).
|-
|24
|'''The Journey Back'''
|This theme, first appearing over the map transition to Erebor, again creates bookends with the map transition from Minas Tirith back to the Shire in ''The Return of the King''. Appearing throughout the denoument of the film, it depicts the journey back from Mordor. It is a rising scale harmonized in chromatic mediants.
|-
|25
|'''Third Dwarven theme (Erebor)'''
|This theme is three rising horncalls outlining an A Aeolian scale: 1-3, 1-4, 1-5. It subsides in a descending, syncopated pattern that is later also used on its own. Again, it is not Erebor's theme in ''stricto sensu'': statements of it appear for the company, and for Thorin (it is played diegetically for his obsequies), as well as for the Iron Hill Dwarves. Henceforth, non-melodic Dwarven music will be characterized by its intervallic nature, often parallel fifths.
|-
|26
|'''Arkenstone, first theme'''
|In keeping with the intervallic Dwarven style, this theme begins on an open fifth, but then clusters in the chorus [4]. It depicts the mysterious aspect of the stone, but also appears when Gandalf hands Thorin the map and the key: the means towards finding the Arkenstone.
|-
|27
|'''Arkenstone, second theme'''
|This syncopated, B minor string figure first appears with [26] but they become increasingly independent as the score continues. In The Battle of the Five Armies, this idea often appears unresolved to depict Thorin's mounting obsession to retrieve the stone.
|-
|28
|'''Woodland Elves:'''
|This D Phrygian theme depicts the Woodland Elves as closer to Men, but the emphasis on the third degree in the harmony gives it an Elven sheen. Henceforth, Elven themes will be characterized by more "advanced" harmony than the rest of Middle-earth: mediant and chromatic mediant harmony, whole tone scales, chromatic lines, seventh chords and so forth.
|-
|29
|'''Smaug, first theme'''
|This theme is in three parts:
*'''Melody''': The F Phrygian Dominant setting denotes the old age of the Dragon. Henceforth, everything old in Middle earth (Galadriel, Sauron) will be depicted by this mode. The theme emphasizes the rising and falling minor second [6] and augmented second inherent to this mode.
*'''Chords''': This progression (F: I-i-I) sequences [17] to depict the Dragon's breath.
*'''Accompaniment''': The theme is accompanied by semiquavers in Gamelan. The ensemble sometimes doubles the melody inharmonically, and lends its texture to the treasure hoard sequence.
|-
|30
|'''Dwarvish Wanderers'''
|This scalar figure bemoans the Dwarves' downfall and loss of their homeland. It is also heard when Thorin is struck down by Azog in ''An Unexpected Journey'', and during their arrival to the Hidden Door.
|-
|31
|'''Impediment (Dwarven form)'''
|This form of the Impediment arpeggio relates that the Dwarves blame the Elves for their misfortune. It is also heard when, in surveying the Troll hoard, they are reminded of the hoard in Erebor.
|-
|32
|'''Hobbit party music'''
|This Plan 9 tune embellishes the Hobbits' diatonic harmonies with some light chromaticism. It is heard briefly in the Old Took's birthday, and in extenso during Bilbo's Farewell Party.
|-
|33
|'''Hobbits (mysterious variant)'''
|This augments the Shire's accompaniment [16.3] to the contour of the Impediment theme. It depicts many of the early scenes of ''An Unexpected Journey'', and returns in ''Fellowship of the Ring'' when Gandalf glimpses Thorin's map.
|-
|34
|'''Hobbits (folk variant)'''
|This version mostly appears for scenes in Hobbiton, but also in the cornfield in ''Fellowship of the Ring'' and, slow and retrograded, in the concert piece ''Ironfoot''. Notice that, on the theme's first appearance, it concludes with a "fiddle fanfare" as Bilbo realizes it's the day of the farewell party: another statement of the theme concluding with the same fanfare will score the erecting of the sign to the party in Fellowship of the Ring. It is in two parts:
*Melody: this is a staccato version of the Hobbits theme.
*Accompaniment: This "Um pa-pah" rhyhtm is later used on its own and with other themes. This idea is sometimes given in a cadential form: Doug Adams calls this the "Hobbit end-cap." The theme is also accompanied by a tapping on the bodhrain drums which also appears with other themes.
|-
|35
|'''Smeagol'''
|This theme, which brings out the pitiful Smeagol side of Gollum's character, is first alluded to when the chords of the second Shire phrase [16.2] turn minor.
|-
|36
|'''First Playful motif'''
|This elides the first pitch of [16.3] and sequences it to create a rhyhtmic figure in perfect fourths that skips the first beat of the measure. It often appears with [34] but both also appear in their own.
|-
|37
|'''Second playful motif'''
|The accompaniment of the folksy Hobbit theme sometimes appears in a cadential form. This is gradually sequenced in a chromatic progression that comes to depict the lighter moments of the Hobbits (especially Merry and Pippin) in ''The Two Towers'' and ''The Return of the King''.
|-
|38
|'''Gandalf the Grey'''
|This wry figure in minor thirds and fourths depicts Gandalf the Grey throughout ''The Hobbit''. It does not appear in ''Fellowship of the Ring,'' where Gandalf's demise is imminent.
|-
|39
|'''First playful motif (first variant)'''
|This melds [36] and [16.3] into a driving figure. It is variously associated with Gandalf's fireworks (in ''An Unexpected Journey'' and ''Fellowship of the Ring''), his Smaug-like firework (the opening credits of ''The Desolation of Smaug'' anticipating ''Fellowship of the Ring'') and the mischief of Bilbo (sneaking out of the Farewell Party) and Merry and Pippin, in the cornfield. This latter statement is reprised in the closing credits.
|-
|40
|'''Ring "chord (first form)'''
|Gandalf peering threateningly into Bilbo's window merits a triad with an added ninth. Minor triads with an added ninth also appear in the Warg and Goblin scenes. These chords verticalize the Ring, and tend to resolve as a minor plagal cadence (D minor: vi-i). Combined with the rhythm [10] these depict the Ringwraiths, but not only: they appear for Azog (film only), Saruman, Sauron himself, and the Orc armies.
|-
|41
|'''Fourth Dwarven theme (Dwarrowdelf)'''
|This theme, which will usher the Fellowship into the 21st hall of Dwarrowdelf, is first hinted at when the Dwarves introduce themselves to Bilbo, and again when they are introduced to Beorn. Both these scenes feature a 3-4-5 rise concluding on an open fifth. In ''Fellowship of the Ring,'' this is elaborated into a aeolian melody similar to [21], which also appears when the Cave Troll is slain.
|-
|42
|'''Fussy Bilbo'''
|This waltzing, D minor theme contains the same pitches as the Ring, but depicts Bilbo's out-of-sorts mannerism around the Dwarves. Later, it is applied to the Company in general, as when they emerge into Bard's house.
|-
|43
|'''Smaug (second theme)'''
|This retrogrades Smaug's original motif, then ascends chromatically: the effect is more subtly sinister and will also depict Thorin's Dragon Sickness, usually in more discordant string settings. Again, accompanied by major-minor triads built on F and semiquaver figures on Gamelan.
|-
|44
|'''Fifth Dwarven theme (The Company)'''
|This theme, which appears when Dwalin and Gandalf talk about Thorin's absence, repeats during the Hidden Door sequence and when the Dwarves retreat before Azog's forces in ''The Battle of the Five Armies''. It is elaborated upon in the concert piece "The Dwarf Lords." As originally stated, it takes the melodic Dwarven harmonies and turns them major: A-G.
|-
|45
|'''Hobbits, kinetic version'''
|This sequences the initial 1-2-3 rise of the Hobbits [16.1] over canonical imitation of the accompaniment [16.3] in quavers and semiquavers. It depicts Bilbo rushing out of his door, and Merry and Pippin rushing through the cornfield.
|-
|46
|'''The Company, second theme'''
|a more robust, "Dwarven" form of Bilbo's second theme. This appears when Bilbo sets out with the company and when Kili attempts to rescue him from the Trolls, for example. It is elaborated upon in the concert piece "Erebor."
|-
|47
|'''First Moria danger motif'''
|This theme, appearing in the Battle of Azanulbizar, takes a Dwarven perfect fifth and reduces it to a tritone. It appears in the later Moria scenes of ''The Fellowship of the Ring'' and Gandalf falling after the Balrog in ''The Two Towers''.
|-
|48
|'''Battle with Azog'''
|A similar figure in parallel fourths depicts the battle of Azanulbizar. It returns for the confrontation with Azog in the ''Battle of the Five Armies''.
|-
|49
|'''Second danger motif (Azog form)'''
|This theme is a pair of descending thirds, therefore a melodic form of the Ring chords. Here, they are major thirds an augmented second apart, thus outlining the Phrygian Dominant mode of Sauron. Azog's form concludes with a chromatic "barb" evoking his crude prosthetic arm. But it also appears for Azog's pack, Bolg and later the army he leads to the Erebor valley.
|-
|50
|'''Second tragic theme'''
|After the battle of Azanulbizar, this theme appears after Thorin's, answering his rising scale with a falling scale that accomodates upon itself. In doing so, it falls a major second, then falls and rises a minor one. This will appear increasingly by itself in ''The Battle of the Five Armies,'' always depicting death and tragedy (for instance, when Legolas speaks about his mother's death). In Fellowship of the Ring, the notes turn into a figure that rises and drops a minor second, then falls and rises a major second. This always depicts the suffering incurred by the War of the Ring.
|-
|51
|'''Wizards'''
|Another falling minor scale figure depicts the five Wizards. Naturally, it mostly appears with Gandalf, as when he arrives at Goblintown or during his parting with Bilbo in ''An Unexpected Journey''. But it also appears with Radagast.
|-
|52
|'''Radagast'''
|This nervous melody in major and minor seconds, only appears on album. But its accompaniments are heard in the film during Radagast's scenes, as well as when Bilbo escapes Goblintown.
|-
|53
|'''Mirkwood'''
|This line also alternates major and mind seconds. It depicts the shadow falling over Mirkwood. In The Desolation of Smaug, it becomes the definitive Mirkwood theme, reshaping [50]. This almost depicts the Elven Road, becoming gradually masked by the texture which features clusters, aleatoric figures, bowed cymbals, portamenti and sprechstimme vocals. Similar textures will appear in other places in the scores, always in relation to confusion and danger.
|-
|54
|'''Second danger motif (Necromancer form)'''
|The major thirds an augmented second apart are here played slower, without the chromatic "barb" characteristic of Azog. It depicts Dol Guldur and the Necromancer.
|-
|55
|'''Mirkwood spiders, first theme'''
|This theme is based on an eight-note tone row, accompanied by clusters. Both also appear in ''The Desolation of Smaug''. Henceforth, all spider music will be atonal, although Denethor merits similar music in the most intense moments.
|-
|56
|'''Mountain Trolls'''
|This theme, in waltz time, recalls Bilbo's fussy theme, but instead arpeggiates a triad with an added flat sixth. It thus relates to the later Cave Troll (a variant of [47] also repeated in the scene where Gollum brings rabbits to Frodo).
|-
|57
|'''Impediment (first variant)'''
|This sequences minor triads a minor third apart going up.
|-
|58
|'''Hobbits (developed)'''
|Two developments of the Hobbits theme depict the Hobbits' personal growth, loss of innoncence, discovery of compassion and so forth:
A fuller version of the original theme, the harmony filled in to D: I-iii-IV-I-IV-V.
A melodic development of [16.2] with a gruppeto figure similar to [6]. It depicts Bilbo's act of compassion towards Gollum, but also scenes that depict the growing maturity and worldliness of the Hobbits in ''Fellowship of the Ring'' and ''The Two Towers.''
|-
|59
|'''Third danger motif (first form)'''
|This is another rhythmic figure that skips the first beat, but here outlining a minor scale. It has a more dynamic effect than [54].
|-
|60
|'''Main evil theme'''
|This adapts the Ring [6] to the Phrygian Dominant setting of the dragon. Its definitive form is set in muted trumpets and rhaita. Here, cor anglais imitates the rhaita. In ''The Battle of the Five Armies'', a pipe organ produces a similarly reedy sound.
|-
|61
|'''First Orc theme (Warg riders)'''
|This driving, descending minor scale figure depicts Azog company, especially the Warg riders. It appears all through The Hobbit, and then resurfaces in The Two Towers are a descending cluster which first depicts Saruman's warg riders. Afterwards, it continues to represent the artfulness of the Orc armies.
|-
|62
|'''Lothlorien or Galadriel'''
|This theme is also characterized by the F Phrygian Dominant mode. It's brassy appearance for Elrond's company attacking Yazneg's Orcs creates a parallel with the arrival of Haldir's Elves to Helm's Deep (heralded by the same rendition of [11]). The theme also appears in guises that emphasize the pitches of [50], inherent in the theme, or changed to double harmonic minor. When Frodo is struck by a vision of Galadriel in Shelob's lair, the theme is shifted into standard Phrygian mode.
|-
|63
|'''Rivendell, main theme'''
|This theme changes the impediment theme [1] to A major. It is rhythmically altered and overlaid with a melody based on the same pitches. The theme is typically set in female choir and harp over tolling chimes.
|-
|64
|'''Rivendell, second theme'''
|This theme first appears in a martial guise when Elrond's riders stride into Rivendell, inadvertently antagonizing the Dwarves. It is soon repeated diegetically on wood flute, lute, theorbo and harp.
|-
|65
|'''Erebor-Rivendell hybrid'''
|This puts Rivendell's arpeggios in the low, "dwarven" strings and the Erebor horncalls in the high "Elven" choir. It ostensibly depicts the moonlight revealing the moon runes, then the Hidden Door. But it also appears when Thorin lingers over the defeated Azog. The same pride that almost stopped him from giving the map to Elrond, will be his downfall as Gandalf warned.
|-
|66
|'''Second danger motif (Sauron form)'''
|At the sight of Sauron's mural, the descending thirds turn into minor thirds a minor second apart. This version will continue into The Lord of the Rings. During the Minas Morgul scene, it is inverted into rising thirds.
|-
|67
|'''Second Dwarven theme (definitive)'''
|This theme now acquires its definitive pitches and tonality. Like Thorin's theme, it ascends but more resolutely in thirds spanning an octave. It then restarts on the low A but only reaches up the seventh scale degree. Notice that Thorin and his line are associated with A minor, as compared to Elrond's chromaticized A major.
|-
|68
|'''Goblins'''
|This theme in low brass over a hammering pattern that shifts time signatures (circling 7/5). It appears in all the goblin scenes and, on album, for their reappearance in ''The Battle of the Five Armies''. Going forward, rhythmic themes particularly in odd time signatures, will be associated with Orcs.
|-
|69
|'''Gollum'''
|This theme is in major and minor seconds played tremolando on cimbalom. This compares the spindly quality of Gollum, in his more menacing persona, with the hammered dulcimer that often plays [36]. In the early scenes of ''The Two Towers'', this figure is sequenced up so that it spans two chromatically interlocking fifths: this is similar to the music of Loge, the god of deception, in Wagner's Ring, a similarity that will become important later in the score.
|-
|70
|'''Fishing Song'''
|Gollum sings this song in ''An Unexpected Journey'', ''The Two Towers'' and ''The Return of the King''. In the latter, Gollum sings another song in a same vein, when he gloats over Frodo caught in Shelob's web.
|-
|71
|'''Smeagol (variant)'''
|The riddle scene in ''An Unexpected Journey'' begins combining Smeagol's theme [35] with that of the Ring [6]. This relationship is further explored in ''The Two Towers'', and in effect culminates in Gollum's Song (itself prefigured in the sewer scenes).
|-
|72
|'''Eagles'''
|A variant of the Nature theme hails the eagles in ''An Unexpected Journey'' and ''The Battle of the Five Armies''. The album features another idea that looks forward to the eagles rescuing Sam and Frodo from Mount Doom.
|-
|73
|'''Second Gondor theme (developed)'''
|This variant, in E minor, appears in the film when Thorin embraces Frodo. This parallels the climax of ''The Return of the King'' when Barad dur collapses. It is a transformation of a Gondorian theme that appears in ''Fellowship of the Ring''.
|-
|74
|'''Fourth danger motif (first form)'''
|This theme appears in ''An Unexpected Journey'' only on album. It shares the contour of Saruman's theme [15] and will resurface in ''The Return of the King'' to depict the Orc armies attacking Gondor.
|-
|75
|'''Entering Bree'''
|Thorin's entrance to Bree mirrors the Hobbits' entrance to it in ''Fellowship of the Ring'', with minor moded forms of the Hobbit accompaniments ([36] and the accompaniment of [34]) over minor triads ascending in thirds [57]. This music also depicts Pippin's exit from Edoras.
|-
|76
|'''Beorn'''
|Yet another variant of the Nature theme depicts Beorn and his lands. Now the Am: i-VI chords depict the tread of the bear's feet.
|-
|77
|'''Mirkwood, second theme'''
|This falling figure also depicts Mirkwood separately from the original theme.
|-
|78
|'''Ring "chord" (second form)'''
|The chord is redressed as a sinister, but less overtly threatening soprano solo. It relates to the Ringwraiths entombed in the High Fells. In the film it also appears in Dol Guldur.
|-
|79
|'''White gems'''
|this theme relates the Woodland Elves to Mirkwood via the minor sixth. Since the gems were fashioned for Thranduil's wife, the appearance of this theme when Gandalf sees her statue at the Elven gate is apposite.
|-
|80
|'''Spiders, second theme'''
|This descending figure, which first appears when Bilbo plays with the cobwebs, also returns during the scene at the Spiders' nest.
|-
|81
|'''Legolas'''
|Legolas is associated with an up-tempo version of the Woodland realm theme, but also with string figurations that then adorn the Fellowship theme when he defeats a Mumak in The Return of the King.
|-
|82
|'''Tauriel'''
|This theme is based on a figure that concludes the Woodland realm theme.
|-
|83
|'''Woodland Guards'''
|Since Tauriel is the head of the guard, slow, lyrical versions of this theme acts as her secondary theme. Again, the Woodland Elves are set in "human" scales, in this case natural minor.
|-
|84
|'''Impediment (Thranduil form)'''
|This arpeggio idea contrasts Thranduil's covetousness with Elrond's wisdom, and compares him with similar attributes of Thorin's.
|-
|85
|'''Tauriel and Kili'''
|This theme begins with a duet for flute (a variant on Tauriel's theme) and oboe (answering with a variant of Thorin's theme). This is followed by a choral theme which incorporates the tragic theme, harmonized in "Elven" mediant chords and elaborated with a Dwarven open fifth.
|-
|86
|'''Assertive Bilbo'''
|Beginning as a "Dwarven" version of Bilbo's fussy theme, applying more to the Dwarves' bewilderment at their own rescue, this becomes the theme of the self-actualized Bilbo who smuggles the Arkenstone to Dale in ''The Battle of the Five Armies''. It also depicts his return to the Shire as a changed person. It is mirrored in "Dwarven" forms of the Hobbit accompaniment figures that accompany the inebriated Gimli in ''The Return of the King'': one last ode to Dwarven music.
|-
|87
|'''Bard, first theme'''
|starting on a minor third and perfect fourth, this theme plays on a similarity to Erebor. The Dwarves hope Bard will bring them nearer to the mountain.
|-
|88
|'''Bard, second theme'''
|This chordal device alternates B♭ minor and G minor. It appears in several scenes of Bard's, often but not always with [87].
|-
|89
|'''Laketown'''
|This theme combines figures similar to Gondor (leaping a perfect fifth on D Dorian, then descending stepwise) and Rohan (semiquaver figure evoking rowing).
|-
|90
|'''Politicians of Laketown'''
|This clavichord theme, constantly modulating, relates the Master of Laketown and his aide Alfrid to the forces of corruption that represent Sauron's influence on Middle earth. Alfrid tends to be accompanied with just a fragment of the unabridged theme. The theme also appears retrograded when Thorin and Company are brought before the Master.
|-
|91
|'''Bard's family'''
|First appearing briefly when Bard arrives home, this is a diatonic transformation of the Master's music, similar to Bilbo's music.
|-
|92
|'''Black Arrow'''
|This theme first scores Girion who shares the opening pitches of Bard, his descendent. It depicts the Black Arrow that will slay Smaug.
|-
|93
|'''Fourth danger motif (second form)'''
|This form ascends through the Phrygian Dominant scale, then curls upon itself. Again, this more emphatic, swelling form is then suppressed until ''The Return of the King''.
|-
|94
|'''Thrain'''
|Thrain is depicted in his deranged form by another danger motif. When he returns to his senses, it is replaced by a slow version of Erebor, punctuated by a harp arpeggio.
|-
|95
|'''Third danger motif (second form)'''
|still skipping the first beat, this theme now appears in any number of forms. These can be sequenced up, down or at pitch.
*'''Ascending scale:''' This is similar to the first form.
*'''Clustering:''' repeated note, then adding a scale degree on each subsequent measure.
*'''Rising and falling:''' This most aggressive form uses the opening notes of the Ring [3a], rising and falling a minor second.
|-
|96
|'''Fourth danger motif (third form)'''
|This form, which will be the most frequent, leaps a minor sixth, then falls down the minor scale.
|-
|97
|'''Evil (second form)'''
|This rhythmic augmentation of the original theme is another theme that depicts Sauron at force. Once he is driven out of Dol Guldur, it is deferred until The Return of the King where it depicts the Witch King emerging from Dol Guldur.
|-
|98
|'''Arwen'''
|This theme, which later introduces Arwen in Fellowship of the Ring and again in The Return of the King, first appears in the minor when Tauriel heals Kili. This parallels Arwen healing Frodo. It is a Phrygian line harmonized in F: I-iii.
|-
|99
|'''Smaug's death'''
|This combines all of Smaug's themes. It depicts his flight to Laketown, and his death. Afterwards, Smaug's theme is appropriated by the deranged Thorin.
|-
|100
|'''Bard, third theme'''
|This more heroic theme depicts Bard's new role as the leader of the exiled Lakemen.
|-
|101
|'''Gundabad'''
|This theme also features the rising and falling minor second. Notice the doubling by twenty didgeridoos.
|-
|102
|'''Orcs'''
|The Gundabad theme is always accompanied by five-four beat. This is reshaped for Saruman's Uruks (percussion in five beats, usually accented on the first and third). Sauron's Orcs are depicted by more hectic forms of the same idea (accents varying randomly across the line).
|-
|103
|'''Ring chord (transformed)'''
|This idea depicts other characters becoming touched by darkness. It is in two parts:
*'''Rising:''' This inverts a triad with brass adding a ninth to recreate the Ring chord. This appears during the fight in Dol Guldur and Galadriel banishing Sauron. It is hinted at when the Fellowship glimpse Caras Galadhon, and repeats when Galadriel appears wraith-like to Frodo.
*'''Falling:''' the two big statements then descending F minor arpeggios as Galadriel reels back from her episode. This also depicts Bilbo reeling from his Gollum-like episode.
|-
|104
|'''Dwarf warriors'''
|The minor sixth of this idea makes this a Dwarven counterpart of the Elvish warrior theme. It is accompanied by unpitched "grunts" from the Dwarven chorus, a texture that already appeared in the Rings of Power opening titles, and will appear again in Moria.
|-
|105
|'''Mithril shirt'''
|This quartal melody depicts the shirt (which was fashioned for an Elven prince). It appears when Thorin gives it Bilbo, and when Bilbo gives it to Frodo.
|-
|106
|'''Iron Hill Dwarves'''
|This theme is similar to the other major-moded Dwarven theme. The tattoo-like accompaniment evokes the riding of the Dwarven cavalry, and later appears on its own with the chariot.
|-
|107
|'''Tragic theme (transformed)'''
|This reharmonizes the original theme to depict valour and death on the battlefield. It ushers the conflict between Dwarves and Elves, then the offensive against the Orcs, and returns during the sequence where Gandalf and Pippin save Denethor, and the following skirmish in Pelennor.
|-
|108
|'''War Beasts'''
|Azog's horn is answered by this bestial motif, depicting the Trolls and Ogres he fields to the battle.
|-
|109
|'''The Fellowship'''
|This theme harmonizes the down-and-up figure [3b] in D: I-♭III-I and extending it to a nine note phrase. All themes emphasizing [3b] will be associated with the Fellowship.
|-
|110
|'''Third tragic theme'''
|This theme, in rising minor seconds an augmented second apart, contrasts Elendil and Isildur's fall with Boromir's, and later Denethor's.
|-
|111
|'''Impediment (second variant)'''
|This depicts the "Nameless fear" Galadriel mentions. It is reprised in Bag End and in The Two Towers.
|-
|112
|'''Walking Song'''
|Another diatonic song reintroduces Gandalf into the Shire, then ushers Bilbo away from it.
|-
|113
|'''Seduction of the Ring'''
|This is another variant of the Ring, in a standard minor mode and usually sung by boy choir. In The Return of the King, it is doubled by female choir to depict Smeagol's seduction.
|-
|114
|'''Journey there'''
|This theme reshapes the impediment arpeggio melodically. It depicts the journey to Mordor.
|-
|115
|'''Fifth danger motif'''
|This percussion quaver figure is the most overtly martial of the danger motifs. It depicts the turncoat Saruman overpowering Gandalf, then the forces Sauron fields in Osgiliath and during the Haradrim attack. It returns for the Mount Doom scene.
|-
|116
|'''Strider'''
|This figure leaps a perfect fourth, then ascends another step. It thus reorders the pitches of Gondor.
|-
|117
|'''Second Orc theme'''
|This is derived from the end of Saruman's theme. It depicts the Orc company he sends after the Fellowship.
|-
|118
|'''Mount Doom'''
|This aggressive, augmented form of the Impediment theme depicts both scenes set at the cracks of Doom.
|-
|119
|'''Tragic theme (Gondor form)'''
|This embellishes the theme by appending a perfect fifth. It appears with Boromir's first meeting with Aragorn, then scenes of Arwen envisioning Aragorn's mortality and leaving Rivendell.
|-
|120
|'''Ring chord (third form)'''
|This form ascends to depict Sauron's forces at full tilt. Here it appears at the Ring's indestructibility: later it appears during the Ringwraith attack on Minas Tirith, the fighting in the streets and the final confrontation with the Witch King.
|-
|121
|'''Diminishment of the Elves'''
|This theme for the scene in Gilraen's grave, brings the Phrygian Dominant setting of Lothlorien to Rivendell. It also repeats when Aragorn parts with Arwen.
|-
|122
|'''"Dangerous passes"'''
|This C minor theme depicts members of the Fellowship traversing difficult terrain: Caradhras, the approach to the walls of Moria and – on album – the secret stair.
|-
|123
|'''"Elvish pledge":'''
|This theme parallels the alliance of Celebrimbor and Narvi (as objectified in the Doors of Durin) with that of Haldir and Aragorn, when he shows up at Helm's Deep. It is a sequence of chords outlining a whole-tone scale.
|-
|124
|'''Second Moria danger motif'''
|This is a rising minor scale in parallel fifths. It first appears when the Doors crack open. Later, it assumes a more menacing form. In the film, it also appears when Legolas espies the Warg riders over the brow.
|-
|125
|'''Fellowship (fragment)'''
|This is the rhythm of the second phrase of the Fellowship. It appears in the Mazarbul chamber as they prepare to fight the Orcs. It is implied in the end of the Warg scene, the attack on Osgiliath, and restated in Sam's confrontation with Shelob.
|-
|126
|'''Durin's Bane'''
|By doubling the Moria theme at the octave, Howard Shore creates a sequence of power chords which depict the Balrog in Fellowship of the Ring and again in the opening scene of The Two Towers.
|-
|127
|'''Secondary Gondor theme'''
|This is a more lyrical depiction of Gondor. Triumphant forms depict the reforged Anduril.
|-
|128
|'''Aragorn'''
|This figure starts with the Strider theme, and sequences the opening three notes of the Fellowship [3b] upward.
|-
|129
|'''Fourth tragic theme'''
|This theme laments Boromir's death, and returns with every reminiscence of his death. It is also alluded to in scenes with Theoden and the dying Frodo.
|-
|130
|'''Impediment theme (third variant)'''
|This figure compares Frodo and Sam being stuck in the beginning of The Two Towers, and Merry and Pippin near the end of The Two Towers.
|-
|131
|'''Fourth danger motif (fourth form)'''
|This reduces the figure to the opening minor sixth and falling second. In the skirmish with the Haradrim troops it is reduced to a minor third, and this form returns in the attack on Osgiliath.
|-
|132
|'''First danger motive (second form)'''
|This combines the rhythm of the original danger motif with the contour of the Uruk theme. It appears when Merry and Pippin are marched along with the Uruks, then when a disguised Frodo and Sam are.
|-
|133
|'''Rohan (fragment)'''
|This sequences the galloping quavers so the first pitch is a unison, and the second is raised with every iteration. It appears in both early scenes with Eomer, and a similar style of writing is harkened when Aragorn arrives at Helm's Deep, when he rides out with Theoden and when Eomer is ordered to muster the Rohirrim.
|-
|134
|'''The Fellowship in Rohan'''
|This leaps a fifth and continues in the countermelody of Rohan, which is based on the Fellowship pitches. It depicts the growing allegiance of the members of the Fellowship and the Rohirrim through The Two Towers.
|-
|135
|'''The Ents'''
|This theme has two components: major triads a tritone apart, then a tremolando line in bass marimba and contrabassoon voiced in open chords a tritone apart.
|-
|136
|'''Gandalf the White'''
|This is another transformation of the original nature. It introduces the reborn Gandalf in Fangorn, at Helm's Deep and reprised in the credits.
|-
|137
|'''"Small stones"'''
|These chords (initially F# minor – G major – F# minor – A minor) depict Merry and Pippins effect on Treebeard. Later it assumes a form redolent of Treebeard's tritone progression. It is last recalled in The Return of the King when Gandalf and Pippin have a quiet moment, but this can only be heard on album.
|-
|138
|'''The White rider'''
|This reshaping of the Fellowship theme turns Gandalf, always astride Shadowfax, into "Saruman as he should have been."
|-
|139
|'''Hobbits (playful form)'''
|This first takes the form of a nocturne as Treebeard puts the Hobbits, sound asleep, in Wellinghall. It is transformed by the Fellowship chords and appears in the subsequent scenes in The Two Towers.
|-
|140
|'''The Fate of the Ring'''
|This reharmonizes [50] in D major. It thus turns the Ring's theme major. The basic shape reappears throughout The Return of the King as a melodic continuation of [50] and [6]. When Barad dur collapses, it becomes a fanfare, harmonized by the Fellowship chords, signaling Sauron's demise. This creates a harmonic resolution to Sauron's disonant minor second.
|-
|141
|'''Grima'''
|This theme, always in C minor and sometimes in the "Orcish" 5/4, is a dark counterpart to [134] in presenting one static pitch and one rising pitch: minor third, tritone, fifth, and concluding with a minor sixth dropping back into the fifth. It accompanies all of Grima's scene since Gandalf's arrival at Meduseld and is even hinted at when he stabs Saruman.
|-
|142
|'''Smeagol (variant)'''
|This form of Smeagol's chords always depict him leading the Hobbits through Ithilien.
|-
|143
|'''Eowyn and Aragorn'''
|Eowyn's attraction to Aragorn is scored with this F Lydian theme. Notice the "sighing" appoggiaturas.
|-
|144
|'''Arwen and Aragorn'''
|an E Phrygian reshaping of Aragorn's theme, accompanied by the Rivendell arpeggio and redolent of sighing appoggiaturas.
|-
|145
|'''Battle of Helm's Deep'''
|this is a bolero-like rhythm that accompanies many of the Hornburg scenes.
|-
|146
|'''Third Orc theme'''
|This figure is reiterated a flat third away to depict the Uruk attempts to breach the Hornburg.
|-
|147
|'''Gondor (transformed)'''
|This version of Gondor, which replaces the descending final notes with Aragorn's ascending notes, is first heard in the Return of the King trailer. On album, it was hinted in an alternate version of the Fellowship prologue where another ascending version of the theme appeared in D major. Otherwise, this thematic complex - which appears in Gandalf's ascent to Minas Tirith, and in the Pelennor fields (theatrical cut) - is always heard in D minor until Aragorn's coronation. Notice that the original descending phrase also appears in the major, but only on album.
|-
|148
|'''The Ring (second form)'''
|This begins as a canon based on the Ring theme and the seduction theme, when Smeagol and Deagol fight. Afterwards, the Ring theme and the main evil theme are fused into a sinister Ab Phrygian Dominant theme. In the Cracks of Doom, this theme appears in two voices over the seduction theme.
|-
|149
|'''Shire (transformed)'''
|throughout The Return of the King, the Shire music and the Fellowship's become mingled. This initiates a process that culminates in the final Shire scenes: the melody is still the same, but the accompaniment had been reduced to thirds. When Sam returns home, this returns with a transformed melodic line, still in D major.
|-
|150
|'''Dead Men of Dunharrow'''
|This bitonal idea features a bassline similar to Gondor, while the top voices cluster. When the ghosts lend aid on the Pelennor fields, the clusters resolve diatonically.
|-
|151
|'''Meriadoc, squire of Rohan'''
|This theme leaps a perfect fifth like Eowyn's and proceeds in the contour of the second phrase of the Fellowship. It later returns when Merry confesses his doubts to Eowyn. When he stabs the Witch King, the opening leap is recalled, but extended to a major sixth.
|-
|152
|'''Denethor and Faramir'''
|The confrontation between Faramir and Denethor, and Faramir's subsequent march to certain death are scored with this variant of [74].
|-
|153
|'''There and back again (variant)'''
|this sequences the original motif in pitch. It underscores much of the Grey Havens scene.
|-
|154
|'''Shelob'''
|Another near tone-row. It is later spun into a pair of octatonic quadruple figures.
|-
|155
|'''Valinor'''
|The theme of the song "Into the West" appears when Gandalf describes Valinor to Pippin, when Sam hoists Frodo on his shoulders and at the conclusion of the Grey Havens scene.
|-
|156
|'''Hobbits (heroic form)'''
|This theme is spun out of the figure that depicts Sam's fight with Shelob. It later depicts Sam galivanting through Cirith Ungol. Its harmonies depict him hoisting Frodo on his shoulders, and pulling him up from the crack of doom.
|-
|157
|'''Magic Fire'''
|This figure homages Wagner's Loge theme (the interlocking falling fifths) in a form that most closely recalls the fires that guard Brunnhilde's enchanted sleep at the end of Valkyrie.
|-
|158
|'''Bilbo's Song'''
|This final transformation of the Shire, at the very end of the credits, recalls Bilbo's return to Bag End in The Battle of the Five Armies. Notice that the last stanza concludes with a perfect A major cadence: this resolves the A minor-A5 resolution of the Rings of Power titles. The cycle is now complete.
|}

[[Category:Music]]

The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum

2026-03-11T19:15:05Z

Chen Geller:

{{Disambig-two|the 2027 film adaptation|2009 fan film|[[The Hunt for Gollum]]}}
{{film infobox
| image =
| caption =
| name = The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum
| director = [[Andy Serkis]]
| producer = [[Peter Jackson]] [[Fran Walsh]] [[Philippa Boyens]] [[Zane Weiner]]
| writer = [[Fran Walsh]] [[Philippa Boyens]] Phoebe Gittins Arty Papageorgiou
| narrator =
| starring = [[Andy Serkis]]<ref name=Gollum></ref> [[Elijah Wood]] [[Ian McKellen]] Kate Winslet
| music =
| cinematography =
| editing =
| studio = WingNut films Imaginarium [[New Line Cinema]]<ref name=Gollum></ref>
| distributor = [[Warner Bros.|Warner Bros. Pictures]]<ref name=Gollum></ref>
| released = 17 December [[2027]]<ref name="TheDirect2027Release"/>
| runtime =
| country = [[New Zealand]]<ref name=Gollum></ref>
| language = English
| budget =
| website =
|imdb_id=32328070
|basedon=[[The Lord of the Rings]]|production design=[[Dan Hennah]] (Production designer)}}
'''''The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum''''' is the title (originally, working title<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/09/curtis-brown-jrr-tolkien-literary-estate-deal-1236526748/|articlename=Curtis Brown To Rep J.R.R. Tolkien’s Literary Estate|author=Jesse Whittock|dated=10 September 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref>) of a forthcoming film adaptation currently in pre-production and set for a [[2027]] release, the first of a planned series of Tolkien films to be produced by [[New Line Cinema]], a division of [[Warner Bros.|Warner Brothers]].<ref name=":4">{{webcite|author=Matt Donnelly|articleurl=https://variety.com/2023/film/news/lord-of-the-rings-new-movies-warner-bros-1235533672/|articlename=New ‘Lord of the Rings’ Movies Set at Warner Bros. |dated=23 February 2023|website=[https://variety.com/ Variety]|accessed=10 June 2024}}</ref>

The film will cover [[Gollum]]'s travels after losing [[The One Ring|the Ring]] to [[Bilbo Baggins]] (as depicted in [[The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey|''An Unexpected Journey'']]), through [[Gandalf]] setting out to track the creature after [[Bilbo's Farewell Party]] (as depicted in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]'') and down to [[Gollum]] intercepting [[Fellowship of the Ring|the Fellowship]] in [[Moria|Moria.]]

It will be directed by and star [[Andy Serkis]], who played [[Gollum]] in [[Peter Jackson]]'s previous films, as well as directing second unit. [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] will produce with his co-writing team of [[Fran Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens]], who will also write the screenplay with ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]]'' scribes Phoebe Gittins and Arty Papageorgiou.

The subject of this film is a longstanding fascination of [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s who developed it quite intensly in 2008 with [[Guillermo del Toro]]. The film is in preproduction with several cast and crew members from previous films already attached, including actor [[Elijah Wood]], concept artists [[John Howe]] and [[Alan Lee]] and others.

==Early Development==
Although the film was only announced in 2023, it had a long gestation period with [[Peter Jackson]], who considered filming this subject since circa 1997, and at least as late as July 2015. During 2008, in particular, the film was in development with a plot synopsis, a tentative budget and an initial cast and crew attached, and drew the attention of further talent like [[Viggo Mortensen]], as well as the press. Elements of this proposed "bridge film" were eventually put into ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' but mostly axed during the early months of the shoot. Jackson also negotiated in 2018 about producing a show for [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon Prime]] about the related subject of the travels of young [[Aragorn]], but ended up producing ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]]'' with [[New Line Cinema]] instead.

===During ''The'' ''Lord of the Rings''===
[[Peter Jackson]] read [[The Lord of the Rings|''The Lord of the Rings'']] circa 1979, and he claims that he "always loved the concept that when [[Gandalf]] leaves [[Bag End]] he goes and joins up with [[Aragorn]] and the two of them hunt [[Gollum]] down."<ref name=":26">Peter Jackson, Philippa Boyens, Fran Walsh, "Director's Commentary", Peter Jackson, ''The Lord of the Rings trilogy'' (New Line Cinema: 2004).</ref> This piece of backstory was also expanded upon in the [[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)|radio serial]], which [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] was very familiar with. He and [[Fran Walsh]] first pitched a trilogy based on [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']] and ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'' around November 1995.<ref>Brian Sibley, Peter Jackson: A Filmmaker's Journey (London: HarperCollins, 2006), pp. 312 ff.</ref><ref>J. W Braun, ''The lord of the films : the unofficial guide to Tolkien's Middle-Earth on the big screen'' (Toronto: ECW Press, 2009), pp. 20, 63, 68-69, 195.</ref><ref>Michael Pellerin, "Completing Middle-earth," Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit'' (Warner Brothers: 2015).</ref> They may well have had the [[Gollum]] episode in mind at some time between that point and early 1997. So long as they intended to start with ''The Hobbit'' (up to early 1996), they will have been mindful of the need to connect the two novels, and while their treatment (mid 1997) doesn't seem to cover the [[Gollum]] episode, it already dramatizes the remainder of the backstory that's given in "[[The Shadow of the Past]]", "[[The Council of Elrond]]" and [[appendix B]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1j06oqh/so_what_is_the_hunt_for_gollum_really_based_on/|articlename=So, what is The Hunt for Gollum REALLY based on?|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=28 February 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> When the project expanded (September 1998) to three films, Jackson tried to finally incorporate this storyline - some eight pages' worth - but realized that he "just couldn't put [the Hunt for [[Gollum]]] into the movie".<ref name=":26" />

[[Peter Jackson|Peter]] nevertheless publicly expressed a desire to film "[[Gandalf]] and [[Aragorn]] hunting [[Gollum]], and his capture by [[Orcs]]"<ref name=":25">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://members.tripod.com/peter_jackson_online/lotr/articles/20_questions2.htm|articlename=20 QUESTIONS WITH PETER JACKSON- PART 2|author=Harry Knowles|dated=31 December 1998|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> At the time, the idea was to shoot this as additional material and add it into the extended edition: although by early 2001 he would have realized this could not be accomodated in the pickups to ''The Fellowship of the Ring'', in 2003 he would still half-jokingly talk about shooting more pickups to "fatten these films out without technically going beyond ‘[[The Lord of the Rings]]’ as the licensed property." Elsewhere in the commentary, he jokes about "spinoff" entries.<ref name=":26" /> Other ideas for this treatment included [[Tom Bombadil]]<ref name=":25" /> and the [[Lothlórien|attack on Lorien]], with the entire expansion estimated at around three hours' worth.<ref name=":26" />

By the end of 2001, The success of ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]'' emboldened [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]<ref>Kristin Thompson, T''he Frodo Franchise: The Lord of the Rings and Modern Hollywoo''d (Berkeley: University of California Press, 2007), pp. 51, 327, 338.</ref> to pursue more films (he was also in discussions to "rekindle" ''King Kong'' at the time) and he had later discussed filming a "''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|Lord of the Rings]]'' prequel", along with ''[[The Hobbit]]'', with composer [[Howard Shore]] and executive producer [[Mark Ordesky]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2006/11/19/24053-peter-jackson-and-fran-walsh-talk-the-hobbit-2/|articlename=Peter Jackson and Fran Walsh Talk THE HOBBIT|author=Xoanon|dated=19 November 2006|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref><ref name=":35">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.rhino.com/article/interview-howard-shore-the-lord-of-the-rings|articlename=INTERVIEW: Howard Shore (“The Lord of the Rings”)|author=Will Harris|dated=27 April 2018|website=Rhino}}</ref> At a later premiere, [[New Line Cinema|New Line]]'s president Robert Shaye told [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s agent [[Ken Kamins]] that they "would want to have a conversation" about the two films.<ref name=":30" /> The idea at the time was to incorporate [[Arwen]] as a female character<ref name=":10">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20230327113046/https://ew.com/article/2003/12/06/peter-jackson-mulls-rings-prequel/|articlename=Peter Jackson mulls ''Rings'' prequel|author=Gary Susman|dated=6 December 2003|website=EW}}</ref> and produce both films back-to-back "in some short order"<ref name=":30">Ian Nathan, ''Anything You Can Imagine: Peter Jackson and the Making of Middle-earth'' (London: HarperCollins, 2019), pp. 827, 835.</ref> after ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'', in order to "complete the set of films.”<ref name=":10" /> Actors [[Andy Serkis]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2003/dec/09/jrrtolkien|articlename=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2003/dec/09/jrrtolkien|author=Anonymous|dated=9 Dec 2003|website=The Guardian}}</ref> [[Ian McKellen]], producer Barrie Osborne<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2002/12/16/25965-ttt-benefit-with-barrie-osborne-2/|articlename=TTT Benefit with Barrie Osborne
by|author=xoanon|dated=16 December 2002|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> and concept artist Paul Lasaine all expressed interest at the time.

Also around this time, [[Andy Serkis]] goes into some detail in his book ''[[Gollum: How We Made Movie Magic|Gollum: Howe We Made Movie Magic]]'' into how he imagined Smeagol's personality and upbringing. This conception of Smeagol would become imperative for the film all those years later: <blockquote>I was interested in trying to define Gollum's class and status in the community, and had thought that, coming from the wealthiest and largest Stoor family, he would probably never have really worked a day in his life. He probably skipped school and spent time squandering money that he had stolen from his grandmother's purse. It was a matriarchy and his grandmother was the head of his family, so I wondered how we might reflect this. We decided that some sort of neckerchief, maybe made of silk and a little flamboyant, might be a good idea. I liked the idea of carrying through the drug-addict metaphor, implying that he was like a young rich kid who had always had money in his pocket and was able to experiment with whatever took his fancy, like a Middle-earth version of a young playboy or a Victorian dandy.

We also examined the idea of his curious and inquisitive nature. I always saw Sméagol as a loner, not particularly liked, a bit of a Billy-no-friends, and not very good at team sports. He would have been thought of as a bit weird, and he would have secretly dreamed up vengeful scenarios for all the other Stoor hobbits, who completely ignored him. So, to cope with being so introverted and alienated, he became a collector, obsessed with the "roots and beginnings" of things. Objects became more important than people: at least they couldn't hurt him. Physically: I gave him a stoop from constantly looking down. I imagined him to be fairly narcissistic, spending hours fascinating himself by staring at his own reflection in the water while he fished. We decided to display this obsessive behavior through shiny pau shell buttons and little trophies of fish bones tied to his belt, as if he were adorning himself with fetishlike status symbols. Although he was dysfunctional, he was not evil or malicious, just, as the Travis Bickle character says of himself in Taxi Driver, full of "morbid self-attention.<ref>Andrew Serkis, [[Gollum: How We Made Movie Magic|''Gollum: How We Made Movie Magic'']] (London: HarperCollins, 2003), p. 58.</ref> </blockquote>While talking about ''[[The Hobbit]]'' in 16 September 2006, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] said they "have thought about it from time to time" and in fact "spent most of this morning" talking about the films. They talked of how "[[Elrond]], [[Galadriel]] and [[Arwen]] could all feature"<ref name=":11" /> and "[[Gollum]]'s sneaking into [[Mordor]] and [[Aragorn]] protecting [[The Shire]]. That's what we'd do. Love to work with [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] again".<ref name=":11">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/30085|articlename=Part 5: Quint and Peter Jackson talk THE HOBBIT and a potential return to low budget horror!!!|author=Eric Vespe|dated=16 September 2006|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]], hearing this remark in 2012, said it "sounds like a lot of fun".<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2012/03/13/54232-viggo-mortensens-visit-to-boston-part-2-new-video/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen’s visit to Boston – part 2 (new video!)|author=Greendragon|dated=13 March 2012|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref>

===During ''The Hobbit''===
Since the rights to [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']] were split with [[MGM|Metro Goldwyn-Mayer]], in March 2007 [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] pitched this to CEO Harry Sloan: he had already heard of it from [[New Line Cinema]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.ign.com/articles/2006/11/14/hobbit-crown-panther-news|articlename=Hobbit, Crown, Panther News|author=Anonymous|dated=15 Nov 2006|website=IGN}}</ref> who had previously fallen-out with [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]], but Sloan was won over by Jackson's pitch, which was apparently very detailed.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.kristinthompson.net/blog/2008/05/19/the-hobbit-films-pj-and-fw-know-every-scene-every-moment/|articlename=The Hobbit films: PJ and FW know “every scene, every moment”|author=Kristin Thompson|dated=19 May 2008|website=Kristinthompson.net}}</ref> By contrast, Shaye later said [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] "hasn't told us too much about it."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.screendaily.com/new-line-mgm-team-for-two-hobbit-movies-with-peter-jackson/4036350.article|articlename=New Line, MGM team for two Hobbit movies with Peter Jackson|author=Jeremy Kay|dated=18 December 2007|website=Screen Daily}}</ref>

By December, both films were moving forward with a budget of $150 million each: the idea was that [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]], [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] would write and produce and the films will be shot in 2009 for release in 2010 and 2011.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/del-toro-doubles-up-hobbit-103547/|articlename=Del Toro doubles up for ‘Hobbit’|author=Borys Kit|dated=28 January 2008|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> Robert Shaye, Michael Lynne and [[Mark Ordesky]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://variety.com/2008/film/columns/shaye-kept-new-line-afloat-1117982001/|articlename=Shaye kept New Line afloat|author=Anne Thompson|dated=7 March 2008|website=Variety}}</ref> were attached as executive producers until February, when they were replaced by Toby Emmerich and Carolyn Blackwood. Actor [[Ian McKellen|Ian Mckellen]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2008/mar/26/lordoftherings.jrrtolkien|articlename=Hard Hobbit to break: McKellen set for return as Gandalf|author=Anonymous|dated=26 March 2008|website=The Guardian}}</ref> assistant Matthew Dravitzky,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://if.com.au/guillermo-wants-old-buddies-to-join-him-on-the-hobbit/|articlename=Guillermo wants old buddies to join him on The Hobbit|author=Anonymous|dated=23 March 2009|website=IF FX}}</ref> composer [[Howard Shore]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/09/28/30045-howard-shore-is-working-on-hobbit-score/|articlename=Howard Shore is Working on Hobbit Score|author=28 September 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/02/24/28408-howard-shore-talks-hobbit-in-switzerland/|articlename=Howard Shore Talks ‘Hobbit’ in Switzerland|author=Calisuri|dated=24 February 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref>, [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]]<ref name=":38">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/10/22/30352-del-toro-interview-part-3-%E2%80%9Ci-love-new-zealand%E2%80%9D/|articlename=Del Toro Interview Part 3: “I Love New Zealand!”|author=Xoanon|dated=22 October 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> and [[Wētā FX|Weta FX]]<ref name=":37" /> were attached to the project. Although [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] hadn't ruled out directing - he later aired the notion of shooting second unit<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20081012042437/http://moviesblog.mtv.com/2008/10/08/guillermo-del-toro-to-fly-solo-on-hobbit-directing-duties-says-no-to-peter-jackson-assist/|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro To Fly Solo On ‘Hobbit’ Directing Duties, Says No To Peter Jackson Assist|author=Shawn Adler|dated=8 October 2008|website=MTV}}</ref><ref name=":17" /> - he soon picked [[Guillermo del Toro]] to direct.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/01/30/28331-torn-exclusive-del-toro-%e2%80%9c99-percent-certain%e2%80%9d-says-nl-insider/|articlename=TORN exclusive: Del Toro “99 percent certain” says NL insider.|author=MrCere|dated=30 January 2008|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref>

Subsequently, actors [[Andy Serkis]],<ref name=":17" /> [[Ian Holm]]<ref name=":15">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080501020820/http://www.mtv.com/movies/news/articles/1586421/story.jhtml|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro Addresses 'Hobbit' Fans' Concerns, Talks Possible Casting|author=Shawn Adler, Josh Horowitz|dated=28 April 2008|website=Premiere.com}}</ref>; concept artists [[Alan Lee]] and [[John Howe]]; prosthetics supervisor [[Gino Acevedo]]<ref name=":37">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/04/25/28747-guillermo-del-toro-chats-with-torn-about-the-hobbit-films/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro Chats with TORN About ‘The Hobbit’ Films!|author=Xoanon|dated=25 April 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> were all attached. They had approached [[Grant Major]] but he declined<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=http://www.artstars.us/grant-major/8/|articlename=Grant Major|author=Tom Lisowski|dated=14 November 2011|website=Art Stars}}</ref> and hopped onboard ''Green Lantern'' with costume designer Ngila Dickson: they were substituted by [[Dan Hennah]]<ref name=":32">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/51948|articlename=An Unexpected Journey: Quint on the set of The Hobbit Part 3 – Beginnings and Endings|author=Eric Vespe|dated=14 November 2011|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> and Kate Hawley.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.whowhatwear.com/living/who-what-wear-podcast-kate-hawley|articlename=How the Frankenstein Costume Designer Brought the Film to Life|author=Madeline Hill|dated=17 November 2025|website=Who What Wear}}</ref> Actors [[Martin Freeman]]<ref>In "The Road Back to Middle-earth", Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit'' (New Line Cinema: 2015), Philippa Boyens recalls proposing Freeman as Bilbo Baggins when she saw him at the 2003 BAFTAs.</ref> and [[Hugo Weaving]];<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.slashfilm.com/504115/guillermo-del-toro-confirms-hugo-weaving-for-the-hobbit-and-much-more/|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro Confirms Hugo Weaving For The Hobbit... And Much More|author=Brendon Connolly|dated=11 June 2009|website=Slash Film}}</ref> as well as [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]]'s regular collaborators (including artists Wayne Barlowe and Francisco Ruiz Velasco<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20081201164150/http://bilbohobbit.com/del-toro-talks-hobbit-in-live-chat/|articlename="Del Toro talks 'Hobbit' in Live Chat"|author=Alex|dated=27 November 2008|website=BilboHobbit.com}}</ref>) were also being sought beginning at this time.

"We got really excited," said [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]], "because this second film is not a ‘tag on’, it’s not ‘filler,’ it’s an integral part of telling the story of those 50 years of history lost in the narrative".<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://theplaylist.net/60-year-period-between-hobbi-20080425/|articlename=60-Year Period Between ‘The Hobbit’ & ‘Fellowship’ For Hobbit Sequel Suddenly Gone? Or Not?|author=Rodrigo Perez|dated=25 April 2008|website=The Playlist}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.gamesradar.com/guillermo-del-toro-talks-hobbit-and-more/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro talks Hobbit and more|author=Anonymous|dated=25 April 2008|website=Total Film}}</ref> Although he had a radical new vision for the designs in the first film, <ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080915124607/http://www.premiere.com/features/4642/exclusive-guillermo-del-toro-on-hellboy-ii-page4.html|articlename=Exclusive: Guillermo del Toro on 'Hellboy II'|author=Anonymous|website=Premiere}}</ref> [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] intended to use the second film to affect a gradual change of style towards that of [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]: "We have to recreate a lot of the stuff they did on the [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|trilogy]]," he said: helpfully, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had kept the [[Bag End]] and [[Rivendell]] sets, and they set about rebuilding [[Hobbiton]].<ref name=":32" />

[[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] also rewatched the extended editions with [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]], [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] and intended to watch the making-ofs, dailies "the camera reports... everything," particularly for ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080914124349/http://www.comingsoon.net/news/nycomicconnews.php?id=44254|articlename=EXCL: Del Toro on Hellboy II and The Hobbit|author=Edward Douglas|dated=21 April 2008|website=Coming Soon.net}}</ref> The remastering of ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'' was also begun around this time. This was done because [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] felt that it "has to evolve into the lensing, the color palette, the texture palette, and the feel of the [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|trilogy]]…"<ref name=":13">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/37428|articlename=Quint and Guillermo del Toro chat about HELLBOY II, THE HOBBIT and more!!!|author=Eric Vespe|dated=12 July 2008|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> partially for this purpose, a break was to be scheduled partway through the shoot,<ref name=":31">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080712175117/http://www.ifmagazine.com/feature.asp?article=2879|articlename=GUILLERMO DEL TORO ESCAPES 'LABYRINTH' AND ENDS RIGHT BACK INTO 'HELLBOY'|author=Carl Cortez|dated=9 July 2008|website=iFMagazine}}</ref> which was estimated at over 370 days.<ref name=":31" />

[[Guillermo del Toro|Guillermo]] insisted the second film would add to the series.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wReRe8Si2aU|articlename=Guillermo del Toro: RT's Dinner & the Movies Interview Pt 5|author=OCR|dated=11 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> He said "it’s also expanding and illuminating some of the aspects of the trilogy in a slightly different way, like same characters in a different environment. I find that very attractive."<ref name=":13" /> The idea was that the first film would be a retelling of [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']], including the bulk of the [[Dol Guldur]] storyline, up to [[Smaug]]'s death: the second would wrap-up the remainder of [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']] in its first half, and concern itself with the Hunt for [[Gollum]] and other "bridging" plot threads in its second half.<ref name=":14">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20120831093447/http://moviesblog.mtv.com/2008/10/07/hobbit-films-will-be-one-continuous-journey-promises-guillermo-del-toro/|articlename='Hobbit' Films Will Be One 'Continuous Journey,' Promises Guillermo Del Toro|author=Shawn Adler|dated=7 October 2008|website=MTV}}</ref>

Although [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] predicted the second film would require the most work,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2P0dTo0yNpQ|articlename=THE HOBBIT 1 & 2 MOVIE UPDATE|author=ReelzChannel|dated=7 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> both he<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JVHzVKy_F8w|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro talks about Hobbit Movie|author=Brettmartintv|dated=7 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] showed a particular eagerness towards it, with [[Guillermo del Toro|Guillermo]] calling it a "treasure trove of possibilities."<ref name=":16">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080915084029/http://www.mtv.com/movies/news/articles/1590278/story.jhtml|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro Answers 'Hobbit' Fans' Questions About Returning 'Rings' Cast, Religion And More|author=Shawn Adler|dated=2 July 2008|website=MTV}}</ref> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] was also "really looking forward to developing Film Two. It gives us a freedom that we haven't really had on our [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] journey."<ref name=":17" /> [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] concluded that "the promise of that land is absolutely mind-boggling!"<ref name=":16" />

Referring specifically to [[Gollum]]'s part in the events, [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] said "[[Gollum]] has a rather fascinating arch to go through and his alliance to [[Shelob]] or his period of imprisonment in [[Thranduil]]'s". [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] added that "There's an awful lot of incident that happens during that 60 year gap. At this stage, we're not imagining a film that literally covers 60 years, like a bio-pic or documentary. We would figure out what happens during that 60 years, and choose one short section of time to drop in and dramatise for the screen". Both filmmakers said they agreed that "apart from extreme circumstances, we would never recast a character who appeared in the [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|LOTR trilogy]]".<ref name=":17">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080730161821/http://www.wetanz.com/holics/index.php?itemid=695&catid=2|articlename=An Unexpected Party Chat|author=Anonymous|dated=30 July 2008|website=Weta Workshop website}}</ref> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] later remarked that, in some cases, they'd sooner write around a character than recast the part.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/41848|articlename=Comic-Con '09: Peter Jackson talks to Capone about DISTRICT 9, THE HOBBIT, and the state of the film industry!!!|author="Capone"|dated=28 July 2009|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref>

As of the formulation of these comments in July, [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] said the second film is "too early"<ref name=":13" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5YoRDF12aRc|articlename=GDT the Hobbit 1|author=Garfeimao TheOneRing|dated=14 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> in its development process to know precisely what it might entail, estimating that it would take six months to formulate the storyline for the film.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.ign.com/articles/2008/07/09/exclusive-gdt-on-the-hobbit|articlename=Exclusive: GDT on The Hobbit|author=Eric Moro and Stax|dated=10 July 2008|website=IGN}}</ref> By September, however, [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] claimed they "found what reverberated."<ref name=":14" /> [[Guillermo del Toro|Guillermo]] had expressed reservations about the term "bridge film" from the outset, but by now he and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] disabused of the term completely, having come to see the films as five undifferentiated parts of a greater whole.

Although they apparently made an outline,<ref name=":15" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/10/16/30296-guillermo-del-toro-i%e2%80%99m-so-voracious-about-the-hobbit/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro: “I’m so voracious about The Hobbit!”|author=Xoanon|dated=16 October 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> it seems the film went no further than this. Up until this point, del Toro had been video-conferencing with Jackson and the other collaborators, meeting in person every three weeks.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://variety.com/2008/film/features/guillermo-del-toro-booked-thru-2017-1117991560/|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro booked thru 2017|author=Michael Fleming|dated=3 September, 2008|website=Variety}}</ref> By the time he arrived to concentrate on writing the story treatment in November 2008<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=http://newboards.theonering.net/forum/gforum/perl/gforum.cgi?post=147373;guest=501771554#147373|articlename="Hola"|author=Guillermo del Toro|dated=8 November 2008|website=The One Ring Discussion Boards}}</ref><ref>Alfio Leotta, ''Peter Jackson'' (London: Bloomsbury Publishing, 2015), p. 196.</ref> the contents of the "bridge" film were being gradually edged-out by the contents of ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]],'' to the point that by the time the completed treatment was greenlit in April 2009<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2009/08/03/32999-peter-jackson-speaks/|articlename=Peter Jackson speaks|author=MrCere|dated=3 August 2009|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref> the films could only be described as a two-part adaptation of ''[[The Hobbit]],'' albeit with elements of the bridge film "integrated''."''<ref>Anonymous, "The Hobbit: Gollum, Bilbo, del Toro and Jackson," ''Empire'', April 2009.</ref> Although [[John Howe]] apparently sent [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] some sketches,<ref name=":38" /> and [[Howard Shore]] had musical ideas,<ref>TheOneRing, Hobbit Desolation of Smaug Music Commentary Watch Along, ''YouTube'', 29 July 2020. Esp. 1:12:15. One such musical idea dates back to the composition of ''The Fellowship of the Ring:'' the flat sixth setting of the Hobbits' bassline that's heard when Gandalf glimpses Thorin's map: Howard was saving that as a "portent of an adventure" towards a potential adaptation of The Hobbit, but by the stage of discussing with del Toro he would have realized it would be applicable to the "bridge" film as well.</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/30722|articlename=ScoreKeeper Talks To Howard Shore About THE TWO TOWERS Complete Recordings, THE HOBBIT, And More!!|author=Merrick|dated=16 November 2006|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> no more work was done on the bridge film. At this time, a [[The Hunt for Gollum|fan film on the same subject was released]], followed shortly by [[Born of Hope|a fan film about Aragorn's errantries]]. The latter of this gained a measure of approbation from [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s camp.

Even so, elements of the bridge film clung to the project for a long time: in 2013 [[Philippa Boyens]] said that "When we started structuring this trilogy we honestly thought about telling some of that. How [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]] becomes the uncle of [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] and take care of him. The story of [[Gollum]]…"<ref name=":9" /> Casting calls had been issued for the roles of [[Primula Brandybuck]] and [[Drogo Baggins]]:<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20201024010428/http://www.movies.spoilertv.com/2010/01/hobbit-casting-call.html#ixzz0btnyJvCI|articlename=Hobbit - Official Casting Call and Plot Details|author=DarkUFO|dated=4 January 2010|website=SpoilerTV}}</ref> While Caroline Grace-Cassidy was considered for [[Primula Brandybuck|Primula]], [[Ryan Gage]] was cast in the role of [[Drogo Baggins|Drogo]] and remained attached to it well into shooting, only being recast as [[Alfrid]] around May.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/cate-blanchett-revisiting-rings-role-57193/|articlename=Cate Blanchett Revisiting ‘Rings’ Role In ‘Hobbit’|author=Gregg Kilday|dated=7 December 2010|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]]'s cameo, which was originally rumoured to include him "moving to live at [[Bag End]] after the untimely drowning of [[Drogo Baggins|Drogo]] and [[Primula Brandybuck|Primula]]" was probably rewritten into its present form around that time.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=theonering.net/torwp/2014/03/25/87789-how-would-have-peter-jacksons-the-hobbit-looked-as-a-duology/|articlename=How would have Peter Jackson’s The Hobbit looked as a duology?|author=Demosthenes|dated=25 March 2014|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> They had scouted locations for the [[Barrow-downs|Barrow Downs]], possibly with a connection to the aforementioned "[[Aragorn]] protecting the [[The Shire|Shire]]" plot point.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://narniafans.com/2019/08/interview-with-narnia-conceptual-designer-john-howe/|articlename=Interview with Narnia Conceptual Designer John Howe|author=David Sutton|dated=18 August 2019|website=Narnia Fans.com}}</ref> More scenes were planned for the [[Dol Guldur]] story and the [[Orcs]]: they had gone as far as designing a young [[Gothmog (Lieutenant of Morgul)#Gothmog in adaptations|Gothmog]] who would participate in the concluding battle, but didn't utilize him.<ref name=":0" />

Another storyline concerned Itarille (later [[Tauriel]]) and her romance with an Elf lord of [[Rivendell]]: clearly an outgrowth of the original idea of featuring [[Arwen]] in the film. [[Aidan Turner]] seems to have read for the part of this Elf Lord. Indeed, Jackson recalled in 2015 that "We did try to figure out a way to get a cameo, even if it was a cameo, for [[Aragorn]] and actually for [[Arwen]], too: we tried to have [[Liv Tyler]] in the film".<ref name=":0" /> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] remarked in 2013 that they envisioned [[Aragorn]] being "quite young" in the film, but concluded that [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] "could have absolutely played" him at the time. "It was incredibly tempting."<ref name=":39">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TapH7wM8MdI&t=85s|articlename=Philippa Boyens ci parla delle scene tagliate dello Hobbit: la Desolazione di Smaug e di... Aragorn!|author=Badtaste|dated=11 December 2013|website=YouTube}}</ref> It's unclear when the idea finally died out: the scene "invoking [[Aragorn]]" was scripted in early 2013, as a "homage" to their earlier plans.

[[Viggo Mortensen]] had been interested in the project since 2007.<ref name=":43">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/09/18/29885-viggo-mortensen-still-waiting-for-guillermo-del-toro%E2%80%99s-%E2%80%98hobbit%E2%80%99-call/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen Still Waiting For Guillermo Del Toro’s ‘Hobbit’ Call|author=Xoanon|dated=18 September 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref name=":44" /> Although it was reported that [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] had held conversations with him<ref name=":43" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thetimes.com/uk/law/article/hobbit-movies-meet-dire-foe-in-son-of-tolkien-lxnpmnsd2rp|articlename=Hobbit movies meet dire foe in son of Tolkien|author=John Harlow|dated=25 May 2008|website=The Times}}</ref> these appear to have not taken place before 2010. In 2008 [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] said he would "rather do it myself than see another actor finish the job for me,"<ref name=":44" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/12/17/30804-tv-watch-viggo-mortensen-on-night-talk/|articlename=TV Watch: Viggo Mortensen on ‘Night Talk’|author=Xoanon|dated=17 December 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/39305|articlename=Capone has a GOOD chat with Viggo Mortensen about politics, THE ROAD, APPALOOSA, and THE HOBBIT!!!|author=Steve Prokopy|dated=11 May 2009|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> saying "it would be fun."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://ohnotheydidnt.livejournal.com/41460224.html|articlename=Moviefone's Exclusive Viggo Mortensen Interview!|author=Anonymous|dated=25 November 2009|website=Moviefone}}</ref> Other actors from [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'']] have also expressed interest in appearing in the film, including [[Liv Tyler]], <ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2011/03/21/42863-liv-tyler-not-contacted-for-hobbit/|articlename=Liv Tyler Not Contacted For Hobbit|author=DiveTwin|dated=21 March 2011|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> [[Cate Blanchett]],<ref name=":16" /> [[Dominic Monaghan]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.firstshowing.net/2009/dominic-monaghan-ready-to-return-for-the-hobbit-movies/|articlename=Dominic Monaghan Ready to Return for The Hobbit Movies?|author=Brandon Lee Tenney|dated=19 January 2009|website=First Showing}}</ref> [[Sean Astin]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2009/03/10/31356-astin-up-for-hobbit-if-hobbit-up-for-him/|articlename=Astin up for Hobbit if Hobbit up for him|author=Xoanon|dated=10 March 2009|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref name=":44" /> [[John Noble]] and [[Sean Bean]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.digitalspy.com/movies/a434476/sean-bean-on-the-hobbit-absence-theyre-sticklers-for-detail/|articlename=Sean Bean on 'The Hobbit' absence: 'They're sticklers for detail'|author=Emma Dibdin|dated=30 October 2012|website=Digital Spy}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://theplaylist.net/viggo-mortensen-optimistic-about-role-20090401/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen Optimistic About Role In Del Toro’s ‘Hobbit’, Project Extends To A Trilogy?|author=Simon Dang|dated=1 April 2009|website=The Playlist}}</ref> [[Christopher Lee]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://whatculture.com/film/christopher-lee-wants-sarumann-return-in-the-hobbit|articlename=Christopher Lee wants Saruman return in THE HOBBIT|author=Matt Holmes|dated=25 June 2011|website=WhatCulture}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5qGFbBNnodw&t=77s|articlename=Christopher Lee about possibly returning to Middle Earth|author="Rushblogg"|dated=12 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> [[Brad Dourif]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/09/12/29751-brad-dourif-on-returning-to-middle-earth/|articlename=Brad Dourif on Returning to Middle-earth|author=Deej|dated=12 September 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> [[John Rhys-Davies]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/the-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy-makeup-difficulties-explained-john-rhys-davies/|articlename=John Rhys-Davies Reveals Gruesome Makeup Process for Gimli in The Lord of the Rings [Exclusive]|author=Aidan Kelley and Steven Weintraub|dated=9 August 2025|website=Collider}}</ref> and [[Elijah Wood]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/11/16/30565-elijah-hobbit-appearance-concievably-possible/|articlename=Elijah – Hobbit appearance ‘concievably possible’|author=Altaira|dated=16 November 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.firstshowing.net/2008/elijah-wood-confirms-dual-hobbit-movie-details/|articlename=Elijah Wood Confirms Dual Hobbit Movie Details|author=Alex Billington|dated=11 January 2008|website=First Showing}}</ref>

Around 2010, [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] recieved an availability call<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2013/may/28/viggo-mortensen-interview|articlename=Viggo Mortensen interview: 'If I think a film's beyond me – that's a good sign'|author=Imogen Tilden|dated=28 May 2013|website=The Guardian}}</ref> from [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]: "I said sure, if [[Aragorn]] is supposed to be in the bridge story, because he’s not in [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']]."<ref name=":1">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2013/05/30/72294-viggo-turned-down-role-as-aragorn-not-so-fast/|articlename=Viggo ‘Turned Down’ Role as Aragorn? Not so fast…|author=Newsfrombree|dated=30 May 2013|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.wired.com/2012/03/viggo-mortensen-speaks-2/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen Speaks: Part 2 of 3|author=Ethan Gilsdorf|dated=11 March 2012|website=Wired.com}}</ref> Informed that they "can take certain liberties" he said he'd "love to revisit him."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/films/features/viggo-mortensen-interview-captain-fantastic-lord-of-the-rings-aragorn-hobbit-david-cronenberg-a7231826.html|articlename=Viggo Mortensen interview: 'I didn't throw Peter Jackson under the bus'|author=Jacob Stolworthy|dated=23 January 2017|website=The Independent}}</ref> However, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] later revealed that since that call, they "could think of no way of doing it".<ref name=":0" /> Having no further contact, and knowing that "[[Orlando Bloom]] and [[Cate Blanchett]] shot something,"<ref name=":44">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://viggo-works.com/?fromday=1&frommonth=6&fromyear=2006&today=25&tomonth=2&toyear=2026&order=date&page=243&selectedcat=262&ascdesc=DESC&filter=Go&m=on|articlename=Viggo Mortenson Dangerous Method Interview|author=Anonymous|dated=25 November 2011|website=Movies.com}}</ref>[[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] concluded in November 2011 that "[[Aragorn]] is half [[Elves|elf]] [sic] and also lives a couple hundred years or more and he could be in a bridge, but I have to assume it isn't going to happen".<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reuters.com/article/lifestyle/rings-actor-mortensen-unlikely-to-repeat-role-idUSTRE7AM2U9/|articlename="Rings" actor Mortensen unlikely to repeat role|author=Kurt Orzeck|dated=24 November 2011|website=Reuters}}</ref> Although he still has misgivings - "It would make sense if Aragorn was part of the story and he's not"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.scotsman.com/arts-and-culture/interview-viggo-mortensen-is-lord-of-all-things-1573949|articlename=Interview: Viggo Mortensen is lord of all things|author=Chitra Ramaswamy|dated=25 May 2013|website=The Scotsman}}</ref> - he said he would still be open to playing [[Aragorn]] "if it seemed sensible to do so".<ref name=":1" />

===After ''The Hobbit''===

Conversations about making the "bridge film" as a third instalment<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.firstshowing.net/2009/guillermo-del-toro-updates-on-the-hobbit/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro Briefly Talks More About The Hobbit Split|author=Alex Billington|dated=5 June 2009|website=First Showing}}</ref> continued well into 2010:<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://geeksofdoom.com/2009/08/19/bridge-between-the-hobbit-lord-of-the-rings-still-to-be-built-peter-jackson-to-direct-third-movie|articlename=[Updated] Bridge Between ‘The Hobbit’ & ‘Lord Of The Rings’ Still To Be Built? Peter Jackson To Direct Third Movie?|author="The Movie God"|dated=19 August 2009|website=Geeks of Doom}}</ref> In 2012, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had revealed that "a third movie has always been in discussion."<ref>Michael Pellerin, "The Clouds Burst", Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies'' (New Line Cinema: 2015).</ref> These conversations resumed - now with the film situated as a fourth movie - as [[The Hobbit (film series)|''The Hobbit'']] was winding down in 2013. Says [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]]: "There’s enough story there to make a bridge movie, you know, there’s 60 years between ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'' and a lot of things happened."<ref name=":9">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.heyuguys.com/interview-peter-jackson-the-hobbit-the-desolation-of-smaug/|articlename=The HeyUGuys Interview: The Hobbit director Peter Jackson all but rules out a return to Middle Earth|author=Stefan Pape|dated=13 December 2013|website=HeyUGuys}}</ref> In the director's commentary to ''[[The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies|The Battle of the Five Armies]]'' in 2015, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] remained open to the idea of making more films, and mused about what Jackson jokingly calls "A fictitious film 3.5" which [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] goes on to call "The Hunt for Gollum".<ref name=":0">Peter Jackson, Philippa Boyens, "Director's Commentary," Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies'' (New Line Cinema: 2015).</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] said it could include "a few other things that go on which are really interesting" like [[Saruman]]'s search for the [[The One Ring|Ring]]. She elaborates:<blockquote>''[[Aragorn]] really is one who tracks Gollum and ends up...and finds him eventually in the [[Dead Marshes]], and he's taken [[Woodland Realm|to the Elves]]. And he's taken to the Elves, and because of the kindness of the Elves - and [[Legolas]] is one of his keepers... in [[Mirkwood]], and through their kindness he actually manages to escape. Or has he escaped? Or was he let loose?''<ref name=":0" /></blockquote>[[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had kept the possibility of returning to [[Middle-earth]] open<ref name=":0" /> but [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] revealed that they "had zero expectations of going back to this."<ref name=":7">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2024/05/the-lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-peter-jackson-andy-serkis-philippa-boyens-explain-23-years-after-cannes-saved-original-trilogy-1235917510/|articlename=Peter Jackson, Andy Serkis & Philippa Boyens Explain Why They’re Returning To Middle-Earth For ‘The Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum’ 23 Years After Cannes Saved The Billion-Dollar Franchise|author=Mike Fleming Junior|dated=15 May 2024|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://uk.movies.yahoo.com/don-t-expect--the-hobbit-3--to-lead-directly-into--the-lord-of-the-rings-140402150.html|articlename=The Hobbit 3 won't lead into The Lord of the Rings|author=Tom Butler|dated=11 December 2013|website=Yahoo Entertainment UK}}</ref> Their ultimate decision to return to this premise may have been stirred, in part, by other projects: first, Jackson had seen the in-development video game ''[[Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor|Shadow of Mordor]],'' on which [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]] and others from Jackson's crew had worked, and which had nestled itself into the gap between ''[[The Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]].''<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.ign.com/articles/2014/02/20/why-lord-of-the-rings-fans-should-be-excited-for-shadow-of-mordor|articlename=Why Lord of the Rings Fans Should Be Excited for Shadow of Mordor|author=Luke Karmali|dated=20 February 2014|website=IGN}}</ref>

Shortly afterwards, when the [[Tolkien Estate]] (still nominally under [[Christopher Tolkien]]) shopped the television rights, the idea of doing a show about young [[Aragorn]] was pitched, first by Netflix, and then - at the suggestion of the Russo brothers<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-features/the-rings-of-power-showrunners-interview-season-2-1235233124/|articlename=‘The Rings of Power’ Showrunners Break Silence on Backlash, Sauron and Season 2|author=James Hibberd|dated=5 October 2022|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> - by [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon Prime Video]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=http://newboards.theonering.net/forum/gforum/perl/gforum.cgi?post=946980;sb=post_time;so=DESC;forum_view=forum_view_collapsed;guest=206510448#947231|articlename=If you will indulge me in a story|author="Uncle Iorlas"|dated=21 July 2018|website=The One Ring.net Message Boards}}</ref> Upon hearing this, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]]' mind immediately went to the period of the hunt: "If you're telling the [story of] him hunting [[Gollum]], you're getting closer to [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]]."<ref name=":21">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.fandom.com/articles/peter-jackson-lord-of-the-rings-series|articlename=Peter Jackson’s Tips For Casting Aragorn in Lord of the Rings TV Show|author=Kim Taylor-Foster|dated=4 December 2018|website=Fandom.com}}</ref> She and Jackson had also expressed interest in the potential of [[Aragorn]]'s younger days and life in [[Rivendell]]: "He's probably going to have to start young,"<ref name=":21" /> remarked Boyens, concluding that "A lot of the early [[Aragorn]] story hasn't been told."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.stuff.co.nz/entertainment/film/108970711/philippa-boyens-on-mortal-engines-hobbits-and-going-solo|articlename=Philippa Boyens on Mortal Engines, Hobbits and going solo|author=Philip Matthews|dated=16 December 2018|website=Stuff.nz}}</ref> [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortesen]] also got wind of the rumours and said he's open to reprising his role.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/viggo-mortensen-interview-falling-lord-of-the-rings/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen on Falling, Directing, and LOTR TV Show Interest|author=Christina Radish|dated=14 February 2021|website=Collider}}</ref>

Toby Emmerich and Carolyn Blackwood from [[New Line Cinema]] were brought into the fold in the hopes of cooperating on the show. In early 2018 lawyer Peter Nelson set-up "dialogue between [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon]]" to participate as executive producer.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/how-lord-rings-tv-series-landed-at-amazon-not-netflix-1099213/|articlename=Inside Amazon’s $250M ‘Lord of the Rings’ Deal: “It’s Very Much a Creature of the Times”|author=Tatiana Siegel|dated=5 April 2018|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20210308114202/https://www.herr-der-ringe-film.de/v3/de/news/tolkienfilme/news_121920.php|articlename=Exklusiv: Zu den Kulissen der HERR DER RINGE Serie, Her Der Ringe Film (archived).|author=Cirdan|dated=20 June 2018|website=Herr der Ringe.de}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.stuff.co.nz/entertainment/celebrities/108520139/sir-peter-jackson-hasnt-given-up-hope-of-making-the-dam-busters|articlename=Sir Peter Jackson hasn't given up hope of making The Dam Busters|author=James Croot|dated=12 November 2018|website=NZStuff}}</ref> Preoccupied with ''Mortal Engines'' and ''They Shall Not Grow Old'', [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] proposed in June 2018 to review the scripts and put "the creative team together."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://de.ign.com/tv/129313/interview/peter-jackson-ist-fur-das-kreative-team-hinter-der-herr-der-ringe-serie-verantwortlich|articlename=Peter Jackson ist für das kreative Team hinter der Herr der Ringe-Serie verantwortlich|author=Valentin Aschenbrenner|dated=5 June 2018|website=IGN.de}}</ref> In July, Amazon landed on [[John D. Payne]] and [[Patrick McKay]] as showrunners, and before any work could be done, a regime change in [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon Prime Video]]<ref name=":19">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/peter-jackson-amazon-lord-of-the-rings-tv-series-1235193692/|articlename=Peter Jackson Says Amazon’s ‘Lord of the Rings’ TV Series Ghosted Him|author=James Hibberd|dated=5 August 2022|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> in early 2019 resulted in [[New Line Cinema]] being demoted to a "minority licensee stakeholder."<ref name=":20">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/lord-of-the-rings-amazon-vs-warner-bros-1235337625/|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings’: Amazon, Warner Bros. Ready for Tolkien Battle|author=James Hibberd|dated=28 February 2023|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> Although the showrunners had asked to meet [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]],<ref name=":19" /> COVID prevented this from taking place.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2022/02/10-burning-questions-about-amazons-the-rings-of-power?srsltid=AfmBOopmlhLKVkCtSqkuvTTAcUtyQUICWXopTWLQq_1tu4aEf1ICrDLp|articlename=10 Burning Questions About Amazon’s The Rings of Power|author=Joanna Robinson|dated=14 February 2022|website=Vanity Fair}}</ref> While the show used a substantial number of his crew, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] were reportedly "very frustrated that so many believed they were involved with [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon]]’s show."<ref name=":20" /> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had avoided watching the show to prevent "cross-contamination."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.slashfilm.com/1693866/why-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy-screenwriter-wont-watch-the-rings-of-power/|articlename=Why One Lord Of The Rings Trilogy Screenwriter Won't Watch The Rings Of Power|author=Jaron Pak|dated=21 October 2024|website=Slash Film}}</ref> Since then, the show had left [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s home country of [[New Zealand]].

Already in 2019, the show's development had galvanized Emmerich and Blackwood to pursue an animated film with [[Middle-earth Enterprises]] (who were not involved in the show) and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]. The bridge film might have been the "CG-animated" story that [[New Line Cinema|New Line]] "had been exploring with Sir [[Peter Jackson]]" but it failed to materialize and they decided to pursue ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim]]''<ref>Daniel Falconer, ''The Art of The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim'' (Wiliam Murrow: London, 2025), pp. 9-10.</ref>. Later on, Emmerich and Blackwood were replaced by Michael de Luca and Pam Abdy, who were "striving to keep [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon]] from blurring the lines too much between" the show and the films.<ref name=":20" /> Other projects like [[Tales of the Shire: A "The Lord of the Rings" Game|''Tales of the Shire'']], the remastering of the six films to Ultra High Definition and renovations of [[Hobbiton]] were begun shortly afterwards, as well.

After this long gestation period, ''The Hunt for Gollum'' entered development once again in 2022. [[Andy Serkis]] was attached as director in October 2023 and story meetings occurred as early as May 2024, along with early availability calls to actors like [[Ian McKellen]] and [[Viggo Mortensen]] between that time and early September. By that point, the writing of the treatment was underway, followed by the first draft in January-May. After some crew hiring in August, pre-production started in early September 2025 ahead of shooting in May 2026.

==Development==
In 2022 the new administration of [[Middle-earth Enterprises]] expressed a desire to make more films, including ones "based on iconic characters, such as [[Gandalf]], [[Aragorn]], [[Gollum]], [[Galadriel]], [[Éowyn|Eowyn]] and other characters."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/lord-of-the-rings-rights-embracer-1235201442/|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings,’ ‘The Hobbit’ Movie, Games and Other Rights Holder Sold to Swedish Gaming Company Embracer|author=Georg Szalai|dated=18 August 2022|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]], [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] kept updated throughout the negotiations to extend [[New Line Cinema]]'s lease on the rights.<ref name=":4" />

Having "really enjoyed working with [[Kenji Kamiyama]], who directed ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|War of the Rohirrim]]''," [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] signed on to produce two new films: [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] denied<ref name=":22" /> rumours that this involved splitting the [[Gollum]] story,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2024/05/lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-cast-plot-everything-we-know-1235919922/|articlename=‘The Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum’: Everything We Know So Far|author=Dessi Gomez|dated=16 May 2024|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://filmstories.co.uk/news/the-lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-its-two-films-says-ian-mckellen/|articlename=The Lord Of The Rings: Hunt For Gollum {{!}} “It’s two films” says Ian McKellen|author=Ryan Lambie|dated=11 September 2024|website=Film Stories}}</ref> and at various times her and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] expressed interest in subjects varying from the [[Battle of Dale|War in the North]], Young [[Aragorn]], or certain vignettes from [[Rohan]] or [[Gondor]]'s history, which are all possible for the second film.<ref name=":23">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1i97ctm/the_next_film_after_the_hunt_for_gollum/|articlename=The next film after The Hunt for Gollum: Everything we know so far|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=25 January 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> These are probably ''not'' the other two scripts [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had been working on, however.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.indiewire.com/news/general-news/peter-jackson-not-retired-working-on-three-scripts-1235138316/|articlename=Peter Jackson Is Working on Three Screenplays: ‘I’m Certainly Not Retired’|author=By Rance Collins|dated=13 July 2025|website=IndieWire}}</ref>

Signing on the films was done with the intention to jump-start a new slate of ''Lord of the Rings'' prequels for [[New Line Cinema]],<ref name=":18" /><ref name=":24" /> with [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also expressing interest in making an "epic trilogy", probably about the [[Angmar conflict|Angmar War]].<ref name=":23" /> However, having developed the [[Gollum]] premise for so long, they decided to start with it. Asked about unrealized projects in 2024, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] observed that "there's a lot of that in ''The Hunt for Gollum.''"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9LdzKS584wA&t=614s|articlename=Lord of the Rings: War of the Rohirrim Interviews! Peter Jackson Role Explained|author=Brandon Davis|dated=29 October 2024|website=YouTube}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis]], who played [[Gollum]], had directed second unit on ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King|The Return of the King]]'' and ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]<ref name=":7" />'' and had since become a director in his own right, as well as narrating audiobooks of Tolkien's novels. [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] approached [[Andy Serkis|Andy]] around October 2023.<ref name=":24">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ssUmmuU-Bmk&t=76s|articlename=Andy Serkis Talks Motion Capture, Gollum, and Directing {{!}} Superhero Comic Con San Antonio 2024 Q&A|author=Freeman Coliseum|dated=24 June 2024|website=YouTube}}</ref> While developing the story, they already made availability checks to key cast and crew members.

===Writing===
Story meetings have happened at least as early as May 2024<ref name=":7" /> and by July they were about to start writing,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/comconnireland/status/1835962321211904490|articlename=Andy Serkis took to the stage at Comic Con Northern Ireland to talk all things Lord of the Rings and more!|author=@comconnireland|dated=16 September 2024|website=Twitter}}</ref> with [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] spotted at the [[Hobbiton]] set in November with writers [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] and Arty Papageorgiou, producers [[Zane Weiner]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/05/lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-release-date-1236390022/|articlename=‘Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum’ Sets Pre-Christmas 2027 Release|author=Anthony D'Alessandro|dated=8 May 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> and Carlos Ramirez Laloli.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.elfenomeno.com/info/ver/23481/comienza-el-rodaje-de-el-senor-de-los-anillos-la-caza-de-gollum-en-hobbiton|articlename=¿Comienza el rodaje de El Señor de los Anillos: La Caza de Gollum en Hobbiton?|author=Elfenomeno|dated=6 November 2024|website=Elfenomeno.com}}</ref> By December they had been in the process of writing the story treatment.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/lord-of-the-rings-war-of-the-rohirrim-arty-papageorgiou-phoebe-gittins/|articlename="Who Better for a Gollum Film Than Gollum Himself?": 'War of the Rohirrim' Writers on Working with Andy Serkis in 'The Hunt for Gollum'|author=Therese Lacson|dated=16 December 2024|website=Collider}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] later estimated they would finish writing by the middle of the year - executive Pamela Abdy since put the completion of the script at May<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/04/warner-bros-mike-de-luca-pam-abdy-courage-in-face-of-brutal-press-coverage-1236366618/|articlename=Warner Bros’ Mike De Luca & Pam Abdy: Playing Long Game, Mixing IP Like ‘Bodyguard’ Revamp & Bold Originals & Animation Despite Brutal Press|author=Mike Fleming Junior|dated=11 April 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> - and begin "scouting locations and building [sets]" with shooting due to begin towards the beginning of 2026.<ref name=":5">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.1news.co.nz/2024/12/15/exclusive-andy-serkis-philippa-boyens-on-the-hunt-for-gollum/|articlename=Exclusive: Andy Serkis, Philippa Boyens on new Lord of the Rings film|author=Abbey Wakefield|dated=15 December 2024|website=1News}}</ref> As a result, the release date for the film was ultimately delayed from 2026 to 17 December 2027.<ref name="TheDirect2027Release">{{webcite|author=Klein Felt|articleurl=https://thedirect.com/article/hunt-for-gollum-movie-lord-of-the-rings-release-official|articlename=Lord of the Rings: Hunt for Gollum Movie Gets Release Window from Andy Serkis|dated=27 Feb 2025|website=[https://thedirect.com The Direct]|accessed=27 Feb 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://variety.com/2025/film/news/lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-release-date-december-2027-1236390820/|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum’ Sets December 2027 Release Date; Warner Bros. Also Dates New ‘Evil Dead’ and M. Night Shyamalan Movies for 2026|author=Zack Sharf|dated=8 May 2025|website=Variety}}</ref>

A draft of the screenplay had been sent to de Luca and Abdy in May, probably prior to the investor meeting on the 8th, when [[Warner Bros.|Warner]]'s CEO David Zaslav announced the official release date.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://voicefilm.com/david-zaslav-announces-that-the-release-date-for-the-next-lord-of-the-rings-movie-will-be-revealed-today/|articlename=David Zaslav Announces That the Release Date for the Next ‘Lord of the Rings’ Movie Will Be Revealed Today|author=Mark|dated=8 May 2025|website=Voice Film}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.comicbasics.com/warner-ceo-david-zaslav-says-they-will-focus-more-on-their-main-ips-like-harry-potter-and-dc-in-the-future-those-belong-to-us-and-theyll-only-belong-to-us-forever/|articlename=Warner CEO David Zaslav Says They Will Focus More on Their Main IPs Like ‘Harry Potter’ and DC in the Future: “Those belong to us, and they’ll only belong to us forever.”|author=Arthur S. Poe|dated=8 May 2025|website=Comic Basics}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had since revealed that the film is due to start pre production in August<ref name=":33">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1krwz8d/andy_serkis_the_lord_of_the_rings_the_hunt_for/|articlename=Andy Serkis Panel at Fan Expo Philadelphia 2025|author=FandomWire News|dated=19 May 2025}}</ref> - when the film started hiring crew - then ammended to "late August to early September"<ref name=":18" />, with [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] ultimately arriving in [[Wellington]] circa 8 September to begin work on the film.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://metro.co.uk/2025/09/03/andy-serkis-admits-cant-escape-gollum-ahead-lord-rings-return-24066270/amp/|articlename=Andy Serkis admits he ‘can’t escape Gollum’ ahead of Lord of the Rings return|author=Sabrina Barr|dated=3 September 2025|website=Metro UK}}</ref> Serkis had left New Zealand during the holiday season, attending the premiere of "28 Years Later: The Bone Temple" before flying back to New Zealand: en rote he landed in Los Angeles.<ref name=":41">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.tmz.com/2026/01/20/andy-serkis-wants-original-lord-of-the-rings-cast-in-new-film/|articlename=LOTR' Star Andy Serkis: OG Cast Is Precious, Love 'Em For New Flick|author=Anonymous|dated=20 January 20 2026|website=TMZ}}</ref>

==Pre production==
[[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had further said preproduction will last for six months,<ref name=":27">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.comingsoon.it/cinema/news/in-un-mondo-alla-deriva-gollum-ci-salvera-la-nostra-intervista-ad-andy/n203564/|articlename=In un mondo alla deriva Gollum ci salverà: la nostra intervista ad Andy Serkis|author=Carola Proto|dated=25 June 2025|website=Coming Soon.it}}</ref> with [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] later confirming it will start filming in May<ref name=":12">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1msw9fp/the_lord_of_the_rings_the_hunt_for_gollum_starts/|articlename=The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum starts shooting in May, says Sir Ian McKellen. "I'll tell you two secrets about the casting..."|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=17 August 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> for an extended shooting period:<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-filming-update-andy-serkis/|articlename=Director Andy Serkis Offers Huge Filming Update For 'The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum' [Exclusive]|author=Chris McPherson and Steven Weintraub|dated=10 June 2025|website=Collider}}</ref> This puts the beginning of filming in [[New Zealand]] winter and, deducting the holidays, six months after [[Andy Serkis|Andy]]'s arrival. Location scouting may have taken place at Hawke's Bay as early as June<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1lis26w/a_location_scout_for_the_lord_of_the_rings_the/|articlename=A location scout for The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum seems to be snooping around Hawke's Bay, New Zealand|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=23 June 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> and later at the Waikato.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.waikatotimes.co.nz/nz-news/360837801/aliens-warriors-heroes-princesses-and-gollum-big-productions-filmed-and-possibly-coming-waikato|articlename=Aliens, warriors, heroes, princesses ... and Gollum: The big productions filmed in (and possibly coming to) the Waikato|author=Mike Mather|dated=1 October 2025|website=Waikato Times}}</ref> They had also watched the films sometime prior to November.<ref>Latino USA TV, "How Movie Monsters Are Really Made!", YouTube, 26 November 2025.</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] also spoke appreciatively of [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s penchant for behind the scenes extras, suggesting a similar approach to the film.<ref name=":33" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/gu1jj7/one_zoom_to_rule_them_all_reunited_apart_lord_of/|articlename=One Zoom to Rule Them All {{!}} Reunited Apart LORD OF THE RINGS Edition|author=Josh Gad|dated=31 May 2021|website=}}</ref> In October, [[Andy Serkis|Andy]] revealed that they're developing prosthetics.<ref name=":34">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1og2b4p/andy_serkis_says_all_the_art_department_from_lord/|articlename=Andy Serkis says "all the art department" from Lord of the Rings are "excited to come back." They started location scouting and camera tests.|author=u/Lord_Varys92|dated=25 October 2024|website=Reddit}}</ref>

Since [[Elijah Wood]], slated to appear in the film, is on tour through to early September,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://parade.com/news/lord-of-the-rings-hobbits-25-years-later-reunion-tour|articlename=The Hobbits Are Back Together — and Their Big News Has Fans Cheering|author=Whitney Danhauer|dated=25 October 2025|website=Parade}}</ref> his scenes might be scheduled for [[New Zealand]] summer, which could suggest shooting ''in situ'' in [[Hobbiton]], presumably depicting [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] dallying outside [[Bag End]] while [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]] and [[Gandalf]] argue within, as depicted in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]''. [[Ian McKellen]] is also hoping to join the production in [[New Zealand as Middle-earth|New Zealand]] during July.<ref>The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, "There's Nothing I Enjoy More Than Acting In The Theater" - Ian McKellen EXTENDED INTERVIEW," ''YouTub''e, 5 February 2026.</ref>

===Crew===
The film, said to be "one of the most expensive feature films to be shot in [[New Zealand]]"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/new-lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-film-will-be-shot-in-nz-set-for-2027-release/3BDNB3QFKJDAVGB4ODOTQ63YLY/|articlename=New Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum film will be shot in NZ, set for 2027 release|author=Tom Rose|dated=18 June 2025|website=New Zealand Herald}}</ref> is expected to draft alums of the ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|Lord of the Rings]]'', ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|War of the Rohirrim]]'' (many of whom will have also worked on ''[[The Rings of Power]]'' Season One and other projects) working in the [[Wellington]] and greater New Zealand screen sector.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thepost.co.nz/nz-news/350274670/film-heavyweights-alight-over-lotr-comeback|articlename=Film heavyweights ‘alight’ over LOTR comeback|author=Rachel Thomas|dated=10 May 2024|website=The New Zealand Post}}</ref><ref name=":5" /> Crewing began in early August, with Wood since confirming the involvement of production designer [[Dan Hennah]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IX5NhkyQ710|articlename=Elijah Wood en Monterrey/ conferencia de la DesertCon|author=Asi SoyTv|dated=6 October 2025|website=YouTube}}</ref> and set decorator Ra Vincent might also be involved.<ref name=":34" /> Although [[Janet Brennan Croft|Janet Brennan-Croft]] acted as [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] consultant on previous films, Beppe Pezzini will fill this role for this film.<ref>Educational Media Services | University of Oxford, "Beppe Pezzini on Classics and Fantasy | Fantasy Summer School ‪@facultyofenglishoxford‬," ''YouTube'', 23 September 2025.</ref>

IMDb credits Bob Buck as ''a'' costume designer for the film: it remains to be seen if Ngila Dickson, having just wrapped ''Predator: Badlands'' with [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]], might return. Kate Hawley, who was attached to del Toro's version of the film, is unlikely to take part due to work on "Bad Bridgets."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/10/daisy-edgar-jones-emilia-jones-bad-bridgets-luckychap-1236604481/|articlename=Daisy Edgar-Jones And Emilia Jones To Star In ‘Bad Bridgets’ From LuckyChap|author=Justin Kroll|dated=31 October 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> Liz Mullane and Rachel Bullock head the New Zealand casting sweep. Both [[Wētā FX|WetaFX]] and [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]] are confirmed for the project,<ref name=":8">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt32328070/companycredits/?ref_=tt_dt_cmpy|articlename=The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum (2027)|author=Anonymous|website=IMDb}}</ref> as are [[Gino Acevedo]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.instagram.com/p/DRy30vUkme7/|articlename="Oh no!"|author=Ginoacevedofx|dated=3 December 2025|website=Instagram}}</ref> [[John Howe]] and [[Alan Lee]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://ggba.swiss/en/the-lord-of-the-rings-nature-and-switzerlands-hidden-history-a-conversation-with-john-howe/|articlename=The Lord Of The Rings, Nature and Switzerland’s Hidden History (A Conversation with John Howe)|author=Woody Wade|dated=10 December 2025|website=Greater Geneva Bern Area}}</ref> In April - by which point a composer was already said to be attached to the project - [[Howard Shore]] said he was interested to "see how that all works out."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.classical-music.com/articles/howard-shore|articlename=Howard Shore: the film composer behind Hannibal Lecter and Bilbo Baggins|author=Michael Beek|dated=16 April 2025|website=Classical Music.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://en.softonic.com/articles/the-composer-of-the-soundtrack-for-the-lord-of-the-rings-made-a-cameo-in-the-movies-and-no-one-noticed#google_vignette|articlename=The composer of the soundtrack for The Lord of the Rings made a cameo in the movies and no one noticed|author=Agencias|dated=26 December 2025|website=Softonic}}</ref>

As early as October, [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] suggested that they're "doing camera tests."<ref name=":34" /> This is said to include miniature photography, with Alex Funke said to participate, even if only in an advisory position. On the live action side, although Richard Bluck (who filmed with [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]], and might shoot second unit) had been mentioned, it appears the film will be lensed by Robert Richardson.<ref name=":34" /> While the film was in the story conference stage in July 2024, Richardson said he had "a number" of projects "on the constantly-shifting horizon of the film industry."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.filmlightcolourawards.com/colour-awards-2024/jury-colour-awards-2024/robert-richardson-cinematographer-asc-ack/|articlename=Robert Richardson, Cinematographer, ASC, ACK|author=Anonymous|dated=18 July 2024|website=Film Light Colour Awards}}</ref> One of these projects was a Hannibal epic, whose delay freed Richardson to lens the film.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.worldofreel.com/blog/2025/7/23/michael-part-1-delayed-to-april-2026|articlename=‘Michael’ Delayed to April 2026|author=Jordan Ruimy|dated=23 July 2025|website=World of Reel}}</ref>

The film is a co-production of [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s [[WingNut Films|WingNut films]] and [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]]' ''Imaginarium''. [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] will executive produce with his ''Imaginarium'' partner John Cavendish and Jackson's agent [[Ken Kamins]].<ref name="Gollum">{{webcite|author=Jennifer Maas|articleurl=https://variety.com/2024/film/news/lord-of-the-rings-movie-2026-release-warner-bros-1235997102/|articlename=Warner Bros. to Release New ‘Lord of the Rings’ Movie ‘The Hunt for Gollum’ in 2026, Peter Jackson to Produce and Andy Serkis to Direct|dated=9 May 2024|website=[https://variety.com/ Variety]|accessed=8 June 2024}}</ref> IMDb also credits studio chiefs Michael de Luca (who helped produce [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'']]), Pam Abdy and David Zaslav as executive producers<ref name=":8" /> and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] mentioned [[Warner Bros.|Warners]]' business consultant Alan Horn (who had produced ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]])'' as a collaborator, but these credits have yet to become official.<ref name=":7" />

===Cast===
With [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] due to star as [[Gollum]], approaches had been made to [[Ian McKellen|Sir Ian McKellen]]<ref name=":2">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2024/09/ian-mckellen-return-gandalf-new-the-lord-of-the-rings-films-1236075547/|articlename=Ian McKellen Reveals He’s Been Approached To Reprise His Role As Gandalf In Andy Serkis’ New ‘The Lord Of The Rings’ Films|author=Jake Kanter|dated=2 September 2024|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> and [[Viggo Mortensen]] to reprise [[Gandalf]] and [[Aragorn]], respectively. [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] said he's in talks to reprise "a little bit" of [[Gandalf]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.mirror.co.uk/3am/celebrity-news/sir-ian-mckellan-i-thought-36196617|articlename=EXCLUSIVE: Sir Ian McKellan: 'I thought I was a goner, but I'm coming back as Gandalf'|author=Marc Baker and Jackie Annett|dated=5 November 2025|website=The Mirror}}</ref> in [[New Zealand]].<ref name=":42">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thetimes.com/culture/tv-radio/article/ian-mckellen-an-ark-lowry-lord-of-the-rings-f9wc9nmdq|articlename=Ian McKellen at 86: ‘I’ve had to accept that I’m not immortal’|author=Jonathan Dean|dated=14 February 2026|website=The Times}}</ref> As of December, the contracts with [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] and [[Elijah Wood|Wood]] hadn't been finalized,<ref name=":40" /> but [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] expressed a desire to return to [[New Zealand]] for filming. [[Liv Tyler]], [[Evangeline Lilly]] and, especially, [[Orlando Bloom]] have also expressed interest in reprising their parts,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.nme.com/news/film/the-lord-of-the-rings-cast-say-they-would-jump-to-return-for-new-spin-off-movies-3853893|articlename=‘The Lord Of The Rings’ cast say they would “jump” to return for new spin-off movies|author=Damian Jones|dated=11 April 2025|website=NME}}</ref> while [[Dominic Monaghan]] expressed a desire to visit the set.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://nypost.com/2025/11/06/entertainment/dominic-monaghan-reveals-plans-for-next-lord-of-the-rings-movie/|articlename=Dominic Monaghan reveals big plans for next ‘Lord of the Rings’ movie — including possible return as Merry
By|author=Eric Todisco|dated=6 November 2025|website=New York Post}}</ref> [[Evangeline Lilly|Lilly]] had proceeded to do so, but indicated that she will have no further involvement with the project. [[Orcs]] are set to appear in the film, with [[Shane Rangi]] and [[Lawrence Makoare]] having reportedly been contacted.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/thelegacyofnerd/status/1979621220246344016|articlename=BREAKING: ‘The Hunt For Gollum’ Begins Filming in May 2026|author=@thelegacyofnerd|dated=8 October 2025|website=Twitter}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]]' comments about seeing the interiors of [[Barad-dûr|Barad Dur]] might suggest the involvement of [[Benedict Cumberbatch]].<ref name=":36">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lYYSsook-4Y|articlename=Philippa Boyens ('ESDLA: LA GUERRA DE LOS ROHIRRIM'): "Queríamos que se sintiera como algo nuevo"|author=eCartelera|dated=10 December 2024}}</ref>

[[Andy Serkis|Serkis]], [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had all spoke to [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]],<ref name=":3">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://theplaylist.net/the-war-of-the-rohirrim-philippa-boyens-on-the-new-anime-the-hunt-for-gollum-the-future-of-the-lord-of-the-rings-20241223/|articlename=‘The War Of The Rohirrim’: Philippa Boyens On The New Anime, ‘The Hunt For Gollum’ & The Future Of ‘The Lord of the Rings’|author=Rodrigo Perez|dated=23 December 2024|website=The Playlist}}</ref> who had previously said he'd be "open to it" if it makes sense for "the age I am now"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.gq-magazine.co.uk/article/viggo-mortensen-interview-2024|articlename=Viggo Mortensen re-used Aragorn's sword in new movie The Dead Don't Hurt “Because it's really good”|author=Rafael Motamayor|dated=28 May 2024|website=GQ}}</ref> but after [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] pitched it to him as "Digital make-up" they agreed he'd wait to read the script: With the approach to [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] happening sometime between June<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thetimes.com/culture/film/article/ian-mckellen-if-this-is-my-last-job-id-better-get-it-right-hadnt-i-n3t38g6tb|articlename=Ian McKellen: ‘When a script arrives, I think this might be my last job’|author=Dominic Maxwell|dated=8 June 2024|website=The Times of London}}</ref> and September,<ref name=":2" /> the approach to [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] may have taken place in mid-June, just prior to an interview in which [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] said "The script is the most important thing to me", seemingly no longer harping on the age quota.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/viggo-mortensen-lord-of-the-rings-script-feminism-1235935628/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen on Respecting Audiences, How Scripts Are Key “Unless I’m Broke,” New ‘LOTR’ Films|author=Georg Szalai|dated=30 June 2024|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] said they need to "drag" him.<ref name=":36" />

While in London for ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]]'' premiere, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also "had lunch with an [[Elves|Elf]] lord" who "would fall into that story."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.instagram.com/nerdoftherings/reel/DDgKw47uxkJ/|articlename="Philippa Boyens teases an “elf lord” returning for Hunt for Gollum! "|author=Matt Graf|dated=12 December 2024|website=Instagram}}</ref> Although this could refer to [[Orlando Bloom|Bloom]] or even [[Marton Csokas]], [[Lee Pace]] is the most likely as he was shooting ''The Running Man'' in London at the time.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://people.com/glen-powell-films-running-man-reboot-37-years-after-arnold-schwarzenegger-movie-8745529|articlename=Glen Powell Films Running Man Remake in London 37 Years After Original Arnold Schwarzenegger Movie|author=Jen Juneau|dated=14 November 2024|website=People}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had since divulged that they expect "some of the cast who were originally in" ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'', as well as "some incredible new talent."<ref name=":28">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.jedinews.com/events/articles/indiana-comic-con-andy-serkis-full-panel/|articlename=Indiana Comic Con: Andy Serkis Full Panel|author=James Burns|dated=11 April 2025,|website=Jedi News}}</ref> [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] had since confirmed that [[Gandalf]] and [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]], surely to be played by himself and [[Elijah Wood|Wood]], are scheduled to reappear in the piece.<ref name=":12" />

Casting seems to have started in November,<ref name=":40">Steve Schofield ''et al'', "25 Years of Fellowship", ''Empire'' (March 2026), pp. 46-70.</ref> with young boys auditioning for the boy [[Gollum|Smeagol]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/KnightGambit/status/2011815291198849220|articlename=Small Tidbit.....|author=Caleb Williams|dated=16 January 2026|website=Twitter}}</ref> and two of his fellow [[Stoors|Stoor]] riverfolk - a young girl and a young adult boy - in what looks like a setup for [[Gollum|Smeagol]]'s preoccupation with a birtday present. Actors in their early thirties auditioned for a young "[[Aragorn|Strider]]",<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://knightedgemedia.com/2026/01/the-hunt-for-gollum-casting-call-teases-young-strider-and-his-fellow-dunedain-rangers/#google_vignette|articlename=‘The Hunt for Gollum’ Casting Call Teases Young Strider and His Fellow Dúnedain Rangers|author=Caleb Williams|dated=16 January 2026|website=Knight Edge Media}}</ref> with 29-year old Leo Woodall reportedly tipped for the role.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://knightedgemedia.com/2026/03/rumor-leo-woodall-cast-as-strider-in-lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum/#google_vignette|articlename=RUMOR: Leo Woodall Cast as Strider in ‘Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum’|author=Caleb Williams|dated=7 March 2026|website=Knight Edge Media}}</ref> While there had been reports that the studio is not hoping to get Viggo<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/ViewerAnon/status/1998489358849159181?s=20|articlename=I can confirm this|author=ViewerAnon|dated=9 December 2025|website=Twitter}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had spoken about potentially having to "hand off"<ref name=":3" /> from [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]], and rumours had pointed to the inexpediency of the deaging.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://3dvf.com/en/a-cult-actor-from-the-lord-of-the-rings-on-the-departure-the-question-arises-for-the-prequel-dedicated-to-gollum/#google_vignette|articlename=A Cult Actor from The Lord of the Rings on the Departure? The Question Arises for the Prequel Dedicated to Gollum|author=Quentin Couprie|dated=13 December 2025|accessed=3DVF}}</ref> The age differential - Mortensen was 42 while shooting ''Lord of the Rings'' - may well suggest scenes alternating between this younger character, and either an old [[Aragorn|Elessar]] and/or the "mature" [[Aragorn]] of the [[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|''Fellowship of the Ring'']] era.''<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://medium.com/p/dcf21faf019e|articlename=The Hunt for Gollum and the Aragorn problem|author=Chen Geller|website=Medium}}</ref>'' [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had earlier spoke of meeting [[Aragorn]] when he was "quite young" in ''[[The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies|The Battle of the Five Armies]],'' but not so young that it didn't seem plausible to her to have [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] play him circa 2011''.<ref name=":39" />'' The audition scene, although not necessarily representative of the film, also implies the presence of the other [[Rangers of the North|Rangers]], perhaps including [[Halbarad]]. A younger Strider could also feature in a "Young Aragorn" picture.

Serkis had since reaffirrmed that he would "love the old cast" back.<ref name=":41" /> Other roles auditioned for include women in their thirties and fifities: the latter is said to be Smeagol's grandmother, now confirmed as a "lead" role, with Kate Winslet relocating to New Zealand for five months. The thirties' part<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://knightedgemedia.com/2026/03/the-hunt-for-gollum-lead-female-characters-casting-are-underway-exclusive/#google_vignette|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum’ Lead Female Characters Casting Are Underway (EXCLUSIVE)|author=Caleb Williams|dated=5 March 2026|website=Knight Edge Media}}</ref> is reportedly circled by Anya Taylor-Joy. Some presume this to be [[Arwen]], but if so the quota is older than [[Liv Tyler]], who was 23 at the time of [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'']].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://medium.com/@chenngeller/on-aragorn-and-other-castings-a6e55668fce9?postPublishedType=repub|articlename=On Aragorn, Stoors and other castings|author=Chen Geller|dated=11 March 2026|website=Medium}}</ref>

==Plotline==
The exact events the film covers remain undisclosed. There's ambiguity concerning both the exact timeframe for the film, and whether it will focus more on [[Gollum]] or [[Aragorn]]. An official "blurb" for the movie reads: "The pic explores [[Aragorn]]’s adventures as a [[Rangers of the North|ranger]], specifically his quest to capture [[Gollum]] between [[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]] and [[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|Fellowship of the Ring]], tracking him to keep the [[The One Ring|Ring]]’s location from [[Sauron|Sauron."]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2026/01/box-office-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy-25th-anniversary-1236689724/|articlename=‘Lord Of The Rings’ Trilogy 25th Anniversary Event Rings Up $11M In Worldwide Box Office|author=Anthony D'Alessandro|dated=19 January 2026|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> A more extended synopsis had also been circulating:<blockquote>Before the Fellowship, one creature's obsession holds the key to Middle-earth's survival -- or its demise. In The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum, we meet young Smeagol -- an outsider drawn to trinkets and mischief -- long before The One Ring consumed him and began his tragic descent into the tortured, deceitful creature Gollum. With the ring lost and carried away by Bilbo Baggins, Gollum finds himself compelled to leave his cave in search of it. Gandalf the Grey calls upon Aragorn, still known as the ranger Strider, to track the elusive creature whose knowledge of the whereabouts of the ring could tip the balance toward the Dark Lord Sauron.
Set in the shadowed time between Bilbo's birthday disappearance and the Fellowship's formation, this perilous journey through Middle-earth's darkest corners reveals untold truths, tests the resolve of its future king, and explores the fractured soul and backstory of Gollum, one of Tolkien's most enigmatic characters.

Directed by original cast member Andy Serkis, produced by Peter Jackson, and written & produced by Fran Walsh and Phillipa Boyens -- the creative team behind the Oscar-winning trilogy -- this live-action movie bridges the beloved films with new characters, returning heroes, and a deeply engaging origin story that resets the stage for, and changes everything you know about the legendary Lord of the Rings trilogy.</blockquote>Strictly speaking, [[Aragorn]]'s hunt for [[Gollum]] begins during the events depicted in Jackson's [[The Fellowship of the Ring (2001 film)|''The Fellowship of the Ring'']], and in October, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] said the story "falls after the [[Bilbo's Farewell Party|birthday party of Bilbo]] and before the Mines Of [[Moria]]".<ref name=":22">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.empireonline.com/movies/news/lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-wont-be-two-films-second-philippa-boyens-exclusive/|articlename=The Hunt For Gollum Won’t Be Two Films, But A Second LOTR Film Is Incoming, Philippa Boyens Confirms|author=Ben Travis|dated=18 October 2024|website=Empire}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] added that the role of [[Aragorn]] is "very central" to the movie.<ref name=":36" /> Andy called the storyline "pivotal."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1md7lim/the_lord_of_the_rings_the_hunt_for_gollum_andy/|articlename=The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum - Andy Serkis says "this part of the story is pivotal"|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=30 July 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> [[Ian McKellen]] had described the plot as "[[Aragorn]] trying to find [[Gollum]] with [[Gandalf]] directing operations from the sidelines."<ref name=":42" />

However, ''a'' hunt for [[Gollum]] is begun by the [[Silvan Elves]] after Gollum first leaves the [[Misty Mountains|mountains]] in search of [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]], and in December Jackson said the film "tells us what happened to [[Gollum]] between ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' - end of [[The Hobbit (film series)|''The Hobbit'']] - and the beginning of ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]''".<ref name=":6">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/red-carpet-premiere-for-the-lord-of-the-rings-the-war-of-the-rohirrim/P3BS7U5NPS5EMFLPUV4SYSYFDU/|articlename=Red carpet premiere for The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|author=Mitchell Hageman|dated=11 December 2024|website=New Zealand Herald}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had since confirmed this timeframe: "It sits, kind of, in the timeline between ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' - between losing the [[The One Ring|Ring]] to [[Bilbo Baggins]] - and ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]''."<ref name=":18">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?t=1218&v=U-dw8DQDf90&feature=youtu.be|articlename=Kazakhstan feels like the center of the world - Andy Serkis {{!}} Interview of the Day|author=Silk Way / Qazaqstan|dated=15 July 2025|website=YouTube}}</ref> [[Dol Guldur]], the [[Nazgûl|Nazgul]] and [[Orcs]] are all said to potentially play part in the film.

[[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also alluded to other storylines: "we are finding a lot of threads of story that are surprising in there when you really go in there and examine it".<ref name=":29">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.slashfilm.com/1734018/philippa-boyens-lord-of-the-rings-war-of-the-rohirrim-exclusive-interview/|articlename=War Of The Rohirrim's Philippa Boyens Reveals Details About The Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum [Exclusive Interview]|author=Ben Pearson|dated=13 December 2024|website=/Film}}</ref> Events as varied as [[Aragorn]]'s sojourn in [[Lothlórien|Lórien]] with [[Arwen]], the fall of [[Balin's folk]], [[Boromir]]'s quest for [[Rivendell]] and much else occur concurrent to the time of the Hunt.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1iutc9r/building_bridges_so_what_happens_between_the/|articlename=Building Bridges: So, what happens between the trilogies that The Hunt for Gollum could possibly cover?|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=21 February 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> "You see the layers and layers of story that’s underneath there and how interconnected they all are", she adds.<ref name=":3" /> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] also made comments to this effect: "Some pretty interesting stuff happens that we reference in passing in [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The'' ''Lord of the Rings'']], but there’s a lot of more deep detail to it."<ref name=":6" />

[[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] adds that "We get to go to some places that we've never been before" in Middle-earth." One such place - only glimpsed in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|Fellowship of the Ring]]'' - is the interiors of [[Barad-dûr|Barad Dur]].<ref name=":36" /> Both she and Serkis alluded to new characters<ref name=":28" /><ref name=":5" /> and new dramatic situations, saying it's "surprising"<ref name=":7" /><ref name=":27" /><ref name=":29" /> and could be enjoyed be people wo don't know the novels.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.amica.it/video-post/andy-serkis-dirigero-signore-anelli-tornero-batman/|articlename=Andy Serkis, da Gollum a regista: «Dirigerò “Il Signore degli Anelli” e tornerò con Batman»|author=Emanuele Bigi|dated=27 June 2025|website=Amica}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also shared that one of the practicalities they were busy figuring out in the writing is "How does he [<nowiki/>[[Aragorn]]] pick up his scent? How does he find his trail, how does it happen?"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://nerdist.com/article/nerdist-philippa-boyens-interview-the-war-of-the-rohirrim-the-lord-of-the-rings-future/|articlename=Philippa Boyens Talks the Future of THE LORD OF THE RINGS Movies and Naming a Tolkien Character in THE WAR OF THE ROHIRRIM|author=by Rotem Rusak|dated=19 December 2024|website=Nerdist}}</ref>

==Cast==
{| class="wikitable mw-collapsible"
|- style="background: var(--tg-color-surface-2);"
!Actor!!Role
|-
|[[Andy Serkis]]||[[Gollum]]<ref name="Gollum"></ref>
|-
|[[Elijah Wood]]
|[[Frodo Baggins]]<ref name=":12" />
|-
|[[Ian McKellen]]
|[[Gandalf]]<ref name=":12" />
|}

{{title|italics}}

{{references}}

{{screen}}

[[Category:Films]]

[[fi:The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum]]

The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum

2026-03-11T19:13:00Z

Chen Geller:

{{Disambig-two|the 2027 film adaptation|2009 fan film|[[The Hunt for Gollum]]}}
{{film infobox
| image =
| caption =
| name = The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum
| director = [[Andy Serkis]]
| producer = [[Peter Jackson]] [[Fran Walsh]] [[Philippa Boyens]] [[Zane Weiner]]
| writer = [[Fran Walsh]] [[Philippa Boyens]] Phoebe Gittins Arty Papageorgiou
| narrator =
| starring = [[Andy Serkis]]<ref name=Gollum></ref> [[Elijah Wood]] [[Ian McKellen]] Kate Winslet
| music =
| cinematography =
| editing =
| studio = WingNut films Imaginarium [[New Line Cinema]]<ref name=Gollum></ref>
| distributor = [[Warner Bros.|Warner Bros. Pictures]]<ref name=Gollum></ref>
| released = 17 December [[2027]]<ref name="TheDirect2027Release"/>
| runtime =
| country = [[New Zealand]]<ref name=Gollum></ref>
| language = English
| budget =
| website =
|imdb_id=32328070
|basedon=[[The Lord of the Rings]]|production design=[[Dan Hennah]] (Production designer)}}
'''''The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum''''' is the title (originally, working title<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/09/curtis-brown-jrr-tolkien-literary-estate-deal-1236526748/|articlename=Curtis Brown To Rep J.R.R. Tolkien’s Literary Estate|author=Jesse Whittock|dated=10 September 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref>) of a forthcoming film adaptation currently in pre-production and set for a [[2027]] release, the first of a planned series of Tolkien films to be produced by [[New Line Cinema]], a division of [[Warner Bros.|Warner Brothers]].<ref name=":4">{{webcite|author=Matt Donnelly|articleurl=https://variety.com/2023/film/news/lord-of-the-rings-new-movies-warner-bros-1235533672/|articlename=New ‘Lord of the Rings’ Movies Set at Warner Bros. |dated=23 February 2023|website=[https://variety.com/ Variety]|accessed=10 June 2024}}</ref>

The film will cover [[Gollum]]'s travels after losing [[The One Ring|the Ring]] to [[Bilbo Baggins]] (as depicted in [[The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey|''An Unexpected Journey'']]), through [[Gandalf]] setting out to track the creature after [[Bilbo's Farewell Party]] (as depicted in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]'') and down to [[Gollum]] intercepting [[Fellowship of the Ring|the Fellowship]] in [[Moria|Moria.]]

It will be directed by and star [[Andy Serkis]], who played [[Gollum]] in [[Peter Jackson]]'s previous films, as well as directing second unit. [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] will produce with his co-writing team of [[Fran Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens]], who will also write the screenplay with ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]]'' scribes Phoebe Gittins and Arty Papageorgiou.

The subject of this film is a longstanding fascination of [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s who developed it quite intensly in 2008 with [[Guillermo del Toro]]. The film is in preproduction with several cast and crew members from previous films already attached, including actor [[Elijah Wood]], concept artists [[John Howe]] and [[Alan Lee]] and others.

==Early Development==
Although the film was only announced in 2023, it had a long gestation period with [[Peter Jackson]], who considered filming this subject since circa 1997, and at least as late as July 2015. During 2008, in particular, the film was in development with a plot synopsis, a tentative budget and an initial cast and crew attached, and drew the attention of further talent like [[Viggo Mortensen]], as well as the press. Elements of this proposed "bridge film" were eventually put into ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' but mostly axed during the early months of the shoot. Jackson also negotiated in 2018 about producing a show for [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon Prime]] about the related subject of the travels of young [[Aragorn]], but ended up producing ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]]'' with [[New Line Cinema]] instead.

===During ''The'' ''Lord of the Rings''===
[[Peter Jackson]] read [[The Lord of the Rings|''The Lord of the Rings'']] circa 1979, and he claims that he "always loved the concept that when [[Gandalf]] leaves [[Bag End]] he goes and joins up with [[Aragorn]] and the two of them hunt [[Gollum]] down."<ref name=":26">Peter Jackson, Philippa Boyens, Fran Walsh, "Director's Commentary", Peter Jackson, ''The Lord of the Rings trilogy'' (New Line Cinema: 2004).</ref> This piece of backstory was also expanded upon in the [[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)|radio serial]], which [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] was very familiar with. He and [[Fran Walsh]] first pitched a trilogy based on [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']] and ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'' around November 1995.<ref>Brian Sibley, Peter Jackson: A Filmmaker's Journey (London: HarperCollins, 2006), pp. 312 ff.</ref><ref>J. W Braun, ''The lord of the films : the unofficial guide to Tolkien's Middle-Earth on the big screen'' (Toronto: ECW Press, 2009), pp. 20, 63, 68-69, 195.</ref><ref>Michael Pellerin, "Completing Middle-earth," Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit'' (Warner Brothers: 2015).</ref> They may well have had the [[Gollum]] episode in mind at some time between that point and early 1997. So long as they intended to start with ''The Hobbit'' (up to early 1996), they will have been mindful of the need to connect the two novels, and while their treatment (mid 1997) doesn't seem to cover the [[Gollum]] episode, it already dramatizes the remainder of the backstory that's given in "[[The Shadow of the Past]]", "[[The Council of Elrond]]" and [[appendix B]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1j06oqh/so_what_is_the_hunt_for_gollum_really_based_on/|articlename=So, what is The Hunt for Gollum REALLY based on?|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=28 February 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> When the project expanded (September 1998) to three films, Jackson tried to finally incorporate this storyline - some eight pages' worth - but realized that he "just couldn't put [the Hunt for [[Gollum]]] into the movie".<ref name=":26" />

[[Peter Jackson|Peter]] nevertheless publicly expressed a desire to film "[[Gandalf]] and [[Aragorn]] hunting [[Gollum]], and his capture by [[Orcs]]"<ref name=":25">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://members.tripod.com/peter_jackson_online/lotr/articles/20_questions2.htm|articlename=20 QUESTIONS WITH PETER JACKSON- PART 2|author=Harry Knowles|dated=31 December 1998|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> At the time, the idea was to shoot this as additional material and add it into the extended edition: although by early 2001 he would have realized this could not be accomodated in the pickups to ''The Fellowship of the Ring'', in 2003 he would still half-jokingly talk about shooting more pickups to "fatten these films out without technically going beyond ‘[[The Lord of the Rings]]’ as the licensed property." Elsewhere in the commentary, he jokes about "spinoff" entries.<ref name=":26" /> Other ideas for this treatment included [[Tom Bombadil]]<ref name=":25" /> and the [[Lothlórien|attack on Lorien]], with the entire expansion estimated at around three hours' worth.<ref name=":26" />

By the end of 2001, The success of ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]'' emboldened [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]<ref>Kristin Thompson, T''he Frodo Franchise: The Lord of the Rings and Modern Hollywoo''d (Berkeley: University of California Press, 2007), pp. 51, 327, 338.</ref> to pursue more films (he was also in discussions to "rekindle" ''King Kong'' at the time) and he had later discussed filming a "''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|Lord of the Rings]]'' prequel", along with ''[[The Hobbit]]'', with composer [[Howard Shore]] and executive producer [[Mark Ordesky]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2006/11/19/24053-peter-jackson-and-fran-walsh-talk-the-hobbit-2/|articlename=Peter Jackson and Fran Walsh Talk THE HOBBIT|author=Xoanon|dated=19 November 2006|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref><ref name=":35">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.rhino.com/article/interview-howard-shore-the-lord-of-the-rings|articlename=INTERVIEW: Howard Shore (“The Lord of the Rings”)|author=Will Harris|dated=27 April 2018|website=Rhino}}</ref> At a later premiere, [[New Line Cinema|New Line]]'s president Robert Shaye told [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s agent [[Ken Kamins]] that they "would want to have a conversation" about the two films.<ref name=":30" /> The idea at the time was to incorporate [[Arwen]] as a female character<ref name=":10">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20230327113046/https://ew.com/article/2003/12/06/peter-jackson-mulls-rings-prequel/|articlename=Peter Jackson mulls ''Rings'' prequel|author=Gary Susman|dated=6 December 2003|website=EW}}</ref> and produce both films back-to-back "in some short order"<ref name=":30">Ian Nathan, ''Anything You Can Imagine: Peter Jackson and the Making of Middle-earth'' (London: HarperCollins, 2019), pp. 827, 835.</ref> after ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'', in order to "complete the set of films.”<ref name=":10" /> Actors [[Andy Serkis]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2003/dec/09/jrrtolkien|articlename=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2003/dec/09/jrrtolkien|author=Anonymous|dated=9 Dec 2003|website=The Guardian}}</ref> [[Ian McKellen]], producer Barrie Osborne<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2002/12/16/25965-ttt-benefit-with-barrie-osborne-2/|articlename=TTT Benefit with Barrie Osborne
by|author=xoanon|dated=16 December 2002|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> and concept artist Paul Lasaine all expressed interest at the time.

Also around this time, [[Andy Serkis]] goes into some detail in his book ''[[Gollum: How We Made Movie Magic|Gollum: Howe We Made Movie Magic]]'' into how he imagined Smeagol's personality and upbringing. This conception of Smeagol would become imperative for the film all those years later: <blockquote>I was interested in trying to define Gollum's class and status in the community, and had thought that, coming from the wealthiest and largest Stoor family, he would probably never have really worked a day in his life. He probably skipped school and spent time squandering money that he had stolen from his grandmother's purse. It was a matriarchy and his grandmother was the head of his family, so I wondered how we might reflect this. We decided that some sort of neckerchief, maybe made of silk and a little flamboyant, might be a good idea. I liked the idea of carrying through the drug-addict metaphor, implying that he was like a young rich kid who had always had money in his pocket and was able to experiment with whatever took his fancy, like a Middle-earth version of a young playboy or a Victorian dandy.

We also examined the idea of his curious and inquisitive nature. I always saw Sméagol as a loner, not particularly liked, a bit of a Billy-no-friends, and not very good at team sports. He would have been thought of as a bit weird, and he would have secretly dreamed up vengeful scenarios for all the other Stoor hobbits, who completely ignored him. So, to cope with being so introverted and alienated, he became a collector, obsessed with the "roots and beginnings" of things. Objects became more important than people: at least they couldn't hurt him. Physically: I gave him a stoop from constantly looking down. I imagined him to be fairly narcissistic, spending hours fascinating himself by staring at his own reflection in the water while he fished. We decided to display this obsessive behavior through shiny pau shell buttons and little trophies of fish bones tied to his belt, as if he were adorning himself with fetishlike status symbols. Although he was dysfunctional, he was not evil or malicious, just, as the Travis Bickle character says of himself in Taxi Driver, full of "morbid self-attention.<ref>Andrew Serkis, [[Gollum: How We Made Movie Magic|''Gollum: How We Made Movie Magic'']] (London: HarperCollins, 2003), p. 58.</ref> </blockquote>While talking about ''[[The Hobbit]]'' in 16 September 2006, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] said they "have thought about it from time to time" and in fact "spent most of this morning" talking about the films. They talked of how "[[Elrond]], [[Galadriel]] and [[Arwen]] could all feature"<ref name=":11" /> and "[[Gollum]]'s sneaking into [[Mordor]] and [[Aragorn]] protecting [[The Shire]]. That's what we'd do. Love to work with [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] again".<ref name=":11">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/30085|articlename=Part 5: Quint and Peter Jackson talk THE HOBBIT and a potential return to low budget horror!!!|author=Eric Vespe|dated=16 September 2006|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]], hearing this remark in 2012, said it "sounds like a lot of fun".<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2012/03/13/54232-viggo-mortensens-visit-to-boston-part-2-new-video/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen’s visit to Boston – part 2 (new video!)|author=Greendragon|dated=13 March 2012|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref>

===During ''The Hobbit''===
Since the rights to [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']] were split with [[MGM|Metro Goldwyn-Mayer]], in March 2007 [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] pitched this to CEO Harry Sloan: he had already heard of it from [[New Line Cinema]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.ign.com/articles/2006/11/14/hobbit-crown-panther-news|articlename=Hobbit, Crown, Panther News|author=Anonymous|dated=15 Nov 2006|website=IGN}}</ref> who had previously fallen-out with [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]], but Sloan was won over by Jackson's pitch, which was apparently very detailed.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.kristinthompson.net/blog/2008/05/19/the-hobbit-films-pj-and-fw-know-every-scene-every-moment/|articlename=The Hobbit films: PJ and FW know “every scene, every moment”|author=Kristin Thompson|dated=19 May 2008|website=Kristinthompson.net}}</ref> By contrast, Shaye later said [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] "hasn't told us too much about it."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.screendaily.com/new-line-mgm-team-for-two-hobbit-movies-with-peter-jackson/4036350.article|articlename=New Line, MGM team for two Hobbit movies with Peter Jackson|author=Jeremy Kay|dated=18 December 2007|website=Screen Daily}}</ref>

By December, both films were moving forward with a budget of $150 million each: the idea was that [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]], [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] would write and produce and the films will be shot in 2009 for release in 2010 and 2011.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/del-toro-doubles-up-hobbit-103547/|articlename=Del Toro doubles up for ‘Hobbit’|author=Borys Kit|dated=28 January 2008|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> Robert Shaye, Michael Lynne and [[Mark Ordesky]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://variety.com/2008/film/columns/shaye-kept-new-line-afloat-1117982001/|articlename=Shaye kept New Line afloat|author=Anne Thompson|dated=7 March 2008|website=Variety}}</ref> were attached as executive producers until February, when they were replaced by Toby Emmerich and Carolyn Blackwood. Actor [[Ian McKellen|Ian Mckellen]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2008/mar/26/lordoftherings.jrrtolkien|articlename=Hard Hobbit to break: McKellen set for return as Gandalf|author=Anonymous|dated=26 March 2008|website=The Guardian}}</ref> assistant Matthew Dravitzky,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://if.com.au/guillermo-wants-old-buddies-to-join-him-on-the-hobbit/|articlename=Guillermo wants old buddies to join him on The Hobbit|author=Anonymous|dated=23 March 2009|website=IF FX}}</ref> composer [[Howard Shore]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/09/28/30045-howard-shore-is-working-on-hobbit-score/|articlename=Howard Shore is Working on Hobbit Score|author=28 September 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/02/24/28408-howard-shore-talks-hobbit-in-switzerland/|articlename=Howard Shore Talks ‘Hobbit’ in Switzerland|author=Calisuri|dated=24 February 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref>, [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]]<ref name=":38">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/10/22/30352-del-toro-interview-part-3-%E2%80%9Ci-love-new-zealand%E2%80%9D/|articlename=Del Toro Interview Part 3: “I Love New Zealand!”|author=Xoanon|dated=22 October 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> and [[Wētā FX|Weta FX]]<ref name=":37" /> were attached to the project. Although [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] hadn't ruled out directing - he later aired the notion of shooting second unit<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20081012042437/http://moviesblog.mtv.com/2008/10/08/guillermo-del-toro-to-fly-solo-on-hobbit-directing-duties-says-no-to-peter-jackson-assist/|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro To Fly Solo On ‘Hobbit’ Directing Duties, Says No To Peter Jackson Assist|author=Shawn Adler|dated=8 October 2008|website=MTV}}</ref><ref name=":17" /> - he soon picked [[Guillermo del Toro]] to direct.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/01/30/28331-torn-exclusive-del-toro-%e2%80%9c99-percent-certain%e2%80%9d-says-nl-insider/|articlename=TORN exclusive: Del Toro “99 percent certain” says NL insider.|author=MrCere|dated=30 January 2008|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref>

Subsequently, actors [[Andy Serkis]],<ref name=":17" /> [[Ian Holm]]<ref name=":15">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080501020820/http://www.mtv.com/movies/news/articles/1586421/story.jhtml|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro Addresses 'Hobbit' Fans' Concerns, Talks Possible Casting|author=Shawn Adler, Josh Horowitz|dated=28 April 2008|website=Premiere.com}}</ref>; concept artists [[Alan Lee]] and [[John Howe]]; prosthetics supervisor [[Gino Acevedo]]<ref name=":37">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/04/25/28747-guillermo-del-toro-chats-with-torn-about-the-hobbit-films/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro Chats with TORN About ‘The Hobbit’ Films!|author=Xoanon|dated=25 April 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> were all attached. They had approached [[Grant Major]] but he declined<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=http://www.artstars.us/grant-major/8/|articlename=Grant Major|author=Tom Lisowski|dated=14 November 2011|website=Art Stars}}</ref> and hopped onboard ''Green Lantern'' with costume designer Ngila Dickson: they were substituted by [[Dan Hennah]]<ref name=":32">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/51948|articlename=An Unexpected Journey: Quint on the set of The Hobbit Part 3 – Beginnings and Endings|author=Eric Vespe|dated=14 November 2011|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> and Kate Hawley.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.whowhatwear.com/living/who-what-wear-podcast-kate-hawley|articlename=How the Frankenstein Costume Designer Brought the Film to Life|author=Madeline Hill|dated=17 November 2025|website=Who What Wear}}</ref> Actors [[Martin Freeman]]<ref>In "The Road Back to Middle-earth", Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit'' (New Line Cinema: 2015), Philippa Boyens recalls proposing Freeman as Bilbo Baggins when she saw him at the 2003 BAFTAs.</ref> and [[Hugo Weaving]];<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.slashfilm.com/504115/guillermo-del-toro-confirms-hugo-weaving-for-the-hobbit-and-much-more/|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro Confirms Hugo Weaving For The Hobbit... And Much More|author=Brendon Connolly|dated=11 June 2009|website=Slash Film}}</ref> as well as [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]]'s regular collaborators (including artists Wayne Barlowe and Francisco Ruiz Velasco<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20081201164150/http://bilbohobbit.com/del-toro-talks-hobbit-in-live-chat/|articlename="Del Toro talks 'Hobbit' in Live Chat"|author=Alex|dated=27 November 2008|website=BilboHobbit.com}}</ref>) were also being sought beginning at this time.

"We got really excited," said [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]], "because this second film is not a ‘tag on’, it’s not ‘filler,’ it’s an integral part of telling the story of those 50 years of history lost in the narrative".<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://theplaylist.net/60-year-period-between-hobbi-20080425/|articlename=60-Year Period Between ‘The Hobbit’ & ‘Fellowship’ For Hobbit Sequel Suddenly Gone? Or Not?|author=Rodrigo Perez|dated=25 April 2008|website=The Playlist}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.gamesradar.com/guillermo-del-toro-talks-hobbit-and-more/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro talks Hobbit and more|author=Anonymous|dated=25 April 2008|website=Total Film}}</ref> Although he had a radical new vision for the designs in the first film, <ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080915124607/http://www.premiere.com/features/4642/exclusive-guillermo-del-toro-on-hellboy-ii-page4.html|articlename=Exclusive: Guillermo del Toro on 'Hellboy II'|author=Anonymous|website=Premiere}}</ref> [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] intended to use the second film to affect a gradual change of style towards that of [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]: "We have to recreate a lot of the stuff they did on the [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|trilogy]]," he said: helpfully, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had kept the [[Bag End]] and [[Rivendell]] sets, and they set about rebuilding [[Hobbiton]].<ref name=":32" />

[[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] also rewatched the extended editions with [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]], [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] and intended to watch the making-ofs, dailies "the camera reports... everything," particularly for ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080914124349/http://www.comingsoon.net/news/nycomicconnews.php?id=44254|articlename=EXCL: Del Toro on Hellboy II and The Hobbit|author=Edward Douglas|dated=21 April 2008|website=Coming Soon.net}}</ref> The remastering of ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'' was also begun around this time. This was done because [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] felt that it "has to evolve into the lensing, the color palette, the texture palette, and the feel of the [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|trilogy]]…"<ref name=":13">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/37428|articlename=Quint and Guillermo del Toro chat about HELLBOY II, THE HOBBIT and more!!!|author=Eric Vespe|dated=12 July 2008|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> partially for this purpose, a break was to be scheduled partway through the shoot,<ref name=":31">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080712175117/http://www.ifmagazine.com/feature.asp?article=2879|articlename=GUILLERMO DEL TORO ESCAPES 'LABYRINTH' AND ENDS RIGHT BACK INTO 'HELLBOY'|author=Carl Cortez|dated=9 July 2008|website=iFMagazine}}</ref> which was estimated at over 370 days.<ref name=":31" />

[[Guillermo del Toro|Guillermo]] insisted the second film would add to the series.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wReRe8Si2aU|articlename=Guillermo del Toro: RT's Dinner & the Movies Interview Pt 5|author=OCR|dated=11 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> He said "it’s also expanding and illuminating some of the aspects of the trilogy in a slightly different way, like same characters in a different environment. I find that very attractive."<ref name=":13" /> The idea was that the first film would be a retelling of [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']], including the bulk of the [[Dol Guldur]] storyline, up to [[Smaug]]'s death: the second would wrap-up the remainder of [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']] in its first half, and concern itself with the Hunt for [[Gollum]] and other "bridging" plot threads in its second half.<ref name=":14">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20120831093447/http://moviesblog.mtv.com/2008/10/07/hobbit-films-will-be-one-continuous-journey-promises-guillermo-del-toro/|articlename='Hobbit' Films Will Be One 'Continuous Journey,' Promises Guillermo Del Toro|author=Shawn Adler|dated=7 October 2008|website=MTV}}</ref>

Although [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] predicted the second film would require the most work,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2P0dTo0yNpQ|articlename=THE HOBBIT 1 & 2 MOVIE UPDATE|author=ReelzChannel|dated=7 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> both he<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JVHzVKy_F8w|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro talks about Hobbit Movie|author=Brettmartintv|dated=7 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] showed a particular eagerness towards it, with [[Guillermo del Toro|Guillermo]] calling it a "treasure trove of possibilities."<ref name=":16">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080915084029/http://www.mtv.com/movies/news/articles/1590278/story.jhtml|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro Answers 'Hobbit' Fans' Questions About Returning 'Rings' Cast, Religion And More|author=Shawn Adler|dated=2 July 2008|website=MTV}}</ref> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] was also "really looking forward to developing Film Two. It gives us a freedom that we haven't really had on our [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] journey."<ref name=":17" /> [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] concluded that "the promise of that land is absolutely mind-boggling!"<ref name=":16" />

Referring specifically to [[Gollum]]'s part in the events, [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] said "[[Gollum]] has a rather fascinating arch to go through and his alliance to [[Shelob]] or his period of imprisonment in [[Thranduil]]'s". [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] added that "There's an awful lot of incident that happens during that 60 year gap. At this stage, we're not imagining a film that literally covers 60 years, like a bio-pic or documentary. We would figure out what happens during that 60 years, and choose one short section of time to drop in and dramatise for the screen". Both filmmakers said they agreed that "apart from extreme circumstances, we would never recast a character who appeared in the [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|LOTR trilogy]]".<ref name=":17">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080730161821/http://www.wetanz.com/holics/index.php?itemid=695&catid=2|articlename=An Unexpected Party Chat|author=Anonymous|dated=30 July 2008|website=Weta Workshop website}}</ref> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] later remarked that, in some cases, they'd sooner write around a character than recast the part.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/41848|articlename=Comic-Con '09: Peter Jackson talks to Capone about DISTRICT 9, THE HOBBIT, and the state of the film industry!!!|author="Capone"|dated=28 July 2009|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref>

As of the formulation of these comments in July, [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] said the second film is "too early"<ref name=":13" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5YoRDF12aRc|articlename=GDT the Hobbit 1|author=Garfeimao TheOneRing|dated=14 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> in its development process to know precisely what it might entail, estimating that it would take six months to formulate the storyline for the film.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.ign.com/articles/2008/07/09/exclusive-gdt-on-the-hobbit|articlename=Exclusive: GDT on The Hobbit|author=Eric Moro and Stax|dated=10 July 2008|website=IGN}}</ref> By September, however, [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] claimed they "found what reverberated."<ref name=":14" /> [[Guillermo del Toro|Guillermo]] had expressed reservations about the term "bridge film" from the outset, but by now he and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] disabused of the term completely, having come to see the films as five undifferentiated parts of a greater whole.

Although they apparently made an outline,<ref name=":15" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/10/16/30296-guillermo-del-toro-i%e2%80%99m-so-voracious-about-the-hobbit/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro: “I’m so voracious about The Hobbit!”|author=Xoanon|dated=16 October 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> it seems the film went no further than this. Up until this point, del Toro had been video-conferencing with Jackson and the other collaborators, meeting in person every three weeks.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://variety.com/2008/film/features/guillermo-del-toro-booked-thru-2017-1117991560/|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro booked thru 2017|author=Michael Fleming|dated=3 September, 2008|website=Variety}}</ref> By the time he arrived to concentrate on writing the story treatment in November 2008<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=http://newboards.theonering.net/forum/gforum/perl/gforum.cgi?post=147373;guest=501771554#147373|articlename="Hola"|author=Guillermo del Toro|dated=8 November 2008|website=The One Ring Discussion Boards}}</ref><ref>Alfio Leotta, ''Peter Jackson'' (London: Bloomsbury Publishing, 2015), p. 196.</ref> the contents of the "bridge" film were being gradually edged-out by the contents of ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]],'' to the point that by the time the completed treatment was greenlit in April 2009<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2009/08/03/32999-peter-jackson-speaks/|articlename=Peter Jackson speaks|author=MrCere|dated=3 August 2009|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref> the films could only be described as a two-part adaptation of ''[[The Hobbit]],'' albeit with elements of the bridge film "integrated''."''<ref>Anonymous, "The Hobbit: Gollum, Bilbo, del Toro and Jackson," ''Empire'', April 2009.</ref> Although [[John Howe]] apparently sent [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] some sketches,<ref name=":38" /> and [[Howard Shore]] had musical ideas,<ref>TheOneRing, Hobbit Desolation of Smaug Music Commentary Watch Along, ''YouTube'', 29 July 2020. Esp. 1:12:15. One such musical idea dates back to the composition of ''The Fellowship of the Ring:'' the flat sixth setting of the Hobbits' bassline that's heard when Gandalf glimpses Thorin's map: Howard was saving that as a "portent of an adventure" towards a potential adaptation of The Hobbit, but by the stage of discussing with del Toro he would have realized it would be applicable to the "bridge" film as well.</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/30722|articlename=ScoreKeeper Talks To Howard Shore About THE TWO TOWERS Complete Recordings, THE HOBBIT, And More!!|author=Merrick|dated=16 November 2006|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> no more work was done on the bridge film. At this time, a [[The Hunt for Gollum|fan film on the same subject was released]], followed shortly by [[Born of Hope|a fan film about Aragorn's errantries]]. The latter of this gained a measure of approbation from [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s camp.

Even so, elements of the bridge film clung to the project for a long time: in 2013 [[Philippa Boyens]] said that "When we started structuring this trilogy we honestly thought about telling some of that. How [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]] becomes the uncle of [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] and take care of him. The story of [[Gollum]]…"<ref name=":9" /> Casting calls had been issued for the roles of [[Primula Brandybuck]] and [[Drogo Baggins]]:<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20201024010428/http://www.movies.spoilertv.com/2010/01/hobbit-casting-call.html#ixzz0btnyJvCI|articlename=Hobbit - Official Casting Call and Plot Details|author=DarkUFO|dated=4 January 2010|website=SpoilerTV}}</ref> While Caroline Grace-Cassidy was considered for [[Primula Brandybuck|Primula]], [[Ryan Gage]] was cast in the role of [[Drogo Baggins|Drogo]] and remained attached to it well into shooting, only being recast as [[Alfrid]] around May.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/cate-blanchett-revisiting-rings-role-57193/|articlename=Cate Blanchett Revisiting ‘Rings’ Role In ‘Hobbit’|author=Gregg Kilday|dated=7 December 2010|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]]'s cameo, which was originally rumoured to include him "moving to live at [[Bag End]] after the untimely drowning of [[Drogo Baggins|Drogo]] and [[Primula Brandybuck|Primula]]" was probably rewritten into its present form around that time.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=theonering.net/torwp/2014/03/25/87789-how-would-have-peter-jacksons-the-hobbit-looked-as-a-duology/|articlename=How would have Peter Jackson’s The Hobbit looked as a duology?|author=Demosthenes|dated=25 March 2014|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> They had scouted locations for the [[Barrow-downs|Barrow Downs]], possibly with a connection to the aforementioned "[[Aragorn]] protecting the [[The Shire|Shire]]" plot point.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://narniafans.com/2019/08/interview-with-narnia-conceptual-designer-john-howe/|articlename=Interview with Narnia Conceptual Designer John Howe|author=David Sutton|dated=18 August 2019|website=Narnia Fans.com}}</ref> More scenes were planned for the [[Dol Guldur]] story and the [[Orcs]]: they had gone as far as designing a young [[Gothmog (Lieutenant of Morgul)#Gothmog in adaptations|Gothmog]] who would participate in the concluding battle, but didn't utilize him.<ref name=":0" />

Another storyline concerned Itarille (later [[Tauriel]]) and her romance with an Elf lord of [[Rivendell]]: clearly an outgrowth of the original idea of featuring [[Arwen]] in the film. [[Aidan Turner]] seems to have read for the part of this Elf Lord. Indeed, Jackson recalled in 2015 that "We did try to figure out a way to get a cameo, even if it was a cameo, for [[Aragorn]] and actually for [[Arwen]], too: we tried to have [[Liv Tyler]] in the film".<ref name=":0" /> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] remarked in 2013 that they envisioned [[Aragorn]] being "quite young" in the film, but concluded that [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] "could have absolutely played" him at the time. "It was incredibly tempting."<ref name=":39">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TapH7wM8MdI&t=85s|articlename=Philippa Boyens ci parla delle scene tagliate dello Hobbit: la Desolazione di Smaug e di... Aragorn!|author=Badtaste|dated=11 December 2013|website=YouTube}}</ref> It's unclear when the idea finally died out: the scene "invoking [[Aragorn]]" was scripted in early 2013, as a "homage" to their earlier plans.

[[Viggo Mortensen]] had been interested in the project since 2007.<ref name=":43">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/09/18/29885-viggo-mortensen-still-waiting-for-guillermo-del-toro%E2%80%99s-%E2%80%98hobbit%E2%80%99-call/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen Still Waiting For Guillermo Del Toro’s ‘Hobbit’ Call|author=Xoanon|dated=18 September 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref name=":44" /> Although it was reported that [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] had held conversations with him<ref name=":43" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thetimes.com/uk/law/article/hobbit-movies-meet-dire-foe-in-son-of-tolkien-lxnpmnsd2rp|articlename=Hobbit movies meet dire foe in son of Tolkien|author=John Harlow|dated=25 May 2008|website=The Times}}</ref> these appear to have not taken place before 2010. In 2008 [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] said he would "rather do it myself than see another actor finish the job for me,"<ref name=":44" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/12/17/30804-tv-watch-viggo-mortensen-on-night-talk/|articlename=TV Watch: Viggo Mortensen on ‘Night Talk’|author=Xoanon|dated=17 December 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/39305|articlename=Capone has a GOOD chat with Viggo Mortensen about politics, THE ROAD, APPALOOSA, and THE HOBBIT!!!|author=Steve Prokopy|dated=11 May 2009|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> saying "it would be fun."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://ohnotheydidnt.livejournal.com/41460224.html|articlename=Moviefone's Exclusive Viggo Mortensen Interview!|author=Anonymous|dated=25 November 2009|website=Moviefone}}</ref> Other actors from [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'']] have also expressed interest in appearing in the film, including [[Liv Tyler]], <ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2011/03/21/42863-liv-tyler-not-contacted-for-hobbit/|articlename=Liv Tyler Not Contacted For Hobbit|author=DiveTwin|dated=21 March 2011|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> [[Cate Blanchett]],<ref name=":16" /> [[Dominic Monaghan]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.firstshowing.net/2009/dominic-monaghan-ready-to-return-for-the-hobbit-movies/|articlename=Dominic Monaghan Ready to Return for The Hobbit Movies?|author=Brandon Lee Tenney|dated=19 January 2009|website=First Showing}}</ref> [[Sean Astin]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2009/03/10/31356-astin-up-for-hobbit-if-hobbit-up-for-him/|articlename=Astin up for Hobbit if Hobbit up for him|author=Xoanon|dated=10 March 2009|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref name=":44" /> [[John Noble]] and [[Sean Bean]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.digitalspy.com/movies/a434476/sean-bean-on-the-hobbit-absence-theyre-sticklers-for-detail/|articlename=Sean Bean on 'The Hobbit' absence: 'They're sticklers for detail'|author=Emma Dibdin|dated=30 October 2012|website=Digital Spy}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://theplaylist.net/viggo-mortensen-optimistic-about-role-20090401/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen Optimistic About Role In Del Toro’s ‘Hobbit’, Project Extends To A Trilogy?|author=Simon Dang|dated=1 April 2009|website=The Playlist}}</ref> [[Christopher Lee]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://whatculture.com/film/christopher-lee-wants-sarumann-return-in-the-hobbit|articlename=Christopher Lee wants Saruman return in THE HOBBIT|author=Matt Holmes|dated=25 June 2011|website=WhatCulture}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5qGFbBNnodw&t=77s|articlename=Christopher Lee about possibly returning to Middle Earth|author="Rushblogg"|dated=12 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> [[Brad Dourif]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/09/12/29751-brad-dourif-on-returning-to-middle-earth/|articlename=Brad Dourif on Returning to Middle-earth|author=Deej|dated=12 September 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> [[John Rhys-Davies]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/the-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy-makeup-difficulties-explained-john-rhys-davies/|articlename=John Rhys-Davies Reveals Gruesome Makeup Process for Gimli in The Lord of the Rings [Exclusive]|author=Aidan Kelley and Steven Weintraub|dated=9 August 2025|website=Collider}}</ref> and [[Elijah Wood]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/11/16/30565-elijah-hobbit-appearance-concievably-possible/|articlename=Elijah – Hobbit appearance ‘concievably possible’|author=Altaira|dated=16 November 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.firstshowing.net/2008/elijah-wood-confirms-dual-hobbit-movie-details/|articlename=Elijah Wood Confirms Dual Hobbit Movie Details|author=Alex Billington|dated=11 January 2008|website=First Showing}}</ref>

Around 2010, [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] recieved an availability call<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2013/may/28/viggo-mortensen-interview|articlename=Viggo Mortensen interview: 'If I think a film's beyond me – that's a good sign'|author=Imogen Tilden|dated=28 May 2013|website=The Guardian}}</ref> from [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]: "I said sure, if [[Aragorn]] is supposed to be in the bridge story, because he’s not in [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']]."<ref name=":1">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2013/05/30/72294-viggo-turned-down-role-as-aragorn-not-so-fast/|articlename=Viggo ‘Turned Down’ Role as Aragorn? Not so fast…|author=Newsfrombree|dated=30 May 2013|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.wired.com/2012/03/viggo-mortensen-speaks-2/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen Speaks: Part 2 of 3|author=Ethan Gilsdorf|dated=11 March 2012|website=Wired.com}}</ref> Informed that they "can take certain liberties" he said he'd "love to revisit him."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/films/features/viggo-mortensen-interview-captain-fantastic-lord-of-the-rings-aragorn-hobbit-david-cronenberg-a7231826.html|articlename=Viggo Mortensen interview: 'I didn't throw Peter Jackson under the bus'|author=Jacob Stolworthy|dated=23 January 2017|website=The Independent}}</ref> However, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] later revealed that since that call, they "could think of no way of doing it".<ref name=":0" /> Having no further contact, and knowing that "[[Orlando Bloom]] and [[Cate Blanchett]] shot something,"<ref name=":44">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://viggo-works.com/?fromday=1&frommonth=6&fromyear=2006&today=25&tomonth=2&toyear=2026&order=date&page=243&selectedcat=262&ascdesc=DESC&filter=Go&m=on|articlename=Viggo Mortenson Dangerous Method Interview|author=Anonymous|dated=25 November 2011|website=Movies.com}}</ref>[[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] concluded in November 2011 that "[[Aragorn]] is half [[Elves|elf]] [sic] and also lives a couple hundred years or more and he could be in a bridge, but I have to assume it isn't going to happen".<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reuters.com/article/lifestyle/rings-actor-mortensen-unlikely-to-repeat-role-idUSTRE7AM2U9/|articlename="Rings" actor Mortensen unlikely to repeat role|author=Kurt Orzeck|dated=24 November 2011|website=Reuters}}</ref> Although he still has misgivings - "It would make sense if Aragorn was part of the story and he's not"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.scotsman.com/arts-and-culture/interview-viggo-mortensen-is-lord-of-all-things-1573949|articlename=Interview: Viggo Mortensen is lord of all things|author=Chitra Ramaswamy|dated=25 May 2013|website=The Scotsman}}</ref> - he said he would still be open to playing [[Aragorn]] "if it seemed sensible to do so".<ref name=":1" />

===After ''The Hobbit''===

Conversations about making the "bridge film" as a third instalment<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.firstshowing.net/2009/guillermo-del-toro-updates-on-the-hobbit/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro Briefly Talks More About The Hobbit Split|author=Alex Billington|dated=5 June 2009|website=First Showing}}</ref> continued well into 2010:<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://geeksofdoom.com/2009/08/19/bridge-between-the-hobbit-lord-of-the-rings-still-to-be-built-peter-jackson-to-direct-third-movie|articlename=[Updated] Bridge Between ‘The Hobbit’ & ‘Lord Of The Rings’ Still To Be Built? Peter Jackson To Direct Third Movie?|author="The Movie God"|dated=19 August 2009|website=Geeks of Doom}}</ref> In 2012, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had revealed that "a third movie has always been in discussion."<ref>Michael Pellerin, "The Clouds Burst", Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies'' (New Line Cinema: 2015).</ref> These conversations resumed - now with the film situated as a fourth movie - as [[The Hobbit (film series)|''The Hobbit'']] was winding down in 2013. Says [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]]: "There’s enough story there to make a bridge movie, you know, there’s 60 years between ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'' and a lot of things happened."<ref name=":9">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.heyuguys.com/interview-peter-jackson-the-hobbit-the-desolation-of-smaug/|articlename=The HeyUGuys Interview: The Hobbit director Peter Jackson all but rules out a return to Middle Earth|author=Stefan Pape|dated=13 December 2013|website=HeyUGuys}}</ref> In the director's commentary to ''[[The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies|The Battle of the Five Armies]]'' in 2015, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] remained open to the idea of making more films, and mused about what Jackson jokingly calls "A fictitious film 3.5" which [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] goes on to call "The Hunt for Gollum".<ref name=":0">Peter Jackson, Philippa Boyens, "Director's Commentary," Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies'' (New Line Cinema: 2015).</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] said it could include "a few other things that go on which are really interesting" like [[Saruman]]'s search for the [[The One Ring|Ring]]. She elaborates:<blockquote>''[[Aragorn]] really is one who tracks Gollum and ends up...and finds him eventually in the [[Dead Marshes]], and he's taken [[Woodland Realm|to the Elves]]. And he's taken to the Elves, and because of the kindness of the Elves - and [[Legolas]] is one of his keepers... in [[Mirkwood]], and through their kindness he actually manages to escape. Or has he escaped? Or was he let loose?''<ref name=":0" /></blockquote>[[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had kept the possibility of returning to [[Middle-earth]] open<ref name=":0" /> but [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] revealed that they "had zero expectations of going back to this."<ref name=":7">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2024/05/the-lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-peter-jackson-andy-serkis-philippa-boyens-explain-23-years-after-cannes-saved-original-trilogy-1235917510/|articlename=Peter Jackson, Andy Serkis & Philippa Boyens Explain Why They’re Returning To Middle-Earth For ‘The Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum’ 23 Years After Cannes Saved The Billion-Dollar Franchise|author=Mike Fleming Junior|dated=15 May 2024|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://uk.movies.yahoo.com/don-t-expect--the-hobbit-3--to-lead-directly-into--the-lord-of-the-rings-140402150.html|articlename=The Hobbit 3 won't lead into The Lord of the Rings|author=Tom Butler|dated=11 December 2013|website=Yahoo Entertainment UK}}</ref> Their ultimate decision to return to this premise may have been stirred, in part, by other projects: first, Jackson had seen the in-development video game ''[[Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor|Shadow of Mordor]],'' on which [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]] and others from Jackson's crew had worked, and which had nestled itself into the gap between ''[[The Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]].''<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.ign.com/articles/2014/02/20/why-lord-of-the-rings-fans-should-be-excited-for-shadow-of-mordor|articlename=Why Lord of the Rings Fans Should Be Excited for Shadow of Mordor|author=Luke Karmali|dated=20 February 2014|website=IGN}}</ref>

Shortly afterwards, when the [[Tolkien Estate]] (still nominally under [[Christopher Tolkien]]) shopped the television rights, the idea of doing a show about young [[Aragorn]] was pitched, first by Netflix, and then - at the suggestion of the Russo brothers<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-features/the-rings-of-power-showrunners-interview-season-2-1235233124/|articlename=‘The Rings of Power’ Showrunners Break Silence on Backlash, Sauron and Season 2|author=James Hibberd|dated=5 October 2022|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> - by [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon Prime Video]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=http://newboards.theonering.net/forum/gforum/perl/gforum.cgi?post=946980;sb=post_time;so=DESC;forum_view=forum_view_collapsed;guest=206510448#947231|articlename=If you will indulge me in a story|author="Uncle Iorlas"|dated=21 July 2018|website=The One Ring.net Message Boards}}</ref> Upon hearing this, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]]' mind immediately went to the period of the hunt: "If you're telling the [story of] him hunting [[Gollum]], you're getting closer to [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]]."<ref name=":21">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.fandom.com/articles/peter-jackson-lord-of-the-rings-series|articlename=Peter Jackson’s Tips For Casting Aragorn in Lord of the Rings TV Show|author=Kim Taylor-Foster|dated=4 December 2018|website=Fandom.com}}</ref> She and Jackson had also expressed interest in the potential of [[Aragorn]]'s younger days and life in [[Rivendell]]: "He's probably going to have to start young,"<ref name=":21" /> remarked Boyens, concluding that "A lot of the early [[Aragorn]] story hasn't been told."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.stuff.co.nz/entertainment/film/108970711/philippa-boyens-on-mortal-engines-hobbits-and-going-solo|articlename=Philippa Boyens on Mortal Engines, Hobbits and going solo|author=Philip Matthews|dated=16 December 2018|website=Stuff.nz}}</ref> [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortesen]] also got wind of the rumours and said he's open to reprising his role.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/viggo-mortensen-interview-falling-lord-of-the-rings/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen on Falling, Directing, and LOTR TV Show Interest|author=Christina Radish|dated=14 February 2021|website=Collider}}</ref>

Toby Emmerich and Carolyn Blackwood from [[New Line Cinema]] were brought into the fold in the hopes of cooperating on the show. In early 2018 lawyer Peter Nelson set-up "dialogue between [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon]]" to participate as executive producer.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/how-lord-rings-tv-series-landed-at-amazon-not-netflix-1099213/|articlename=Inside Amazon’s $250M ‘Lord of the Rings’ Deal: “It’s Very Much a Creature of the Times”|author=Tatiana Siegel|dated=5 April 2018|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20210308114202/https://www.herr-der-ringe-film.de/v3/de/news/tolkienfilme/news_121920.php|articlename=Exklusiv: Zu den Kulissen der HERR DER RINGE Serie, Her Der Ringe Film (archived).|author=Cirdan|dated=20 June 2018|website=Herr der Ringe.de}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.stuff.co.nz/entertainment/celebrities/108520139/sir-peter-jackson-hasnt-given-up-hope-of-making-the-dam-busters|articlename=Sir Peter Jackson hasn't given up hope of making The Dam Busters|author=James Croot|dated=12 November 2018|website=NZStuff}}</ref> Preoccupied with ''Mortal Engines'' and ''They Shall Not Grow Old'', [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] proposed in June 2018 to review the scripts and put "the creative team together."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://de.ign.com/tv/129313/interview/peter-jackson-ist-fur-das-kreative-team-hinter-der-herr-der-ringe-serie-verantwortlich|articlename=Peter Jackson ist für das kreative Team hinter der Herr der Ringe-Serie verantwortlich|author=Valentin Aschenbrenner|dated=5 June 2018|website=IGN.de}}</ref> In July, Amazon landed on [[John D. Payne]] and [[Patrick McKay]] as showrunners, and before any work could be done, a regime change in [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon Prime Video]]<ref name=":19">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/peter-jackson-amazon-lord-of-the-rings-tv-series-1235193692/|articlename=Peter Jackson Says Amazon’s ‘Lord of the Rings’ TV Series Ghosted Him|author=James Hibberd|dated=5 August 2022|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> in early 2019 resulted in [[New Line Cinema]] being demoted to a "minority licensee stakeholder."<ref name=":20">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/lord-of-the-rings-amazon-vs-warner-bros-1235337625/|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings’: Amazon, Warner Bros. Ready for Tolkien Battle|author=James Hibberd|dated=28 February 2023|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> Although the showrunners had asked to meet [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]],<ref name=":19" /> COVID prevented this from taking place.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2022/02/10-burning-questions-about-amazons-the-rings-of-power?srsltid=AfmBOopmlhLKVkCtSqkuvTTAcUtyQUICWXopTWLQq_1tu4aEf1ICrDLp|articlename=10 Burning Questions About Amazon’s The Rings of Power|author=Joanna Robinson|dated=14 February 2022|website=Vanity Fair}}</ref> While the show used a substantial number of his crew, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] were reportedly "very frustrated that so many believed they were involved with [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon]]’s show."<ref name=":20" /> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had avoided watching the show to prevent "cross-contamination."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.slashfilm.com/1693866/why-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy-screenwriter-wont-watch-the-rings-of-power/|articlename=Why One Lord Of The Rings Trilogy Screenwriter Won't Watch The Rings Of Power|author=Jaron Pak|dated=21 October 2024|website=Slash Film}}</ref> Since then, the show had left [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s home country of [[New Zealand]].

Already in 2019, the show's development had galvanized Emmerich and Blackwood to pursue an animated film with [[Middle-earth Enterprises]] (who were not involved in the show) and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]. The bridge film might have been the "CG-animated" story that [[New Line Cinema|New Line]] "had been exploring with Sir [[Peter Jackson]]" but it failed to materialize and they decided to pursue ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim]]''<ref>Daniel Falconer, ''The Art of The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim'' (Wiliam Murrow: London, 2025), pp. 9-10.</ref>. Later on, Emmerich and Blackwood were replaced by Michael de Luca and Pam Abdy, who were "striving to keep [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon]] from blurring the lines too much between" the show and the films.<ref name=":20" /> Other projects like [[Tales of the Shire: A "The Lord of the Rings" Game|''Tales of the Shire'']], the remastering of the six films to Ultra High Definition and renovations of [[Hobbiton]] were begun shortly afterwards, as well.

After this long gestation period, ''The Hunt for Gollum'' entered development once again in 2022. [[Andy Serkis]] was attached as director in October 2023 and story meetings occurred as early as May 2024, along with early availability calls to actors like [[Ian McKellen]] and [[Viggo Mortensen]] between that time and early September. By that point, the writing of the treatment was underway, followed by the first draft in January-May. After some crew hiring in August, pre-production started in early September 2025 ahead of shooting in May 2026.

==Development==
In 2022 the new administration of [[Middle-earth Enterprises]] expressed a desire to make more films, including ones "based on iconic characters, such as [[Gandalf]], [[Aragorn]], [[Gollum]], [[Galadriel]], [[Éowyn|Eowyn]] and other characters."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/lord-of-the-rings-rights-embracer-1235201442/|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings,’ ‘The Hobbit’ Movie, Games and Other Rights Holder Sold to Swedish Gaming Company Embracer|author=Georg Szalai|dated=18 August 2022|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]], [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] kept updated throughout the negotiations to extend [[New Line Cinema]]'s lease on the rights.<ref name=":4" />

Having "really enjoyed working with [[Kenji Kamiyama]], who directed ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|War of the Rohirrim]]''," [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] signed on to produce two new films: [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] denied<ref name=":22" /> rumours that this involved splitting the [[Gollum]] story,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2024/05/lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-cast-plot-everything-we-know-1235919922/|articlename=‘The Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum’: Everything We Know So Far|author=Dessi Gomez|dated=16 May 2024|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://filmstories.co.uk/news/the-lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-its-two-films-says-ian-mckellen/|articlename=The Lord Of The Rings: Hunt For Gollum {{!}} “It’s two films” says Ian McKellen|author=Ryan Lambie|dated=11 September 2024|website=Film Stories}}</ref> and at various times her and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] expressed interest in subjects varying from the [[Battle of Dale|War in the North]], Young [[Aragorn]], or certain vignettes from [[Rohan]] or [[Gondor]]'s history, which are all possible for the second film.<ref name=":23">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1i97ctm/the_next_film_after_the_hunt_for_gollum/|articlename=The next film after The Hunt for Gollum: Everything we know so far|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=25 January 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> These are probably ''not'' the other two scripts [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had been working on, however.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.indiewire.com/news/general-news/peter-jackson-not-retired-working-on-three-scripts-1235138316/|articlename=Peter Jackson Is Working on Three Screenplays: ‘I’m Certainly Not Retired’|author=By Rance Collins|dated=13 July 2025|website=IndieWire}}</ref>

Signing on the films was done with the intention to jump-start a new slate of ''Lord of the Rings'' prequels for [[New Line Cinema]],<ref name=":18" /><ref name=":24" /> with [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also expressing interest in making an "epic trilogy", probably about the [[Angmar conflict|Angmar War]].<ref name=":23" /> However, having developed the [[Gollum]] premise for so long, they decided to start with it. Asked about unrealized projects in 2024, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] observed that "there's a lot of that in ''The Hunt for Gollum.''"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9LdzKS584wA&t=614s|articlename=Lord of the Rings: War of the Rohirrim Interviews! Peter Jackson Role Explained|author=Brandon Davis|dated=29 October 2024|website=YouTube}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis]], who played [[Gollum]], had directed second unit on ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King|The Return of the King]]'' and ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]<ref name=":7" />'' and had since become a director in his own right, as well as narrating audiobooks of Tolkien's novels. [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] approached [[Andy Serkis|Andy]] around October 2023.<ref name=":24">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ssUmmuU-Bmk&t=76s|articlename=Andy Serkis Talks Motion Capture, Gollum, and Directing {{!}} Superhero Comic Con San Antonio 2024 Q&A|author=Freeman Coliseum|dated=24 June 2024|website=YouTube}}</ref> While developing the story, they already made availability checks to key cast and crew members.

===Writing===
Story meetings have happened at least as early as May 2024<ref name=":7" /> and by July they were about to start writing,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/comconnireland/status/1835962321211904490|articlename=Andy Serkis took to the stage at Comic Con Northern Ireland to talk all things Lord of the Rings and more!|author=@comconnireland|dated=16 September 2024|website=Twitter}}</ref> with [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] spotted at the [[Hobbiton]] set in November with writers [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] and Arty Papageorgiou, producers [[Zane Weiner]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/05/lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-release-date-1236390022/|articlename=‘Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum’ Sets Pre-Christmas 2027 Release|author=Anthony D'Alessandro|dated=8 May 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> and Carlos Ramirez Laloli.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.elfenomeno.com/info/ver/23481/comienza-el-rodaje-de-el-senor-de-los-anillos-la-caza-de-gollum-en-hobbiton|articlename=¿Comienza el rodaje de El Señor de los Anillos: La Caza de Gollum en Hobbiton?|author=Elfenomeno|dated=6 November 2024|website=Elfenomeno.com}}</ref> By December they had been in the process of writing the story treatment.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/lord-of-the-rings-war-of-the-rohirrim-arty-papageorgiou-phoebe-gittins/|articlename="Who Better for a Gollum Film Than Gollum Himself?": 'War of the Rohirrim' Writers on Working with Andy Serkis in 'The Hunt for Gollum'|author=Therese Lacson|dated=16 December 2024|website=Collider}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] later estimated they would finish writing by the middle of the year - executive Pamela Abdy since put the completion of the script at May<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/04/warner-bros-mike-de-luca-pam-abdy-courage-in-face-of-brutal-press-coverage-1236366618/|articlename=Warner Bros’ Mike De Luca & Pam Abdy: Playing Long Game, Mixing IP Like ‘Bodyguard’ Revamp & Bold Originals & Animation Despite Brutal Press|author=Mike Fleming Junior|dated=11 April 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> - and begin "scouting locations and building [sets]" with shooting due to begin towards the beginning of 2026.<ref name=":5">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.1news.co.nz/2024/12/15/exclusive-andy-serkis-philippa-boyens-on-the-hunt-for-gollum/|articlename=Exclusive: Andy Serkis, Philippa Boyens on new Lord of the Rings film|author=Abbey Wakefield|dated=15 December 2024|website=1News}}</ref> As a result, the release date for the film was ultimately delayed from 2026 to 17 December 2027.<ref name="TheDirect2027Release">{{webcite|author=Klein Felt|articleurl=https://thedirect.com/article/hunt-for-gollum-movie-lord-of-the-rings-release-official|articlename=Lord of the Rings: Hunt for Gollum Movie Gets Release Window from Andy Serkis|dated=27 Feb 2025|website=[https://thedirect.com The Direct]|accessed=27 Feb 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://variety.com/2025/film/news/lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-release-date-december-2027-1236390820/|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum’ Sets December 2027 Release Date; Warner Bros. Also Dates New ‘Evil Dead’ and M. Night Shyamalan Movies for 2026|author=Zack Sharf|dated=8 May 2025|website=Variety}}</ref>

A draft of the screenplay had been sent to de Luca and Abdy in May, probably prior to the investor meeting on the 8th, when [[Warner Bros.|Warner]]'s CEO David Zaslav announced the official release date.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://voicefilm.com/david-zaslav-announces-that-the-release-date-for-the-next-lord-of-the-rings-movie-will-be-revealed-today/|articlename=David Zaslav Announces That the Release Date for the Next ‘Lord of the Rings’ Movie Will Be Revealed Today|author=Mark|dated=8 May 2025|website=Voice Film}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.comicbasics.com/warner-ceo-david-zaslav-says-they-will-focus-more-on-their-main-ips-like-harry-potter-and-dc-in-the-future-those-belong-to-us-and-theyll-only-belong-to-us-forever/|articlename=Warner CEO David Zaslav Says They Will Focus More on Their Main IPs Like ‘Harry Potter’ and DC in the Future: “Those belong to us, and they’ll only belong to us forever.”|author=Arthur S. Poe|dated=8 May 2025|website=Comic Basics}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had since revealed that the film is due to start pre production in August<ref name=":33">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1krwz8d/andy_serkis_the_lord_of_the_rings_the_hunt_for/|articlename=Andy Serkis Panel at Fan Expo Philadelphia 2025|author=FandomWire News|dated=19 May 2025}}</ref> - when the film started hiring crew - then ammended to "late August to early September"<ref name=":18" />, with [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] ultimately arriving in [[Wellington]] circa 8 September to begin work on the film.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://metro.co.uk/2025/09/03/andy-serkis-admits-cant-escape-gollum-ahead-lord-rings-return-24066270/amp/|articlename=Andy Serkis admits he ‘can’t escape Gollum’ ahead of Lord of the Rings return|author=Sabrina Barr|dated=3 September 2025|website=Metro UK}}</ref> Serkis had left New Zealand during the holiday season, attending the premiere of "28 Years Later: The Bone Temple" before flying back to New Zealand: en rote he landed in Los Angeles.<ref name=":41">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.tmz.com/2026/01/20/andy-serkis-wants-original-lord-of-the-rings-cast-in-new-film/|articlename=LOTR' Star Andy Serkis: OG Cast Is Precious, Love 'Em For New Flick|author=Anonymous|dated=20 January 20 2026|website=TMZ}}</ref>

==Pre production==
[[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had further said preproduction will last for six months,<ref name=":27">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.comingsoon.it/cinema/news/in-un-mondo-alla-deriva-gollum-ci-salvera-la-nostra-intervista-ad-andy/n203564/|articlename=In un mondo alla deriva Gollum ci salverà: la nostra intervista ad Andy Serkis|author=Carola Proto|dated=25 June 2025|website=Coming Soon.it}}</ref> with [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] later confirming it will start filming in May<ref name=":12">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1msw9fp/the_lord_of_the_rings_the_hunt_for_gollum_starts/|articlename=The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum starts shooting in May, says Sir Ian McKellen. "I'll tell you two secrets about the casting..."|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=17 August 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> for an extended shooting period:<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-filming-update-andy-serkis/|articlename=Director Andy Serkis Offers Huge Filming Update For 'The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum' [Exclusive]|author=Chris McPherson and Steven Weintraub|dated=10 June 2025|website=Collider}}</ref> This puts the beginning of filming in [[New Zealand]] winter and, deducting the holidays, six months after [[Andy Serkis|Andy]]'s arrival. Location scouting may have taken place at Hawke's Bay as early as June<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1lis26w/a_location_scout_for_the_lord_of_the_rings_the/|articlename=A location scout for The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum seems to be snooping around Hawke's Bay, New Zealand|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=23 June 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> and later at the Waikato.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.waikatotimes.co.nz/nz-news/360837801/aliens-warriors-heroes-princesses-and-gollum-big-productions-filmed-and-possibly-coming-waikato|articlename=Aliens, warriors, heroes, princesses ... and Gollum: The big productions filmed in (and possibly coming to) the Waikato|author=Mike Mather|dated=1 October 2025|website=Waikato Times}}</ref> They had also watched the films sometime prior to November.<ref>Latino USA TV, "How Movie Monsters Are Really Made!", YouTube, 26 November 2025.</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] also spoke appreciatively of [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s penchant for behind the scenes extras, suggesting a similar approach to the film.<ref name=":33" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/gu1jj7/one_zoom_to_rule_them_all_reunited_apart_lord_of/|articlename=One Zoom to Rule Them All {{!}} Reunited Apart LORD OF THE RINGS Edition|author=Josh Gad|dated=31 May 2021|website=}}</ref> In October, [[Andy Serkis|Andy]] revealed that they're developing prosthetics.<ref name=":34">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1og2b4p/andy_serkis_says_all_the_art_department_from_lord/|articlename=Andy Serkis says "all the art department" from Lord of the Rings are "excited to come back." They started location scouting and camera tests.|author=u/Lord_Varys92|dated=25 October 2024|website=Reddit}}</ref>

Since [[Elijah Wood]], slated to appear in the film, is on tour through to early September,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://parade.com/news/lord-of-the-rings-hobbits-25-years-later-reunion-tour|articlename=The Hobbits Are Back Together — and Their Big News Has Fans Cheering|author=Whitney Danhauer|dated=25 October 2025|website=Parade}}</ref> his scenes might be scheduled for [[New Zealand]] summer, which could suggest shooting ''in situ'' in [[Hobbiton]], presumably depicting [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] dallying outside [[Bag End]] while [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]] and [[Gandalf]] argue within, as depicted in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]''. [[Ian McKellen]] is also hoping to join the production in [[New Zealand as Middle-earth|New Zealand]] during July.<ref>The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, "There's Nothing I Enjoy More Than Acting In The Theater" - Ian McKellen EXTENDED INTERVIEW," ''YouTub''e, 5 February 2026.</ref>

===Crew===
The film, said to be "one of the most expensive feature films to be shot in [[New Zealand]]"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/new-lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-film-will-be-shot-in-nz-set-for-2027-release/3BDNB3QFKJDAVGB4ODOTQ63YLY/|articlename=New Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum film will be shot in NZ, set for 2027 release|author=Tom Rose|dated=18 June 2025|website=New Zealand Herald}}</ref> is expected to draft alums of the ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|Lord of the Rings]]'', ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|War of the Rohirrim]]'' (many of whom will have also worked on ''[[The Rings of Power]]'' Season One and other projects) working in the [[Wellington]] and greater New Zealand screen sector.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thepost.co.nz/nz-news/350274670/film-heavyweights-alight-over-lotr-comeback|articlename=Film heavyweights ‘alight’ over LOTR comeback|author=Rachel Thomas|dated=10 May 2024|website=The New Zealand Post}}</ref><ref name=":5" /> Crewing began in early August, with Wood since confirming the involvement of production designer [[Dan Hennah]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IX5NhkyQ710|articlename=Elijah Wood en Monterrey/ conferencia de la DesertCon|author=Asi SoyTv|dated=6 October 2025|website=YouTube}}</ref> and set decorator Ra Vincent might also be involved.<ref name=":34" /> Although [[Janet Brennan Croft|Janet Brennan-Croft]] acted as [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] consultant on previous films, Beppe Pezzini will fill this role for this film.<ref>Educational Media Services | University of Oxford, "Beppe Pezzini on Classics and Fantasy | Fantasy Summer School ‪@facultyofenglishoxford‬," ''YouTube'', 23 September 2025.</ref>

IMDb credits Bob Buck as ''a'' costume designer for the film: it remains to be seen if Ngila Dickson, having just wrapped ''Predator: Badlands'' with [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]], might return. Kate Hawley, who was attached to del Toro's version of the film, is unlikely to take part due to work on "Bad Bridgets."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/10/daisy-edgar-jones-emilia-jones-bad-bridgets-luckychap-1236604481/|articlename=Daisy Edgar-Jones And Emilia Jones To Star In ‘Bad Bridgets’ From LuckyChap|author=Justin Kroll|dated=31 October 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> Liz Mullane and Rachel Bullock head the New Zealand casting sweep. Both [[Wētā FX|WetaFX]] and [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]] are confirmed for the project,<ref name=":8">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt32328070/companycredits/?ref_=tt_dt_cmpy|articlename=The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum (2027)|author=Anonymous|website=IMDb}}</ref> as are [[Gino Acevedo]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.instagram.com/p/DRy30vUkme7/|articlename="Oh no!"|author=Ginoacevedofx|dated=3 December 2025|website=Instagram}}</ref> [[John Howe]] and [[Alan Lee]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://ggba.swiss/en/the-lord-of-the-rings-nature-and-switzerlands-hidden-history-a-conversation-with-john-howe/|articlename=The Lord Of The Rings, Nature and Switzerland’s Hidden History (A Conversation with John Howe)|author=Woody Wade|dated=10 December 2025|website=Greater Geneva Bern Area}}</ref> In April - by which point a composer was already said to be attached to the project - [[Howard Shore]] said he was interested to "see how that all works out."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.classical-music.com/articles/howard-shore|articlename=Howard Shore: the film composer behind Hannibal Lecter and Bilbo Baggins|author=Michael Beek|dated=16 April 2025|website=Classical Music.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://en.softonic.com/articles/the-composer-of-the-soundtrack-for-the-lord-of-the-rings-made-a-cameo-in-the-movies-and-no-one-noticed#google_vignette|articlename=The composer of the soundtrack for The Lord of the Rings made a cameo in the movies and no one noticed|author=Agencias|dated=26 December 2025|website=Softonic}}</ref>

As early as October, [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] suggested that they're "doing camera tests."<ref name=":34" /> This is said to include miniature photography, with Alex Funke said to participate, even if only in an advisory position. On the live action side, although Richard Bluck (who filmed with [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]], and might shoot second unit) had been mentioned, it appears the film will be lensed by Robert Richardson.<ref name=":34" /> While the film was in the story conference stage in July 2024, Richardson said he had "a number" of projects "on the constantly-shifting horizon of the film industry."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.filmlightcolourawards.com/colour-awards-2024/jury-colour-awards-2024/robert-richardson-cinematographer-asc-ack/|articlename=Robert Richardson, Cinematographer, ASC, ACK|author=Anonymous|dated=18 July 2024|website=Film Light Colour Awards}}</ref> One of these projects was a Hannibal epic, whose delay freed Richardson to lens the film.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.worldofreel.com/blog/2025/7/23/michael-part-1-delayed-to-april-2026|articlename=‘Michael’ Delayed to April 2026|author=Jordan Ruimy|dated=23 July 2025|website=World of Reel}}</ref>

The film is a co-production of [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s [[WingNut Films|WingNut films]] and [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]]' ''Imaginarium''. [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] will executive produce with his ''Imaginarium'' partner John Cavendish and Jackson's agent [[Ken Kamins]].<ref name="Gollum">{{webcite|author=Jennifer Maas|articleurl=https://variety.com/2024/film/news/lord-of-the-rings-movie-2026-release-warner-bros-1235997102/|articlename=Warner Bros. to Release New ‘Lord of the Rings’ Movie ‘The Hunt for Gollum’ in 2026, Peter Jackson to Produce and Andy Serkis to Direct|dated=9 May 2024|website=[https://variety.com/ Variety]|accessed=8 June 2024}}</ref> IMDb also credits studio chiefs Michael de Luca (who helped produce [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'']]), Pam Abdy and David Zaslav as executive producers<ref name=":8" /> and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] mentioned [[Warner Bros.|Warners]]' business consultant Alan Horn (who had produced ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]])'' as a collaborator, but these credits have yet to become official.<ref name=":7" />

===Cast===
With [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] due to star as [[Gollum]], approaches had been made to [[Ian McKellen|Sir Ian McKellen]]<ref name=":2">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2024/09/ian-mckellen-return-gandalf-new-the-lord-of-the-rings-films-1236075547/|articlename=Ian McKellen Reveals He’s Been Approached To Reprise His Role As Gandalf In Andy Serkis’ New ‘The Lord Of The Rings’ Films|author=Jake Kanter|dated=2 September 2024|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> and [[Viggo Mortensen]] to reprise [[Gandalf]] and [[Aragorn]], respectively. [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] said he's in talks to reprise "a little bit" of [[Gandalf]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.mirror.co.uk/3am/celebrity-news/sir-ian-mckellan-i-thought-36196617|articlename=EXCLUSIVE: Sir Ian McKellan: 'I thought I was a goner, but I'm coming back as Gandalf'|author=Marc Baker and Jackie Annett|dated=5 November 2025|website=The Mirror}}</ref> in [[New Zealand]].<ref name=":42">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thetimes.com/culture/tv-radio/article/ian-mckellen-an-ark-lowry-lord-of-the-rings-f9wc9nmdq|articlename=Ian McKellen at 86: ‘I’ve had to accept that I’m not immortal’|author=Jonathan Dean|dated=14 February 2026|website=The Times}}</ref> As of December, the contracts with [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] and [[Elijah Wood|Wood]] hadn't been finalized,<ref name=":40" /> but [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] expressed a desire to return to [[New Zealand]] for filming. [[Liv Tyler]], [[Evangeline Lilly]] and, especially, [[Orlando Bloom]] have also expressed interest in reprising their parts,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.nme.com/news/film/the-lord-of-the-rings-cast-say-they-would-jump-to-return-for-new-spin-off-movies-3853893|articlename=‘The Lord Of The Rings’ cast say they would “jump” to return for new spin-off movies|author=Damian Jones|dated=11 April 2025|website=NME}}</ref> while [[Dominic Monaghan]] expressed a desire to visit the set.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://nypost.com/2025/11/06/entertainment/dominic-monaghan-reveals-plans-for-next-lord-of-the-rings-movie/|articlename=Dominic Monaghan reveals big plans for next ‘Lord of the Rings’ movie — including possible return as Merry
By|author=Eric Todisco|dated=6 November 2025|website=New York Post}}</ref> [[Evangeline Lilly|Lilly]] had proceeded to do so, but indicated that she will have no further involvement with the project. [[Orcs]] are set to appear in the film, with [[Shane Rangi]] and [[Lawrence Makoare]] having reportedly been contacted.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/thelegacyofnerd/status/1979621220246344016|articlename=BREAKING: ‘The Hunt For Gollum’ Begins Filming in May 2026|author=@thelegacyofnerd|dated=8 October 2025|website=Twitter}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]]' comments about seeing the interiors of [[Barad-dûr|Barad Dur]] might suggest the involvement of [[Benedict Cumberbatch]].<ref name=":36">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lYYSsook-4Y|articlename=Philippa Boyens ('ESDLA: LA GUERRA DE LOS ROHIRRIM'): "Queríamos que se sintiera como algo nuevo"|author=eCartelera|dated=10 December 2024}}</ref>

[[Andy Serkis|Serkis]], [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had all spoke to [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]],<ref name=":3">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://theplaylist.net/the-war-of-the-rohirrim-philippa-boyens-on-the-new-anime-the-hunt-for-gollum-the-future-of-the-lord-of-the-rings-20241223/|articlename=‘The War Of The Rohirrim’: Philippa Boyens On The New Anime, ‘The Hunt For Gollum’ & The Future Of ‘The Lord of the Rings’|author=Rodrigo Perez|dated=23 December 2024|website=The Playlist}}</ref> who had previously said he'd be "open to it" if it makes sense for "the age I am now"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.gq-magazine.co.uk/article/viggo-mortensen-interview-2024|articlename=Viggo Mortensen re-used Aragorn's sword in new movie The Dead Don't Hurt “Because it's really good”|author=Rafael Motamayor|dated=28 May 2024|website=GQ}}</ref> but after [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] pitched it to him as "Digital make-up" they agreed he'd wait to read the script: With the approach to [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] happening sometime between June<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thetimes.com/culture/film/article/ian-mckellen-if-this-is-my-last-job-id-better-get-it-right-hadnt-i-n3t38g6tb|articlename=Ian McKellen: ‘When a script arrives, I think this might be my last job’|author=Dominic Maxwell|dated=8 June 2024|website=The Times of London}}</ref> and September,<ref name=":2" /> the approach to [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] may have taken place in mid-June, just prior to an interview in which [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] said "The script is the most important thing to me", seemingly no longer harping on the age quota.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/viggo-mortensen-lord-of-the-rings-script-feminism-1235935628/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen on Respecting Audiences, How Scripts Are Key “Unless I’m Broke,” New ‘LOTR’ Films|author=Georg Szalai|dated=30 June 2024|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] said they need to "drag" him.<ref name=":36" />

While in London for ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]]'' premiere, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also "had lunch with an [[Elves|Elf]] lord" who "would fall into that story."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.instagram.com/nerdoftherings/reel/DDgKw47uxkJ/|articlename="Philippa Boyens teases an “elf lord” returning for Hunt for Gollum! "|author=Matt Graf|dated=12 December 2024|website=Instagram}}</ref> Although this could refer to [[Orlando Bloom|Bloom]] or even [[Marton Csokas]], [[Lee Pace]] is the most likely as he was shooting ''The Running Man'' in London at the time.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://people.com/glen-powell-films-running-man-reboot-37-years-after-arnold-schwarzenegger-movie-8745529|articlename=Glen Powell Films Running Man Remake in London 37 Years After Original Arnold Schwarzenegger Movie|author=Jen Juneau|dated=14 November 2024|website=People}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had since divulged that they expect "some of the cast who were originally in" ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'', as well as "some incredible new talent."<ref name=":28">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.jedinews.com/events/articles/indiana-comic-con-andy-serkis-full-panel/|articlename=Indiana Comic Con: Andy Serkis Full Panel|author=James Burns|dated=11 April 2025,|website=Jedi News}}</ref> [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] had since confirmed that [[Gandalf]] and [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]], surely to be played by himself and [[Elijah Wood|Wood]], are scheduled to reappear in the piece.<ref name=":12" />

Casting seems to have started in November,<ref name=":40">Steve Schofield ''et al'', "25 Years of Fellowship", ''Empire'' (March 2026), pp. 46-70.</ref> with young boys auditioning for the boy [[Gollum|Smeagol]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/KnightGambit/status/2011815291198849220|articlename=Small Tidbit.....|author=Caleb Williams|dated=16 January 2026|website=Twitter}}</ref> and two of his fellow [[Stoors|Stoor]] riverfolk - a young girl and a young adult boy - in what looks like a setup for [[Gollum|Smeagol]]'s preoccupation with a birtday present. Actors in their early thirties auditioned for a young "[[Aragorn|Strider]]",<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://knightedgemedia.com/2026/01/the-hunt-for-gollum-casting-call-teases-young-strider-and-his-fellow-dunedain-rangers/#google_vignette|articlename=‘The Hunt for Gollum’ Casting Call Teases Young Strider and His Fellow Dúnedain Rangers|author=Caleb Williams|dated=16 January 2026|website=Knight Edge Media}}</ref> with 29-year old Leo Woodall reportedly tipped for the role.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://knightedgemedia.com/2026/03/rumor-leo-woodall-cast-as-strider-in-lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum/#google_vignette|articlename=RUMOR: Leo Woodall Cast as Strider in ‘Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum’|author=Caleb Williams|dated=7 March 2026|website=Knight Edge Media}}</ref> While there had been reports that the studio is not hoping to get Viggo<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/ViewerAnon/status/1998489358849159181?s=20|articlename=I can confirm this|author=ViewerAnon|dated=9 December 2025|website=Twitter}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had spoken about potentially having to "hand off"<ref name=":3" /> from [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]], and rumours had pointed to the inexpediency of the deaging.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://3dvf.com/en/a-cult-actor-from-the-lord-of-the-rings-on-the-departure-the-question-arises-for-the-prequel-dedicated-to-gollum/#google_vignette|articlename=A Cult Actor from The Lord of the Rings on the Departure? The Question Arises for the Prequel Dedicated to Gollum|author=Quentin Couprie|dated=13 December 2025|accessed=3DVF}}</ref> The age differential - Mortensen was 42 while shooting ''Lord of the Rings'' - may well suggest scenes alternating between this younger character, and either an old [[Aragorn|Elessar]] and/or the "mature" [[Aragorn]] of the [[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|''Fellowship of the Ring'']] era.''<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://medium.com/p/dcf21faf019e|articlename=The Hunt for Gollum and the Aragorn problem|author=Chen Geller|website=Medium}}</ref>'' [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had earlier spoke of meeting [[Aragorn]] when he was "quite young" in ''[[The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies|The Battle of the Five Armies]],'' but not so young that it didn't seem plausible to her to have [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] play him circa 2011''.<ref name=":39" />'' The audition scene, although not necessarily representative of the film, also implies the presence of the other [[Rangers of the North|Rangers]], perhaps including [[Halbarad]]. A younger Strider could also feature in a "Young Aragorn" picture.

Serkis had since reaffirrmed that he would "love the old cast" back.<ref name=":41" /> Other roles auditioned for include women in their thirties and fifities: the latter is said to be Smeagol's grandmother, now confirmed as a "lead" role, with Kate Winslet relocating to New Zealand for five months. The thirties' part<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://knightedgemedia.com/2026/03/the-hunt-for-gollum-lead-female-characters-casting-are-underway-exclusive/#google_vignette|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum’ Lead Female Characters Casting Are Underway (EXCLUSIVE)|author=Caleb Williams|dated=5 March 2026|website=Knight Edge Media}}</ref> is reportedly circled by Anya Taylor-Joy. Some presume this to be [[Arwen]], but if so the quota is older than [[Liv Tyler]], who was 23 at the time of [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'']].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://medium.com/@chenngeller/on-aragorn-and-other-castings-a6e55668fce9?postPublishedType=repub|articlename=On Aragorn, Stoors and other castings|author=Chen Geller|dated=11 March 2026|website=Medium}}</ref>

==Plotline==
The exact events the film covers remain undisclosed. There's ambiguity concerning both the exact timeframe for the film, and whether it will focus more on [[Gollum]] or [[Aragorn]]. An official "blurb" for the movie reads: "The pic explores [[Aragorn]]’s adventures as a [[Rangers of the North|ranger]], specifically his quest to capture [[Gollum]] between [[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]] and [[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|Fellowship of the Ring]], tracking him to keep the [[The One Ring|Ring]]’s location from [[Sauron|Sauron."]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2026/01/box-office-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy-25th-anniversary-1236689724/|articlename=‘Lord Of The Rings’ Trilogy 25th Anniversary Event Rings Up $11M In Worldwide Box Office|author=Anthony D'Alessandro|dated=19 January 2026|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> A more extended synopsis had also been circulating:<blockquote>Before the Fellowship, one creature's obsession holds the key to Middle-earth's survival -- or its demise. In The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum, we meet young Smeagol -- an outsider drawn to trinkets and mischief -- long before The One Ring consumed him and began his tragic descent into the tortured, deceitful creature Gollum. With the ring lost and carried away by Bilbo Baggins, Gollum finds himself compelled to leave his cave in search of it. Gandalf the Grey calls upon Aragorn, still known as the ranger Strider, to track the elusive creature whose knowledge of the whereabouts of the ring could tip the balance toward the Dark Lord Sauron.
Set in the shadowed time between Bilbo's birthday disappearance and the Fellowship's formation, this perilous journey through Middle-earth's darkest corners reveals untold truths, tests the resolve of its future king, and explores the fractured soul and backstory of Gollum, one of Tolkien's most enigmatic characters.

Directed by original cast member Andy Serkis, produced by Peter Jackson, and written & produced by Fran Walsh and Phillipa Boyens -- the creative team behind the Oscar-winning trilogy -- this live-action movie bridges the beloved films with new characters, returning heroes, and a deeply engaging origin story that resets the stage for, and changes everything you know about the legendary Lord of the Rings trilogy.</blockquote>Strictly speaking, [[Aragorn]]'s hunt for [[Gollum]] begins during the events depicted in Jackson's [[The Fellowship of the Ring (2001 film)|''The Fellowship of the Ring'']], and in October, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] said the story "falls after the [[Bilbo's Farewell Party|birthday party of Bilbo]] and before the Mines Of [[Moria]]".<ref name=":22">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.empireonline.com/movies/news/lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-wont-be-two-films-second-philippa-boyens-exclusive/|articlename=The Hunt For Gollum Won’t Be Two Films, But A Second LOTR Film Is Incoming, Philippa Boyens Confirms|author=Ben Travis|dated=18 October 2024|website=Empire}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] added that the role of [[Aragorn]] is "very central" to the movie.<ref name=":36" /> Andy called the storyline "pivotal."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1md7lim/the_lord_of_the_rings_the_hunt_for_gollum_andy/|articlename=The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum - Andy Serkis says "this part of the story is pivotal"|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=30 July 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> [[Ian McKellen]] had described the plot as "[[Aragorn]] trying to find [[Gollum]] with [[Gandalf]] directing operations from the sidelines."<ref name=":42" />

However, ''a'' hunt for [[Gollum]] is begun by the [[Silvan Elves]] after Gollum first leaves the [[Misty Mountains|mountains]] in search of [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]], and in December Jackson said the film "tells us what happened to [[Gollum]] between ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' - end of [[The Hobbit (film series)|''The Hobbit'']] - and the beginning of ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]''".<ref name=":6">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/red-carpet-premiere-for-the-lord-of-the-rings-the-war-of-the-rohirrim/P3BS7U5NPS5EMFLPUV4SYSYFDU/|articlename=Red carpet premiere for The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|author=Mitchell Hageman|dated=11 December 2024|website=New Zealand Herald}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had since confirmed this timeframe: "It sits, kind of, in the timeline between ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' - between losing the [[The One Ring|Ring]] to [[Bilbo Baggins]] - and ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]''."<ref name=":18">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?t=1218&v=U-dw8DQDf90&feature=youtu.be|articlename=Kazakhstan feels like the center of the world - Andy Serkis {{!}} Interview of the Day|author=Silk Way / Qazaqstan|dated=15 July 2025|website=YouTube}}</ref> [[Dol Guldur]], the [[Nazgûl|Nazgul]] and [[Orcs]] are all said to potentially play part in the film.

[[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also alluded to other storylines: "we are finding a lot of threads of story that are surprising in there when you really go in there and examine it".<ref name=":29">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.slashfilm.com/1734018/philippa-boyens-lord-of-the-rings-war-of-the-rohirrim-exclusive-interview/|articlename=War Of The Rohirrim's Philippa Boyens Reveals Details About The Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum [Exclusive Interview]|author=Ben Pearson|dated=13 December 2024|website=/Film}}</ref> Events as varied as [[Aragorn]]'s sojourn in [[Lothlórien|Lórien]] with [[Arwen]], the fall of [[Balin's folk]], [[Boromir]]'s quest for [[Rivendell]] and much else occur concurrent to the time of the Hunt.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1iutc9r/building_bridges_so_what_happens_between_the/|articlename=Building Bridges: So, what happens between the trilogies that The Hunt for Gollum could possibly cover?|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=21 February 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> "You see the layers and layers of story that’s underneath there and how interconnected they all are", she adds.<ref name=":3" /> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] also made comments to this effect: "Some pretty interesting stuff happens that we reference in passing in [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The'' ''Lord of the Rings'']], but there’s a lot of more deep detail to it."<ref name=":6" />

[[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] adds that "We get to go to some places that we've never been before" in Middle-earth." One such place - only glimpsed in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|Fellowship of the Ring]]'' - is the interiors of [[Barad-dûr|Barad Dur]].<ref name=":36" /> Both she and Serkis alluded to new characters<ref name=":28" /><ref name=":5" /> and new dramatic situations, saying it's "surprising"<ref name=":7" /><ref name=":27" /><ref name=":29" /> and could be enjoyed be people wo don't know the novels.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.amica.it/video-post/andy-serkis-dirigero-signore-anelli-tornero-batman/|articlename=Andy Serkis, da Gollum a regista: «Dirigerò “Il Signore degli Anelli” e tornerò con Batman»|author=Emanuele Bigi|dated=27 June 2025|website=Amica}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also shared that one of the practicalities they were busy figuring out in the writing is "How does he [<nowiki/>[[Aragorn]]] pick up his scent? How does he find his trail, how does it happen?"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://nerdist.com/article/nerdist-philippa-boyens-interview-the-war-of-the-rohirrim-the-lord-of-the-rings-future/|articlename=Philippa Boyens Talks the Future of THE LORD OF THE RINGS Movies and Naming a Tolkien Character in THE WAR OF THE ROHIRRIM|author=by Rotem Rusak|dated=19 December 2024|website=Nerdist}}</ref>

==Cast==
{| class="wikitable mw-collapsible"
|- style="background: var(--tg-color-surface-2);"
!Actor!!Role
|-
|[[Andy Serkis]]||[[Gollum]]<ref name="Gollum"></ref>
|-
|[[Elijah Wood]]
|[[Frodo Baggins]]<ref name=":12" />
|-
|[[Ian McKellen]]
|[[Gandalf]]<ref name=":12" />
|}

{{title|italics}}

{{references}}

{{screen}}

[[Category:Films]]

[[fi:The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum]]

The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum

2026-03-11T18:12:20Z

Chen Geller:

{{Disambig-two|the 2027 film adaptation|2009 fan film|[[The Hunt for Gollum]]}}
{{film infobox
| image =
| caption =
| name = The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum
| director = [[Andy Serkis]]
| producer = [[Peter Jackson]] [[Fran Walsh]] [[Philippa Boyens]] [[Zane Weiner]]
| writer = [[Fran Walsh]] [[Philippa Boyens]] Phoebe Gittins Arty Papageorgiou
| narrator =
| starring = [[Andy Serkis]]<ref name=Gollum></ref> [[Elijah Wood]] [[Ian McKellen]] Kate Winslet
| music =
| cinematography =
| editing =
| studio = WingNut films Imaginarium [[New Line Cinema]]<ref name=Gollum></ref>
| distributor = [[Warner Bros.|Warner Bros. Pictures]]<ref name=Gollum></ref>
| released = 17 December [[2027]]<ref name="TheDirect2027Release"/>
| runtime =
| country = [[New Zealand]]<ref name=Gollum></ref>
| language = English
| budget =
| website =
|imdb_id=32328070
|basedon=[[The Lord of the Rings]]|production design=[[Dan Hennah]] (Production designer)}}
'''''The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum''''' is the title (originally, working title<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/09/curtis-brown-jrr-tolkien-literary-estate-deal-1236526748/|articlename=Curtis Brown To Rep J.R.R. Tolkien’s Literary Estate|author=Jesse Whittock|dated=10 September 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref>) of a forthcoming film adaptation currently in pre-production and set for a [[2027]] release, the first of a planned series of Tolkien films to be produced by [[New Line Cinema]], a division of [[Warner Bros.|Warner Brothers]].<ref name=":4">{{webcite|author=Matt Donnelly|articleurl=https://variety.com/2023/film/news/lord-of-the-rings-new-movies-warner-bros-1235533672/|articlename=New ‘Lord of the Rings’ Movies Set at Warner Bros. |dated=23 February 2023|website=[https://variety.com/ Variety]|accessed=10 June 2024}}</ref>

The film will cover [[Gollum]]'s travels after losing [[The One Ring|the Ring]] to [[Bilbo Baggins]] (as depicted in [[The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey|''An Unexpected Journey'']]), through [[Gandalf]] setting out to track the creature after [[Bilbo's Farewell Party]] (as depicted in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]'') and down to [[Gollum]] intercepting [[Fellowship of the Ring|the Fellowship]] in [[Moria|Moria.]]

It will be directed by and star [[Andy Serkis]], who played [[Gollum]] in [[Peter Jackson]]'s previous films, as well as directing second unit. [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] will produce with his co-writing team of [[Fran Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens]], who will also write the screenplay with ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]]'' scribes Phoebe Gittins and Arty Papageorgiou.

The subject of this film is a longstanding fascination of [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s who developed it quite intensly in 2008 with [[Guillermo del Toro]]. The film is in preproduction with several cast and crew members from previous films already attached, including actor [[Elijah Wood]], concept artists [[John Howe]] and [[Alan Lee]] and others.

==Early Development==
Although the film was only announced in 2023, it had a long gestation period with [[Peter Jackson]], who considered filming this subject since circa 1997, and at least as late as July 2015. During 2008, in particular, the film was in development with a plot synopsis, a tentative budget and an initial cast and crew attached, and drew the attention of further talent like [[Viggo Mortensen]], as well as the press. Elements of this proposed "bridge film" were eventually put into ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' but mostly axed during the early months of the shoot. Jackson also negotiated in 2018 about producing a show for [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon Prime]] about the related subject of the travels of young [[Aragorn]], but ended up producing ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]]'' with [[New Line Cinema]] instead.

===During ''The'' ''Lord of the Rings''===
[[Peter Jackson]] read [[The Lord of the Rings|''The Lord of the Rings'']] circa 1979, and he claims that he "always loved the concept that when [[Gandalf]] leaves [[Bag End]] he goes and joins up with [[Aragorn]] and the two of them hunt [[Gollum]] down."<ref name=":26">Peter Jackson, Philippa Boyens, Fran Walsh, "Director's Commentary", Peter Jackson, ''The Lord of the Rings trilogy'' (New Line Cinema: 2004).</ref> This piece of backstory was also expanded upon in the [[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)|radio serial]], which [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] was very familiar with. He and [[Fran Walsh]] first pitched a trilogy based on [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']] and ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'' around November 1995.<ref>Brian Sibley, Peter Jackson: A Filmmaker's Journey (London: HarperCollins, 2006), pp. 312 ff.</ref><ref>J. W Braun, ''The lord of the films : the unofficial guide to Tolkien's Middle-Earth on the big screen'' (Toronto: ECW Press, 2009), pp. 20, 63, 68-69, 195.</ref><ref>Michael Pellerin, "Completing Middle-earth," Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit'' (Warner Brothers: 2015).</ref> They may well have had the [[Gollum]] episode in mind at some time between that point and early 1997. So long as they intended to start with ''The Hobbit'' (up to early 1996), they will have been mindful of the need to connect the two novels, and while their treatment (mid 1997) doesn't seem to cover the [[Gollum]] episode, it already dramatizes the remainder of the backstory that's given in "[[The Shadow of the Past]]", "[[The Council of Elrond]]" and [[appendix B]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1j06oqh/so_what_is_the_hunt_for_gollum_really_based_on/|articlename=So, what is The Hunt for Gollum REALLY based on?|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=28 February 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> When the project expanded (September 1998) to three films, Jackson tried to finally incorporate this storyline - some eight pages' worth - but realized that he "just couldn't put [the Hunt for [[Gollum]]] into the movie".<ref name=":26" />

[[Peter Jackson|Peter]] nevertheless publicly expressed a desire to film "[[Gandalf]] and [[Aragorn]] hunting [[Gollum]], and his capture by [[Orcs]]"<ref name=":25">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://members.tripod.com/peter_jackson_online/lotr/articles/20_questions2.htm|articlename=20 QUESTIONS WITH PETER JACKSON- PART 2|author=Harry Knowles|dated=31 December 1998|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> At the time, the idea was to shoot this as additional material and add it into the extended edition: although by early 2001 he would have realized this could not be accomodated in the pickups to ''The Fellowship of the Ring'', in 2003 he would still half-jokingly talk about shooting more pickups to "fatten these films out without technically going beyond ‘[[The Lord of the Rings]]’ as the licensed property." Elsewhere in the commentary, he jokes about "spinoff" entries.<ref name=":26" /> Other ideas for this treatment included [[Tom Bombadil]]<ref name=":25" /> and the [[Lothlórien|attack on Lorien]], with the entire expansion estimated at around three hours' worth.<ref name=":26" />

By the end of 2001, The success of ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]'' emboldened [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]<ref>Kristin Thompson, T''he Frodo Franchise: The Lord of the Rings and Modern Hollywoo''d (Berkeley: University of California Press, 2007), pp. 51, 327, 338.</ref> to pursue more films (he was also in discussions to "rekindle" ''King Kong'' at the time) and he had later discussed filming a "''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|Lord of the Rings]]'' prequel", along with ''[[The Hobbit]]'', with composer [[Howard Shore]] and executive producer [[Mark Ordesky]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2006/11/19/24053-peter-jackson-and-fran-walsh-talk-the-hobbit-2/|articlename=Peter Jackson and Fran Walsh Talk THE HOBBIT|author=Xoanon|dated=19 November 2006|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref><ref name=":35">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.rhino.com/article/interview-howard-shore-the-lord-of-the-rings|articlename=INTERVIEW: Howard Shore (“The Lord of the Rings”)|author=Will Harris|dated=27 April 2018|website=Rhino}}</ref> At a later premiere, [[New Line Cinema|New Line]]'s president Robert Shaye told [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s agent [[Ken Kamins]] that they "would want to have a conversation" about the two films.<ref name=":30" /> The idea at the time was to incorporate [[Arwen]] as a female character<ref name=":10">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20230327113046/https://ew.com/article/2003/12/06/peter-jackson-mulls-rings-prequel/|articlename=Peter Jackson mulls ''Rings'' prequel|author=Gary Susman|dated=6 December 2003|website=EW}}</ref> and produce both films back-to-back "in some short order"<ref name=":30">Ian Nathan, ''Anything You Can Imagine: Peter Jackson and the Making of Middle-earth'' (London: HarperCollins, 2019), pp. 827, 835.</ref> after ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'', in order to "complete the set of films.”<ref name=":10" /> Actors [[Andy Serkis]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2003/dec/09/jrrtolkien|articlename=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2003/dec/09/jrrtolkien|author=Anonymous|dated=9 Dec 2003|website=The Guardian}}</ref> [[Ian McKellen]], producer Barrie Osborne<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2002/12/16/25965-ttt-benefit-with-barrie-osborne-2/|articlename=TTT Benefit with Barrie Osborne
by|author=xoanon|dated=16 December 2002|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> and concept artist Paul Lasaine all expressed interest at the time.

While talking about ''[[The Hobbit]]'' in 16 September 2006, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] said they "have thought about it from time to time" and in fact "spent most of this morning" talking about the films. They talked of how "[[Elrond]], [[Galadriel]] and [[Arwen]] could all feature"<ref name=":11" /> and "[[Gollum]]'s sneaking into [[Mordor]] and [[Aragorn]] protecting [[The Shire]]. That's what we'd do. Love to work with [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] again".<ref name=":11">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/30085|articlename=Part 5: Quint and Peter Jackson talk THE HOBBIT and a potential return to low budget horror!!!|author=Eric Vespe|dated=16 September 2006|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]], hearing this remark in 2012, said it "sounds like a lot of fun".<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2012/03/13/54232-viggo-mortensens-visit-to-boston-part-2-new-video/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen’s visit to Boston – part 2 (new video!)|author=Greendragon|dated=13 March 2012|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref>

===During ''The Hobbit''===
Since the rights to [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']] were split with [[MGM|Metro Goldwyn-Mayer]], in March 2007 [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] pitched this to CEO Harry Sloan: he had already heard of it from [[New Line Cinema]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.ign.com/articles/2006/11/14/hobbit-crown-panther-news|articlename=Hobbit, Crown, Panther News|author=Anonymous|dated=15 Nov 2006|website=IGN}}</ref> who had previously fallen-out with [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]], but Sloan was won over by Jackson's pitch, which was apparently very detailed.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.kristinthompson.net/blog/2008/05/19/the-hobbit-films-pj-and-fw-know-every-scene-every-moment/|articlename=The Hobbit films: PJ and FW know “every scene, every moment”|author=Kristin Thompson|dated=19 May 2008|website=Kristinthompson.net}}</ref> By contrast, Shaye later said [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] "hasn't told us too much about it."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.screendaily.com/new-line-mgm-team-for-two-hobbit-movies-with-peter-jackson/4036350.article|articlename=New Line, MGM team for two Hobbit movies with Peter Jackson|author=Jeremy Kay|dated=18 December 2007|website=Screen Daily}}</ref>

By December, both films were moving forward with a budget of $150 million each: the idea was that [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]], [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] would write and produce and the films will be shot in 2009 for release in 2010 and 2011.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/del-toro-doubles-up-hobbit-103547/|articlename=Del Toro doubles up for ‘Hobbit’|author=Borys Kit|dated=28 January 2008|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> Robert Shaye, Michael Lynne and [[Mark Ordesky]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://variety.com/2008/film/columns/shaye-kept-new-line-afloat-1117982001/|articlename=Shaye kept New Line afloat|author=Anne Thompson|dated=7 March 2008|website=Variety}}</ref> were attached as executive producers until February, when they were replaced by Toby Emmerich and Carolyn Blackwood. Actor [[Ian McKellen|Ian Mckellen]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2008/mar/26/lordoftherings.jrrtolkien|articlename=Hard Hobbit to break: McKellen set for return as Gandalf|author=Anonymous|dated=26 March 2008|website=The Guardian}}</ref> assistant Matthew Dravitzky,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://if.com.au/guillermo-wants-old-buddies-to-join-him-on-the-hobbit/|articlename=Guillermo wants old buddies to join him on The Hobbit|author=Anonymous|dated=23 March 2009|website=IF FX}}</ref> composer [[Howard Shore]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/09/28/30045-howard-shore-is-working-on-hobbit-score/|articlename=Howard Shore is Working on Hobbit Score|author=28 September 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/02/24/28408-howard-shore-talks-hobbit-in-switzerland/|articlename=Howard Shore Talks ‘Hobbit’ in Switzerland|author=Calisuri|dated=24 February 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref>, [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]]<ref name=":38">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/10/22/30352-del-toro-interview-part-3-%E2%80%9Ci-love-new-zealand%E2%80%9D/|articlename=Del Toro Interview Part 3: “I Love New Zealand!”|author=Xoanon|dated=22 October 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> and [[Wētā FX|Weta FX]]<ref name=":37" /> were attached to the project. Although [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] hadn't ruled out directing - he later aired the notion of shooting second unit<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20081012042437/http://moviesblog.mtv.com/2008/10/08/guillermo-del-toro-to-fly-solo-on-hobbit-directing-duties-says-no-to-peter-jackson-assist/|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro To Fly Solo On ‘Hobbit’ Directing Duties, Says No To Peter Jackson Assist|author=Shawn Adler|dated=8 October 2008|website=MTV}}</ref><ref name=":17" /> - he soon picked [[Guillermo del Toro]] to direct.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/01/30/28331-torn-exclusive-del-toro-%e2%80%9c99-percent-certain%e2%80%9d-says-nl-insider/|articlename=TORN exclusive: Del Toro “99 percent certain” says NL insider.|author=MrCere|dated=30 January 2008|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref>

Subsequently, actors [[Andy Serkis]],<ref name=":17" /> [[Ian Holm]]<ref name=":15">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080501020820/http://www.mtv.com/movies/news/articles/1586421/story.jhtml|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro Addresses 'Hobbit' Fans' Concerns, Talks Possible Casting|author=Shawn Adler, Josh Horowitz|dated=28 April 2008|website=Premiere.com}}</ref>; concept artists [[Alan Lee]] and [[John Howe]]; prosthetics supervisor [[Gino Acevedo]]<ref name=":37">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/04/25/28747-guillermo-del-toro-chats-with-torn-about-the-hobbit-films/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro Chats with TORN About ‘The Hobbit’ Films!|author=Xoanon|dated=25 April 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> were all attached. They had approached [[Grant Major]] but he declined<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=http://www.artstars.us/grant-major/8/|articlename=Grant Major|author=Tom Lisowski|dated=14 November 2011|website=Art Stars}}</ref> and hopped onboard ''Green Lantern'' with costume designer Ngila Dickson: they were substituted by [[Dan Hennah]]<ref name=":32">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/51948|articlename=An Unexpected Journey: Quint on the set of The Hobbit Part 3 – Beginnings and Endings|author=Eric Vespe|dated=14 November 2011|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> and Kate Hawley.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.whowhatwear.com/living/who-what-wear-podcast-kate-hawley|articlename=How the Frankenstein Costume Designer Brought the Film to Life|author=Madeline Hill|dated=17 November 2025|website=Who What Wear}}</ref> Actors [[Martin Freeman]]<ref>In "The Road Back to Middle-earth", Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit'' (New Line Cinema: 2015), Philippa Boyens recalls proposing Freeman as Bilbo Baggins when she saw him at the 2003 BAFTAs.</ref> and [[Hugo Weaving]];<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.slashfilm.com/504115/guillermo-del-toro-confirms-hugo-weaving-for-the-hobbit-and-much-more/|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro Confirms Hugo Weaving For The Hobbit... And Much More|author=Brendon Connolly|dated=11 June 2009|website=Slash Film}}</ref> as well as [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]]'s regular collaborators (including artists Wayne Barlowe and Francisco Ruiz Velasco<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20081201164150/http://bilbohobbit.com/del-toro-talks-hobbit-in-live-chat/|articlename="Del Toro talks 'Hobbit' in Live Chat"|author=Alex|dated=27 November 2008|website=BilboHobbit.com}}</ref>) were also being sought beginning at this time.

"We got really excited," said [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]], "because this second film is not a ‘tag on’, it’s not ‘filler,’ it’s an integral part of telling the story of those 50 years of history lost in the narrative".<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://theplaylist.net/60-year-period-between-hobbi-20080425/|articlename=60-Year Period Between ‘The Hobbit’ & ‘Fellowship’ For Hobbit Sequel Suddenly Gone? Or Not?|author=Rodrigo Perez|dated=25 April 2008|website=The Playlist}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.gamesradar.com/guillermo-del-toro-talks-hobbit-and-more/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro talks Hobbit and more|author=Anonymous|dated=25 April 2008|website=Total Film}}</ref> Although he had a radical new vision for the designs in the first film, <ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080915124607/http://www.premiere.com/features/4642/exclusive-guillermo-del-toro-on-hellboy-ii-page4.html|articlename=Exclusive: Guillermo del Toro on 'Hellboy II'|author=Anonymous|website=Premiere}}</ref> [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] intended to use the second film to affect a gradual change of style towards that of [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]: "We have to recreate a lot of the stuff they did on the [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|trilogy]]," he said: helpfully, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had kept the [[Bag End]] and [[Rivendell]] sets, and they set about rebuilding [[Hobbiton]].<ref name=":32" />

[[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] also rewatched the extended editions with [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]], [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] and intended to watch the making-ofs, dailies "the camera reports... everything," particularly for ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080914124349/http://www.comingsoon.net/news/nycomicconnews.php?id=44254|articlename=EXCL: Del Toro on Hellboy II and The Hobbit|author=Edward Douglas|dated=21 April 2008|website=Coming Soon.net}}</ref> The remastering of ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'' was also begun around this time. This was done because [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] felt that it "has to evolve into the lensing, the color palette, the texture palette, and the feel of the [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|trilogy]]…"<ref name=":13">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/37428|articlename=Quint and Guillermo del Toro chat about HELLBOY II, THE HOBBIT and more!!!|author=Eric Vespe|dated=12 July 2008|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> partially for this purpose, a break was to be scheduled partway through the shoot,<ref name=":31">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080712175117/http://www.ifmagazine.com/feature.asp?article=2879|articlename=GUILLERMO DEL TORO ESCAPES 'LABYRINTH' AND ENDS RIGHT BACK INTO 'HELLBOY'|author=Carl Cortez|dated=9 July 2008|website=iFMagazine}}</ref> which was estimated at over 370 days.<ref name=":31" />

[[Guillermo del Toro|Guillermo]] insisted the second film would add to the series.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wReRe8Si2aU|articlename=Guillermo del Toro: RT's Dinner & the Movies Interview Pt 5|author=OCR|dated=11 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> He said "it’s also expanding and illuminating some of the aspects of the trilogy in a slightly different way, like same characters in a different environment. I find that very attractive."<ref name=":13" /> The idea was that the first film would be a retelling of [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']], including the bulk of the [[Dol Guldur]] storyline, up to [[Smaug]]'s death: the second would wrap-up the remainder of [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']] in its first half, and concern itself with the Hunt for [[Gollum]] and other "bridging" plot threads in its second half.<ref name=":14">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20120831093447/http://moviesblog.mtv.com/2008/10/07/hobbit-films-will-be-one-continuous-journey-promises-guillermo-del-toro/|articlename='Hobbit' Films Will Be One 'Continuous Journey,' Promises Guillermo Del Toro|author=Shawn Adler|dated=7 October 2008|website=MTV}}</ref>

Although [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] predicted the second film would require the most work,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2P0dTo0yNpQ|articlename=THE HOBBIT 1 & 2 MOVIE UPDATE|author=ReelzChannel|dated=7 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> both he<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JVHzVKy_F8w|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro talks about Hobbit Movie|author=Brettmartintv|dated=7 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] showed a particular eagerness towards it, with [[Guillermo del Toro|Guillermo]] calling it a "treasure trove of possibilities."<ref name=":16">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080915084029/http://www.mtv.com/movies/news/articles/1590278/story.jhtml|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro Answers 'Hobbit' Fans' Questions About Returning 'Rings' Cast, Religion And More|author=Shawn Adler|dated=2 July 2008|website=MTV}}</ref> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] was also "really looking forward to developing Film Two. It gives us a freedom that we haven't really had on our [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] journey."<ref name=":17" /> [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] concluded that "the promise of that land is absolutely mind-boggling!"<ref name=":16" />

Referring specifically to [[Gollum]]'s part in the events, [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] said "[[Gollum]] has a rather fascinating arch to go through and his alliance to [[Shelob]] or his period of imprisonment in [[Thranduil]]'s". [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] added that "There's an awful lot of incident that happens during that 60 year gap. At this stage, we're not imagining a film that literally covers 60 years, like a bio-pic or documentary. We would figure out what happens during that 60 years, and choose one short section of time to drop in and dramatise for the screen". Both filmmakers said they agreed that "apart from extreme circumstances, we would never recast a character who appeared in the [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|LOTR trilogy]]".<ref name=":17">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080730161821/http://www.wetanz.com/holics/index.php?itemid=695&catid=2|articlename=An Unexpected Party Chat|author=Anonymous|dated=30 July 2008|website=Weta Workshop website}}</ref> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] later remarked that, in some cases, they'd sooner write around a character than recast the part.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/41848|articlename=Comic-Con '09: Peter Jackson talks to Capone about DISTRICT 9, THE HOBBIT, and the state of the film industry!!!|author="Capone"|dated=28 July 2009|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref>

As of the formulation of these comments in July, [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] said the second film is "too early"<ref name=":13" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5YoRDF12aRc|articlename=GDT the Hobbit 1|author=Garfeimao TheOneRing|dated=14 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> in its development process to know precisely what it might entail, estimating that it would take six months to formulate the storyline for the film.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.ign.com/articles/2008/07/09/exclusive-gdt-on-the-hobbit|articlename=Exclusive: GDT on The Hobbit|author=Eric Moro and Stax|dated=10 July 2008|website=IGN}}</ref> By September, however, [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] claimed they "found what reverberated."<ref name=":14" /> [[Guillermo del Toro|Guillermo]] had expressed reservations about the term "bridge film" from the outset, but by now he and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] disabused of the term completely, having come to see the films as five undifferentiated parts of a greater whole.

Although they apparently made an outline,<ref name=":15" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/10/16/30296-guillermo-del-toro-i%e2%80%99m-so-voracious-about-the-hobbit/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro: “I’m so voracious about The Hobbit!”|author=Xoanon|dated=16 October 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> it seems the film went no further than this. Up until this point, del Toro had been video-conferencing with Jackson and the other collaborators, meeting in person every three weeks.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://variety.com/2008/film/features/guillermo-del-toro-booked-thru-2017-1117991560/|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro booked thru 2017|author=Michael Fleming|dated=3 September, 2008|website=Variety}}</ref> By the time he arrived to concentrate on writing the story treatment in November 2008<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=http://newboards.theonering.net/forum/gforum/perl/gforum.cgi?post=147373;guest=501771554#147373|articlename="Hola"|author=Guillermo del Toro|dated=8 November 2008|website=The One Ring Discussion Boards}}</ref><ref>Alfio Leotta, ''Peter Jackson'' (London: Bloomsbury Publishing, 2015), p. 196.</ref> the contents of the "bridge" film were being gradually edged-out by the contents of ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]],'' to the point that by the time the completed treatment was greenlit in April 2009<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2009/08/03/32999-peter-jackson-speaks/|articlename=Peter Jackson speaks|author=MrCere|dated=3 August 2009|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref> the films could only be described as a two-part adaptation of ''[[The Hobbit]],'' albeit with elements of the bridge film "integrated''."''<ref>Anonymous, "The Hobbit: Gollum, Bilbo, del Toro and Jackson," ''Empire'', April 2009.</ref> Although [[John Howe]] apparently sent [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] some sketches,<ref name=":38" /> and [[Howard Shore]] had musical ideas,<ref>TheOneRing, Hobbit Desolation of Smaug Music Commentary Watch Along, ''YouTube'', 29 July 2020. Esp. 1:12:15. One such musical idea dates back to the composition of ''The Fellowship of the Ring:'' the flat sixth setting of the Hobbits' bassline that's heard when Gandalf glimpses Thorin's map: Howard was saving that as a "portent of an adventure" towards a potential adaptation of The Hobbit, but by the stage of discussing with del Toro he would have realized it would be applicable to the "bridge" film as well.</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/30722|articlename=ScoreKeeper Talks To Howard Shore About THE TWO TOWERS Complete Recordings, THE HOBBIT, And More!!|author=Merrick|dated=16 November 2006|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> no more work was done on the bridge film. At this time, a [[The Hunt for Gollum|fan film on the same subject was released]], followed shortly by [[Born of Hope|a fan film about Aragorn's errantries]]. The latter of this gained a measure of approbation from [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s camp.

Even so, elements of the bridge film clung to the project for a long time: in 2013 [[Philippa Boyens]] said that "When we started structuring this trilogy we honestly thought about telling some of that. How [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]] becomes the uncle of [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] and take care of him. The story of [[Gollum]]…"<ref name=":9" /> Casting calls had been issued for the roles of [[Primula Brandybuck]] and [[Drogo Baggins]]:<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20201024010428/http://www.movies.spoilertv.com/2010/01/hobbit-casting-call.html#ixzz0btnyJvCI|articlename=Hobbit - Official Casting Call and Plot Details|author=DarkUFO|dated=4 January 2010|website=SpoilerTV}}</ref> While Caroline Grace-Cassidy was considered for [[Primula Brandybuck|Primula]], [[Ryan Gage]] was cast in the role of [[Drogo Baggins|Drogo]] and remained attached to it well into shooting, only being recast as [[Alfrid]] around May.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/cate-blanchett-revisiting-rings-role-57193/|articlename=Cate Blanchett Revisiting ‘Rings’ Role In ‘Hobbit’|author=Gregg Kilday|dated=7 December 2010|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]]'s cameo, which was originally rumoured to include him "moving to live at [[Bag End]] after the untimely drowning of [[Drogo Baggins|Drogo]] and [[Primula Brandybuck|Primula]]" was probably rewritten into its present form around that time.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=theonering.net/torwp/2014/03/25/87789-how-would-have-peter-jacksons-the-hobbit-looked-as-a-duology/|articlename=How would have Peter Jackson’s The Hobbit looked as a duology?|author=Demosthenes|dated=25 March 2014|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> They had scouted locations for the [[Barrow-downs|Barrow Downs]], possibly with a connection to the aforementioned "[[Aragorn]] protecting the [[The Shire|Shire]]" plot point.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://narniafans.com/2019/08/interview-with-narnia-conceptual-designer-john-howe/|articlename=Interview with Narnia Conceptual Designer John Howe|author=David Sutton|dated=18 August 2019|website=Narnia Fans.com}}</ref> More scenes were planned for the [[Dol Guldur]] story and the [[Orcs]]: they had gone as far as designing a young [[Gothmog (Lieutenant of Morgul)#Gothmog in adaptations|Gothmog]] who would participate in the concluding battle, but didn't utilize him.<ref name=":0" />

Another storyline concerned Itarille (later [[Tauriel]]) and her romance with an Elf lord of [[Rivendell]]: clearly an outgrowth of the original idea of featuring [[Arwen]] in the film. [[Aidan Turner]] seems to have read for the part of this Elf Lord. Indeed, Jackson recalled in 2015 that "We did try to figure out a way to get a cameo, even if it was a cameo, for [[Aragorn]] and actually for [[Arwen]], too: we tried to have [[Liv Tyler]] in the film".<ref name=":0" /> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] remarked in 2013 that they envisioned [[Aragorn]] being "quite young" in the film, but concluded that [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] "could have absolutely played" him at the time. "It was incredibly tempting."<ref name=":39">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TapH7wM8MdI&t=85s|articlename=Philippa Boyens ci parla delle scene tagliate dello Hobbit: la Desolazione di Smaug e di... Aragorn!|author=Badtaste|dated=11 December 2013|website=YouTube}}</ref> It's unclear when the idea finally died out: the scene "invoking [[Aragorn]]" was scripted in early 2013, as a "homage" to their earlier plans.

[[Viggo Mortensen]] had been interested in the project since 2007.<ref name=":43">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/09/18/29885-viggo-mortensen-still-waiting-for-guillermo-del-toro%E2%80%99s-%E2%80%98hobbit%E2%80%99-call/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen Still Waiting For Guillermo Del Toro’s ‘Hobbit’ Call|author=Xoanon|dated=18 September 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref name=":44" /> Although it was reported that [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] had held conversations with him<ref name=":43" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thetimes.com/uk/law/article/hobbit-movies-meet-dire-foe-in-son-of-tolkien-lxnpmnsd2rp|articlename=Hobbit movies meet dire foe in son of Tolkien|author=John Harlow|dated=25 May 2008|website=The Times}}</ref> these appear to have not taken place before 2010. In 2008 [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] said he would "rather do it myself than see another actor finish the job for me,"<ref name=":44" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/12/17/30804-tv-watch-viggo-mortensen-on-night-talk/|articlename=TV Watch: Viggo Mortensen on ‘Night Talk’|author=Xoanon|dated=17 December 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/39305|articlename=Capone has a GOOD chat with Viggo Mortensen about politics, THE ROAD, APPALOOSA, and THE HOBBIT!!!|author=Steve Prokopy|dated=11 May 2009|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> saying "it would be fun."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://ohnotheydidnt.livejournal.com/41460224.html|articlename=Moviefone's Exclusive Viggo Mortensen Interview!|author=Anonymous|dated=25 November 2009|website=Moviefone}}</ref> Other actors from [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'']] have also expressed interest in appearing in the film, including [[Liv Tyler]], <ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2011/03/21/42863-liv-tyler-not-contacted-for-hobbit/|articlename=Liv Tyler Not Contacted For Hobbit|author=DiveTwin|dated=21 March 2011|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> [[Cate Blanchett]],<ref name=":16" /> [[Dominic Monaghan]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.firstshowing.net/2009/dominic-monaghan-ready-to-return-for-the-hobbit-movies/|articlename=Dominic Monaghan Ready to Return for The Hobbit Movies?|author=Brandon Lee Tenney|dated=19 January 2009|website=First Showing}}</ref> [[Sean Astin]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2009/03/10/31356-astin-up-for-hobbit-if-hobbit-up-for-him/|articlename=Astin up for Hobbit if Hobbit up for him|author=Xoanon|dated=10 March 2009|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref name=":44" /> [[John Noble]] and [[Sean Bean]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.digitalspy.com/movies/a434476/sean-bean-on-the-hobbit-absence-theyre-sticklers-for-detail/|articlename=Sean Bean on 'The Hobbit' absence: 'They're sticklers for detail'|author=Emma Dibdin|dated=30 October 2012|website=Digital Spy}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://theplaylist.net/viggo-mortensen-optimistic-about-role-20090401/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen Optimistic About Role In Del Toro’s ‘Hobbit’, Project Extends To A Trilogy?|author=Simon Dang|dated=1 April 2009|website=The Playlist}}</ref> [[Christopher Lee]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://whatculture.com/film/christopher-lee-wants-sarumann-return-in-the-hobbit|articlename=Christopher Lee wants Saruman return in THE HOBBIT|author=Matt Holmes|dated=25 June 2011|website=WhatCulture}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5qGFbBNnodw&t=77s|articlename=Christopher Lee about possibly returning to Middle Earth|author="Rushblogg"|dated=12 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> [[Brad Dourif]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/09/12/29751-brad-dourif-on-returning-to-middle-earth/|articlename=Brad Dourif on Returning to Middle-earth|author=Deej|dated=12 September 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> [[John Rhys-Davies]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/the-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy-makeup-difficulties-explained-john-rhys-davies/|articlename=John Rhys-Davies Reveals Gruesome Makeup Process for Gimli in The Lord of the Rings [Exclusive]|author=Aidan Kelley and Steven Weintraub|dated=9 August 2025|website=Collider}}</ref> and [[Elijah Wood]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/11/16/30565-elijah-hobbit-appearance-concievably-possible/|articlename=Elijah – Hobbit appearance ‘concievably possible’|author=Altaira|dated=16 November 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.firstshowing.net/2008/elijah-wood-confirms-dual-hobbit-movie-details/|articlename=Elijah Wood Confirms Dual Hobbit Movie Details|author=Alex Billington|dated=11 January 2008|website=First Showing}}</ref>

Around 2010, [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] recieved an availability call<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2013/may/28/viggo-mortensen-interview|articlename=Viggo Mortensen interview: 'If I think a film's beyond me – that's a good sign'|author=Imogen Tilden|dated=28 May 2013|website=The Guardian}}</ref> from [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]: "I said sure, if [[Aragorn]] is supposed to be in the bridge story, because he’s not in [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']]."<ref name=":1">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2013/05/30/72294-viggo-turned-down-role-as-aragorn-not-so-fast/|articlename=Viggo ‘Turned Down’ Role as Aragorn? Not so fast…|author=Newsfrombree|dated=30 May 2013|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.wired.com/2012/03/viggo-mortensen-speaks-2/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen Speaks: Part 2 of 3|author=Ethan Gilsdorf|dated=11 March 2012|website=Wired.com}}</ref> Informed that they "can take certain liberties" he said he'd "love to revisit him."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/films/features/viggo-mortensen-interview-captain-fantastic-lord-of-the-rings-aragorn-hobbit-david-cronenberg-a7231826.html|articlename=Viggo Mortensen interview: 'I didn't throw Peter Jackson under the bus'|author=Jacob Stolworthy|dated=23 January 2017|website=The Independent}}</ref> However, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] later revealed that since that call, they "could think of no way of doing it".<ref name=":0" /> Having no further contact, and knowing that "[[Orlando Bloom]] and [[Cate Blanchett]] shot something,"<ref name=":44">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://viggo-works.com/?fromday=1&frommonth=6&fromyear=2006&today=25&tomonth=2&toyear=2026&order=date&page=243&selectedcat=262&ascdesc=DESC&filter=Go&m=on|articlename=Viggo Mortenson Dangerous Method Interview|author=Anonymous|dated=25 November 2011|website=Movies.com}}</ref>[[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] concluded in November 2011 that "[[Aragorn]] is half [[Elves|elf]] [sic] and also lives a couple hundred years or more and he could be in a bridge, but I have to assume it isn't going to happen".<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reuters.com/article/lifestyle/rings-actor-mortensen-unlikely-to-repeat-role-idUSTRE7AM2U9/|articlename="Rings" actor Mortensen unlikely to repeat role|author=Kurt Orzeck|dated=24 November 2011|website=Reuters}}</ref> Although he still has misgivings - "It would make sense if Aragorn was part of the story and he's not"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.scotsman.com/arts-and-culture/interview-viggo-mortensen-is-lord-of-all-things-1573949|articlename=Interview: Viggo Mortensen is lord of all things|author=Chitra Ramaswamy|dated=25 May 2013|website=The Scotsman}}</ref> - he said he would still be open to playing [[Aragorn]] "if it seemed sensible to do so".<ref name=":1" />

===After ''The Hobbit''===

Conversations about making the "bridge film" as a third instalment<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.firstshowing.net/2009/guillermo-del-toro-updates-on-the-hobbit/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro Briefly Talks More About The Hobbit Split|author=Alex Billington|dated=5 June 2009|website=First Showing}}</ref> continued well into 2010:<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://geeksofdoom.com/2009/08/19/bridge-between-the-hobbit-lord-of-the-rings-still-to-be-built-peter-jackson-to-direct-third-movie|articlename=[Updated] Bridge Between ‘The Hobbit’ & ‘Lord Of The Rings’ Still To Be Built? Peter Jackson To Direct Third Movie?|author="The Movie God"|dated=19 August 2009|website=Geeks of Doom}}</ref> In 2012, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had revealed that "a third movie has always been in discussion."<ref>Michael Pellerin, "The Clouds Burst", Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies'' (New Line Cinema: 2015).</ref> These conversations resumed - now with the film situated as a fourth movie - as [[The Hobbit (film series)|''The Hobbit'']] was winding down in 2013. Says [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]]: "There’s enough story there to make a bridge movie, you know, there’s 60 years between ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'' and a lot of things happened."<ref name=":9">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.heyuguys.com/interview-peter-jackson-the-hobbit-the-desolation-of-smaug/|articlename=The HeyUGuys Interview: The Hobbit director Peter Jackson all but rules out a return to Middle Earth|author=Stefan Pape|dated=13 December 2013|website=HeyUGuys}}</ref> In the director's commentary to ''[[The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies|The Battle of the Five Armies]]'' in 2015, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] remained open to the idea of making more films, and mused about what Jackson jokingly calls "A fictitious film 3.5" which [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] goes on to call "The Hunt for Gollum".<ref name=":0">Peter Jackson, Philippa Boyens, "Director's Commentary," Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies'' (New Line Cinema: 2015).</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] said it could include "a few other things that go on which are really interesting" like [[Saruman]]'s search for the [[The One Ring|Ring]]. She elaborates:<blockquote>''[[Aragorn]] really is one who tracks Gollum and ends up...and finds him eventually in the [[Dead Marshes]], and he's taken [[Woodland Realm|to the Elves]]. And he's taken to the Elves, and because of the kindness of the Elves - and [[Legolas]] is one of his keepers... in [[Mirkwood]], and through their kindness he actually manages to escape. Or has he escaped? Or was he let loose?''<ref name=":0" /></blockquote>[[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had kept the possibility of returning to [[Middle-earth]] open<ref name=":0" /> but [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] revealed that they "had zero expectations of going back to this."<ref name=":7">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2024/05/the-lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-peter-jackson-andy-serkis-philippa-boyens-explain-23-years-after-cannes-saved-original-trilogy-1235917510/|articlename=Peter Jackson, Andy Serkis & Philippa Boyens Explain Why They’re Returning To Middle-Earth For ‘The Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum’ 23 Years After Cannes Saved The Billion-Dollar Franchise|author=Mike Fleming Junior|dated=15 May 2024|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://uk.movies.yahoo.com/don-t-expect--the-hobbit-3--to-lead-directly-into--the-lord-of-the-rings-140402150.html|articlename=The Hobbit 3 won't lead into The Lord of the Rings|author=Tom Butler|dated=11 December 2013|website=Yahoo Entertainment UK}}</ref> Their ultimate decision to return to this premise may have been stirred, in part, by other projects: first, Jackson had seen the in-development video game ''[[Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor|Shadow of Mordor]],'' on which [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]] and others from Jackson's crew had worked, and which had nestled itself into the gap between ''[[The Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]].''<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.ign.com/articles/2014/02/20/why-lord-of-the-rings-fans-should-be-excited-for-shadow-of-mordor|articlename=Why Lord of the Rings Fans Should Be Excited for Shadow of Mordor|author=Luke Karmali|dated=20 February 2014|website=IGN}}</ref>

Shortly afterwards, when the [[Tolkien Estate]] (still nominally under [[Christopher Tolkien]]) shopped the television rights, the idea of doing a show about young [[Aragorn]] was pitched, first by Netflix, and then - at the suggestion of the Russo brothers<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-features/the-rings-of-power-showrunners-interview-season-2-1235233124/|articlename=‘The Rings of Power’ Showrunners Break Silence on Backlash, Sauron and Season 2|author=James Hibberd|dated=5 October 2022|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> - by [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon Prime Video]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=http://newboards.theonering.net/forum/gforum/perl/gforum.cgi?post=946980;sb=post_time;so=DESC;forum_view=forum_view_collapsed;guest=206510448#947231|articlename=If you will indulge me in a story|author="Uncle Iorlas"|dated=21 July 2018|website=The One Ring.net Message Boards}}</ref> Upon hearing this, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]]' mind immediately went to the period of the hunt: "If you're telling the [story of] him hunting [[Gollum]], you're getting closer to [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]]."<ref name=":21">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.fandom.com/articles/peter-jackson-lord-of-the-rings-series|articlename=Peter Jackson’s Tips For Casting Aragorn in Lord of the Rings TV Show|author=Kim Taylor-Foster|dated=4 December 2018|website=Fandom.com}}</ref> She and Jackson had also expressed interest in the potential of [[Aragorn]]'s younger days and life in [[Rivendell]]: "He's probably going to have to start young,"<ref name=":21" /> remarked Boyens, concluding that "A lot of the early [[Aragorn]] story hasn't been told."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.stuff.co.nz/entertainment/film/108970711/philippa-boyens-on-mortal-engines-hobbits-and-going-solo|articlename=Philippa Boyens on Mortal Engines, Hobbits and going solo|author=Philip Matthews|dated=16 December 2018|website=Stuff.nz}}</ref> [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortesen]] also got wind of the rumours and said he's open to reprising his role.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/viggo-mortensen-interview-falling-lord-of-the-rings/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen on Falling, Directing, and LOTR TV Show Interest|author=Christina Radish|dated=14 February 2021|website=Collider}}</ref>

Toby Emmerich and Carolyn Blackwood from [[New Line Cinema]] were brought into the fold in the hopes of cooperating on the show. In early 2018 lawyer Peter Nelson set-up "dialogue between [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon]]" to participate as executive producer.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/how-lord-rings-tv-series-landed-at-amazon-not-netflix-1099213/|articlename=Inside Amazon’s $250M ‘Lord of the Rings’ Deal: “It’s Very Much a Creature of the Times”|author=Tatiana Siegel|dated=5 April 2018|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20210308114202/https://www.herr-der-ringe-film.de/v3/de/news/tolkienfilme/news_121920.php|articlename=Exklusiv: Zu den Kulissen der HERR DER RINGE Serie, Her Der Ringe Film (archived).|author=Cirdan|dated=20 June 2018|website=Herr der Ringe.de}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.stuff.co.nz/entertainment/celebrities/108520139/sir-peter-jackson-hasnt-given-up-hope-of-making-the-dam-busters|articlename=Sir Peter Jackson hasn't given up hope of making The Dam Busters|author=James Croot|dated=12 November 2018|website=NZStuff}}</ref> Preoccupied with ''Mortal Engines'' and ''They Shall Not Grow Old'', [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] proposed in June 2018 to review the scripts and put "the creative team together."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://de.ign.com/tv/129313/interview/peter-jackson-ist-fur-das-kreative-team-hinter-der-herr-der-ringe-serie-verantwortlich|articlename=Peter Jackson ist für das kreative Team hinter der Herr der Ringe-Serie verantwortlich|author=Valentin Aschenbrenner|dated=5 June 2018|website=IGN.de}}</ref> In July, Amazon landed on [[John D. Payne]] and [[Patrick McKay]] as showrunners, and before any work could be done, a regime change in [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon Prime Video]]<ref name=":19">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/peter-jackson-amazon-lord-of-the-rings-tv-series-1235193692/|articlename=Peter Jackson Says Amazon’s ‘Lord of the Rings’ TV Series Ghosted Him|author=James Hibberd|dated=5 August 2022|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> in early 2019 resulted in [[New Line Cinema]] being demoted to a "minority licensee stakeholder."<ref name=":20">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/lord-of-the-rings-amazon-vs-warner-bros-1235337625/|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings’: Amazon, Warner Bros. Ready for Tolkien Battle|author=James Hibberd|dated=28 February 2023|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> Although the showrunners had asked to meet [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]],<ref name=":19" /> COVID prevented this from taking place.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2022/02/10-burning-questions-about-amazons-the-rings-of-power?srsltid=AfmBOopmlhLKVkCtSqkuvTTAcUtyQUICWXopTWLQq_1tu4aEf1ICrDLp|articlename=10 Burning Questions About Amazon’s The Rings of Power|author=Joanna Robinson|dated=14 February 2022|website=Vanity Fair}}</ref> While the show used a substantial number of his crew, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] were reportedly "very frustrated that so many believed they were involved with [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon]]’s show."<ref name=":20" /> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had avoided watching the show to prevent "cross-contamination."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.slashfilm.com/1693866/why-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy-screenwriter-wont-watch-the-rings-of-power/|articlename=Why One Lord Of The Rings Trilogy Screenwriter Won't Watch The Rings Of Power|author=Jaron Pak|dated=21 October 2024|website=Slash Film}}</ref> Since then, the show had left [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s home country of [[New Zealand]].

Already in 2019, the show's development had galvanized Emmerich and Blackwood to pursue an animated film with [[Middle-earth Enterprises]] (who were not involved in the show) and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]. The bridge film might have been the "CG-animated" story that [[New Line Cinema|New Line]] "had been exploring with Sir [[Peter Jackson]]" but it failed to materialize and they decided to pursue ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim]]''<ref>Daniel Falconer, ''The Art of The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim'' (Wiliam Murrow: London, 2025), pp. 9-10.</ref>. Later on, Emmerich and Blackwood were replaced by Michael de Luca and Pam Abdy, who were "striving to keep [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon]] from blurring the lines too much between" the show and the films.<ref name=":20" /> Other projects like [[Tales of the Shire: A "The Lord of the Rings" Game|''Tales of the Shire'']], the remastering of the six films to Ultra High Definition and renovations of [[Hobbiton]] were begun shortly afterwards, as well.

After this long gestation period, ''The Hunt for Gollum'' entered development once again in 2022. [[Andy Serkis]] was attached as director in October 2023 and story meetings occurred as early as May 2024, along with early availability calls to actors like [[Ian McKellen]] and [[Viggo Mortensen]] between that time and early September. By that point, the writing of the treatment was underway, followed by the first draft in January-May. After some crew hiring in August, pre-production started in early September 2025 ahead of shooting in May 2026.

==Development==
In 2022 the new administration of [[Middle-earth Enterprises]] expressed a desire to make more films, including ones "based on iconic characters, such as [[Gandalf]], [[Aragorn]], [[Gollum]], [[Galadriel]], [[Éowyn|Eowyn]] and other characters."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/lord-of-the-rings-rights-embracer-1235201442/|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings,’ ‘The Hobbit’ Movie, Games and Other Rights Holder Sold to Swedish Gaming Company Embracer|author=Georg Szalai|dated=18 August 2022|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]], [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] kept updated throughout the negotiations to extend [[New Line Cinema]]'s lease on the rights.<ref name=":4" />

Having "really enjoyed working with [[Kenji Kamiyama]], who directed ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|War of the Rohirrim]]''," [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] signed on to produce two new films: [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] denied<ref name=":22" /> rumours that this involved splitting the [[Gollum]] story,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2024/05/lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-cast-plot-everything-we-know-1235919922/|articlename=‘The Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum’: Everything We Know So Far|author=Dessi Gomez|dated=16 May 2024|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://filmstories.co.uk/news/the-lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-its-two-films-says-ian-mckellen/|articlename=The Lord Of The Rings: Hunt For Gollum {{!}} “It’s two films” says Ian McKellen|author=Ryan Lambie|dated=11 September 2024|website=Film Stories}}</ref> and at various times her and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] expressed interest in subjects varying from the [[Battle of Dale|War in the North]], Young [[Aragorn]], or certain vignettes from [[Rohan]] or [[Gondor]]'s history, which are all possible for the second film.<ref name=":23">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1i97ctm/the_next_film_after_the_hunt_for_gollum/|articlename=The next film after The Hunt for Gollum: Everything we know so far|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=25 January 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> These are probably ''not'' the other two scripts [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had been working on, however.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.indiewire.com/news/general-news/peter-jackson-not-retired-working-on-three-scripts-1235138316/|articlename=Peter Jackson Is Working on Three Screenplays: ‘I’m Certainly Not Retired’|author=By Rance Collins|dated=13 July 2025|website=IndieWire}}</ref>

Signing on the films was done with the intention to jump-start a new slate of ''Lord of the Rings'' prequels for [[New Line Cinema]],<ref name=":18" /><ref name=":24" /> with [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also expressing interest in making an "epic trilogy", probably about the [[Angmar conflict|Angmar War]].<ref name=":23" /> However, having developed the [[Gollum]] premise for so long, they decided to start with it. Asked about unrealized projects in 2024, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] observed that "there's a lot of that in ''The Hunt for Gollum.''"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9LdzKS584wA&t=614s|articlename=Lord of the Rings: War of the Rohirrim Interviews! Peter Jackson Role Explained|author=Brandon Davis|dated=29 October 2024|website=YouTube}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis]], who played [[Gollum]], had directed second unit on ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King|The Return of the King]]'' and ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]<ref name=":7" />'' and had since become a director in his own right, as well as narrating audiobooks of Tolkien's novels. [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] approached [[Andy Serkis|Andy]] around October 2023.<ref name=":24">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ssUmmuU-Bmk&t=76s|articlename=Andy Serkis Talks Motion Capture, Gollum, and Directing {{!}} Superhero Comic Con San Antonio 2024 Q&A|author=Freeman Coliseum|dated=24 June 2024|website=YouTube}}</ref> While developing the story, they already made availability checks to key cast and crew members.

===Writing===
Story meetings have happened at least as early as May 2024<ref name=":7" /> and by July they were about to start writing,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/comconnireland/status/1835962321211904490|articlename=Andy Serkis took to the stage at Comic Con Northern Ireland to talk all things Lord of the Rings and more!|author=@comconnireland|dated=16 September 2024|website=Twitter}}</ref> with [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] spotted at the [[Hobbiton]] set in November with writers [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] and Arty Papageorgiou, producers [[Zane Weiner]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/05/lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-release-date-1236390022/|articlename=‘Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum’ Sets Pre-Christmas 2027 Release|author=Anthony D'Alessandro|dated=8 May 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> and Carlos Ramirez Laloli.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.elfenomeno.com/info/ver/23481/comienza-el-rodaje-de-el-senor-de-los-anillos-la-caza-de-gollum-en-hobbiton|articlename=¿Comienza el rodaje de El Señor de los Anillos: La Caza de Gollum en Hobbiton?|author=Elfenomeno|dated=6 November 2024|website=Elfenomeno.com}}</ref> By December they had been in the process of writing the story treatment.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/lord-of-the-rings-war-of-the-rohirrim-arty-papageorgiou-phoebe-gittins/|articlename="Who Better for a Gollum Film Than Gollum Himself?": 'War of the Rohirrim' Writers on Working with Andy Serkis in 'The Hunt for Gollum'|author=Therese Lacson|dated=16 December 2024|website=Collider}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] later estimated they would finish writing by the middle of the year - executive Pamela Abdy since put the completion of the script at May<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/04/warner-bros-mike-de-luca-pam-abdy-courage-in-face-of-brutal-press-coverage-1236366618/|articlename=Warner Bros’ Mike De Luca & Pam Abdy: Playing Long Game, Mixing IP Like ‘Bodyguard’ Revamp & Bold Originals & Animation Despite Brutal Press|author=Mike Fleming Junior|dated=11 April 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> - and begin "scouting locations and building [sets]" with shooting due to begin towards the beginning of 2026.<ref name=":5">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.1news.co.nz/2024/12/15/exclusive-andy-serkis-philippa-boyens-on-the-hunt-for-gollum/|articlename=Exclusive: Andy Serkis, Philippa Boyens on new Lord of the Rings film|author=Abbey Wakefield|dated=15 December 2024|website=1News}}</ref> As a result, the release date for the film was ultimately delayed from 2026 to 17 December 2027.<ref name="TheDirect2027Release">{{webcite|author=Klein Felt|articleurl=https://thedirect.com/article/hunt-for-gollum-movie-lord-of-the-rings-release-official|articlename=Lord of the Rings: Hunt for Gollum Movie Gets Release Window from Andy Serkis|dated=27 Feb 2025|website=[https://thedirect.com The Direct]|accessed=27 Feb 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://variety.com/2025/film/news/lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-release-date-december-2027-1236390820/|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum’ Sets December 2027 Release Date; Warner Bros. Also Dates New ‘Evil Dead’ and M. Night Shyamalan Movies for 2026|author=Zack Sharf|dated=8 May 2025|website=Variety}}</ref>

A draft of the screenplay had been sent to de Luca and Abdy in May, probably prior to the investor meeting on the 8th, when [[Warner Bros.|Warner]]'s CEO David Zaslav announced the official release date.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://voicefilm.com/david-zaslav-announces-that-the-release-date-for-the-next-lord-of-the-rings-movie-will-be-revealed-today/|articlename=David Zaslav Announces That the Release Date for the Next ‘Lord of the Rings’ Movie Will Be Revealed Today|author=Mark|dated=8 May 2025|website=Voice Film}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.comicbasics.com/warner-ceo-david-zaslav-says-they-will-focus-more-on-their-main-ips-like-harry-potter-and-dc-in-the-future-those-belong-to-us-and-theyll-only-belong-to-us-forever/|articlename=Warner CEO David Zaslav Says They Will Focus More on Their Main IPs Like ‘Harry Potter’ and DC in the Future: “Those belong to us, and they’ll only belong to us forever.”|author=Arthur S. Poe|dated=8 May 2025|website=Comic Basics}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had since revealed that the film is due to start pre production in August<ref name=":33">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1krwz8d/andy_serkis_the_lord_of_the_rings_the_hunt_for/|articlename=Andy Serkis Panel at Fan Expo Philadelphia 2025|author=FandomWire News|dated=19 May 2025}}</ref> - when the film started hiring crew - then ammended to "late August to early September"<ref name=":18" />, with [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] ultimately arriving in [[Wellington]] circa 8 September to begin work on the film.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://metro.co.uk/2025/09/03/andy-serkis-admits-cant-escape-gollum-ahead-lord-rings-return-24066270/amp/|articlename=Andy Serkis admits he ‘can’t escape Gollum’ ahead of Lord of the Rings return|author=Sabrina Barr|dated=3 September 2025|website=Metro UK}}</ref> Serkis had left New Zealand during the holiday season, attending the premiere of "28 Years Later: The Bone Temple" before flying back to New Zealand: en rote he landed in Los Angeles.<ref name=":41">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.tmz.com/2026/01/20/andy-serkis-wants-original-lord-of-the-rings-cast-in-new-film/|articlename=LOTR' Star Andy Serkis: OG Cast Is Precious, Love 'Em For New Flick|author=Anonymous|dated=20 January 20 2026|website=TMZ}}</ref>

==Pre production==
[[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had further said preproduction will last for six months,<ref name=":27">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.comingsoon.it/cinema/news/in-un-mondo-alla-deriva-gollum-ci-salvera-la-nostra-intervista-ad-andy/n203564/|articlename=In un mondo alla deriva Gollum ci salverà: la nostra intervista ad Andy Serkis|author=Carola Proto|dated=25 June 2025|website=Coming Soon.it}}</ref> with [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] later confirming it will start filming in May<ref name=":12">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1msw9fp/the_lord_of_the_rings_the_hunt_for_gollum_starts/|articlename=The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum starts shooting in May, says Sir Ian McKellen. "I'll tell you two secrets about the casting..."|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=17 August 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> for an extended shooting period:<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-filming-update-andy-serkis/|articlename=Director Andy Serkis Offers Huge Filming Update For 'The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum' [Exclusive]|author=Chris McPherson and Steven Weintraub|dated=10 June 2025|website=Collider}}</ref> This puts the beginning of filming in [[New Zealand]] winter and, deducting the holidays, six months after [[Andy Serkis|Andy]]'s arrival. Location scouting may have taken place at Hawke's Bay as early as June<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1lis26w/a_location_scout_for_the_lord_of_the_rings_the/|articlename=A location scout for The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum seems to be snooping around Hawke's Bay, New Zealand|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=23 June 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> and later at the Waikato.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.waikatotimes.co.nz/nz-news/360837801/aliens-warriors-heroes-princesses-and-gollum-big-productions-filmed-and-possibly-coming-waikato|articlename=Aliens, warriors, heroes, princesses ... and Gollum: The big productions filmed in (and possibly coming to) the Waikato|author=Mike Mather|dated=1 October 2025|website=Waikato Times}}</ref> They had also watched the films sometime prior to November.<ref>Latino USA TV, "How Movie Monsters Are Really Made!", YouTube, 26 November 2025.</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] also spoke appreciatively of [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s penchant for behind the scenes extras, suggesting a similar approach to the film.<ref name=":33" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/gu1jj7/one_zoom_to_rule_them_all_reunited_apart_lord_of/|articlename=One Zoom to Rule Them All {{!}} Reunited Apart LORD OF THE RINGS Edition|author=Josh Gad|dated=31 May 2021|website=}}</ref> In October, [[Andy Serkis|Andy]] revealed that they're developing prosthetics.<ref name=":34">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1og2b4p/andy_serkis_says_all_the_art_department_from_lord/|articlename=Andy Serkis says "all the art department" from Lord of the Rings are "excited to come back." They started location scouting and camera tests.|author=u/Lord_Varys92|dated=25 October 2024|website=Reddit}}</ref>

Since [[Elijah Wood]], slated to appear in the film, is on tour through to early September,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://parade.com/news/lord-of-the-rings-hobbits-25-years-later-reunion-tour|articlename=The Hobbits Are Back Together — and Their Big News Has Fans Cheering|author=Whitney Danhauer|dated=25 October 2025|website=Parade}}</ref> his scenes might be scheduled for [[New Zealand]] summer, which could suggest shooting ''in situ'' in [[Hobbiton]], presumably depicting [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] dallying outside [[Bag End]] while [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]] and [[Gandalf]] argue within, as depicted in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]''. [[Ian McKellen]] is also hoping to join the production in [[New Zealand as Middle-earth|New Zealand]] during July.<ref>The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, "There's Nothing I Enjoy More Than Acting In The Theater" - Ian McKellen EXTENDED INTERVIEW," ''YouTub''e, 5 February 2026.</ref>

===Crew===
The film, said to be "one of the most expensive feature films to be shot in [[New Zealand]]"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/new-lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-film-will-be-shot-in-nz-set-for-2027-release/3BDNB3QFKJDAVGB4ODOTQ63YLY/|articlename=New Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum film will be shot in NZ, set for 2027 release|author=Tom Rose|dated=18 June 2025|website=New Zealand Herald}}</ref> is expected to draft alums of the ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|Lord of the Rings]]'', ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|War of the Rohirrim]]'' (many of whom will have also worked on ''[[The Rings of Power]]'' Season One and other projects) working in the [[Wellington]] and greater New Zealand screen sector.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thepost.co.nz/nz-news/350274670/film-heavyweights-alight-over-lotr-comeback|articlename=Film heavyweights ‘alight’ over LOTR comeback|author=Rachel Thomas|dated=10 May 2024|website=The New Zealand Post}}</ref><ref name=":5" /> Crewing began in early August, with Wood since confirming the involvement of production designer [[Dan Hennah]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IX5NhkyQ710|articlename=Elijah Wood en Monterrey/ conferencia de la DesertCon|author=Asi SoyTv|dated=6 October 2025|website=YouTube}}</ref> and set decorator Ra Vincent might also be involved.<ref name=":34" /> Although [[Janet Brennan Croft|Janet Brennan-Croft]] acted as [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] consultant on previous films, Beppe Pezzini will fill this role for this film.<ref>Educational Media Services | University of Oxford, "Beppe Pezzini on Classics and Fantasy | Fantasy Summer School ‪@facultyofenglishoxford‬," ''YouTube'', 23 September 2025.</ref>

IMDb credits Bob Buck as ''a'' costume designer for the film: it remains to be seen if Ngila Dickson, having just wrapped ''Predator: Badlands'' with [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]], might return. Kate Hawley, who was attached to del Toro's version of the film, is unlikely to take part due to work on "Bad Bridgets."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/10/daisy-edgar-jones-emilia-jones-bad-bridgets-luckychap-1236604481/|articlename=Daisy Edgar-Jones And Emilia Jones To Star In ‘Bad Bridgets’ From LuckyChap|author=Justin Kroll|dated=31 October 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> Liz Mullane and Rachel Bullock head the New Zealand casting sweep. Both [[Wētā FX|WetaFX]] and [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]] are confirmed for the project,<ref name=":8">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt32328070/companycredits/?ref_=tt_dt_cmpy|articlename=The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum (2027)|author=Anonymous|website=IMDb}}</ref> as are [[Gino Acevedo]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.instagram.com/p/DRy30vUkme7/|articlename="Oh no!"|author=Ginoacevedofx|dated=3 December 2025|website=Instagram}}</ref> [[John Howe]] and [[Alan Lee]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://ggba.swiss/en/the-lord-of-the-rings-nature-and-switzerlands-hidden-history-a-conversation-with-john-howe/|articlename=The Lord Of The Rings, Nature and Switzerland’s Hidden History (A Conversation with John Howe)|author=Woody Wade|dated=10 December 2025|website=Greater Geneva Bern Area}}</ref> In April - by which point a composer was already said to be attached to the project - [[Howard Shore]] said he was interested to "see how that all works out."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.classical-music.com/articles/howard-shore|articlename=Howard Shore: the film composer behind Hannibal Lecter and Bilbo Baggins|author=Michael Beek|dated=16 April 2025|website=Classical Music.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://en.softonic.com/articles/the-composer-of-the-soundtrack-for-the-lord-of-the-rings-made-a-cameo-in-the-movies-and-no-one-noticed#google_vignette|articlename=The composer of the soundtrack for The Lord of the Rings made a cameo in the movies and no one noticed|author=Agencias|dated=26 December 2025|website=Softonic}}</ref>

As early as October, [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] suggested that they're "doing camera tests."<ref name=":34" /> This is said to include miniature photography, with Alex Funke said to participate, even if only in an advisory position. On the live action side, although Richard Bluck (who filmed with [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]], and might shoot second unit) had been mentioned, it appears the film will be lensed by Robert Richardson.<ref name=":34" /> While the film was in the story conference stage in July 2024, Richardson said he had "a number" of projects "on the constantly-shifting horizon of the film industry."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.filmlightcolourawards.com/colour-awards-2024/jury-colour-awards-2024/robert-richardson-cinematographer-asc-ack/|articlename=Robert Richardson, Cinematographer, ASC, ACK|author=Anonymous|dated=18 July 2024|website=Film Light Colour Awards}}</ref> One of these projects was a Hannibal epic, whose delay freed Richardson to lens the film.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.worldofreel.com/blog/2025/7/23/michael-part-1-delayed-to-april-2026|articlename=‘Michael’ Delayed to April 2026|author=Jordan Ruimy|dated=23 July 2025|website=World of Reel}}</ref>

The film is a co-production of [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s [[WingNut Films|WingNut films]] and [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]]' ''Imaginarium''. [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] will executive produce with his ''Imaginarium'' partner John Cavendish and Jackson's agent [[Ken Kamins]].<ref name="Gollum">{{webcite|author=Jennifer Maas|articleurl=https://variety.com/2024/film/news/lord-of-the-rings-movie-2026-release-warner-bros-1235997102/|articlename=Warner Bros. to Release New ‘Lord of the Rings’ Movie ‘The Hunt for Gollum’ in 2026, Peter Jackson to Produce and Andy Serkis to Direct|dated=9 May 2024|website=[https://variety.com/ Variety]|accessed=8 June 2024}}</ref> IMDb also credits studio chiefs Michael de Luca (who helped produce [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'']]), Pam Abdy and David Zaslav as executive producers<ref name=":8" /> and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] mentioned [[Warner Bros.|Warners]]' business consultant Alan Horn (who had produced ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]])'' as a collaborator, but these credits have yet to become official.<ref name=":7" />

===Cast===
With [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] due to star as [[Gollum]], approaches had been made to [[Ian McKellen|Sir Ian McKellen]]<ref name=":2">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2024/09/ian-mckellen-return-gandalf-new-the-lord-of-the-rings-films-1236075547/|articlename=Ian McKellen Reveals He’s Been Approached To Reprise His Role As Gandalf In Andy Serkis’ New ‘The Lord Of The Rings’ Films|author=Jake Kanter|dated=2 September 2024|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> and [[Viggo Mortensen]] to reprise [[Gandalf]] and [[Aragorn]], respectively. [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] said he's in talks to reprise "a little bit" of [[Gandalf]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.mirror.co.uk/3am/celebrity-news/sir-ian-mckellan-i-thought-36196617|articlename=EXCLUSIVE: Sir Ian McKellan: 'I thought I was a goner, but I'm coming back as Gandalf'|author=Marc Baker and Jackie Annett|dated=5 November 2025|website=The Mirror}}</ref> in [[New Zealand]].<ref name=":42">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thetimes.com/culture/tv-radio/article/ian-mckellen-an-ark-lowry-lord-of-the-rings-f9wc9nmdq|articlename=Ian McKellen at 86: ‘I’ve had to accept that I’m not immortal’|author=Jonathan Dean|dated=14 February 2026|website=The Times}}</ref> As of December, the contracts with [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] and [[Elijah Wood|Wood]] hadn't been finalized,<ref name=":40" /> but [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] expressed a desire to return to [[New Zealand]] for filming. [[Liv Tyler]], [[Evangeline Lilly]] and, especially, [[Orlando Bloom]] have also expressed interest in reprising their parts,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.nme.com/news/film/the-lord-of-the-rings-cast-say-they-would-jump-to-return-for-new-spin-off-movies-3853893|articlename=‘The Lord Of The Rings’ cast say they would “jump” to return for new spin-off movies|author=Damian Jones|dated=11 April 2025|website=NME}}</ref> while [[Dominic Monaghan]] expressed a desire to visit the set.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://nypost.com/2025/11/06/entertainment/dominic-monaghan-reveals-plans-for-next-lord-of-the-rings-movie/|articlename=Dominic Monaghan reveals big plans for next ‘Lord of the Rings’ movie — including possible return as Merry
By|author=Eric Todisco|dated=6 November 2025|website=New York Post}}</ref> [[Evangeline Lilly|Lilly]] had proceeded to do so, but indicated that she will have no further involvement with the project. [[Orcs]] are set to appear in the film, with [[Shane Rangi]] and [[Lawrence Makoare]] having reportedly been contacted.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/thelegacyofnerd/status/1979621220246344016|articlename=BREAKING: ‘The Hunt For Gollum’ Begins Filming in May 2026|author=@thelegacyofnerd|dated=8 October 2025|website=Twitter}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]]' comments about seeing the interiors of [[Barad-dûr|Barad Dur]] might suggest the involvement of [[Benedict Cumberbatch]].<ref name=":36">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lYYSsook-4Y|articlename=Philippa Boyens ('ESDLA: LA GUERRA DE LOS ROHIRRIM'): "Queríamos que se sintiera como algo nuevo"|author=eCartelera|dated=10 December 2024}}</ref>

[[Andy Serkis|Serkis]], [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had all spoke to [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]],<ref name=":3">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://theplaylist.net/the-war-of-the-rohirrim-philippa-boyens-on-the-new-anime-the-hunt-for-gollum-the-future-of-the-lord-of-the-rings-20241223/|articlename=‘The War Of The Rohirrim’: Philippa Boyens On The New Anime, ‘The Hunt For Gollum’ & The Future Of ‘The Lord of the Rings’|author=Rodrigo Perez|dated=23 December 2024|website=The Playlist}}</ref> who had previously said he'd be "open to it" if it makes sense for "the age I am now"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.gq-magazine.co.uk/article/viggo-mortensen-interview-2024|articlename=Viggo Mortensen re-used Aragorn's sword in new movie The Dead Don't Hurt “Because it's really good”|author=Rafael Motamayor|dated=28 May 2024|website=GQ}}</ref> but after [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] pitched it to him as "Digital make-up" they agreed he'd wait to read the script: With the approach to [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] happening sometime between June<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thetimes.com/culture/film/article/ian-mckellen-if-this-is-my-last-job-id-better-get-it-right-hadnt-i-n3t38g6tb|articlename=Ian McKellen: ‘When a script arrives, I think this might be my last job’|author=Dominic Maxwell|dated=8 June 2024|website=The Times of London}}</ref> and September,<ref name=":2" /> the approach to [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] may have taken place in mid-June, just prior to an interview in which [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] said "The script is the most important thing to me", seemingly no longer harping on the age quota.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/viggo-mortensen-lord-of-the-rings-script-feminism-1235935628/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen on Respecting Audiences, How Scripts Are Key “Unless I’m Broke,” New ‘LOTR’ Films|author=Georg Szalai|dated=30 June 2024|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] said they need to "drag" him.<ref name=":36" />

While in London for ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]]'' premiere, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also "had lunch with an [[Elves|Elf]] lord" who "would fall into that story."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.instagram.com/nerdoftherings/reel/DDgKw47uxkJ/|articlename="Philippa Boyens teases an “elf lord” returning for Hunt for Gollum! "|author=Matt Graf|dated=12 December 2024|website=Instagram}}</ref> Although this could refer to [[Orlando Bloom|Bloom]] or even [[Marton Csokas]], [[Lee Pace]] is the most likely as he was shooting ''The Running Man'' in London at the time.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://people.com/glen-powell-films-running-man-reboot-37-years-after-arnold-schwarzenegger-movie-8745529|articlename=Glen Powell Films Running Man Remake in London 37 Years After Original Arnold Schwarzenegger Movie|author=Jen Juneau|dated=14 November 2024|website=People}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had since divulged that they expect "some of the cast who were originally in" ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'', as well as "some incredible new talent."<ref name=":28">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.jedinews.com/events/articles/indiana-comic-con-andy-serkis-full-panel/|articlename=Indiana Comic Con: Andy Serkis Full Panel|author=James Burns|dated=11 April 2025,|website=Jedi News}}</ref> [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] had since confirmed that [[Gandalf]] and [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]], surely to be played by himself and [[Elijah Wood|Wood]], are scheduled to reappear in the piece.<ref name=":12" />

Casting seems to have started in November,<ref name=":40">Steve Schofield ''et al'', "25 Years of Fellowship", ''Empire'' (March 2026), pp. 46-70.</ref> with young boys auditioning for the boy [[Gollum|Smeagol]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/KnightGambit/status/2011815291198849220|articlename=Small Tidbit.....|author=Caleb Williams|dated=16 January 2026|website=Twitter}}</ref> and two of his fellow [[Stoors|Stoor]] riverfolk - a young girl and a young adult boy - in what looks like a setup for [[Gollum|Smeagol]]'s preoccupation with a birtday present. Actors in their early thirties auditioned for a young "[[Aragorn|Strider]]",<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://knightedgemedia.com/2026/01/the-hunt-for-gollum-casting-call-teases-young-strider-and-his-fellow-dunedain-rangers/#google_vignette|articlename=‘The Hunt for Gollum’ Casting Call Teases Young Strider and His Fellow Dúnedain Rangers|author=Caleb Williams|dated=16 January 2026|website=Knight Edge Media}}</ref> with 29-year old Leo Woodall reportedly tipped for the role.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://knightedgemedia.com/2026/03/rumor-leo-woodall-cast-as-strider-in-lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum/#google_vignette|articlename=RUMOR: Leo Woodall Cast as Strider in ‘Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum’|author=Caleb Williams|dated=7 March 2026|website=Knight Edge Media}}</ref> While there had been reports that the studio is not hoping to get Viggo<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/ViewerAnon/status/1998489358849159181?s=20|articlename=I can confirm this|author=ViewerAnon|dated=9 December 2025|website=Twitter}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had spoken about potentially having to "hand off"<ref name=":3" /> from [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]], and rumours had pointed to the inexpediency of the deaging.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://3dvf.com/en/a-cult-actor-from-the-lord-of-the-rings-on-the-departure-the-question-arises-for-the-prequel-dedicated-to-gollum/#google_vignette|articlename=A Cult Actor from The Lord of the Rings on the Departure? The Question Arises for the Prequel Dedicated to Gollum|author=Quentin Couprie|dated=13 December 2025|accessed=3DVF}}</ref> The age differential - Mortensen was 42 while shooting ''Lord of the Rings'' - may well suggest scenes alternating between this younger character, and either an old [[Aragorn|Elessar]] and/or the "mature" [[Aragorn]] of the [[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|''Fellowship of the Ring'']] era.''<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://medium.com/p/dcf21faf019e|articlename=The Hunt for Gollum and the Aragorn problem|author=Chen Geller|website=Medium}}</ref>'' [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had earlier spoke of meeting [[Aragorn]] when he was "quite young" in ''[[The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies|The Battle of the Five Armies]],'' but not so young that it didn't seem plausible to her to have [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] play him circa 2011''.<ref name=":39" />'' The audition scene, although not necessarily representative of the film, also implies the presence of the other [[Rangers of the North|Rangers]], perhaps including [[Halbarad]]. A younger Strider could also feature in a "Young Aragorn" picture.

Serkis had since reaffirrmed that he would "love the old cast" back.<ref name=":41" /> Other roles auditioned for include women in their thirties and fifities: the latter is said to be Smeagol's grandmother, now confirmed as a "lead" role, with Kate Winslet relocating to New Zealand for five months. The thirties' part<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://knightedgemedia.com/2026/03/the-hunt-for-gollum-lead-female-characters-casting-are-underway-exclusive/#google_vignette|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum’ Lead Female Characters Casting Are Underway (EXCLUSIVE)|author=Caleb Williams|dated=5 March 2026|website=Knight Edge Media}}</ref> is reportedly circled by Anya Taylor-Joy. Some presume this to be [[Arwen]], but if so the quota is older than [[Liv Tyler]], who was 23 at the time of [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'']].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://medium.com/@chenngeller/on-aragorn-and-other-castings-a6e55668fce9?postPublishedType=repub|articlename=On Aragorn, Stoors and other castings|author=Chen Geller|dated=11 March 2026|website=Medium}}</ref>

==Plotline==
The exact events the film covers remain undisclosed. There's ambiguity concerning both the exact timeframe for the film, and whether it will focus more on [[Gollum]] or [[Aragorn]]. An official "blurb" for the movie reads: "The pic explores [[Aragorn]]’s adventures as a [[Rangers of the North|ranger]], specifically his quest to capture [[Gollum]] between [[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]] and [[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|Fellowship of the Ring]], tracking him to keep the [[The One Ring|Ring]]’s location from [[Sauron|Sauron."]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2026/01/box-office-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy-25th-anniversary-1236689724/|articlename=‘Lord Of The Rings’ Trilogy 25th Anniversary Event Rings Up $11M In Worldwide Box Office|author=Anthony D'Alessandro|dated=19 January 2026|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> A more extended synopsis had also been circulating:<blockquote>Before the Fellowship, one creature's obsession holds the key to Middle-earth's survival -- or its demise. In The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum, we meet young Smeagol -- an outsider drawn to trinkets and mischief -- long before The One Ring consumed him and began his tragic descent into the tortured, deceitful creature Gollum. With the ring lost and carried away by Bilbo Baggins, Gollum finds himself compelled to leave his cave in search of it. Gandalf the Grey calls upon Aragorn, still known as the ranger Strider, to track the elusive creature whose knowledge of the whereabouts of the ring could tip the balance toward the Dark Lord Sauron.
Set in the shadowed time between Bilbo's birthday disappearance and the Fellowship's formation, this perilous journey through Middle-earth's darkest corners reveals untold truths, tests the resolve of its future king, and explores the fractured soul and backstory of Gollum, one of Tolkien's most enigmatic characters.

Directed by original cast member Andy Serkis, produced by Peter Jackson, and written & produced by Fran Walsh and Phillipa Boyens -- the creative team behind the Oscar-winning trilogy -- this live-action movie bridges the beloved films with new characters, returning heroes, and a deeply engaging origin story that resets the stage for, and changes everything you know about the legendary Lord of the Rings trilogy.</blockquote>Strictly speaking, [[Aragorn]]'s hunt for [[Gollum]] begins during the events depicted in Jackson's [[The Fellowship of the Ring (2001 film)|''The Fellowship of the Ring'']], and in October, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] said the story "falls after the [[Bilbo's Farewell Party|birthday party of Bilbo]] and before the Mines Of [[Moria]]".<ref name=":22">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.empireonline.com/movies/news/lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-wont-be-two-films-second-philippa-boyens-exclusive/|articlename=The Hunt For Gollum Won’t Be Two Films, But A Second LOTR Film Is Incoming, Philippa Boyens Confirms|author=Ben Travis|dated=18 October 2024|website=Empire}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] added that the role of [[Aragorn]] is "very central" to the movie.<ref name=":36" /> Andy called the storyline "pivotal."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1md7lim/the_lord_of_the_rings_the_hunt_for_gollum_andy/|articlename=The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum - Andy Serkis says "this part of the story is pivotal"|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=30 July 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> [[Ian McKellen]] had described the plot as "[[Aragorn]] trying to find [[Gollum]] with [[Gandalf]] directing operations from the sidelines."<ref name=":42" />

However, ''a'' hunt for [[Gollum]] is begun by the [[Silvan Elves]] after Gollum first leaves the [[Misty Mountains|mountains]] in search of [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]], and in December Jackson said the film "tells us what happened to [[Gollum]] between ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' - end of [[The Hobbit (film series)|''The Hobbit'']] - and the beginning of ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]''".<ref name=":6">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/red-carpet-premiere-for-the-lord-of-the-rings-the-war-of-the-rohirrim/P3BS7U5NPS5EMFLPUV4SYSYFDU/|articlename=Red carpet premiere for The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|author=Mitchell Hageman|dated=11 December 2024|website=New Zealand Herald}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had since confirmed this timeframe: "It sits, kind of, in the timeline between ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' - between losing the [[The One Ring|Ring]] to [[Bilbo Baggins]] - and ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]''."<ref name=":18">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?t=1218&v=U-dw8DQDf90&feature=youtu.be|articlename=Kazakhstan feels like the center of the world - Andy Serkis {{!}} Interview of the Day|author=Silk Way / Qazaqstan|dated=15 July 2025|website=YouTube}}</ref> [[Dol Guldur]], the [[Nazgûl|Nazgul]] and [[Orcs]] are all said to potentially play part in the film.

[[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also alluded to other storylines: "we are finding a lot of threads of story that are surprising in there when you really go in there and examine it".<ref name=":29">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.slashfilm.com/1734018/philippa-boyens-lord-of-the-rings-war-of-the-rohirrim-exclusive-interview/|articlename=War Of The Rohirrim's Philippa Boyens Reveals Details About The Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum [Exclusive Interview]|author=Ben Pearson|dated=13 December 2024|website=/Film}}</ref> Events as varied as [[Aragorn]]'s sojourn in [[Lothlórien|Lórien]] with [[Arwen]], the fall of [[Balin's folk]], [[Boromir]]'s quest for [[Rivendell]] and much else occur concurrent to the time of the Hunt.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1iutc9r/building_bridges_so_what_happens_between_the/|articlename=Building Bridges: So, what happens between the trilogies that The Hunt for Gollum could possibly cover?|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=21 February 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> "You see the layers and layers of story that’s underneath there and how interconnected they all are", she adds.<ref name=":3" /> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] also made comments to this effect: "Some pretty interesting stuff happens that we reference in passing in [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The'' ''Lord of the Rings'']], but there’s a lot of more deep detail to it."<ref name=":6" />

[[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] adds that "We get to go to some places that we've never been before" in Middle-earth." One such place - only glimpsed in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|Fellowship of the Ring]]'' - is the interiors of [[Barad-dûr|Barad Dur]].<ref name=":36" /> Both she and Serkis alluded to new characters<ref name=":28" /><ref name=":5" /> and new dramatic situations, saying it's "surprising"<ref name=":7" /><ref name=":27" /><ref name=":29" /> and could be enjoyed be people wo don't know the novels.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.amica.it/video-post/andy-serkis-dirigero-signore-anelli-tornero-batman/|articlename=Andy Serkis, da Gollum a regista: «Dirigerò “Il Signore degli Anelli” e tornerò con Batman»|author=Emanuele Bigi|dated=27 June 2025|website=Amica}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also shared that one of the practicalities they were busy figuring out in the writing is "How does he [<nowiki/>[[Aragorn]]] pick up his scent? How does he find his trail, how does it happen?"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://nerdist.com/article/nerdist-philippa-boyens-interview-the-war-of-the-rohirrim-the-lord-of-the-rings-future/|articlename=Philippa Boyens Talks the Future of THE LORD OF THE RINGS Movies and Naming a Tolkien Character in THE WAR OF THE ROHIRRIM|author=by Rotem Rusak|dated=19 December 2024|website=Nerdist}}</ref>

==Cast==
{| class="wikitable mw-collapsible"
|- style="background: var(--tg-color-surface-2);"
!Actor!!Role
|-
|[[Andy Serkis]]||[[Gollum]]<ref name="Gollum"></ref>
|-
|[[Elijah Wood]]
|[[Frodo Baggins]]<ref name=":12" />
|-
|[[Ian McKellen]]
|[[Gandalf]]<ref name=":12" />
|}

{{title|italics}}

{{references}}

{{screen}}

[[Category:Films]]

[[fi:The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum]]

The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum

2026-03-11T17:37:09Z

Chen Geller:

{{Disambig-two|the 2027 film adaptation|2009 fan film|[[The Hunt for Gollum]]}}
{{film infobox
| image =
| caption =
| name = The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum
| director = [[Andy Serkis]]
| producer = [[Peter Jackson]] [[Fran Walsh]] [[Philippa Boyens]] [[Zane Weiner]]
| writer = [[Fran Walsh]] [[Philippa Boyens]] Phoebe Gittins Arty Papageorgiou
| narrator =
| starring = [[Andy Serkis]]<ref name=Gollum></ref> [[Elijah Wood]] [[Ian McKellen]] Kate Winslet
| music =
| cinematography =
| editing =
| studio = WingNut films Imaginarium [[New Line Cinema]]<ref name=Gollum></ref>
| distributor = [[Warner Bros.|Warner Bros. Pictures]]<ref name=Gollum></ref>
| released = 17 December [[2027]]<ref name="TheDirect2027Release"/>
| runtime =
| country = [[New Zealand]]<ref name=Gollum></ref>
| language = English
| budget =
| website =
|imdb_id=32328070
|basedon=[[The Lord of the Rings]]|production design=[[Dan Hennah]] (Production designer)}}
'''''The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum''''' is the title (originally, working title<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/09/curtis-brown-jrr-tolkien-literary-estate-deal-1236526748/|articlename=Curtis Brown To Rep J.R.R. Tolkien’s Literary Estate|author=Jesse Whittock|dated=10 September 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref>) of a forthcoming film adaptation currently in pre-production and set for a [[2027]] release, the first of a planned series of Tolkien films to be produced by [[New Line Cinema]], a division of [[Warner Bros.|Warner Brothers]].<ref name=":4">{{webcite|author=Matt Donnelly|articleurl=https://variety.com/2023/film/news/lord-of-the-rings-new-movies-warner-bros-1235533672/|articlename=New ‘Lord of the Rings’ Movies Set at Warner Bros. |dated=23 February 2023|website=[https://variety.com/ Variety]|accessed=10 June 2024}}</ref>

The film will cover [[Gollum]]'s travels after losing [[The One Ring|the Ring]] to [[Bilbo Baggins]] (as depicted in [[The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey|''An Unexpected Journey'']]), through [[Gandalf]] setting out to track the creature after [[Bilbo's Farewell Party]] (as depicted in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]'') and down to [[Gollum]] intercepting [[Fellowship of the Ring|the Fellowship]] in [[Moria|Moria.]]

It will be directed by and star [[Andy Serkis]], who played [[Gollum]] in [[Peter Jackson]]'s previous films, as well as directing second unit. [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] will produce with his co-writing team of [[Fran Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens]], who will also write the screenplay with ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]]'' scribes Phoebe Gittins and Arty Papageorgiou.

The subject of this film is a longstanding fascination of [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s who developed it quite intensly in 2008 with [[Guillermo del Toro]]. The film is in preproduction with several cast and crew members from previous films already attached, including actor [[Elijah Wood]], concept artists [[John Howe]] and [[Alan Lee]] and others.

==Early Development==
Although the film was only announced in 2023, it had a long gestation period with [[Peter Jackson]], who considered filming this subject since circa 1997, and at least as late as July 2015. During 2008, in particular, the film was in development with a plot synopsis, a tentative budget and an initial cast and crew attached, and drew the attention of further talent like [[Viggo Mortensen]], as well as the press. Elements of this proposed "bridge film" were eventually put into ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' but mostly axed during the early months of the shoot. Jackson also negotiated in 2018 about producing a show for [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon Prime]] about the related subject of the travels of young [[Aragorn]], but ended up producing ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]]'' with [[New Line Cinema]] instead.

===During ''The'' ''Lord of the Rings''===
[[Peter Jackson]] read [[The Lord of the Rings|''The Lord of the Rings'']] circa 1979, and he claims that he "always loved the concept that when [[Gandalf]] leaves [[Bag End]] he goes and joins up with [[Aragorn]] and the two of them hunt [[Gollum]] down."<ref name=":26">Peter Jackson, Philippa Boyens, Fran Walsh, "Director's Commentary", Peter Jackson, ''The Lord of the Rings trilogy'' (New Line Cinema: 2004).</ref> This piece of backstory was also expanded upon in the [[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)|radio serial]], which [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] was very familiar with. He and [[Fran Walsh]] first pitched a trilogy based on [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']] and ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'' around November 1995.<ref>Brian Sibley, Peter Jackson: A Filmmaker's Journey (London: HarperCollins, 2006), pp. 312 ff.</ref><ref>J. W Braun, ''The lord of the films : the unofficial guide to Tolkien's Middle-Earth on the big screen'' (Toronto: ECW Press, 2009), pp. 20, 63, 68-69, 195.</ref><ref>Michael Pellerin, "Completing Middle-earth," Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit'' (Warner Brothers: 2015).</ref> They may well have had the [[Gollum]] episode in mind at some time between that point and early 1997. So long as they intended to start with ''The Hobbit'' (up to early 1996), they will have been mindful of the need to connect the two novels, and while their treatment (mid 1997) doesn't seem to cover the [[Gollum]] episode, it already dramatizes the remainder of the backstory that's given in "[[The Shadow of the Past]]", "[[The Council of Elrond]]" and [[appendix B]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1j06oqh/so_what_is_the_hunt_for_gollum_really_based_on/|articlename=So, what is The Hunt for Gollum REALLY based on?|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=28 February 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> When the project expanded (September 1998) to three films, Jackson tried to finally incorporate this storyline - some eight pages' worth - but realized that he "just couldn't put [the Hunt for [[Gollum]]] into the movie".<ref name=":26" />

[[Peter Jackson|Peter]] nevertheless publicly expressed a desire to film "[[Gandalf]] and [[Aragorn]] hunting [[Gollum]], and his capture by [[Orcs]]"<ref name=":25">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://members.tripod.com/peter_jackson_online/lotr/articles/20_questions2.htm|articlename=20 QUESTIONS WITH PETER JACKSON- PART 2|author=Harry Knowles|dated=31 December 1998|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> At the time, the idea was to shoot this as additional material and add it into the extended edition: although by early 2001 he would have realized this could not be accomodated in the pickups to ''The Fellowship of the Ring'', in 2003 he would still half-jokingly talk about shooting more pickups to "fatten these films out without technically going beyond ‘[[The Lord of the Rings]]’ as the licensed property." Elsewhere in the commentary, he jokes about "spinoff" entries.<ref name=":26" /> Other ideas for this treatment included [[Tom Bombadil]]<ref name=":25" /> and the [[Lothlórien|attack on Lorien]], with the entire expansion estimated at around three hours' worth.<ref name=":26" />

By the end of 2001, The success of ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]'' emboldened [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]<ref>Kristin Thompson, T''he Frodo Franchise: The Lord of the Rings and Modern Hollywoo''d (Berkeley: University of California Press, 2007), pp. 51, 327, 338.</ref> to pursue more films (he was also in discussions to "rekindle" ''King Kong'' at the time) and he had later discussed filming a "''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|Lord of the Rings]]'' prequel", along with ''[[The Hobbit]]'', with composer [[Howard Shore]] and executive producer [[Mark Ordesky]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2006/11/19/24053-peter-jackson-and-fran-walsh-talk-the-hobbit-2/|articlename=Peter Jackson and Fran Walsh Talk THE HOBBIT|author=Xoanon|dated=19 November 2006|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref><ref name=":35">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.rhino.com/article/interview-howard-shore-the-lord-of-the-rings|articlename=INTERVIEW: Howard Shore (“The Lord of the Rings”)|author=Will Harris|dated=27 April 2018|website=Rhino}}</ref> At a later premiere, [[New Line Cinema|New Line]]'s president Robert Shaye told [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s agent [[Ken Kamins]] that they "would want to have a conversation" about the two films.<ref name=":30" /> The idea at the time was to incorporate [[Arwen]] as a female character<ref name=":10">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20230327113046/https://ew.com/article/2003/12/06/peter-jackson-mulls-rings-prequel/|articlename=Peter Jackson mulls ''Rings'' prequel|author=Gary Susman|dated=6 December 2003|website=EW}}</ref> and produce both films back-to-back "in some short order"<ref name=":30">Ian Nathan, ''Anything You Can Imagine: Peter Jackson and the Making of Middle-earth'' (London: HarperCollins, 2019), pp. 827, 835.</ref> after ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'', in order to "complete the set of films.”<ref name=":10" /> Actors [[Andy Serkis]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2003/dec/09/jrrtolkien|articlename=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2003/dec/09/jrrtolkien|author=Anonymous|dated=9 Dec 2003|website=The Guardian}}</ref> [[Ian McKellen]], producer Barrie Osborne<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2002/12/16/25965-ttt-benefit-with-barrie-osborne-2/|articlename=TTT Benefit with Barrie Osborne
by|author=xoanon|dated=16 December 2002|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> and concept artist Paul Lasaine all expressed interest at the time.

While talking about ''[[The Hobbit]]'' in 16 September 2006, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] said they "have thought about it from time to time" and in fact "spent most of this morning" talking about the films. They talked of how "[[Elrond]], [[Galadriel]] and [[Arwen]] could all feature"<ref name=":11" /> and "[[Gollum]]'s sneaking into [[Mordor]] and [[Aragorn]] protecting [[The Shire]]. That's what we'd do. Love to work with [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] again".<ref name=":11">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/30085|articlename=Part 5: Quint and Peter Jackson talk THE HOBBIT and a potential return to low budget horror!!!|author=Eric Vespe|dated=16 September 2006|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]], hearing this remark in 2012, said it "sounds like a lot of fun".<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2012/03/13/54232-viggo-mortensens-visit-to-boston-part-2-new-video/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen’s visit to Boston – part 2 (new video!)|author=Greendragon|dated=13 March 2012|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref>

===During ''The Hobbit''===
Since the rights to [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']] were split with [[MGM|Metro Goldwyn-Mayer]], in March 2007 [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] pitched this to CEO Harry Sloan: he had already heard of it from [[New Line Cinema]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.ign.com/articles/2006/11/14/hobbit-crown-panther-news|articlename=Hobbit, Crown, Panther News|author=Anonymous|dated=15 Nov 2006|website=IGN}}</ref> who had previously fallen-out with [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]], but Sloan was won over by Jackson's pitch, which was apparently very detailed.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.kristinthompson.net/blog/2008/05/19/the-hobbit-films-pj-and-fw-know-every-scene-every-moment/|articlename=The Hobbit films: PJ and FW know “every scene, every moment”|author=Kristin Thompson|dated=19 May 2008|website=Kristinthompson.net}}</ref> By contrast, Shaye later said [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] "hasn't told us too much about it."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.screendaily.com/new-line-mgm-team-for-two-hobbit-movies-with-peter-jackson/4036350.article|articlename=New Line, MGM team for two Hobbit movies with Peter Jackson|author=Jeremy Kay|dated=18 December 2007|website=Screen Daily}}</ref>

By December, both films were moving forward with a budget of $150 million each: the idea was that [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]], [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] would write and produce and the films will be shot in 2009 for release in 2010 and 2011.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/del-toro-doubles-up-hobbit-103547/|articlename=Del Toro doubles up for ‘Hobbit’|author=Borys Kit|dated=28 January 2008|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> Robert Shaye, Michael Lynne and [[Mark Ordesky]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://variety.com/2008/film/columns/shaye-kept-new-line-afloat-1117982001/|articlename=Shaye kept New Line afloat|author=Anne Thompson|dated=7 March 2008|website=Variety}}</ref> were attached as executive producers until February, when they were replaced by Toby Emmerich and Carolyn Blackwood. Actor [[Ian McKellen|Ian Mckellen]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2008/mar/26/lordoftherings.jrrtolkien|articlename=Hard Hobbit to break: McKellen set for return as Gandalf|author=Anonymous|dated=26 March 2008|website=The Guardian}}</ref> assistant Matthew Dravitzky,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://if.com.au/guillermo-wants-old-buddies-to-join-him-on-the-hobbit/|articlename=Guillermo wants old buddies to join him on The Hobbit|author=Anonymous|dated=23 March 2009|website=IF FX}}</ref> composer [[Howard Shore]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/09/28/30045-howard-shore-is-working-on-hobbit-score/|articlename=Howard Shore is Working on Hobbit Score|author=28 September 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/02/24/28408-howard-shore-talks-hobbit-in-switzerland/|articlename=Howard Shore Talks ‘Hobbit’ in Switzerland|author=Calisuri|dated=24 February 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref>, [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]]<ref name=":38">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/10/22/30352-del-toro-interview-part-3-%E2%80%9Ci-love-new-zealand%E2%80%9D/|articlename=Del Toro Interview Part 3: “I Love New Zealand!”|author=Xoanon|dated=22 October 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> and [[Wētā FX|Weta FX]]<ref name=":37" /> were attached to the project. Although [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] hadn't ruled out directing - he later aired the notion of shooting second unit<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20081012042437/http://moviesblog.mtv.com/2008/10/08/guillermo-del-toro-to-fly-solo-on-hobbit-directing-duties-says-no-to-peter-jackson-assist/|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro To Fly Solo On ‘Hobbit’ Directing Duties, Says No To Peter Jackson Assist|author=Shawn Adler|dated=8 October 2008|website=MTV}}</ref><ref name=":17" /> - he soon picked [[Guillermo del Toro]] to direct.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/01/30/28331-torn-exclusive-del-toro-%e2%80%9c99-percent-certain%e2%80%9d-says-nl-insider/|articlename=TORN exclusive: Del Toro “99 percent certain” says NL insider.|author=MrCere|dated=30 January 2008|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref>

Subsequently, actors [[Andy Serkis]],<ref name=":17" /> [[Ian Holm]]<ref name=":15">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080501020820/http://www.mtv.com/movies/news/articles/1586421/story.jhtml|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro Addresses 'Hobbit' Fans' Concerns, Talks Possible Casting|author=Shawn Adler, Josh Horowitz|dated=28 April 2008|website=Premiere.com}}</ref>; concept artists [[Alan Lee]] and [[John Howe]]; prosthetics supervisor [[Gino Acevedo]]<ref name=":37">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/04/25/28747-guillermo-del-toro-chats-with-torn-about-the-hobbit-films/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro Chats with TORN About ‘The Hobbit’ Films!|author=Xoanon|dated=25 April 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> were all attached. They had approached [[Grant Major]] but he declined<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=http://www.artstars.us/grant-major/8/|articlename=Grant Major|author=Tom Lisowski|dated=14 November 2011|website=Art Stars}}</ref> and hopped onboard ''Green Lantern'' with costume designer Ngila Dickson: they were substituted by [[Dan Hennah]]<ref name=":32">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/51948|articlename=An Unexpected Journey: Quint on the set of The Hobbit Part 3 – Beginnings and Endings|author=Eric Vespe|dated=14 November 2011|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> and Kate Hawley.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.whowhatwear.com/living/who-what-wear-podcast-kate-hawley|articlename=How the Frankenstein Costume Designer Brought the Film to Life|author=Madeline Hill|dated=17 November 2025|website=Who What Wear}}</ref> Actors [[Martin Freeman]]<ref>In "The Road Back to Middle-earth", Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit'' (New Line Cinema: 2015), Philippa Boyens recalls proposing Freeman as Bilbo Baggins when she saw him at the 2003 BAFTAs.</ref> and [[Hugo Weaving]];<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.slashfilm.com/504115/guillermo-del-toro-confirms-hugo-weaving-for-the-hobbit-and-much-more/|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro Confirms Hugo Weaving For The Hobbit... And Much More|author=Brendon Connolly|dated=11 June 2009|website=Slash Film}}</ref> as well as [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]]'s regular collaborators (including artists Wayne Barlowe and Francisco Ruiz Velasco<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20081201164150/http://bilbohobbit.com/del-toro-talks-hobbit-in-live-chat/|articlename="Del Toro talks 'Hobbit' in Live Chat"|author=Alex|dated=27 November 2008|website=BilboHobbit.com}}</ref>) were also being sought beginning at this time.

"We got really excited," said [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]], "because this second film is not a ‘tag on’, it’s not ‘filler,’ it’s an integral part of telling the story of those 50 years of history lost in the narrative".<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://theplaylist.net/60-year-period-between-hobbi-20080425/|articlename=60-Year Period Between ‘The Hobbit’ & ‘Fellowship’ For Hobbit Sequel Suddenly Gone? Or Not?|author=Rodrigo Perez|dated=25 April 2008|website=The Playlist}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.gamesradar.com/guillermo-del-toro-talks-hobbit-and-more/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro talks Hobbit and more|author=Anonymous|dated=25 April 2008|website=Total Film}}</ref> Although he had a radical new vision for the designs in the first film, <ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080915124607/http://www.premiere.com/features/4642/exclusive-guillermo-del-toro-on-hellboy-ii-page4.html|articlename=Exclusive: Guillermo del Toro on 'Hellboy II'|author=Anonymous|website=Premiere}}</ref> [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] intended to use the second film to affect a gradual change of style towards that of [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]: "We have to recreate a lot of the stuff they did on the [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|trilogy]]," he said: helpfully, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had kept the [[Bag End]] and [[Rivendell]] sets, and they set about rebuilding [[Hobbiton]].<ref name=":32" />

[[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] also rewatched the extended editions with [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]], [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] and intended to watch the making-ofs, dailies "the camera reports... everything," particularly for ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080914124349/http://www.comingsoon.net/news/nycomicconnews.php?id=44254|articlename=EXCL: Del Toro on Hellboy II and The Hobbit|author=Edward Douglas|dated=21 April 2008|website=Coming Soon.net}}</ref> The remastering of ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'' was also begun around this time. This was done because [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] felt that it "has to evolve into the lensing, the color palette, the texture palette, and the feel of the [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|trilogy]]…"<ref name=":13">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/37428|articlename=Quint and Guillermo del Toro chat about HELLBOY II, THE HOBBIT and more!!!|author=Eric Vespe|dated=12 July 2008|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> partially for this purpose, a break was to be scheduled partway through the shoot,<ref name=":31">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080712175117/http://www.ifmagazine.com/feature.asp?article=2879|articlename=GUILLERMO DEL TORO ESCAPES 'LABYRINTH' AND ENDS RIGHT BACK INTO 'HELLBOY'|author=Carl Cortez|dated=9 July 2008|website=iFMagazine}}</ref> which was estimated at over 370 days.<ref name=":31" />

[[Guillermo del Toro|Guillermo]] insisted the second film would add to the series.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wReRe8Si2aU|articlename=Guillermo del Toro: RT's Dinner & the Movies Interview Pt 5|author=OCR|dated=11 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> He said "it’s also expanding and illuminating some of the aspects of the trilogy in a slightly different way, like same characters in a different environment. I find that very attractive."<ref name=":13" /> The idea was that the first film would be a retelling of [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']], including the bulk of the [[Dol Guldur]] storyline, up to [[Smaug]]'s death: the second would wrap-up the remainder of [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']] in its first half, and concern itself with the Hunt for [[Gollum]] and other "bridging" plot threads in its second half.<ref name=":14">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20120831093447/http://moviesblog.mtv.com/2008/10/07/hobbit-films-will-be-one-continuous-journey-promises-guillermo-del-toro/|articlename='Hobbit' Films Will Be One 'Continuous Journey,' Promises Guillermo Del Toro|author=Shawn Adler|dated=7 October 2008|website=MTV}}</ref>

Although [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] predicted the second film would require the most work,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2P0dTo0yNpQ|articlename=THE HOBBIT 1 & 2 MOVIE UPDATE|author=ReelzChannel|dated=7 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> both he<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JVHzVKy_F8w|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro talks about Hobbit Movie|author=Brettmartintv|dated=7 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] showed a particular eagerness towards it, with [[Guillermo del Toro|Guillermo]] calling it a "treasure trove of possibilities."<ref name=":16">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080915084029/http://www.mtv.com/movies/news/articles/1590278/story.jhtml|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro Answers 'Hobbit' Fans' Questions About Returning 'Rings' Cast, Religion And More|author=Shawn Adler|dated=2 July 2008|website=MTV}}</ref> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] was also "really looking forward to developing Film Two. It gives us a freedom that we haven't really had on our [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] journey."<ref name=":17" /> [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] concluded that "the promise of that land is absolutely mind-boggling!"<ref name=":16" />

Referring specifically to [[Gollum]]'s part in the events, [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] said "[[Gollum]] has a rather fascinating arch to go through and his alliance to [[Shelob]] or his period of imprisonment in [[Thranduil]]'s". [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] added that "There's an awful lot of incident that happens during that 60 year gap. At this stage, we're not imagining a film that literally covers 60 years, like a bio-pic or documentary. We would figure out what happens during that 60 years, and choose one short section of time to drop in and dramatise for the screen". Both filmmakers said they agreed that "apart from extreme circumstances, we would never recast a character who appeared in the [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|LOTR trilogy]]".<ref name=":17">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080730161821/http://www.wetanz.com/holics/index.php?itemid=695&catid=2|articlename=An Unexpected Party Chat|author=Anonymous|dated=30 July 2008|website=Weta Workshop website}}</ref> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] later remarked that, in some cases, they'd sooner write around a character than recast the part.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/41848|articlename=Comic-Con '09: Peter Jackson talks to Capone about DISTRICT 9, THE HOBBIT, and the state of the film industry!!!|author="Capone"|dated=28 July 2009|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref>

As of the formulation of these comments in July, [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] said the second film is "too early"<ref name=":13" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5YoRDF12aRc|articlename=GDT the Hobbit 1|author=Garfeimao TheOneRing|dated=14 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> in its development process to know precisely what it might entail, estimating that it would take six months to formulate the storyline for the film.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.ign.com/articles/2008/07/09/exclusive-gdt-on-the-hobbit|articlename=Exclusive: GDT on The Hobbit|author=Eric Moro and Stax|dated=10 July 2008|website=IGN}}</ref> By September, however, [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] claimed they "found what reverberated."<ref name=":14" /> [[Guillermo del Toro|Guillermo]] had expressed reservations about the term "bridge film" from the outset, but by now he and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] disabused of the term completely, having come to see the films as five undifferentiated parts of a greater whole.

Although they apparently made an outline,<ref name=":15" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/10/16/30296-guillermo-del-toro-i%e2%80%99m-so-voracious-about-the-hobbit/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro: “I’m so voracious about The Hobbit!”|author=Xoanon|dated=16 October 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> it seems the film went no further than this. Up until this point, del Toro had been video-conferencing with Jackson and the other collaborators, meeting in person every three weeks.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://variety.com/2008/film/features/guillermo-del-toro-booked-thru-2017-1117991560/|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro booked thru 2017|author=Michael Fleming|dated=3 September, 2008|website=Variety}}</ref> By the time he arrived to concentrate on writing the story treatment in November 2008<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=http://newboards.theonering.net/forum/gforum/perl/gforum.cgi?post=147373;guest=501771554#147373|articlename="Hola"|author=Guillermo del Toro|dated=8 November 2008|website=The One Ring Discussion Boards}}</ref><ref>Alfio Leotta, ''Peter Jackson'' (London: Bloomsbury Publishing, 2015), p. 196.</ref> the contents of the "bridge" film were being gradually edged-out by the contents of ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]],'' to the point that by the time the completed treatment was greenlit in April 2009<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2009/08/03/32999-peter-jackson-speaks/|articlename=Peter Jackson speaks|author=MrCere|dated=3 August 2009|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref> the films could only be described as a two-part adaptation of ''[[The Hobbit]],'' albeit with elements of the bridge film "integrated''."''<ref>Anonymous, "The Hobbit: Gollum, Bilbo, del Toro and Jackson," ''Empire'', April 2009.</ref> Although [[John Howe]] apparently sent [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] some sketches,<ref name=":38" /> and [[Howard Shore]] had musical ideas,<ref>TheOneRing, Hobbit Desolation of Smaug Music Commentary Watch Along, ''YouTube'', 29 July 2020. Esp. 1:12:15. One such musical idea dates back to the composition of ''The Fellowship of the Ring:'' the flat sixth setting of the Hobbits' bassline that's heard when Gandalf glimpses Thorin's map: Howard was saving that as a "portent of an adventure" towards a potential adaptation of The Hobbit, but by the stage of discussing with del Toro he would have realized it would be applicable to the "bridge" film as well.</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/30722|articlename=ScoreKeeper Talks To Howard Shore About THE TWO TOWERS Complete Recordings, THE HOBBIT, And More!!|author=Merrick|dated=16 November 2006|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> no more work was done on the bridge film. At this time, a [[The Hunt for Gollum|fan film on the same subject was released]], followed shortly by [[Born of Hope|a fan film about Aragorn's errantries]]. The latter of this gained a measure of approbation from [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s camp.

Even so, elements of the bridge film clung to the project for a long time: in 2013 [[Philippa Boyens]] said that "When we started structuring this trilogy we honestly thought about telling some of that. How [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]] becomes the uncle of [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] and take care of him. The story of [[Gollum]]…"<ref name=":9" /> Casting calls had been issued for the roles of [[Primula Brandybuck]] and [[Drogo Baggins]]:<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20201024010428/http://www.movies.spoilertv.com/2010/01/hobbit-casting-call.html#ixzz0btnyJvCI|articlename=Hobbit - Official Casting Call and Plot Details|author=DarkUFO|dated=4 January 2010|website=SpoilerTV}}</ref> While Caroline Grace-Cassidy was considered for [[Primula Brandybuck|Primula]], [[Ryan Gage]] was cast in the role of [[Drogo Baggins|Drogo]] and remained attached to it well into shooting, only being recast as [[Alfrid]] around May.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/cate-blanchett-revisiting-rings-role-57193/|articlename=Cate Blanchett Revisiting ‘Rings’ Role In ‘Hobbit’|author=Gregg Kilday|dated=7 December 2010|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]]'s cameo, which was originally rumoured to include him "moving to live at [[Bag End]] after the untimely drowning of [[Drogo Baggins|Drogo]] and [[Primula Brandybuck|Primula]]" was probably rewritten into its present form around that time.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=theonering.net/torwp/2014/03/25/87789-how-would-have-peter-jacksons-the-hobbit-looked-as-a-duology/|articlename=How would have Peter Jackson’s The Hobbit looked as a duology?|author=Demosthenes|dated=25 March 2014|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> They had scouted locations for the [[Barrow-downs|Barrow Downs]], possibly with a connection to the aforementioned "[[Aragorn]] protecting the [[The Shire|Shire]]" plot point.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://narniafans.com/2019/08/interview-with-narnia-conceptual-designer-john-howe/|articlename=Interview with Narnia Conceptual Designer John Howe|author=David Sutton|dated=18 August 2019|website=Narnia Fans.com}}</ref> More scenes were planned for the [[Dol Guldur]] story and the [[Orcs]]: they had gone as far as designing a young [[Gothmog (Lieutenant of Morgul)#Gothmog in adaptations|Gothmog]] who would participate in the concluding battle, but didn't utilize him.<ref name=":0" />

Another storyline concerned Itarille (later [[Tauriel]]) and her romance with an Elf lord of [[Rivendell]]: clearly an outgrowth of the original idea of featuring [[Arwen]] in the film. [[Aidan Turner]] seems to have read for the part of this Elf Lord. Indeed, Jackson recalled in 2015 that "We did try to figure out a way to get a cameo, even if it was a cameo, for [[Aragorn]] and actually for [[Arwen]], too: we tried to have [[Liv Tyler]] in the film".<ref name=":0" /> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] remarked in 2013 that they envisioned [[Aragorn]] being "quite young" in the film, but concluded that [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] "could have absolutely played" him at the time. "It was incredibly tempting."<ref name=":39">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TapH7wM8MdI&t=85s|articlename=Philippa Boyens ci parla delle scene tagliate dello Hobbit: la Desolazione di Smaug e di... Aragorn!|author=Badtaste|dated=11 December 2013|website=YouTube}}</ref> It's unclear when the idea finally died out: the scene "invoking [[Aragorn]]" was scripted in early 2013, as a "homage" to their earlier plans.

[[Viggo Mortensen]] had been interested in the project since 2007.<ref name=":43">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/09/18/29885-viggo-mortensen-still-waiting-for-guillermo-del-toro%E2%80%99s-%E2%80%98hobbit%E2%80%99-call/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen Still Waiting For Guillermo Del Toro’s ‘Hobbit’ Call|author=Xoanon|dated=18 September 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref name=":44" /> Although it was reported that [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] had held conversations with him<ref name=":43" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thetimes.com/uk/law/article/hobbit-movies-meet-dire-foe-in-son-of-tolkien-lxnpmnsd2rp|articlename=Hobbit movies meet dire foe in son of Tolkien|author=John Harlow|dated=25 May 2008|website=The Times}}</ref> these appear to have not taken place before 2010. In 2008 [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] said he would "rather do it myself than see another actor finish the job for me,"<ref name=":44" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/12/17/30804-tv-watch-viggo-mortensen-on-night-talk/|articlename=TV Watch: Viggo Mortensen on ‘Night Talk’|author=Xoanon|dated=17 December 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/39305|articlename=Capone has a GOOD chat with Viggo Mortensen about politics, THE ROAD, APPALOOSA, and THE HOBBIT!!!|author=Steve Prokopy|dated=11 May 2009|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> saying "it would be fun."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://ohnotheydidnt.livejournal.com/41460224.html|articlename=Moviefone's Exclusive Viggo Mortensen Interview!|author=Anonymous|dated=25 November 2009|website=Moviefone}}</ref> Other actors from [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'']] have also expressed interest in appearing in the film, including [[Liv Tyler]], <ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2011/03/21/42863-liv-tyler-not-contacted-for-hobbit/|articlename=Liv Tyler Not Contacted For Hobbit|author=DiveTwin|dated=21 March 2011|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> [[Cate Blanchett]],<ref name=":16" /> [[Dominic Monaghan]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.firstshowing.net/2009/dominic-monaghan-ready-to-return-for-the-hobbit-movies/|articlename=Dominic Monaghan Ready to Return for The Hobbit Movies?|author=Brandon Lee Tenney|dated=19 January 2009|website=First Showing}}</ref> [[Sean Astin]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2009/03/10/31356-astin-up-for-hobbit-if-hobbit-up-for-him/|articlename=Astin up for Hobbit if Hobbit up for him|author=Xoanon|dated=10 March 2009|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref name=":44" /> [[John Noble]] and [[Sean Bean]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.digitalspy.com/movies/a434476/sean-bean-on-the-hobbit-absence-theyre-sticklers-for-detail/|articlename=Sean Bean on 'The Hobbit' absence: 'They're sticklers for detail'|author=Emma Dibdin|dated=30 October 2012|website=Digital Spy}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://theplaylist.net/viggo-mortensen-optimistic-about-role-20090401/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen Optimistic About Role In Del Toro’s ‘Hobbit’, Project Extends To A Trilogy?|author=Simon Dang|dated=1 April 2009|website=The Playlist}}</ref> [[Christopher Lee]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://whatculture.com/film/christopher-lee-wants-sarumann-return-in-the-hobbit|articlename=Christopher Lee wants Saruman return in THE HOBBIT|author=Matt Holmes|dated=25 June 2011|website=WhatCulture}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5qGFbBNnodw&t=77s|articlename=Christopher Lee about possibly returning to Middle Earth|author="Rushblogg"|dated=12 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> [[Brad Dourif]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/09/12/29751-brad-dourif-on-returning-to-middle-earth/|articlename=Brad Dourif on Returning to Middle-earth|author=Deej|dated=12 September 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> [[John Rhys-Davies]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/the-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy-makeup-difficulties-explained-john-rhys-davies/|articlename=John Rhys-Davies Reveals Gruesome Makeup Process for Gimli in The Lord of the Rings [Exclusive]|author=Aidan Kelley and Steven Weintraub|dated=9 August 2025|website=Collider}}</ref> and [[Elijah Wood]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/11/16/30565-elijah-hobbit-appearance-concievably-possible/|articlename=Elijah – Hobbit appearance ‘concievably possible’|author=Altaira|dated=16 November 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.firstshowing.net/2008/elijah-wood-confirms-dual-hobbit-movie-details/|articlename=Elijah Wood Confirms Dual Hobbit Movie Details|author=Alex Billington|dated=11 January 2008|website=First Showing}}</ref>

Around 2010, [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] recieved an availability call<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2013/may/28/viggo-mortensen-interview|articlename=Viggo Mortensen interview: 'If I think a film's beyond me – that's a good sign'|author=Imogen Tilden|dated=28 May 2013|website=The Guardian}}</ref> from [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]: "I said sure, if [[Aragorn]] is supposed to be in the bridge story, because he’s not in [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']]."<ref name=":1">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2013/05/30/72294-viggo-turned-down-role-as-aragorn-not-so-fast/|articlename=Viggo ‘Turned Down’ Role as Aragorn? Not so fast…|author=Newsfrombree|dated=30 May 2013|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.wired.com/2012/03/viggo-mortensen-speaks-2/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen Speaks: Part 2 of 3|author=Ethan Gilsdorf|dated=11 March 2012|website=Wired.com}}</ref> Informed that they "can take certain liberties" he said he'd "love to revisit him."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/films/features/viggo-mortensen-interview-captain-fantastic-lord-of-the-rings-aragorn-hobbit-david-cronenberg-a7231826.html|articlename=Viggo Mortensen interview: 'I didn't throw Peter Jackson under the bus'|author=Jacob Stolworthy|dated=23 January 2017|website=The Independent}}</ref> However, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] later revealed that since that call, they "could think of no way of doing it".<ref name=":0" /> Having no further contact, and knowing that "[[Orlando Bloom]] and [[Cate Blanchett]] shot something,"<ref name=":44">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://viggo-works.com/?fromday=1&frommonth=6&fromyear=2006&today=25&tomonth=2&toyear=2026&order=date&page=243&selectedcat=262&ascdesc=DESC&filter=Go&m=on|articlename=Viggo Mortenson Dangerous Method Interview|author=Anonymous|dated=25 November 2011|website=Movies.com}}</ref>[[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] concluded in November 2011 that "[[Aragorn]] is half [[Elves|elf]] [sic] and also lives a couple hundred years or more and he could be in a bridge, but I have to assume it isn't going to happen".<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reuters.com/article/lifestyle/rings-actor-mortensen-unlikely-to-repeat-role-idUSTRE7AM2U9/|articlename="Rings" actor Mortensen unlikely to repeat role|author=Kurt Orzeck|dated=24 November 2011|website=Reuters}}</ref> Although he still has misgivings - "It would make sense if Aragorn was part of the story and he's not"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.scotsman.com/arts-and-culture/interview-viggo-mortensen-is-lord-of-all-things-1573949|articlename=Interview: Viggo Mortensen is lord of all things|author=Chitra Ramaswamy|dated=25 May 2013|website=The Scotsman}}</ref> - he said he would still be open to playing [[Aragorn]] "if it seemed sensible to do so".<ref name=":1" />

===After ''The Hobbit''===

Conversations about making the "bridge film" as a third instalment<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.firstshowing.net/2009/guillermo-del-toro-updates-on-the-hobbit/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro Briefly Talks More About The Hobbit Split|author=Alex Billington|dated=5 June 2009|website=First Showing}}</ref> continued well into 2010:<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://geeksofdoom.com/2009/08/19/bridge-between-the-hobbit-lord-of-the-rings-still-to-be-built-peter-jackson-to-direct-third-movie|articlename=[Updated] Bridge Between ‘The Hobbit’ & ‘Lord Of The Rings’ Still To Be Built? Peter Jackson To Direct Third Movie?|author="The Movie God"|dated=19 August 2009|website=Geeks of Doom}}</ref> In 2012, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had revealed that "a third movie has always been in discussion."<ref>Michael Pellerin, "The Clouds Burst", Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies'' (New Line Cinema: 2015).</ref> These conversations resumed - now with the film situated as a fourth movie - as [[The Hobbit (film series)|''The Hobbit'']] was winding down in 2013. Says [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]]: "There’s enough story there to make a bridge movie, you know, there’s 60 years between ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'' and a lot of things happened."<ref name=":9">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.heyuguys.com/interview-peter-jackson-the-hobbit-the-desolation-of-smaug/|articlename=The HeyUGuys Interview: The Hobbit director Peter Jackson all but rules out a return to Middle Earth|author=Stefan Pape|dated=13 December 2013|website=HeyUGuys}}</ref> In the director's commentary to ''[[The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies|The Battle of the Five Armies]]'' in 2015, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] remained open to the idea of making more films, and mused about what Jackson jokingly calls "A fictitious film 3.5" which [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] goes on to call "The Hunt for Gollum".<ref name=":0">Peter Jackson, Philippa Boyens, "Director's Commentary," Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies'' (New Line Cinema: 2015).</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] said it could include "a few other things that go on which are really interesting" like [[Saruman]]'s search for the [[The One Ring|Ring]]. She elaborates:<blockquote>''[[Aragorn]] really is one who tracks Gollum and ends up...and finds him eventually in the [[Dead Marshes]], and he's taken [[Woodland Realm|to the Elves]]. And he's taken to the Elves, and because of the kindness of the Elves - and [[Legolas]] is one of his keepers... in [[Mirkwood]], and through their kindness he actually manages to escape. Or has he escaped? Or was he let loose?''<ref name=":0" /></blockquote>[[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had kept the possibility of returning to [[Middle-earth]] open<ref name=":0" /> but [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] revealed that they "had zero expectations of going back to this."<ref name=":7">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2024/05/the-lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-peter-jackson-andy-serkis-philippa-boyens-explain-23-years-after-cannes-saved-original-trilogy-1235917510/|articlename=Peter Jackson, Andy Serkis & Philippa Boyens Explain Why They’re Returning To Middle-Earth For ‘The Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum’ 23 Years After Cannes Saved The Billion-Dollar Franchise|author=Mike Fleming Junior|dated=15 May 2024|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://uk.movies.yahoo.com/don-t-expect--the-hobbit-3--to-lead-directly-into--the-lord-of-the-rings-140402150.html|articlename=The Hobbit 3 won't lead into The Lord of the Rings|author=Tom Butler|dated=11 December 2013|website=Yahoo Entertainment UK}}</ref> Their ultimate decision to return to this premise may have been stirred, in part, by other projects: first, Jackson had seen the in-development video game ''[[Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor|Shadow of Mordor]],'' on which [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]] and others from Jackson's crew had worked, and which had nestled itself into the gap between ''[[The Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]].''<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.ign.com/articles/2014/02/20/why-lord-of-the-rings-fans-should-be-excited-for-shadow-of-mordor|articlename=Why Lord of the Rings Fans Should Be Excited for Shadow of Mordor|author=Luke Karmali|dated=20 February 2014|website=IGN}}</ref>

Shortly afterwards, when the [[Tolkien Estate]] (still nominally under [[Christopher Tolkien]]) shopped the television rights, the idea of doing a show about young [[Aragorn]] was pitched, first by Netflix, and then - at the suggestion of the Russo brothers<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-features/the-rings-of-power-showrunners-interview-season-2-1235233124/|articlename=‘The Rings of Power’ Showrunners Break Silence on Backlash, Sauron and Season 2|author=James Hibberd|dated=5 October 2022|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> - by [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon Prime Video]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=http://newboards.theonering.net/forum/gforum/perl/gforum.cgi?post=946980;sb=post_time;so=DESC;forum_view=forum_view_collapsed;guest=206510448#947231|articlename=If you will indulge me in a story|author="Uncle Iorlas"|dated=21 July 2018|website=The One Ring.net Message Boards}}</ref> Upon hearing this, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]]' mind immediately went to the period of the hunt: "If you're telling the [story of] him hunting [[Gollum]], you're getting closer to [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]]."<ref name=":21">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.fandom.com/articles/peter-jackson-lord-of-the-rings-series|articlename=Peter Jackson’s Tips For Casting Aragorn in Lord of the Rings TV Show|author=Kim Taylor-Foster|dated=4 December 2018|website=Fandom.com}}</ref> She and Jackson had also expressed interest in the potential of [[Aragorn]]'s younger days and life in [[Rivendell]]: "He's probably going to have to start young,"<ref name=":21" /> remarked Boyens, concluding that "A lot of the early [[Aragorn]] story hasn't been told."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.stuff.co.nz/entertainment/film/108970711/philippa-boyens-on-mortal-engines-hobbits-and-going-solo|articlename=Philippa Boyens on Mortal Engines, Hobbits and going solo|author=Philip Matthews|dated=16 December 2018|website=Stuff.nz}}</ref> [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortesen]] also got wind of the rumours and said he's open to reprising his role.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/viggo-mortensen-interview-falling-lord-of-the-rings/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen on Falling, Directing, and LOTR TV Show Interest|author=Christina Radish|dated=14 February 2021|website=Collider}}</ref>

Toby Emmerich and Carolyn Blackwood from [[New Line Cinema]] were brought into the fold in the hopes of cooperating on the show. In early 2018 lawyer Peter Nelson set-up "dialogue between [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon]]" to participate as executive producer.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/how-lord-rings-tv-series-landed-at-amazon-not-netflix-1099213/|articlename=Inside Amazon’s $250M ‘Lord of the Rings’ Deal: “It’s Very Much a Creature of the Times”|author=Tatiana Siegel|dated=5 April 2018|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20210308114202/https://www.herr-der-ringe-film.de/v3/de/news/tolkienfilme/news_121920.php|articlename=Exklusiv: Zu den Kulissen der HERR DER RINGE Serie, Her Der Ringe Film (archived).|author=Cirdan|dated=20 June 2018|website=Herr der Ringe.de}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.stuff.co.nz/entertainment/celebrities/108520139/sir-peter-jackson-hasnt-given-up-hope-of-making-the-dam-busters|articlename=Sir Peter Jackson hasn't given up hope of making The Dam Busters|author=James Croot|dated=12 November 2018|website=NZStuff}}</ref> Preoccupied with ''Mortal Engines'' and ''They Shall Not Grow Old'', [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] proposed in June 2018 to review the scripts and put "the creative team together."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://de.ign.com/tv/129313/interview/peter-jackson-ist-fur-das-kreative-team-hinter-der-herr-der-ringe-serie-verantwortlich|articlename=Peter Jackson ist für das kreative Team hinter der Herr der Ringe-Serie verantwortlich|author=Valentin Aschenbrenner|dated=5 June 2018|website=IGN.de}}</ref> In July, Amazon landed on [[John D. Payne]] and [[Patrick McKay]] as showrunners, and before any work could be done, a regime change in [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon Prime Video]]<ref name=":19">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/peter-jackson-amazon-lord-of-the-rings-tv-series-1235193692/|articlename=Peter Jackson Says Amazon’s ‘Lord of the Rings’ TV Series Ghosted Him|author=James Hibberd|dated=5 August 2022|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> in early 2019 resulted in [[New Line Cinema]] being demoted to a "minority licensee stakeholder."<ref name=":20">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/lord-of-the-rings-amazon-vs-warner-bros-1235337625/|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings’: Amazon, Warner Bros. Ready for Tolkien Battle|author=James Hibberd|dated=28 February 2023|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> Although the showrunners had asked to meet [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]],<ref name=":19" /> COVID prevented this from taking place.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2022/02/10-burning-questions-about-amazons-the-rings-of-power?srsltid=AfmBOopmlhLKVkCtSqkuvTTAcUtyQUICWXopTWLQq_1tu4aEf1ICrDLp|articlename=10 Burning Questions About Amazon’s The Rings of Power|author=Joanna Robinson|dated=14 February 2022|website=Vanity Fair}}</ref> While the show used a substantial number of his crew, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] were reportedly "very frustrated that so many believed they were involved with [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon]]’s show."<ref name=":20" /> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had avoided watching the show to prevent "cross-contamination."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.slashfilm.com/1693866/why-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy-screenwriter-wont-watch-the-rings-of-power/|articlename=Why One Lord Of The Rings Trilogy Screenwriter Won't Watch The Rings Of Power|author=Jaron Pak|dated=21 October 2024|website=Slash Film}}</ref> Since then, the show had left [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s home country of [[New Zealand]].

Already in 2019, the show's development had galvanized Emmerich and Blackwood to pursue an animated film with [[Middle-earth Enterprises]] (who were not involved in the show) and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]. The bridge film might have been the "CG-animated" story that [[New Line Cinema|New Line]] "had been exploring with Sir [[Peter Jackson]]" but it failed to materialize and they decided to pursue ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim]]''<ref>Daniel Falconer, ''The Art of The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim'' (Wiliam Murrow: London, 2025), pp. 9-10.</ref>. Later on, Emmerich and Blackwood were replaced by Michael de Luca and Pam Abdy, who were "striving to keep [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon]] from blurring the lines too much between" the show and the films.<ref name=":20" /> Other projects like [[Tales of the Shire: A "The Lord of the Rings" Game|''Tales of the Shire'']], the remastering of the six films to Ultra High Definition and renovations of [[Hobbiton]] were begun shortly afterwards, as well.

After this long gestation period, ''The Hunt for Gollum'' entered development once again in 2022. [[Andy Serkis]] was attached as director in October 2023 and story meetings occurred as early as May 2024, along with early availability calls to actors like [[Ian McKellen]] and [[Viggo Mortensen]] between that time and early September. By that point, the writing of the treatment was underway, followed by the first draft in January-May. After some crew hiring in August, pre-production started in early September 2025 ahead of shooting in May 2026.

==Development==
In 2022 the new administration of [[Middle-earth Enterprises]] expressed a desire to make more films, including ones "based on iconic characters, such as [[Gandalf]], [[Aragorn]], [[Gollum]], [[Galadriel]], [[Éowyn|Eowyn]] and other characters."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/lord-of-the-rings-rights-embracer-1235201442/|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings,’ ‘The Hobbit’ Movie, Games and Other Rights Holder Sold to Swedish Gaming Company Embracer|author=Georg Szalai|dated=18 August 2022|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]], [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] kept updated throughout the negotiations to extend [[New Line Cinema]]'s lease on the rights.<ref name=":4" />

Having "really enjoyed working with [[Kenji Kamiyama]], who directed ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|War of the Rohirrim]]''," [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] signed on to produce two new films: [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] denied<ref name=":22" /> rumours that this involved splitting the [[Gollum]] story,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2024/05/lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-cast-plot-everything-we-know-1235919922/|articlename=‘The Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum’: Everything We Know So Far|author=Dessi Gomez|dated=16 May 2024|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://filmstories.co.uk/news/the-lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-its-two-films-says-ian-mckellen/|articlename=The Lord Of The Rings: Hunt For Gollum {{!}} “It’s two films” says Ian McKellen|author=Ryan Lambie|dated=11 September 2024|website=Film Stories}}</ref> and at various times her and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] expressed interest in subjects varying from the [[Battle of Dale|War in the North]], Young [[Aragorn]], or certain vignettes from [[Rohan]] or [[Gondor]]'s history, which are all possible for the second film.<ref name=":23">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1i97ctm/the_next_film_after_the_hunt_for_gollum/|articlename=The next film after The Hunt for Gollum: Everything we know so far|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=25 January 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> These are probably ''not'' the other two scripts [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had been working on, however.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.indiewire.com/news/general-news/peter-jackson-not-retired-working-on-three-scripts-1235138316/|articlename=Peter Jackson Is Working on Three Screenplays: ‘I’m Certainly Not Retired’|author=By Rance Collins|dated=13 July 2025|website=IndieWire}}</ref>

Signing on the films was done with the intention to jump-start a new slate of ''Lord of the Rings'' prequels for [[New Line Cinema]],<ref name=":18" /><ref name=":24" /> with [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also expressing interest in making an "epic trilogy", probably about the [[Angmar conflict|Angmar War]].<ref name=":23" /> However, having developed the [[Gollum]] premise for so long, they decided to start with it. Asked about unrealized projects in 2024, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] observed that "there's a lot of that in ''The Hunt for Gollum.''"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9LdzKS584wA&t=614s|articlename=Lord of the Rings: War of the Rohirrim Interviews! Peter Jackson Role Explained|author=Brandon Davis|dated=29 October 2024|website=YouTube}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis]], who played [[Gollum]], had directed second unit on ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King|The Return of the King]]'' and ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]<ref name=":7" />'' and had since become a director in his own right, as well as narrating audiobooks of Tolkien's novels. [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] approached [[Andy Serkis|Andy]] around October 2023.<ref name=":24">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ssUmmuU-Bmk&t=76s|articlename=Andy Serkis Talks Motion Capture, Gollum, and Directing {{!}} Superhero Comic Con San Antonio 2024 Q&A|author=Freeman Coliseum|dated=24 June 2024|website=YouTube}}</ref> While developing the story, they already made availability checks to key cast and crew members.

===Writing===
Story meetings have happened at least as early as May 2024<ref name=":7" /> and by July they were about to start writing,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/comconnireland/status/1835962321211904490|articlename=Andy Serkis took to the stage at Comic Con Northern Ireland to talk all things Lord of the Rings and more!|author=@comconnireland|dated=16 September 2024|website=Twitter}}</ref> with [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] spotted at the [[Hobbiton]] set in November with writers [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] and Arty Papageorgiou, producers [[Zane Weiner]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/05/lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-release-date-1236390022/|articlename=‘Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum’ Sets Pre-Christmas 2027 Release|author=Anthony D'Alessandro|dated=8 May 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> and Carlos Ramirez Laloli.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.elfenomeno.com/info/ver/23481/comienza-el-rodaje-de-el-senor-de-los-anillos-la-caza-de-gollum-en-hobbiton|articlename=¿Comienza el rodaje de El Señor de los Anillos: La Caza de Gollum en Hobbiton?|author=Elfenomeno|dated=6 November 2024|website=Elfenomeno.com}}</ref> By December they had been in the process of writing the story treatment.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/lord-of-the-rings-war-of-the-rohirrim-arty-papageorgiou-phoebe-gittins/|articlename="Who Better for a Gollum Film Than Gollum Himself?": 'War of the Rohirrim' Writers on Working with Andy Serkis in 'The Hunt for Gollum'|author=Therese Lacson|dated=16 December 2024|website=Collider}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] later estimated they would finish writing by the middle of the year - executive Pamela Abdy since put the completion of the script at May<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/04/warner-bros-mike-de-luca-pam-abdy-courage-in-face-of-brutal-press-coverage-1236366618/|articlename=Warner Bros’ Mike De Luca & Pam Abdy: Playing Long Game, Mixing IP Like ‘Bodyguard’ Revamp & Bold Originals & Animation Despite Brutal Press|author=Mike Fleming Junior|dated=11 April 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> - and begin "scouting locations and building [sets]" with shooting due to begin towards the beginning of 2026.<ref name=":5">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.1news.co.nz/2024/12/15/exclusive-andy-serkis-philippa-boyens-on-the-hunt-for-gollum/|articlename=Exclusive: Andy Serkis, Philippa Boyens on new Lord of the Rings film|author=Abbey Wakefield|dated=15 December 2024|website=1News}}</ref> As a result, the release date for the film was ultimately delayed from 2026 to 17 December 2027.<ref name="TheDirect2027Release">{{webcite|author=Klein Felt|articleurl=https://thedirect.com/article/hunt-for-gollum-movie-lord-of-the-rings-release-official|articlename=Lord of the Rings: Hunt for Gollum Movie Gets Release Window from Andy Serkis|dated=27 Feb 2025|website=[https://thedirect.com The Direct]|accessed=27 Feb 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://variety.com/2025/film/news/lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-release-date-december-2027-1236390820/|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum’ Sets December 2027 Release Date; Warner Bros. Also Dates New ‘Evil Dead’ and M. Night Shyamalan Movies for 2026|author=Zack Sharf|dated=8 May 2025|website=Variety}}</ref>

A draft of the screenplay had been sent to de Luca and Abdy in May, probably prior to the investor meeting on the 8th, when [[Warner Bros.|Warner]]'s CEO David Zaslav announced the official release date.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://voicefilm.com/david-zaslav-announces-that-the-release-date-for-the-next-lord-of-the-rings-movie-will-be-revealed-today/|articlename=David Zaslav Announces That the Release Date for the Next ‘Lord of the Rings’ Movie Will Be Revealed Today|author=Mark|dated=8 May 2025|website=Voice Film}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.comicbasics.com/warner-ceo-david-zaslav-says-they-will-focus-more-on-their-main-ips-like-harry-potter-and-dc-in-the-future-those-belong-to-us-and-theyll-only-belong-to-us-forever/|articlename=Warner CEO David Zaslav Says They Will Focus More on Their Main IPs Like ‘Harry Potter’ and DC in the Future: “Those belong to us, and they’ll only belong to us forever.”|author=Arthur S. Poe|dated=8 May 2025|website=Comic Basics}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had since revealed that the film is due to start pre production in August<ref name=":33">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1krwz8d/andy_serkis_the_lord_of_the_rings_the_hunt_for/|articlename=Andy Serkis Panel at Fan Expo Philadelphia 2025|author=FandomWire News|dated=19 May 2025}}</ref> - when the film started hiring crew - then ammended to "late August to early September"<ref name=":18" />, with [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] ultimately arriving in [[Wellington]] circa 8 September to begin work on the film.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://metro.co.uk/2025/09/03/andy-serkis-admits-cant-escape-gollum-ahead-lord-rings-return-24066270/amp/|articlename=Andy Serkis admits he ‘can’t escape Gollum’ ahead of Lord of the Rings return|author=Sabrina Barr|dated=3 September 2025|website=Metro UK}}</ref> Serkis had left New Zealand during the holiday season, attending the premiere of "28 Years Later: The Bone Temple" before flying back to New Zealand: en rote he landed in Los Angeles.<ref name=":41">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.tmz.com/2026/01/20/andy-serkis-wants-original-lord-of-the-rings-cast-in-new-film/|articlename=LOTR' Star Andy Serkis: OG Cast Is Precious, Love 'Em For New Flick|author=Anonymous|dated=20 January 20 2026|website=TMZ}}</ref>

==Pre production==
[[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had further said preproduction will last for six months,<ref name=":27">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.comingsoon.it/cinema/news/in-un-mondo-alla-deriva-gollum-ci-salvera-la-nostra-intervista-ad-andy/n203564/|articlename=In un mondo alla deriva Gollum ci salverà: la nostra intervista ad Andy Serkis|author=Carola Proto|dated=25 June 2025|website=Coming Soon.it}}</ref> with [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] later confirming it will start filming in May<ref name=":12">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1msw9fp/the_lord_of_the_rings_the_hunt_for_gollum_starts/|articlename=The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum starts shooting in May, says Sir Ian McKellen. "I'll tell you two secrets about the casting..."|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=17 August 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> for an extended shooting period:<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-filming-update-andy-serkis/|articlename=Director Andy Serkis Offers Huge Filming Update For 'The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum' [Exclusive]|author=Chris McPherson and Steven Weintraub|dated=10 June 2025|website=Collider}}</ref> This puts the beginning of filming in [[New Zealand]] winter and, deducting the holidays, six months after [[Andy Serkis|Andy]]'s arrival. Location scouting may have taken place at Hawke's Bay as early as June<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1lis26w/a_location_scout_for_the_lord_of_the_rings_the/|articlename=A location scout for The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum seems to be snooping around Hawke's Bay, New Zealand|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=23 June 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> and later at the Waikato.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.waikatotimes.co.nz/nz-news/360837801/aliens-warriors-heroes-princesses-and-gollum-big-productions-filmed-and-possibly-coming-waikato|articlename=Aliens, warriors, heroes, princesses ... and Gollum: The big productions filmed in (and possibly coming to) the Waikato|author=Mike Mather|dated=1 October 2025|website=Waikato Times}}</ref> They had also watched the films sometime prior to November.<ref>Latino USA TV, "How Movie Monsters Are Really Made!", YouTube, 26 November 2025.</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] also spoke appreciatively of [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s penchant for behind the scenes extras, suggesting a similar approach to the film.<ref name=":33" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/gu1jj7/one_zoom_to_rule_them_all_reunited_apart_lord_of/|articlename=One Zoom to Rule Them All {{!}} Reunited Apart LORD OF THE RINGS Edition|author=Josh Gad|dated=31 May 2021|website=}}</ref> In October, [[Andy Serkis|Andy]] revealed that they're developing prosthetics.<ref name=":34">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1og2b4p/andy_serkis_says_all_the_art_department_from_lord/|articlename=Andy Serkis says "all the art department" from Lord of the Rings are "excited to come back." They started location scouting and camera tests.|author=u/Lord_Varys92|dated=25 October 2024|website=Reddit}}</ref>

Since [[Elijah Wood]], slated to appear in the film, is on tour through to early September,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://parade.com/news/lord-of-the-rings-hobbits-25-years-later-reunion-tour|articlename=The Hobbits Are Back Together — and Their Big News Has Fans Cheering|author=Whitney Danhauer|dated=25 October 2025|website=Parade}}</ref> his scenes might be scheduled for [[New Zealand]] summer, which could suggest shooting ''in situ'' in [[Hobbiton]], presumably depicting [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] dallying outside [[Bag End]] while [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]] and [[Gandalf]] argue within, as depicted in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]''. [[Ian McKellen]] is also hoping to join the production in [[New Zealand as Middle-earth|New Zealand]] during July.<ref>The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, "There's Nothing I Enjoy More Than Acting In The Theater" - Ian McKellen EXTENDED INTERVIEW," ''YouTub''e, 5 February 2026.</ref>

===Crew===
The film, said to be "one of the most expensive feature films to be shot in [[New Zealand]]"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/new-lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-film-will-be-shot-in-nz-set-for-2027-release/3BDNB3QFKJDAVGB4ODOTQ63YLY/|articlename=New Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum film will be shot in NZ, set for 2027 release|author=Tom Rose|dated=18 June 2025|website=New Zealand Herald}}</ref> is expected to draft alums of the ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|Lord of the Rings]]'', ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|War of the Rohirrim]]'' (many of whom will have also worked on ''[[The Rings of Power]]'' Season One and other projects) working in the [[Wellington]] and greater New Zealand screen sector.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thepost.co.nz/nz-news/350274670/film-heavyweights-alight-over-lotr-comeback|articlename=Film heavyweights ‘alight’ over LOTR comeback|author=Rachel Thomas|dated=10 May 2024|website=The New Zealand Post}}</ref><ref name=":5" /> Crewing began in early August, with Wood since confirming the involvement of production designer [[Dan Hennah]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IX5NhkyQ710|articlename=Elijah Wood en Monterrey/ conferencia de la DesertCon|author=Asi SoyTv|dated=6 October 2025|website=YouTube}}</ref> and set decorator Ra Vincent might also be involved.<ref name=":34" /> Although [[Janet Brennan Croft|Janet Brennan-Croft]] acted as [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] consultant on previous films, Beppe Pezzini will fill this role for this film.<ref>Educational Media Services | University of Oxford, "Beppe Pezzini on Classics and Fantasy | Fantasy Summer School ‪@facultyofenglishoxford‬," ''YouTube'', 23 September 2025.</ref>

IMDb credits Bob Buck as ''a'' costume designer for the film: it remains to be seen if Ngila Dickson, having just wrapped ''Predator: Badlands'' with [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]], might return. Kate Hawley, who was attached to del Toro's version of the film, is unlikely to take part due to work on "Bad Bridgets."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/10/daisy-edgar-jones-emilia-jones-bad-bridgets-luckychap-1236604481/|articlename=Daisy Edgar-Jones And Emilia Jones To Star In ‘Bad Bridgets’ From LuckyChap|author=Justin Kroll|dated=31 October 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> Liz Mullane and Rachel Bullock head the New Zealand casting sweep. Both [[Wētā FX|WetaFX]] and [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]] are confirmed for the project,<ref name=":8">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt32328070/companycredits/?ref_=tt_dt_cmpy|articlename=The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum (2027)|author=Anonymous|website=IMDb}}</ref> as are [[Gino Acevedo]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.instagram.com/p/DRy30vUkme7/|articlename="Oh no!"|author=Ginoacevedofx|dated=3 December 2025|website=Instagram}}</ref> [[John Howe]] and [[Alan Lee]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://ggba.swiss/en/the-lord-of-the-rings-nature-and-switzerlands-hidden-history-a-conversation-with-john-howe/|articlename=The Lord Of The Rings, Nature and Switzerland’s Hidden History (A Conversation with John Howe)|author=Woody Wade|dated=10 December 2025|website=Greater Geneva Bern Area}}</ref> In April - by which point a composer was already said to be attached to the project - [[Howard Shore]] said he was interested to "see how that all works out."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.classical-music.com/articles/howard-shore|articlename=Howard Shore: the film composer behind Hannibal Lecter and Bilbo Baggins|author=Michael Beek|dated=16 April 2025|website=Classical Music.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://en.softonic.com/articles/the-composer-of-the-soundtrack-for-the-lord-of-the-rings-made-a-cameo-in-the-movies-and-no-one-noticed#google_vignette|articlename=The composer of the soundtrack for The Lord of the Rings made a cameo in the movies and no one noticed|author=Agencias|dated=26 December 2025|website=Softonic}}</ref>

As early as October, [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] suggested that they're "doing camera tests."<ref name=":34" /> This is said to include miniature photography, with Alex Funke said to participate, even if only in an advisory position. On the live action side, although Richard Bluck (who filmed with [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]], and might shoot second unit) had been mentioned, it appears the film will be lensed by Robert Richardson.<ref name=":34" /> While the film was in the story conference stage in July 2024, Richardson said he had "a number" of projects "on the constantly-shifting horizon of the film industry."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.filmlightcolourawards.com/colour-awards-2024/jury-colour-awards-2024/robert-richardson-cinematographer-asc-ack/|articlename=Robert Richardson, Cinematographer, ASC, ACK|author=Anonymous|dated=18 July 2024|website=Film Light Colour Awards}}</ref> One of these projects was a Hannibal epic, whose delay freed Richardson to lens the film.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.worldofreel.com/blog/2025/7/23/michael-part-1-delayed-to-april-2026|articlename=‘Michael’ Delayed to April 2026|author=Jordan Ruimy|dated=23 July 2025|website=World of Reel}}</ref>

The film is a co-production of [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s [[WingNut Films|WingNut films]] and [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]]' ''Imaginarium''. [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] will executive produce with his ''Imaginarium'' partner John Cavendish and Jackson's agent [[Ken Kamins]].<ref name="Gollum">{{webcite|author=Jennifer Maas|articleurl=https://variety.com/2024/film/news/lord-of-the-rings-movie-2026-release-warner-bros-1235997102/|articlename=Warner Bros. to Release New ‘Lord of the Rings’ Movie ‘The Hunt for Gollum’ in 2026, Peter Jackson to Produce and Andy Serkis to Direct|dated=9 May 2024|website=[https://variety.com/ Variety]|accessed=8 June 2024}}</ref> IMDb also credits studio chiefs Michael de Luca (who helped produce [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'']]), Pam Abdy and David Zaslav as executive producers<ref name=":8" /> and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] mentioned [[Warner Bros.|Warners]]' business consultant Alan Horn (who had produced ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]])'' as a collaborator, but these credits have yet to become official.<ref name=":7" />

===Cast===
With [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] due to star as [[Gollum]], approaches had been made to [[Ian McKellen|Sir Ian McKellen]]<ref name=":2">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2024/09/ian-mckellen-return-gandalf-new-the-lord-of-the-rings-films-1236075547/|articlename=Ian McKellen Reveals He’s Been Approached To Reprise His Role As Gandalf In Andy Serkis’ New ‘The Lord Of The Rings’ Films|author=Jake Kanter|dated=2 September 2024|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> and [[Viggo Mortensen]] to reprise [[Gandalf]] and [[Aragorn]], respectively. [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] said he's in talks to reprise "a little bit" of [[Gandalf]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.mirror.co.uk/3am/celebrity-news/sir-ian-mckellan-i-thought-36196617|articlename=EXCLUSIVE: Sir Ian McKellan: 'I thought I was a goner, but I'm coming back as Gandalf'|author=Marc Baker and Jackie Annett|dated=5 November 2025|website=The Mirror}}</ref> in [[New Zealand]].<ref name=":42">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thetimes.com/culture/tv-radio/article/ian-mckellen-an-ark-lowry-lord-of-the-rings-f9wc9nmdq|articlename=Ian McKellen at 86: ‘I’ve had to accept that I’m not immortal’|author=Jonathan Dean|dated=14 February 2026|website=The Times}}</ref> As of December, the contracts with [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] and [[Elijah Wood|Wood]] hadn't been finalized,<ref name=":40" /> but [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] expressed a desire to return to [[New Zealand]] for filming. [[Liv Tyler]], [[Evangeline Lilly]] and, especially, [[Orlando Bloom]] have also expressed interest in reprising their parts,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.nme.com/news/film/the-lord-of-the-rings-cast-say-they-would-jump-to-return-for-new-spin-off-movies-3853893|articlename=‘The Lord Of The Rings’ cast say they would “jump” to return for new spin-off movies|author=Damian Jones|dated=11 April 2025|website=NME}}</ref> while [[Dominic Monaghan]] expressed a desire to visit the set.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://nypost.com/2025/11/06/entertainment/dominic-monaghan-reveals-plans-for-next-lord-of-the-rings-movie/|articlename=Dominic Monaghan reveals big plans for next ‘Lord of the Rings’ movie — including possible return as Merry
By|author=Eric Todisco|dated=6 November 2025|website=New York Post}}</ref> [[Evangeline Lilly|Lilly]] had proceeded to do so, but indicated that she will have no further involvement with the project. [[Orcs]] are set to appear in the film, with [[Shane Rangi]] and [[Lawrence Makoare]] having reportedly been contacted.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/thelegacyofnerd/status/1979621220246344016|articlename=BREAKING: ‘The Hunt For Gollum’ Begins Filming in May 2026|author=@thelegacyofnerd|dated=8 October 2025|website=Twitter}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]]' comments about seeing the interiors of [[Barad-dûr|Barad Dur]] might suggest the involvement of [[Benedict Cumberbatch]].<ref name=":36">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lYYSsook-4Y|articlename=Philippa Boyens ('ESDLA: LA GUERRA DE LOS ROHIRRIM'): "Queríamos que se sintiera como algo nuevo"|author=eCartelera|dated=10 December 2024}}</ref>

[[Andy Serkis|Serkis]], [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had all spoke to [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]],<ref name=":3">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://theplaylist.net/the-war-of-the-rohirrim-philippa-boyens-on-the-new-anime-the-hunt-for-gollum-the-future-of-the-lord-of-the-rings-20241223/|articlename=‘The War Of The Rohirrim’: Philippa Boyens On The New Anime, ‘The Hunt For Gollum’ & The Future Of ‘The Lord of the Rings’|author=Rodrigo Perez|dated=23 December 2024|website=The Playlist}}</ref> who had previously said he'd be "open to it" if it makes sense for "the age I am now"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.gq-magazine.co.uk/article/viggo-mortensen-interview-2024|articlename=Viggo Mortensen re-used Aragorn's sword in new movie The Dead Don't Hurt “Because it's really good”|author=Rafael Motamayor|dated=28 May 2024|website=GQ}}</ref> but after [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] pitched it to him as "Digital make-up" they agreed he'd wait to read the script: With the approach to [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] happening sometime between June<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thetimes.com/culture/film/article/ian-mckellen-if-this-is-my-last-job-id-better-get-it-right-hadnt-i-n3t38g6tb|articlename=Ian McKellen: ‘When a script arrives, I think this might be my last job’|author=Dominic Maxwell|dated=8 June 2024|website=The Times of London}}</ref> and September,<ref name=":2" /> the approach to [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] may have taken place in mid-June, just prior to an interview in which [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] said "The script is the most important thing to me", seemingly no longer harping on the age quota.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/viggo-mortensen-lord-of-the-rings-script-feminism-1235935628/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen on Respecting Audiences, How Scripts Are Key “Unless I’m Broke,” New ‘LOTR’ Films|author=Georg Szalai|dated=30 June 2024|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] said they need to "drag" him.<ref name=":36" />

While in London for ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]]'' premiere, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also "had lunch with an [[Elves|Elf]] lord" who "would fall into that story."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.instagram.com/nerdoftherings/reel/DDgKw47uxkJ/|articlename="Philippa Boyens teases an “elf lord” returning for Hunt for Gollum! "|author=Matt Graf|dated=12 December 2024|website=Instagram}}</ref> Although this could refer to [[Orlando Bloom|Bloom]] or even [[Marton Csokas]], [[Lee Pace]] is the most likely as he was shooting ''The Running Man'' in London at the time.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://people.com/glen-powell-films-running-man-reboot-37-years-after-arnold-schwarzenegger-movie-8745529|articlename=Glen Powell Films Running Man Remake in London 37 Years After Original Arnold Schwarzenegger Movie|author=Jen Juneau|dated=14 November 2024|website=People}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had since divulged that they expect "some of the cast who were originally in" ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'', as well as "some incredible new talent."<ref name=":28">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.jedinews.com/events/articles/indiana-comic-con-andy-serkis-full-panel/|articlename=Indiana Comic Con: Andy Serkis Full Panel|author=James Burns|dated=11 April 2025,|website=Jedi News}}</ref> [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] had since confirmed that [[Gandalf]] and [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]], surely to be played by himself and [[Elijah Wood|Wood]], are scheduled to reappear in the piece.<ref name=":12" />

Casting seems to have started in November,<ref name=":40">Steve Schofield ''et al'', "25 Years of Fellowship", ''Empire'' (March 2026), pp. 46-70.</ref> with young boys auditioning for the boy [[Gollum|Smeagol]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/KnightGambit/status/2011815291198849220|articlename=Small Tidbit.....|author=Caleb Williams|dated=16 January 2026|website=Twitter}}</ref> and two of his fellow [[Stoors|Stoor]] riverfolk - a young girl and a young adult boy - in what looks like a setup for [[Gollum|Smeagol]]'s preoccupation with a birtday present. Actors in their early thirties auditioned for a young "[[Aragorn|Strider]]",<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://knightedgemedia.com/2026/01/the-hunt-for-gollum-casting-call-teases-young-strider-and-his-fellow-dunedain-rangers/#google_vignette|articlename=‘The Hunt for Gollum’ Casting Call Teases Young Strider and His Fellow Dúnedain Rangers|author=Caleb Williams|dated=16 January 2026|website=Knight Edge Media}}</ref> with 29-year old Leo Woodall reportedly tipped for the role.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://knightedgemedia.com/2026/03/rumor-leo-woodall-cast-as-strider-in-lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum/#google_vignette|articlename=RUMOR: Leo Woodall Cast as Strider in ‘Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum’|author=Caleb Williams|dated=7 March 2026|website=Knight Edge Media}}</ref> While there had been reports that the studio is not hoping to get Viggo<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/ViewerAnon/status/1998489358849159181?s=20|articlename=I can confirm this|author=ViewerAnon|dated=9 December 2025|website=Twitter}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had spoken about potentially having to "hand off"<ref name=":3" /> from [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]], and rumours had pointed to the inexpediency of the deaging.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://3dvf.com/en/a-cult-actor-from-the-lord-of-the-rings-on-the-departure-the-question-arises-for-the-prequel-dedicated-to-gollum/#google_vignette|articlename=A Cult Actor from The Lord of the Rings on the Departure? The Question Arises for the Prequel Dedicated to Gollum|author=Quentin Couprie|dated=13 December 2025|accessed=3DVF}}</ref> The age differential - Mortensen was 42 while shooting ''Lord of the Rings'' - may well suggest scenes alternating between this younger character, and either an old [[Aragorn|Elessar]] and/or the "mature" [[Aragorn]] of the [[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|''Fellowship of the Ring'']] era.''<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://medium.com/p/dcf21faf019e|articlename=The Hunt for Gollum and the Aragorn problem|author=Chen Geller|website=Medium}}</ref>'' [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had earlier spoke of meeting [[Aragorn]] when he was "quite young" in ''[[The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies|The Battle of the Five Armies]],'' but not so young that it didn't seem plausible to her to have [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] play him circa 2011''.<ref name=":39" />'' The audition scene, although not necessarily representative of the film, also implies the presence of the other [[Rangers of the North|Rangers]], perhaps including [[Halbarad]]. A younger Strider could also feature in a "Young Aragorn" picture.

Serkis had since reaffirrmed that he would "love the old cast" back.<ref name=":41" /> Other roles auditioned for include women in their thirties and fifities: the latter is said to be Smeagol's grandmother, now confirmed as a "lead" role, with Kate Winslet relocating to New Zealand for five months. The thirties' part<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://knightedgemedia.com/2026/03/the-hunt-for-gollum-lead-female-characters-casting-are-underway-exclusive/#google_vignette|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum’ Lead Female Characters Casting Are Underway (EXCLUSIVE)|author=Caleb Williams|dated=5 March 2026|website=Knight Edge Media}}</ref> is reportedly circled by Anya Taylor-Joy. Some presume this to be [[Arwen]], but if so the quota is older than [[Liv Tyler]], who was 23 at the time of [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'']].

==Plotline==
The exact events the film covers remain undisclosed. There's ambiguity concerning both the exact timeframe for the film, and whether it will focus more on [[Gollum]] or [[Aragorn]]. An official "blurb" for the movie reads: "The pic explores [[Aragorn]]’s adventures as a [[Rangers of the North|ranger]], specifically his quest to capture [[Gollum]] between [[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]] and [[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|Fellowship of the Ring]], tracking him to keep the [[The One Ring|Ring]]’s location from [[Sauron|Sauron."]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2026/01/box-office-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy-25th-anniversary-1236689724/|articlename=‘Lord Of The Rings’ Trilogy 25th Anniversary Event Rings Up $11M In Worldwide Box Office|author=Anthony D'Alessandro|dated=19 January 2026|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> A more extended synopsis had also been circulating:<blockquote>Before the Fellowship, one creature's obsession holds the key to Middle-earth's survival -- or its demise. In The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum, we meet young Smeagol -- an outsider drawn to trinkets and mischief -- long before The One Ring consumed him and began his tragic descent into the tortured, deceitful creature Gollum. With the ring lost and carried away by Bilbo Baggins, Gollum finds himself compelled to leave his cave in search of it. Gandalf the Grey calls upon Aragorn, still known as the ranger Strider, to track the elusive creature whose knowledge of the whereabouts of the ring could tip the balance toward the Dark Lord Sauron.
Set in the shadowed time between Bilbo's birthday disappearance and the Fellowship's formation, this perilous journey through Middle-earth's darkest corners reveals untold truths, tests the resolve of its future king, and explores the fractured soul and backstory of Gollum, one of Tolkien's most enigmatic characters.

Directed by original cast member Andy Serkis, produced by Peter Jackson, and written & produced by Fran Walsh and Phillipa Boyens -- the creative team behind the Oscar-winning trilogy -- this live-action movie bridges the beloved films with new characters, returning heroes, and a deeply engaging origin story that resets the stage for, and changes everything you know about the legendary Lord of the Rings trilogy.</blockquote>Strictly speaking, [[Aragorn]]'s hunt for [[Gollum]] begins during the events depicted in Jackson's [[The Fellowship of the Ring (2001 film)|''The Fellowship of the Ring'']], and in October, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] said the story "falls after the [[Bilbo's Farewell Party|birthday party of Bilbo]] and before the Mines Of [[Moria]]".<ref name=":22">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.empireonline.com/movies/news/lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-wont-be-two-films-second-philippa-boyens-exclusive/|articlename=The Hunt For Gollum Won’t Be Two Films, But A Second LOTR Film Is Incoming, Philippa Boyens Confirms|author=Ben Travis|dated=18 October 2024|website=Empire}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] added that the role of [[Aragorn]] is "very central" to the movie.<ref name=":36" /> Andy called the storyline "pivotal."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1md7lim/the_lord_of_the_rings_the_hunt_for_gollum_andy/|articlename=The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum - Andy Serkis says "this part of the story is pivotal"|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=30 July 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> [[Ian McKellen]] had described the plot as "[[Aragorn]] trying to find [[Gollum]] with [[Gandalf]] directing operations from the sidelines."<ref name=":42" />

However, ''a'' hunt for [[Gollum]] is begun by the [[Silvan Elves]] after Gollum first leaves the [[Misty Mountains|mountains]] in search of [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]], and in December Jackson said the film "tells us what happened to [[Gollum]] between ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' - end of [[The Hobbit (film series)|''The Hobbit'']] - and the beginning of ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]''".<ref name=":6">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/red-carpet-premiere-for-the-lord-of-the-rings-the-war-of-the-rohirrim/P3BS7U5NPS5EMFLPUV4SYSYFDU/|articlename=Red carpet premiere for The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|author=Mitchell Hageman|dated=11 December 2024|website=New Zealand Herald}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had since confirmed this timeframe: "It sits, kind of, in the timeline between ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' - between losing the [[The One Ring|Ring]] to [[Bilbo Baggins]] - and ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]''."<ref name=":18">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?t=1218&v=U-dw8DQDf90&feature=youtu.be|articlename=Kazakhstan feels like the center of the world - Andy Serkis {{!}} Interview of the Day|author=Silk Way / Qazaqstan|dated=15 July 2025|website=YouTube}}</ref> [[Dol Guldur]], the [[Nazgûl|Nazgul]] and [[Orcs]] are all said to potentially play part in the film.

[[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also alluded to other storylines: "we are finding a lot of threads of story that are surprising in there when you really go in there and examine it".<ref name=":29">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.slashfilm.com/1734018/philippa-boyens-lord-of-the-rings-war-of-the-rohirrim-exclusive-interview/|articlename=War Of The Rohirrim's Philippa Boyens Reveals Details About The Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum [Exclusive Interview]|author=Ben Pearson|dated=13 December 2024|website=/Film}}</ref> Events as varied as [[Aragorn]]'s sojourn in [[Lothlórien|Lórien]] with [[Arwen]], the fall of [[Balin's folk]], [[Boromir]]'s quest for [[Rivendell]] and much else occur concurrent to the time of the Hunt.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1iutc9r/building_bridges_so_what_happens_between_the/|articlename=Building Bridges: So, what happens between the trilogies that The Hunt for Gollum could possibly cover?|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=21 February 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> "You see the layers and layers of story that’s underneath there and how interconnected they all are", she adds.<ref name=":3" /> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] also made comments to this effect: "Some pretty interesting stuff happens that we reference in passing in [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The'' ''Lord of the Rings'']], but there’s a lot of more deep detail to it."<ref name=":6" />

[[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] adds that "We get to go to some places that we've never been before" in Middle-earth." One such place - only glimpsed in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|Fellowship of the Ring]]'' - is the interiors of [[Barad-dûr|Barad Dur]].<ref name=":36" /> Both she and Serkis alluded to new characters<ref name=":28" /><ref name=":5" /> and new dramatic situations, saying it's "surprising"<ref name=":7" /><ref name=":27" /><ref name=":29" /> and could be enjoyed be people wo don't know the novels.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.amica.it/video-post/andy-serkis-dirigero-signore-anelli-tornero-batman/|articlename=Andy Serkis, da Gollum a regista: «Dirigerò “Il Signore degli Anelli” e tornerò con Batman»|author=Emanuele Bigi|dated=27 June 2025|website=Amica}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also shared that one of the practicalities they were busy figuring out in the writing is "How does he [<nowiki/>[[Aragorn]]] pick up his scent? How does he find his trail, how does it happen?"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://nerdist.com/article/nerdist-philippa-boyens-interview-the-war-of-the-rohirrim-the-lord-of-the-rings-future/|articlename=Philippa Boyens Talks the Future of THE LORD OF THE RINGS Movies and Naming a Tolkien Character in THE WAR OF THE ROHIRRIM|author=by Rotem Rusak|dated=19 December 2024|website=Nerdist}}</ref>

==Cast==
{| class="wikitable mw-collapsible"
|- style="background: var(--tg-color-surface-2);"
!Actor!!Role
|-
|[[Andy Serkis]]||[[Gollum]]<ref name="Gollum"></ref>
|-
|[[Elijah Wood]]
|[[Frodo Baggins]]<ref name=":12" />
|-
|[[Ian McKellen]]
|[[Gandalf]]<ref name=":12" />
|}

{{title|italics}}

{{references}}

{{screen}}

[[Category:Films]]

[[fi:The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum]]

The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum

2026-03-11T17:26:33Z

Chen Geller:

{{Disambig-two|the 2027 film adaptation|2009 fan film|[[The Hunt for Gollum]]}}
{{film infobox
| image =
| caption =
| name = The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum
| director = [[Andy Serkis]]
| producer = [[Peter Jackson]] [[Fran Walsh]] [[Philippa Boyens]] [[Zane Weiner]]
| writer = [[Fran Walsh]] [[Philippa Boyens]] Phoebe Gittins Arty Papageorgiou
| narrator =
| starring = [[Andy Serkis]]<ref name=Gollum></ref> [[Elijah Wood]] [[Ian McKellen]] Kate Winslet
| music =
| cinematography =
| editing =
| studio = WingNut films Imaginarium [[New Line Cinema]]<ref name=Gollum></ref>
| distributor = [[Warner Bros.|Warner Bros. Pictures]]<ref name=Gollum></ref>
| released = 17 December [[2027]]<ref name="TheDirect2027Release"/>
| runtime =
| country = [[New Zealand]]<ref name=Gollum></ref>
| language = English
| budget =
| website =
|imdb_id=32328070
|basedon=[[The Lord of the Rings]]|production design=[[Dan Hennah]] (Production designer)}}
'''''The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum''''' is the title (originally, working title<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/09/curtis-brown-jrr-tolkien-literary-estate-deal-1236526748/|articlename=Curtis Brown To Rep J.R.R. Tolkien’s Literary Estate|author=Jesse Whittock|dated=10 September 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref>) of a forthcoming film adaptation currently in pre-production and set for a [[2027]] release, the first of a planned series of Tolkien films to be produced by [[New Line Cinema]], a division of [[Warner Bros.|Warner Brothers]].<ref name=":4">{{webcite|author=Matt Donnelly|articleurl=https://variety.com/2023/film/news/lord-of-the-rings-new-movies-warner-bros-1235533672/|articlename=New ‘Lord of the Rings’ Movies Set at Warner Bros. |dated=23 February 2023|website=[https://variety.com/ Variety]|accessed=10 June 2024}}</ref>

The film will cover [[Gollum]]'s travels after losing [[The One Ring|the Ring]] to [[Bilbo Baggins]] (as depicted in [[The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey|''An Unexpected Journey'']]), through [[Gandalf]] setting out to track the creature after [[Bilbo's Farewell Party]] (as depicted in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]'') and down to [[Gollum]] intercepting [[Fellowship of the Ring|the Fellowship]] in [[Moria|Moria.]]

It will be directed by and star [[Andy Serkis]], who played [[Gollum]] in [[Peter Jackson]]'s previous films, as well as directing second unit. [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] will produce with his co-writing team of [[Fran Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens]], who will also write the screenplay with ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]]'' scribes Phoebe Gittins and Arty Papageorgiou.

The subject of this film is a longstanding fascination of [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s who developed it quite intensly in 2008 with [[Guillermo del Toro]]. The film is in preproduction with several cast and crew members from previous films already attached, including actor [[Elijah Wood]], concept artists [[John Howe]] and [[Alan Lee]] and others.

==Early Development==
Although the film was only announced in 2023, it had a long gestation period with [[Peter Jackson]], who considered filming this subject since circa 1997, and at least as late as July 2015. During 2008, in particular, the film was in development with a plot synopsis, a tentative budget and an initial cast and crew attached, and drew the attention of further talent like [[Viggo Mortensen]], as well as the press. Elements of this proposed "bridge film" were eventually put into ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' but mostly axed during the early months of the shoot. Jackson also negotiated in 2018 about producing a show for [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon Prime]] about the related subject of the travels of young [[Aragorn]], but ended up producing ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]]'' with [[New Line Cinema]] instead.

===During ''The'' ''Lord of the Rings''===
[[Peter Jackson]] read [[The Lord of the Rings|''The Lord of the Rings'']] circa 1979, and he claims that he "always loved the concept that when [[Gandalf]] leaves [[Bag End]] he goes and joins up with [[Aragorn]] and the two of them hunt [[Gollum]] down."<ref name=":26">Peter Jackson, Philippa Boyens, Fran Walsh, "Director's Commentary", Peter Jackson, ''The Lord of the Rings trilogy'' (New Line Cinema: 2004).</ref> This piece of backstory was also expanded upon in the [[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)|radio serial]], which [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] was very familiar with. He and [[Fran Walsh]] first pitched a trilogy based on [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']] and ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'' around November 1995.<ref>Brian Sibley, Peter Jackson: A Filmmaker's Journey (London: HarperCollins, 2006), pp. 312 ff.</ref><ref>J. W Braun, ''The lord of the films : the unofficial guide to Tolkien's Middle-Earth on the big screen'' (Toronto: ECW Press, 2009), pp. 20, 63, 68-69, 195.</ref><ref>Michael Pellerin, "Completing Middle-earth," Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit'' (Warner Brothers: 2015).</ref> They may well have had the [[Gollum]] episode in mind at some time between that point and early 1997. So long as they intended to start with ''The Hobbit'' (up to early 1996), they will have been mindful of the need to connect the two novels, and while their treatment (mid 1997) doesn't seem to cover the [[Gollum]] episode, it already dramatizes the remainder of the backstory that's given in "[[The Shadow of the Past]]", "[[The Council of Elrond]]" and [[appendix B]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1j06oqh/so_what_is_the_hunt_for_gollum_really_based_on/|articlename=So, what is The Hunt for Gollum REALLY based on?|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=28 February 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> When the project expanded (September 1998) to three films, Jackson tried to finally incorporate this storyline - some eight pages' worth - but realized that he "just couldn't put [the Hunt for [[Gollum]]] into the movie".<ref name=":26" />

[[Peter Jackson|Peter]] nevertheless publicly expressed a desire to film "[[Gandalf]] and [[Aragorn]] hunting [[Gollum]], and his capture by [[Orcs]]"<ref name=":25">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://members.tripod.com/peter_jackson_online/lotr/articles/20_questions2.htm|articlename=20 QUESTIONS WITH PETER JACKSON- PART 2|author=Harry Knowles|dated=31 December 1998|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> At the time, the idea was to shoot this as additional material and add it into the extended edition: although by early 2001 he would have realized this could not be accomodated in the pickups to ''The Fellowship of the Ring'', in 2003 he would still half-jokingly talk about shooting more pickups to "fatten these films out without technically going beyond ‘[[The Lord of the Rings]]’ as the licensed property." Elsewhere in the commentary, he jokes about "spinoff" entries.<ref name=":26" /> Other ideas for this treatment included [[Tom Bombadil]]<ref name=":25" /> and the [[Lothlórien|attack on Lorien]], with the entire expansion estimated at around three hours' worth.<ref name=":26" />

By the end of 2001, The success of ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]'' emboldened [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]<ref>Kristin Thompson, T''he Frodo Franchise: The Lord of the Rings and Modern Hollywoo''d (Berkeley: University of California Press, 2007), pp. 51, 327, 338.</ref> to pursue more films (he was also in discussions to "rekindle" ''King Kong'' at the time) and he had later discussed filming a "''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|Lord of the Rings]]'' prequel", along with ''[[The Hobbit]]'', with composer [[Howard Shore]] and executive producer [[Mark Ordesky]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2006/11/19/24053-peter-jackson-and-fran-walsh-talk-the-hobbit-2/|articlename=Peter Jackson and Fran Walsh Talk THE HOBBIT|author=Xoanon|dated=19 November 2006|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref><ref name=":35">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.rhino.com/article/interview-howard-shore-the-lord-of-the-rings|articlename=INTERVIEW: Howard Shore (“The Lord of the Rings”)|author=Will Harris|dated=27 April 2018|website=Rhino}}</ref> At a later premiere, [[New Line Cinema|New Line]]'s president Robert Shaye told [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s agent [[Ken Kamins]] that they "would want to have a conversation" about the two films.<ref name=":30" /> The idea at the time was to incorporate [[Arwen]] as a female character<ref name=":10">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20230327113046/https://ew.com/article/2003/12/06/peter-jackson-mulls-rings-prequel/|articlename=Peter Jackson mulls ''Rings'' prequel|author=Gary Susman|dated=6 December 2003|website=EW}}</ref> and produce both films back-to-back "in some short order"<ref name=":30">Ian Nathan, ''Anything You Can Imagine: Peter Jackson and the Making of Middle-earth'' (London: HarperCollins, 2019), pp. 827, 835.</ref> after ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'', in order to "complete the set of films.”<ref name=":10" /> Actors [[Andy Serkis]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2003/dec/09/jrrtolkien|articlename=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2003/dec/09/jrrtolkien|author=Anonymous|dated=9 Dec 2003|website=The Guardian}}</ref> [[Ian McKellen]], producer Barrie Osborne<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2002/12/16/25965-ttt-benefit-with-barrie-osborne-2/|articlename=TTT Benefit with Barrie Osborne
by|author=xoanon|dated=16 December 2002|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> and concept artist Paul Lasaine all expressed interest at the time.

While talking about ''[[The Hobbit]]'' in 16 September 2006, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] said they "have thought about it from time to time" and in fact "spent most of this morning" talking about the films. They talked of how "[[Elrond]], [[Galadriel]] and [[Arwen]] could all feature"<ref name=":11" /> and "[[Gollum]]'s sneaking into [[Mordor]] and [[Aragorn]] protecting [[The Shire]]. That's what we'd do. Love to work with [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] again".<ref name=":11">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/30085|articlename=Part 5: Quint and Peter Jackson talk THE HOBBIT and a potential return to low budget horror!!!|author=Eric Vespe|dated=16 September 2006|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]], hearing this remark in 2012, said it "sounds like a lot of fun".<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2012/03/13/54232-viggo-mortensens-visit-to-boston-part-2-new-video/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen’s visit to Boston – part 2 (new video!)|author=Greendragon|dated=13 March 2012|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref>

===During ''The Hobbit''===
Since the rights to [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']] were split with [[MGM|Metro Goldwyn-Mayer]], in March 2007 [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] pitched this to CEO Harry Sloan: he had already heard of it from [[New Line Cinema]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.ign.com/articles/2006/11/14/hobbit-crown-panther-news|articlename=Hobbit, Crown, Panther News|author=Anonymous|dated=15 Nov 2006|website=IGN}}</ref> who had previously fallen-out with [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]], but Sloan was won over by Jackson's pitch, which was apparently very detailed.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.kristinthompson.net/blog/2008/05/19/the-hobbit-films-pj-and-fw-know-every-scene-every-moment/|articlename=The Hobbit films: PJ and FW know “every scene, every moment”|author=Kristin Thompson|dated=19 May 2008|website=Kristinthompson.net}}</ref> By contrast, Shaye later said [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] "hasn't told us too much about it."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.screendaily.com/new-line-mgm-team-for-two-hobbit-movies-with-peter-jackson/4036350.article|articlename=New Line, MGM team for two Hobbit movies with Peter Jackson|author=Jeremy Kay|dated=18 December 2007|website=Screen Daily}}</ref>

By December, both films were moving forward with a budget of $150 million each: the idea was that [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]], [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] would write and produce and the films will be shot in 2009 for release in 2010 and 2011.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/del-toro-doubles-up-hobbit-103547/|articlename=Del Toro doubles up for ‘Hobbit’|author=Borys Kit|dated=28 January 2008|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> Robert Shaye, Michael Lynne and [[Mark Ordesky]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://variety.com/2008/film/columns/shaye-kept-new-line-afloat-1117982001/|articlename=Shaye kept New Line afloat|author=Anne Thompson|dated=7 March 2008|website=Variety}}</ref> were attached as executive producers until February, when they were replaced by Toby Emmerich and Carolyn Blackwood. Actor [[Ian McKellen|Ian Mckellen]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2008/mar/26/lordoftherings.jrrtolkien|articlename=Hard Hobbit to break: McKellen set for return as Gandalf|author=Anonymous|dated=26 March 2008|website=The Guardian}}</ref> assistant Matthew Dravitzky,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://if.com.au/guillermo-wants-old-buddies-to-join-him-on-the-hobbit/|articlename=Guillermo wants old buddies to join him on The Hobbit|author=Anonymous|dated=23 March 2009|website=IF FX}}</ref> composer [[Howard Shore]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/09/28/30045-howard-shore-is-working-on-hobbit-score/|articlename=Howard Shore is Working on Hobbit Score|author=28 September 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/02/24/28408-howard-shore-talks-hobbit-in-switzerland/|articlename=Howard Shore Talks ‘Hobbit’ in Switzerland|author=Calisuri|dated=24 February 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref>, [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]]<ref name=":38">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/10/22/30352-del-toro-interview-part-3-%E2%80%9Ci-love-new-zealand%E2%80%9D/|articlename=Del Toro Interview Part 3: “I Love New Zealand!”|author=Xoanon|dated=22 October 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> and [[Wētā FX|Weta FX]]<ref name=":37" /> were attached to the project. Although [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] hadn't ruled out directing - he later aired the notion of shooting second unit<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20081012042437/http://moviesblog.mtv.com/2008/10/08/guillermo-del-toro-to-fly-solo-on-hobbit-directing-duties-says-no-to-peter-jackson-assist/|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro To Fly Solo On ‘Hobbit’ Directing Duties, Says No To Peter Jackson Assist|author=Shawn Adler|dated=8 October 2008|website=MTV}}</ref><ref name=":17" /> - he soon picked [[Guillermo del Toro]] to direct.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/01/30/28331-torn-exclusive-del-toro-%e2%80%9c99-percent-certain%e2%80%9d-says-nl-insider/|articlename=TORN exclusive: Del Toro “99 percent certain” says NL insider.|author=MrCere|dated=30 January 2008|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref>

Subsequently, actors [[Andy Serkis]],<ref name=":17" /> [[Ian Holm]]<ref name=":15">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080501020820/http://www.mtv.com/movies/news/articles/1586421/story.jhtml|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro Addresses 'Hobbit' Fans' Concerns, Talks Possible Casting|author=Shawn Adler, Josh Horowitz|dated=28 April 2008|website=Premiere.com}}</ref>; concept artists [[Alan Lee]] and [[John Howe]]; prosthetics supervisor [[Gino Acevedo]]<ref name=":37">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/04/25/28747-guillermo-del-toro-chats-with-torn-about-the-hobbit-films/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro Chats with TORN About ‘The Hobbit’ Films!|author=Xoanon|dated=25 April 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> were all attached. They had approached [[Grant Major]] but he declined<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=http://www.artstars.us/grant-major/8/|articlename=Grant Major|author=Tom Lisowski|dated=14 November 2011|website=Art Stars}}</ref> and hopped onboard ''Green Lantern'' with costume designer Ngila Dickson: they were substituted by [[Dan Hennah]]<ref name=":32">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/51948|articlename=An Unexpected Journey: Quint on the set of The Hobbit Part 3 – Beginnings and Endings|author=Eric Vespe|dated=14 November 2011|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> and Kate Hawley.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.whowhatwear.com/living/who-what-wear-podcast-kate-hawley|articlename=How the Frankenstein Costume Designer Brought the Film to Life|author=Madeline Hill|dated=17 November 2025|website=Who What Wear}}</ref> Actors [[Martin Freeman]]<ref>In "The Road Back to Middle-earth", Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit'' (New Line Cinema: 2015), Philippa Boyens recalls proposing Freeman as Bilbo Baggins when she saw him at the 2003 BAFTAs.</ref> and [[Hugo Weaving]];<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.slashfilm.com/504115/guillermo-del-toro-confirms-hugo-weaving-for-the-hobbit-and-much-more/|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro Confirms Hugo Weaving For The Hobbit... And Much More|author=Brendon Connolly|dated=11 June 2009|website=Slash Film}}</ref> as well as [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]]'s regular collaborators (including artists Wayne Barlowe and Francisco Ruiz Velasco<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20081201164150/http://bilbohobbit.com/del-toro-talks-hobbit-in-live-chat/|articlename="Del Toro talks 'Hobbit' in Live Chat"|author=Alex|dated=27 November 2008|website=BilboHobbit.com}}</ref>) were also being sought beginning at this time.

"We got really excited," said [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]], "because this second film is not a ‘tag on’, it’s not ‘filler,’ it’s an integral part of telling the story of those 50 years of history lost in the narrative".<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://theplaylist.net/60-year-period-between-hobbi-20080425/|articlename=60-Year Period Between ‘The Hobbit’ & ‘Fellowship’ For Hobbit Sequel Suddenly Gone? Or Not?|author=Rodrigo Perez|dated=25 April 2008|website=The Playlist}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.gamesradar.com/guillermo-del-toro-talks-hobbit-and-more/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro talks Hobbit and more|author=Anonymous|dated=25 April 2008|website=Total Film}}</ref> Although he had a radical new vision for the designs in the first film, <ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080915124607/http://www.premiere.com/features/4642/exclusive-guillermo-del-toro-on-hellboy-ii-page4.html|articlename=Exclusive: Guillermo del Toro on 'Hellboy II'|author=Anonymous|website=Premiere}}</ref> [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] intended to use the second film to affect a gradual change of style towards that of [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]: "We have to recreate a lot of the stuff they did on the [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|trilogy]]," he said: helpfully, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had kept the [[Bag End]] and [[Rivendell]] sets, and they set about rebuilding [[Hobbiton]].<ref name=":32" />

[[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] also rewatched the extended editions with [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]], [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] and intended to watch the making-ofs, dailies "the camera reports... everything," particularly for ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080914124349/http://www.comingsoon.net/news/nycomicconnews.php?id=44254|articlename=EXCL: Del Toro on Hellboy II and The Hobbit|author=Edward Douglas|dated=21 April 2008|website=Coming Soon.net}}</ref> The remastering of ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'' was also begun around this time. This was done because [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] felt that it "has to evolve into the lensing, the color palette, the texture palette, and the feel of the [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|trilogy]]…"<ref name=":13">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/37428|articlename=Quint and Guillermo del Toro chat about HELLBOY II, THE HOBBIT and more!!!|author=Eric Vespe|dated=12 July 2008|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> partially for this purpose, a break was to be scheduled partway through the shoot,<ref name=":31">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080712175117/http://www.ifmagazine.com/feature.asp?article=2879|articlename=GUILLERMO DEL TORO ESCAPES 'LABYRINTH' AND ENDS RIGHT BACK INTO 'HELLBOY'|author=Carl Cortez|dated=9 July 2008|website=iFMagazine}}</ref> which was estimated at over 370 days.<ref name=":31" />

[[Guillermo del Toro|Guillermo]] insisted the second film would add to the series.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wReRe8Si2aU|articlename=Guillermo del Toro: RT's Dinner & the Movies Interview Pt 5|author=OCR|dated=11 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> He said "it’s also expanding and illuminating some of the aspects of the trilogy in a slightly different way, like same characters in a different environment. I find that very attractive."<ref name=":13" /> The idea was that the first film would be a retelling of [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']], including the bulk of the [[Dol Guldur]] storyline, up to [[Smaug]]'s death: the second would wrap-up the remainder of [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']] in its first half, and concern itself with the Hunt for [[Gollum]] and other "bridging" plot threads in its second half.<ref name=":14">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20120831093447/http://moviesblog.mtv.com/2008/10/07/hobbit-films-will-be-one-continuous-journey-promises-guillermo-del-toro/|articlename='Hobbit' Films Will Be One 'Continuous Journey,' Promises Guillermo Del Toro|author=Shawn Adler|dated=7 October 2008|website=MTV}}</ref>

Although [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] predicted the second film would require the most work,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2P0dTo0yNpQ|articlename=THE HOBBIT 1 & 2 MOVIE UPDATE|author=ReelzChannel|dated=7 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> both he<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JVHzVKy_F8w|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro talks about Hobbit Movie|author=Brettmartintv|dated=7 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] showed a particular eagerness towards it, with [[Guillermo del Toro|Guillermo]] calling it a "treasure trove of possibilities."<ref name=":16">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080915084029/http://www.mtv.com/movies/news/articles/1590278/story.jhtml|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro Answers 'Hobbit' Fans' Questions About Returning 'Rings' Cast, Religion And More|author=Shawn Adler|dated=2 July 2008|website=MTV}}</ref> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] was also "really looking forward to developing Film Two. It gives us a freedom that we haven't really had on our [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] journey."<ref name=":17" /> [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] concluded that "the promise of that land is absolutely mind-boggling!"<ref name=":16" />

Referring specifically to [[Gollum]]'s part in the events, [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] said "[[Gollum]] has a rather fascinating arch to go through and his alliance to [[Shelob]] or his period of imprisonment in [[Thranduil]]'s". [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] added that "There's an awful lot of incident that happens during that 60 year gap. At this stage, we're not imagining a film that literally covers 60 years, like a bio-pic or documentary. We would figure out what happens during that 60 years, and choose one short section of time to drop in and dramatise for the screen". Both filmmakers said they agreed that "apart from extreme circumstances, we would never recast a character who appeared in the [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|LOTR trilogy]]".<ref name=":17">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080730161821/http://www.wetanz.com/holics/index.php?itemid=695&catid=2|articlename=An Unexpected Party Chat|author=Anonymous|dated=30 July 2008|website=Weta Workshop website}}</ref> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] later remarked that, in some cases, they'd sooner write around a character than recast the part.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/41848|articlename=Comic-Con '09: Peter Jackson talks to Capone about DISTRICT 9, THE HOBBIT, and the state of the film industry!!!|author="Capone"|dated=28 July 2009|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref>

As of the formulation of these comments in July, [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] said the second film is "too early"<ref name=":13" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5YoRDF12aRc|articlename=GDT the Hobbit 1|author=Garfeimao TheOneRing|dated=14 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> in its development process to know precisely what it might entail, estimating that it would take six months to formulate the storyline for the film.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.ign.com/articles/2008/07/09/exclusive-gdt-on-the-hobbit|articlename=Exclusive: GDT on The Hobbit|author=Eric Moro and Stax|dated=10 July 2008|website=IGN}}</ref> By September, however, [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] claimed they "found what reverberated."<ref name=":14" /> [[Guillermo del Toro|Guillermo]] had expressed reservations about the term "bridge film" from the outset, but by now he and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] disabused of the term completely, having come to see the films as five undifferentiated parts of a greater whole.

Although they apparently made an outline,<ref name=":15" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/10/16/30296-guillermo-del-toro-i%e2%80%99m-so-voracious-about-the-hobbit/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro: “I’m so voracious about The Hobbit!”|author=Xoanon|dated=16 October 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> it seems the film went no further than this. Up until this point, del Toro had been video-conferencing with Jackson and the other collaborators, meeting in person every three weeks.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://variety.com/2008/film/features/guillermo-del-toro-booked-thru-2017-1117991560/|articlename=Guillermo Del Toro booked thru 2017|author=Michael Fleming|dated=3 September, 2008|website=Variety}}</ref> By the time he arrived to concentrate on writing the story treatment in November 2008<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=http://newboards.theonering.net/forum/gforum/perl/gforum.cgi?post=147373;guest=501771554#147373|articlename="Hola"|author=Guillermo del Toro|dated=8 November 2008|website=The One Ring Discussion Boards}}</ref><ref>Alfio Leotta, ''Peter Jackson'' (London: Bloomsbury Publishing, 2015), p. 196.</ref> the contents of the "bridge" film were being gradually edged-out by the contents of ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]],'' to the point that by the time the completed treatment was greenlit in April 2009<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2009/08/03/32999-peter-jackson-speaks/|articlename=Peter Jackson speaks|author=MrCere|dated=3 August 2009|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref> the films could only be described as a two-part adaptation of ''[[The Hobbit]],'' albeit with elements of the bridge film "integrated''."''<ref>Anonymous, "The Hobbit: Gollum, Bilbo, del Toro and Jackson," ''Empire'', April 2009.</ref> Although [[John Howe]] apparently sent [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] some sketches,<ref name=":38" /> and [[Howard Shore]] had musical ideas,<ref>TheOneRing, Hobbit Desolation of Smaug Music Commentary Watch Along, ''YouTube'', 29 July 2020. Esp. 1:12:15. One such musical idea dates back to the composition of ''The Fellowship of the Ring:'' the flat sixth setting of the Hobbits' bassline that's heard when Gandalf glimpses Thorin's map: Howard was saving that as a "portent of an adventure" towards a potential adaptation of The Hobbit, but by the stage of discussing with del Toro he would have realized it would be applicable to the "bridge" film as well.</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/30722|articlename=ScoreKeeper Talks To Howard Shore About THE TWO TOWERS Complete Recordings, THE HOBBIT, And More!!|author=Merrick|dated=16 November 2006|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> no more work was done on the bridge film. At this time, a [[The Hunt for Gollum|fan film on the same subject was released]], followed shortly by [[Born of Hope|a fan film about Aragorn's errantries]]. The latter of this gained a measure of approbation from [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s camp.

Even so, elements of the bridge film clung to the project for a long time: in 2013 [[Philippa Boyens]] said that "When we started structuring this trilogy we honestly thought about telling some of that. How [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]] becomes the uncle of [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] and take care of him. The story of [[Gollum]]…"<ref name=":9" /> Casting calls had been issued for the roles of [[Primula Brandybuck]] and [[Drogo Baggins]]:<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20201024010428/http://www.movies.spoilertv.com/2010/01/hobbit-casting-call.html#ixzz0btnyJvCI|articlename=Hobbit - Official Casting Call and Plot Details|author=DarkUFO|dated=4 January 2010|website=SpoilerTV}}</ref> While Caroline Grace-Cassidy was considered for [[Primula Brandybuck|Primula]], [[Ryan Gage]] was cast in the role of [[Drogo Baggins|Drogo]] and remained attached to it well into shooting, only being recast as [[Alfrid]] around May.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/cate-blanchett-revisiting-rings-role-57193/|articlename=Cate Blanchett Revisiting ‘Rings’ Role In ‘Hobbit’|author=Gregg Kilday|dated=7 December 2010|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]]'s cameo, which was originally rumoured to include him "moving to live at [[Bag End]] after the untimely drowning of [[Drogo Baggins|Drogo]] and [[Primula Brandybuck|Primula]]" was probably rewritten into its present form around that time.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=theonering.net/torwp/2014/03/25/87789-how-would-have-peter-jacksons-the-hobbit-looked-as-a-duology/|articlename=How would have Peter Jackson’s The Hobbit looked as a duology?|author=Demosthenes|dated=25 March 2014|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> They had scouted locations for the [[Barrow-downs|Barrow Downs]], possibly with a connection to the aforementioned "[[Aragorn]] protecting the [[The Shire|Shire]]" plot point.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://narniafans.com/2019/08/interview-with-narnia-conceptual-designer-john-howe/|articlename=Interview with Narnia Conceptual Designer John Howe|author=David Sutton|dated=18 August 2019|website=Narnia Fans.com}}</ref> More scenes were planned for the [[Dol Guldur]] story and the [[Orcs]]: they had gone as far as designing a young [[Gothmog (Lieutenant of Morgul)#Gothmog in adaptations|Gothmog]] who would participate in the concluding battle, but didn't utilize him.<ref name=":0" />

Another storyline concerned Itarille (later [[Tauriel]]) and her romance with an Elf lord of [[Rivendell]]: clearly an outgrowth of the original idea of featuring [[Arwen]] in the film. [[Aidan Turner]] seems to have read for the part of this Elf Lord. Indeed, Jackson recalled in 2015 that "We did try to figure out a way to get a cameo, even if it was a cameo, for [[Aragorn]] and actually for [[Arwen]], too: we tried to have [[Liv Tyler]] in the film".<ref name=":0" /> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] remarked in 2013 that they envisioned [[Aragorn]] being "quite young" in the film, but concluded that [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] "could have absolutely played" him at the time. "It was incredibly tempting."<ref name=":39">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TapH7wM8MdI&t=85s|articlename=Philippa Boyens ci parla delle scene tagliate dello Hobbit: la Desolazione di Smaug e di... Aragorn!|author=Badtaste|dated=11 December 2013|website=YouTube}}</ref> It's unclear when the idea finally died out: the scene "invoking [[Aragorn]]" was scripted in early 2013, as a "homage" to their earlier plans.

[[Viggo Mortensen]] had been interested in the project since 2007.<ref name=":43">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/09/18/29885-viggo-mortensen-still-waiting-for-guillermo-del-toro%E2%80%99s-%E2%80%98hobbit%E2%80%99-call/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen Still Waiting For Guillermo Del Toro’s ‘Hobbit’ Call|author=Xoanon|dated=18 September 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref name=":44" /> Although it was reported that [[Guillermo del Toro|del Toro]] had held conversations with him<ref name=":43" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thetimes.com/uk/law/article/hobbit-movies-meet-dire-foe-in-son-of-tolkien-lxnpmnsd2rp|articlename=Hobbit movies meet dire foe in son of Tolkien|author=John Harlow|dated=25 May 2008|website=The Times}}</ref> these appear to have not taken place before 2010. In 2008 [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] said he would "rather do it myself than see another actor finish the job for me,"<ref name=":44" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/12/17/30804-tv-watch-viggo-mortensen-on-night-talk/|articlename=TV Watch: Viggo Mortensen on ‘Night Talk’|author=Xoanon|dated=17 December 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://legacy.aintitcool.com/node/39305|articlename=Capone has a GOOD chat with Viggo Mortensen about politics, THE ROAD, APPALOOSA, and THE HOBBIT!!!|author=Steve Prokopy|dated=11 May 2009|website=Ain't It Cool News}}</ref> saying "it would be fun."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://ohnotheydidnt.livejournal.com/41460224.html|articlename=Moviefone's Exclusive Viggo Mortensen Interview!|author=Anonymous|dated=25 November 2009|website=Moviefone}}</ref> Other actors from [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'']] have also expressed interest in appearing in the film, including [[Liv Tyler]], <ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2011/03/21/42863-liv-tyler-not-contacted-for-hobbit/|articlename=Liv Tyler Not Contacted For Hobbit|author=DiveTwin|dated=21 March 2011|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> [[Cate Blanchett]],<ref name=":16" /> [[Dominic Monaghan]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.firstshowing.net/2009/dominic-monaghan-ready-to-return-for-the-hobbit-movies/|articlename=Dominic Monaghan Ready to Return for The Hobbit Movies?|author=Brandon Lee Tenney|dated=19 January 2009|website=First Showing}}</ref> [[Sean Astin]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2009/03/10/31356-astin-up-for-hobbit-if-hobbit-up-for-him/|articlename=Astin up for Hobbit if Hobbit up for him|author=Xoanon|dated=10 March 2009|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref name=":44" /> [[John Noble]] and [[Sean Bean]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.digitalspy.com/movies/a434476/sean-bean-on-the-hobbit-absence-theyre-sticklers-for-detail/|articlename=Sean Bean on 'The Hobbit' absence: 'They're sticklers for detail'|author=Emma Dibdin|dated=30 October 2012|website=Digital Spy}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://theplaylist.net/viggo-mortensen-optimistic-about-role-20090401/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen Optimistic About Role In Del Toro’s ‘Hobbit’, Project Extends To A Trilogy?|author=Simon Dang|dated=1 April 2009|website=The Playlist}}</ref> [[Christopher Lee]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://whatculture.com/film/christopher-lee-wants-sarumann-return-in-the-hobbit|articlename=Christopher Lee wants Saruman return in THE HOBBIT|author=Matt Holmes|dated=25 June 2011|website=WhatCulture}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5qGFbBNnodw&t=77s|articlename=Christopher Lee about possibly returning to Middle Earth|author="Rushblogg"|dated=12 July 2008|website=YouTube}}</ref> [[Brad Dourif]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/09/12/29751-brad-dourif-on-returning-to-middle-earth/|articlename=Brad Dourif on Returning to Middle-earth|author=Deej|dated=12 September 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref> [[John Rhys-Davies]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/the-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy-makeup-difficulties-explained-john-rhys-davies/|articlename=John Rhys-Davies Reveals Gruesome Makeup Process for Gimli in The Lord of the Rings [Exclusive]|author=Aidan Kelley and Steven Weintraub|dated=9 August 2025|website=Collider}}</ref> and [[Elijah Wood]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2008/11/16/30565-elijah-hobbit-appearance-concievably-possible/|articlename=Elijah – Hobbit appearance ‘concievably possible’|author=Altaira|dated=16 November 2008|website=TheOneRing.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.firstshowing.net/2008/elijah-wood-confirms-dual-hobbit-movie-details/|articlename=Elijah Wood Confirms Dual Hobbit Movie Details|author=Alex Billington|dated=11 January 2008|website=First Showing}}</ref>

Around 2010, [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] recieved an availability call<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2013/may/28/viggo-mortensen-interview|articlename=Viggo Mortensen interview: 'If I think a film's beyond me – that's a good sign'|author=Imogen Tilden|dated=28 May 2013|website=The Guardian}}</ref> from [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]: "I said sure, if [[Aragorn]] is supposed to be in the bridge story, because he’s not in [[The Hobbit|''The Hobbit'']]."<ref name=":1">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.theonering.net/torwp/2013/05/30/72294-viggo-turned-down-role-as-aragorn-not-so-fast/|articlename=Viggo ‘Turned Down’ Role as Aragorn? Not so fast…|author=Newsfrombree|dated=30 May 2013|website=The One Ring.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.wired.com/2012/03/viggo-mortensen-speaks-2/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen Speaks: Part 2 of 3|author=Ethan Gilsdorf|dated=11 March 2012|website=Wired.com}}</ref> Informed that they "can take certain liberties" he said he'd "love to revisit him."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/films/features/viggo-mortensen-interview-captain-fantastic-lord-of-the-rings-aragorn-hobbit-david-cronenberg-a7231826.html|articlename=Viggo Mortensen interview: 'I didn't throw Peter Jackson under the bus'|author=Jacob Stolworthy|dated=23 January 2017|website=The Independent}}</ref> However, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] later revealed that since that call, they "could think of no way of doing it".<ref name=":0" /> Having no further contact, and knowing that "[[Orlando Bloom]] and [[Cate Blanchett]] shot something,"<ref name=":44">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://viggo-works.com/?fromday=1&frommonth=6&fromyear=2006&today=25&tomonth=2&toyear=2026&order=date&page=243&selectedcat=262&ascdesc=DESC&filter=Go&m=on|articlename=Viggo Mortenson Dangerous Method Interview|author=Anonymous|dated=25 November 2011|website=Movies.com}}</ref>[[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] concluded in November 2011 that "[[Aragorn]] is half [[Elves|elf]] [sic] and also lives a couple hundred years or more and he could be in a bridge, but I have to assume it isn't going to happen".<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reuters.com/article/lifestyle/rings-actor-mortensen-unlikely-to-repeat-role-idUSTRE7AM2U9/|articlename="Rings" actor Mortensen unlikely to repeat role|author=Kurt Orzeck|dated=24 November 2011|website=Reuters}}</ref> Although he still has misgivings - "It would make sense if Aragorn was part of the story and he's not"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.scotsman.com/arts-and-culture/interview-viggo-mortensen-is-lord-of-all-things-1573949|articlename=Interview: Viggo Mortensen is lord of all things|author=Chitra Ramaswamy|dated=25 May 2013|website=The Scotsman}}</ref> - he said he would still be open to playing [[Aragorn]] "if it seemed sensible to do so".<ref name=":1" />

===After ''The Hobbit''===

Conversations about making the "bridge film" as a third instalment<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.firstshowing.net/2009/guillermo-del-toro-updates-on-the-hobbit/|articlename=Guillermo del Toro Briefly Talks More About The Hobbit Split|author=Alex Billington|dated=5 June 2009|website=First Showing}}</ref> continued well into 2010:<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://geeksofdoom.com/2009/08/19/bridge-between-the-hobbit-lord-of-the-rings-still-to-be-built-peter-jackson-to-direct-third-movie|articlename=[Updated] Bridge Between ‘The Hobbit’ & ‘Lord Of The Rings’ Still To Be Built? Peter Jackson To Direct Third Movie?|author="The Movie God"|dated=19 August 2009|website=Geeks of Doom}}</ref> In 2012, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had revealed that "a third movie has always been in discussion."<ref>Michael Pellerin, "The Clouds Burst", Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies'' (New Line Cinema: 2015).</ref> These conversations resumed - now with the film situated as a fourth movie - as [[The Hobbit (film series)|''The Hobbit'']] was winding down in 2013. Says [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]]: "There’s enough story there to make a bridge movie, you know, there’s 60 years between ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'' and a lot of things happened."<ref name=":9">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.heyuguys.com/interview-peter-jackson-the-hobbit-the-desolation-of-smaug/|articlename=The HeyUGuys Interview: The Hobbit director Peter Jackson all but rules out a return to Middle Earth|author=Stefan Pape|dated=13 December 2013|website=HeyUGuys}}</ref> In the director's commentary to ''[[The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies|The Battle of the Five Armies]]'' in 2015, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] remained open to the idea of making more films, and mused about what Jackson jokingly calls "A fictitious film 3.5" which [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] goes on to call "The Hunt for Gollum".<ref name=":0">Peter Jackson, Philippa Boyens, "Director's Commentary," Peter Jackson, ''The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies'' (New Line Cinema: 2015).</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] said it could include "a few other things that go on which are really interesting" like [[Saruman]]'s search for the [[The One Ring|Ring]]. She elaborates:<blockquote>''[[Aragorn]] really is one who tracks Gollum and ends up...and finds him eventually in the [[Dead Marshes]], and he's taken [[Woodland Realm|to the Elves]]. And he's taken to the Elves, and because of the kindness of the Elves - and [[Legolas]] is one of his keepers... in [[Mirkwood]], and through their kindness he actually manages to escape. Or has he escaped? Or was he let loose?''<ref name=":0" /></blockquote>[[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had kept the possibility of returning to [[Middle-earth]] open<ref name=":0" /> but [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] revealed that they "had zero expectations of going back to this."<ref name=":7">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2024/05/the-lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-peter-jackson-andy-serkis-philippa-boyens-explain-23-years-after-cannes-saved-original-trilogy-1235917510/|articlename=Peter Jackson, Andy Serkis & Philippa Boyens Explain Why They’re Returning To Middle-Earth For ‘The Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum’ 23 Years After Cannes Saved The Billion-Dollar Franchise|author=Mike Fleming Junior|dated=15 May 2024|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://uk.movies.yahoo.com/don-t-expect--the-hobbit-3--to-lead-directly-into--the-lord-of-the-rings-140402150.html|articlename=The Hobbit 3 won't lead into The Lord of the Rings|author=Tom Butler|dated=11 December 2013|website=Yahoo Entertainment UK}}</ref> Their ultimate decision to return to this premise may have been stirred, in part, by other projects: first, Jackson had seen the in-development video game ''[[Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor|Shadow of Mordor]],'' on which [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]] and others from Jackson's crew had worked, and which had nestled itself into the gap between ''[[The Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]].''<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.ign.com/articles/2014/02/20/why-lord-of-the-rings-fans-should-be-excited-for-shadow-of-mordor|articlename=Why Lord of the Rings Fans Should Be Excited for Shadow of Mordor|author=Luke Karmali|dated=20 February 2014|website=IGN}}</ref>

Shortly afterwards, when the [[Tolkien Estate]] (still nominally under [[Christopher Tolkien]]) shopped the television rights, the idea of doing a show about young [[Aragorn]] was pitched, first by Netflix, and then - at the suggestion of the Russo brothers<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-features/the-rings-of-power-showrunners-interview-season-2-1235233124/|articlename=‘The Rings of Power’ Showrunners Break Silence on Backlash, Sauron and Season 2|author=James Hibberd|dated=5 October 2022|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> - by [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon Prime Video]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=http://newboards.theonering.net/forum/gforum/perl/gforum.cgi?post=946980;sb=post_time;so=DESC;forum_view=forum_view_collapsed;guest=206510448#947231|articlename=If you will indulge me in a story|author="Uncle Iorlas"|dated=21 July 2018|website=The One Ring.net Message Boards}}</ref> Upon hearing this, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]]' mind immediately went to the period of the hunt: "If you're telling the [story of] him hunting [[Gollum]], you're getting closer to [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]]."<ref name=":21">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.fandom.com/articles/peter-jackson-lord-of-the-rings-series|articlename=Peter Jackson’s Tips For Casting Aragorn in Lord of the Rings TV Show|author=Kim Taylor-Foster|dated=4 December 2018|website=Fandom.com}}</ref> She and Jackson had also expressed interest in the potential of [[Aragorn]]'s younger days and life in [[Rivendell]]: "He's probably going to have to start young,"<ref name=":21" /> remarked Boyens, concluding that "A lot of the early [[Aragorn]] story hasn't been told."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.stuff.co.nz/entertainment/film/108970711/philippa-boyens-on-mortal-engines-hobbits-and-going-solo|articlename=Philippa Boyens on Mortal Engines, Hobbits and going solo|author=Philip Matthews|dated=16 December 2018|website=Stuff.nz}}</ref> [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortesen]] also got wind of the rumours and said he's open to reprising his role.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/viggo-mortensen-interview-falling-lord-of-the-rings/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen on Falling, Directing, and LOTR TV Show Interest|author=Christina Radish|dated=14 February 2021|website=Collider}}</ref>

Toby Emmerich and Carolyn Blackwood from [[New Line Cinema]] were brought into the fold in the hopes of cooperating on the show. In early 2018 lawyer Peter Nelson set-up "dialogue between [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon]]" to participate as executive producer.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/how-lord-rings-tv-series-landed-at-amazon-not-netflix-1099213/|articlename=Inside Amazon’s $250M ‘Lord of the Rings’ Deal: “It’s Very Much a Creature of the Times”|author=Tatiana Siegel|dated=5 April 2018|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20210308114202/https://www.herr-der-ringe-film.de/v3/de/news/tolkienfilme/news_121920.php|articlename=Exklusiv: Zu den Kulissen der HERR DER RINGE Serie, Her Der Ringe Film (archived).|author=Cirdan|dated=20 June 2018|website=Herr der Ringe.de}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.stuff.co.nz/entertainment/celebrities/108520139/sir-peter-jackson-hasnt-given-up-hope-of-making-the-dam-busters|articlename=Sir Peter Jackson hasn't given up hope of making The Dam Busters|author=James Croot|dated=12 November 2018|website=NZStuff}}</ref> Preoccupied with ''Mortal Engines'' and ''They Shall Not Grow Old'', [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] proposed in June 2018 to review the scripts and put "the creative team together."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://de.ign.com/tv/129313/interview/peter-jackson-ist-fur-das-kreative-team-hinter-der-herr-der-ringe-serie-verantwortlich|articlename=Peter Jackson ist für das kreative Team hinter der Herr der Ringe-Serie verantwortlich|author=Valentin Aschenbrenner|dated=5 June 2018|website=IGN.de}}</ref> In July, Amazon landed on [[John D. Payne]] and [[Patrick McKay]] as showrunners, and before any work could be done, a regime change in [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon Prime Video]]<ref name=":19">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/peter-jackson-amazon-lord-of-the-rings-tv-series-1235193692/|articlename=Peter Jackson Says Amazon’s ‘Lord of the Rings’ TV Series Ghosted Him|author=James Hibberd|dated=5 August 2022|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> in early 2019 resulted in [[New Line Cinema]] being demoted to a "minority licensee stakeholder."<ref name=":20">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/lord-of-the-rings-amazon-vs-warner-bros-1235337625/|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings’: Amazon, Warner Bros. Ready for Tolkien Battle|author=James Hibberd|dated=28 February 2023|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> Although the showrunners had asked to meet [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]],<ref name=":19" /> COVID prevented this from taking place.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2022/02/10-burning-questions-about-amazons-the-rings-of-power?srsltid=AfmBOopmlhLKVkCtSqkuvTTAcUtyQUICWXopTWLQq_1tu4aEf1ICrDLp|articlename=10 Burning Questions About Amazon’s The Rings of Power|author=Joanna Robinson|dated=14 February 2022|website=Vanity Fair}}</ref> While the show used a substantial number of his crew, [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] were reportedly "very frustrated that so many believed they were involved with [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon]]’s show."<ref name=":20" /> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had avoided watching the show to prevent "cross-contamination."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.slashfilm.com/1693866/why-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy-screenwriter-wont-watch-the-rings-of-power/|articlename=Why One Lord Of The Rings Trilogy Screenwriter Won't Watch The Rings Of Power|author=Jaron Pak|dated=21 October 2024|website=Slash Film}}</ref> Since then, the show had left [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s home country of [[New Zealand]].

Already in 2019, the show's development had galvanized Emmerich and Blackwood to pursue an animated film with [[Middle-earth Enterprises]] (who were not involved in the show) and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]. The bridge film might have been the "CG-animated" story that [[New Line Cinema|New Line]] "had been exploring with Sir [[Peter Jackson]]" but it failed to materialize and they decided to pursue ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim]]''<ref>Daniel Falconer, ''The Art of The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim'' (Wiliam Murrow: London, 2025), pp. 9-10.</ref>. Later on, Emmerich and Blackwood were replaced by Michael de Luca and Pam Abdy, who were "striving to keep [[Amazon MGM Studios|Amazon]] from blurring the lines too much between" the show and the films.<ref name=":20" /> Other projects like [[Tales of the Shire: A "The Lord of the Rings" Game|''Tales of the Shire'']], the remastering of the six films to Ultra High Definition and renovations of [[Hobbiton]] were begun shortly afterwards, as well.

After this long gestation period, ''The Hunt for Gollum'' entered development once again in 2022. [[Andy Serkis]] was attached as director in October 2023 and story meetings occurred as early as May 2024, along with early availability calls to actors like [[Ian McKellen]] and [[Viggo Mortensen]] between that time and early September. By that point, the writing of the treatment was underway, followed by the first draft in January-May. After some crew hiring in August, pre-production started in early September 2025 ahead of shooting in May 2026.

==Development==
In 2022 the new administration of [[Middle-earth Enterprises]] expressed a desire to make more films, including ones "based on iconic characters, such as [[Gandalf]], [[Aragorn]], [[Gollum]], [[Galadriel]], [[Éowyn|Eowyn]] and other characters."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/lord-of-the-rings-rights-embracer-1235201442/|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings,’ ‘The Hobbit’ Movie, Games and Other Rights Holder Sold to Swedish Gaming Company Embracer|author=Georg Szalai|dated=18 August 2022|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]], [[Fran Walsh|Walsh]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] kept updated throughout the negotiations to extend [[New Line Cinema]]'s lease on the rights.<ref name=":4" />

Having "really enjoyed working with [[Kenji Kamiyama]], who directed ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|War of the Rohirrim]]''," [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] signed on to produce two new films: [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] denied<ref name=":22" /> rumours that this involved splitting the [[Gollum]] story,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2024/05/lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-cast-plot-everything-we-know-1235919922/|articlename=‘The Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum’: Everything We Know So Far|author=Dessi Gomez|dated=16 May 2024|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://filmstories.co.uk/news/the-lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-its-two-films-says-ian-mckellen/|articlename=The Lord Of The Rings: Hunt For Gollum {{!}} “It’s two films” says Ian McKellen|author=Ryan Lambie|dated=11 September 2024|website=Film Stories}}</ref> and at various times her and [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] expressed interest in subjects varying from the [[Battle of Dale|War in the North]], Young [[Aragorn]], or certain vignettes from [[Rohan]] or [[Gondor]]'s history, which are all possible for the second film.<ref name=":23">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1i97ctm/the_next_film_after_the_hunt_for_gollum/|articlename=The next film after The Hunt for Gollum: Everything we know so far|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=25 January 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> These are probably ''not'' the other two scripts [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] had been working on, however.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.indiewire.com/news/general-news/peter-jackson-not-retired-working-on-three-scripts-1235138316/|articlename=Peter Jackson Is Working on Three Screenplays: ‘I’m Certainly Not Retired’|author=By Rance Collins|dated=13 July 2025|website=IndieWire}}</ref>

Signing on the films was done with the intention to jump-start a new slate of ''Lord of the Rings'' prequels for [[New Line Cinema]],<ref name=":18" /><ref name=":24" /> with [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also expressing interest in making an "epic trilogy", probably about the [[Angmar conflict|Angmar War]].<ref name=":23" /> However, having developed the [[Gollum]] premise for so long, they decided to start with it. Asked about unrealized projects in 2024, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] observed that "there's a lot of that in ''The Hunt for Gollum.''"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9LdzKS584wA&t=614s|articlename=Lord of the Rings: War of the Rohirrim Interviews! Peter Jackson Role Explained|author=Brandon Davis|dated=29 October 2024|website=YouTube}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis]], who played [[Gollum]], had directed second unit on ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King|The Return of the King]]'' and ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]<ref name=":7" />'' and had since become a director in his own right, as well as narrating audiobooks of Tolkien's novels. [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] approached [[Andy Serkis|Andy]] around October 2023.<ref name=":24">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ssUmmuU-Bmk&t=76s|articlename=Andy Serkis Talks Motion Capture, Gollum, and Directing {{!}} Superhero Comic Con San Antonio 2024 Q&A|author=Freeman Coliseum|dated=24 June 2024|website=YouTube}}</ref> While developing the story, they already made availability checks to key cast and crew members.

===Writing===
Story meetings have happened at least as early as May 2024<ref name=":7" /> and by July they were about to start writing,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/comconnireland/status/1835962321211904490|articlename=Andy Serkis took to the stage at Comic Con Northern Ireland to talk all things Lord of the Rings and more!|author=@comconnireland|dated=16 September 2024|website=Twitter}}</ref> with [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] spotted at the [[Hobbiton]] set in November with writers [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] and Arty Papageorgiou, producers [[Zane Weiner]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/05/lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-release-date-1236390022/|articlename=‘Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum’ Sets Pre-Christmas 2027 Release|author=Anthony D'Alessandro|dated=8 May 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> and Carlos Ramirez Laloli.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.elfenomeno.com/info/ver/23481/comienza-el-rodaje-de-el-senor-de-los-anillos-la-caza-de-gollum-en-hobbiton|articlename=¿Comienza el rodaje de El Señor de los Anillos: La Caza de Gollum en Hobbiton?|author=Elfenomeno|dated=6 November 2024|website=Elfenomeno.com}}</ref> By December they had been in the process of writing the story treatment.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/lord-of-the-rings-war-of-the-rohirrim-arty-papageorgiou-phoebe-gittins/|articlename="Who Better for a Gollum Film Than Gollum Himself?": 'War of the Rohirrim' Writers on Working with Andy Serkis in 'The Hunt for Gollum'|author=Therese Lacson|dated=16 December 2024|website=Collider}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] later estimated they would finish writing by the middle of the year - executive Pamela Abdy since put the completion of the script at May<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/04/warner-bros-mike-de-luca-pam-abdy-courage-in-face-of-brutal-press-coverage-1236366618/|articlename=Warner Bros’ Mike De Luca & Pam Abdy: Playing Long Game, Mixing IP Like ‘Bodyguard’ Revamp & Bold Originals & Animation Despite Brutal Press|author=Mike Fleming Junior|dated=11 April 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> - and begin "scouting locations and building [sets]" with shooting due to begin towards the beginning of 2026.<ref name=":5">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.1news.co.nz/2024/12/15/exclusive-andy-serkis-philippa-boyens-on-the-hunt-for-gollum/|articlename=Exclusive: Andy Serkis, Philippa Boyens on new Lord of the Rings film|author=Abbey Wakefield|dated=15 December 2024|website=1News}}</ref> As a result, the release date for the film was ultimately delayed from 2026 to 17 December 2027.<ref name="TheDirect2027Release">{{webcite|author=Klein Felt|articleurl=https://thedirect.com/article/hunt-for-gollum-movie-lord-of-the-rings-release-official|articlename=Lord of the Rings: Hunt for Gollum Movie Gets Release Window from Andy Serkis|dated=27 Feb 2025|website=[https://thedirect.com The Direct]|accessed=27 Feb 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://variety.com/2025/film/news/lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-release-date-december-2027-1236390820/|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum’ Sets December 2027 Release Date; Warner Bros. Also Dates New ‘Evil Dead’ and M. Night Shyamalan Movies for 2026|author=Zack Sharf|dated=8 May 2025|website=Variety}}</ref>

A draft of the screenplay had been sent to de Luca and Abdy in May, probably prior to the investor meeting on the 8th, when [[Warner Bros.|Warner]]'s CEO David Zaslav announced the official release date.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://voicefilm.com/david-zaslav-announces-that-the-release-date-for-the-next-lord-of-the-rings-movie-will-be-revealed-today/|articlename=David Zaslav Announces That the Release Date for the Next ‘Lord of the Rings’ Movie Will Be Revealed Today|author=Mark|dated=8 May 2025|website=Voice Film}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.comicbasics.com/warner-ceo-david-zaslav-says-they-will-focus-more-on-their-main-ips-like-harry-potter-and-dc-in-the-future-those-belong-to-us-and-theyll-only-belong-to-us-forever/|articlename=Warner CEO David Zaslav Says They Will Focus More on Their Main IPs Like ‘Harry Potter’ and DC in the Future: “Those belong to us, and they’ll only belong to us forever.”|author=Arthur S. Poe|dated=8 May 2025|website=Comic Basics}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had since revealed that the film is due to start pre production in August<ref name=":33">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1krwz8d/andy_serkis_the_lord_of_the_rings_the_hunt_for/|articlename=Andy Serkis Panel at Fan Expo Philadelphia 2025|author=FandomWire News|dated=19 May 2025}}</ref> - when the film started hiring crew - then ammended to "late August to early September"<ref name=":18" />, with [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] ultimately arriving in [[Wellington]] circa 8 September to begin work on the film.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://metro.co.uk/2025/09/03/andy-serkis-admits-cant-escape-gollum-ahead-lord-rings-return-24066270/amp/|articlename=Andy Serkis admits he ‘can’t escape Gollum’ ahead of Lord of the Rings return|author=Sabrina Barr|dated=3 September 2025|website=Metro UK}}</ref> Serkis had left New Zealand during the holiday season, attending the premiere of "28 Years Later: The Bone Temple" before flying back to New Zealand: en rote he landed in Los Angeles.<ref name=":41">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.tmz.com/2026/01/20/andy-serkis-wants-original-lord-of-the-rings-cast-in-new-film/|articlename=LOTR' Star Andy Serkis: OG Cast Is Precious, Love 'Em For New Flick|author=Anonymous|dated=20 January 20 2026|website=TMZ}}</ref>

==Pre production==
[[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had further said preproduction will last for six months,<ref name=":27">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.comingsoon.it/cinema/news/in-un-mondo-alla-deriva-gollum-ci-salvera-la-nostra-intervista-ad-andy/n203564/|articlename=In un mondo alla deriva Gollum ci salverà: la nostra intervista ad Andy Serkis|author=Carola Proto|dated=25 June 2025|website=Coming Soon.it}}</ref> with [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] later confirming it will start filming in May<ref name=":12">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1msw9fp/the_lord_of_the_rings_the_hunt_for_gollum_starts/|articlename=The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum starts shooting in May, says Sir Ian McKellen. "I'll tell you two secrets about the casting..."|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=17 August 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> for an extended shooting period:<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://collider.com/lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-filming-update-andy-serkis/|articlename=Director Andy Serkis Offers Huge Filming Update For 'The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum' [Exclusive]|author=Chris McPherson and Steven Weintraub|dated=10 June 2025|website=Collider}}</ref> This puts the beginning of filming in [[New Zealand]] winter and, deducting the holidays, six months after [[Andy Serkis|Andy]]'s arrival. Location scouting may have taken place at Hawke's Bay as early as June<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1lis26w/a_location_scout_for_the_lord_of_the_rings_the/|articlename=A location scout for The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum seems to be snooping around Hawke's Bay, New Zealand|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=23 June 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> and later at the Waikato.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.waikatotimes.co.nz/nz-news/360837801/aliens-warriors-heroes-princesses-and-gollum-big-productions-filmed-and-possibly-coming-waikato|articlename=Aliens, warriors, heroes, princesses ... and Gollum: The big productions filmed in (and possibly coming to) the Waikato|author=Mike Mather|dated=1 October 2025|website=Waikato Times}}</ref> They had also watched the films sometime prior to November.<ref>Latino USA TV, "How Movie Monsters Are Really Made!", YouTube, 26 November 2025.</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] also spoke appreciatively of [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s penchant for behind the scenes extras, suggesting a similar approach to the film.<ref name=":33" /><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/gu1jj7/one_zoom_to_rule_them_all_reunited_apart_lord_of/|articlename=One Zoom to Rule Them All {{!}} Reunited Apart LORD OF THE RINGS Edition|author=Josh Gad|dated=31 May 2021|website=}}</ref> In October, [[Andy Serkis|Andy]] revealed that they're developing prosthetics.<ref name=":34">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1og2b4p/andy_serkis_says_all_the_art_department_from_lord/|articlename=Andy Serkis says "all the art department" from Lord of the Rings are "excited to come back." They started location scouting and camera tests.|author=u/Lord_Varys92|dated=25 October 2024|website=Reddit}}</ref>

Since [[Elijah Wood]], slated to appear in the film, is on tour through to early September,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://parade.com/news/lord-of-the-rings-hobbits-25-years-later-reunion-tour|articlename=The Hobbits Are Back Together — and Their Big News Has Fans Cheering|author=Whitney Danhauer|dated=25 October 2025|website=Parade}}</ref> his scenes might be scheduled for [[New Zealand]] summer, which could suggest shooting ''in situ'' in [[Hobbiton]], presumably depicting [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] dallying outside [[Bag End]] while [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]] and [[Gandalf]] argue within, as depicted in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]''. [[Ian McKellen]] is also hoping to join the production in [[New Zealand as Middle-earth|New Zealand]] during July.<ref>The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, "There's Nothing I Enjoy More Than Acting In The Theater" - Ian McKellen EXTENDED INTERVIEW," ''YouTub''e, 5 February 2026.</ref>

===Crew===
The film, said to be "one of the most expensive feature films to be shot in [[New Zealand]]"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/new-lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum-film-will-be-shot-in-nz-set-for-2027-release/3BDNB3QFKJDAVGB4ODOTQ63YLY/|articlename=New Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum film will be shot in NZ, set for 2027 release|author=Tom Rose|dated=18 June 2025|website=New Zealand Herald}}</ref> is expected to draft alums of the ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|Lord of the Rings]]'', ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|War of the Rohirrim]]'' (many of whom will have also worked on ''[[The Rings of Power]]'' Season One and other projects) working in the [[Wellington]] and greater New Zealand screen sector.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thepost.co.nz/nz-news/350274670/film-heavyweights-alight-over-lotr-comeback|articlename=Film heavyweights ‘alight’ over LOTR comeback|author=Rachel Thomas|dated=10 May 2024|website=The New Zealand Post}}</ref><ref name=":5" /> Crewing began in early August, with Wood since confirming the involvement of production designer [[Dan Hennah]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IX5NhkyQ710|articlename=Elijah Wood en Monterrey/ conferencia de la DesertCon|author=Asi SoyTv|dated=6 October 2025|website=YouTube}}</ref> and set decorator Ra Vincent might also be involved.<ref name=":34" /> Although [[Janet Brennan Croft|Janet Brennan-Croft]] acted as [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] consultant on previous films, Beppe Pezzini will fill this role for this film.<ref>Educational Media Services | University of Oxford, "Beppe Pezzini on Classics and Fantasy | Fantasy Summer School ‪@facultyofenglishoxford‬," ''YouTube'', 23 September 2025.</ref>

IMDb credits Bob Buck as ''a'' costume designer for the film: it remains to be seen if Ngila Dickson, having just wrapped ''Predator: Badlands'' with [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]], might return. Kate Hawley, who was attached to del Toro's version of the film, is unlikely to take part due to work on "Bad Bridgets."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2025/10/daisy-edgar-jones-emilia-jones-bad-bridgets-luckychap-1236604481/|articlename=Daisy Edgar-Jones And Emilia Jones To Star In ‘Bad Bridgets’ From LuckyChap|author=Justin Kroll|dated=31 October 2025|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> Liz Mullane and Rachel Bullock head the New Zealand casting sweep. Both [[Wētā FX|WetaFX]] and [[Wētā Workshop|Weta Workshop]] are confirmed for the project,<ref name=":8">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt32328070/companycredits/?ref_=tt_dt_cmpy|articlename=The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum (2027)|author=Anonymous|website=IMDb}}</ref> as are [[Gino Acevedo]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.instagram.com/p/DRy30vUkme7/|articlename="Oh no!"|author=Ginoacevedofx|dated=3 December 2025|website=Instagram}}</ref> [[John Howe]] and [[Alan Lee]].<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://ggba.swiss/en/the-lord-of-the-rings-nature-and-switzerlands-hidden-history-a-conversation-with-john-howe/|articlename=The Lord Of The Rings, Nature and Switzerland’s Hidden History (A Conversation with John Howe)|author=Woody Wade|dated=10 December 2025|website=Greater Geneva Bern Area}}</ref> In April - by which point a composer was already said to be attached to the project - [[Howard Shore]] said he was interested to "see how that all works out."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.classical-music.com/articles/howard-shore|articlename=Howard Shore: the film composer behind Hannibal Lecter and Bilbo Baggins|author=Michael Beek|dated=16 April 2025|website=Classical Music.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://en.softonic.com/articles/the-composer-of-the-soundtrack-for-the-lord-of-the-rings-made-a-cameo-in-the-movies-and-no-one-noticed#google_vignette|articlename=The composer of the soundtrack for The Lord of the Rings made a cameo in the movies and no one noticed|author=Agencias|dated=26 December 2025|website=Softonic}}</ref>

As early as October, [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] suggested that they're "doing camera tests."<ref name=":34" /> This is said to include miniature photography, with Alex Funke said to participate, even if only in an advisory position. On the live action side, although Richard Bluck (who filmed with [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]], and might shoot second unit) had been mentioned, it appears the film will be lensed by Robert Richardson.<ref name=":34" /> While the film was in the story conference stage in July 2024, Richardson said he had "a number" of projects "on the constantly-shifting horizon of the film industry."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.filmlightcolourawards.com/colour-awards-2024/jury-colour-awards-2024/robert-richardson-cinematographer-asc-ack/|articlename=Robert Richardson, Cinematographer, ASC, ACK|author=Anonymous|dated=18 July 2024|website=Film Light Colour Awards}}</ref> One of these projects was a Hannibal epic, whose delay freed Richardson to lens the film.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.worldofreel.com/blog/2025/7/23/michael-part-1-delayed-to-april-2026|articlename=‘Michael’ Delayed to April 2026|author=Jordan Ruimy|dated=23 July 2025|website=World of Reel}}</ref>

The film is a co-production of [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]]'s [[WingNut Films|WingNut films]] and [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]]' ''Imaginarium''. [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] will executive produce with his ''Imaginarium'' partner John Cavendish and Jackson's agent [[Ken Kamins]].<ref name="Gollum">{{webcite|author=Jennifer Maas|articleurl=https://variety.com/2024/film/news/lord-of-the-rings-movie-2026-release-warner-bros-1235997102/|articlename=Warner Bros. to Release New ‘Lord of the Rings’ Movie ‘The Hunt for Gollum’ in 2026, Peter Jackson to Produce and Andy Serkis to Direct|dated=9 May 2024|website=[https://variety.com/ Variety]|accessed=8 June 2024}}</ref> IMDb also credits studio chiefs Michael de Luca (who helped produce [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'']]), Pam Abdy and David Zaslav as executive producers<ref name=":8" /> and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] mentioned [[Warner Bros.|Warners]]' business consultant Alan Horn (who had produced ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]])'' as a collaborator, but these credits have yet to become official.<ref name=":7" />

===Cast===
With [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] due to star as [[Gollum]], approaches had been made to [[Ian McKellen|Sir Ian McKellen]]<ref name=":2">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2024/09/ian-mckellen-return-gandalf-new-the-lord-of-the-rings-films-1236075547/|articlename=Ian McKellen Reveals He’s Been Approached To Reprise His Role As Gandalf In Andy Serkis’ New ‘The Lord Of The Rings’ Films|author=Jake Kanter|dated=2 September 2024|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> and [[Viggo Mortensen]] to reprise [[Gandalf]] and [[Aragorn]], respectively. [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] said he's in talks to reprise "a little bit" of [[Gandalf]],<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.mirror.co.uk/3am/celebrity-news/sir-ian-mckellan-i-thought-36196617|articlename=EXCLUSIVE: Sir Ian McKellan: 'I thought I was a goner, but I'm coming back as Gandalf'|author=Marc Baker and Jackie Annett|dated=5 November 2025|website=The Mirror}}</ref> in [[New Zealand]].<ref name=":42">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thetimes.com/culture/tv-radio/article/ian-mckellen-an-ark-lowry-lord-of-the-rings-f9wc9nmdq|articlename=Ian McKellen at 86: ‘I’ve had to accept that I’m not immortal’|author=Jonathan Dean|dated=14 February 2026|website=The Times}}</ref> As of December, the contracts with [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] and [[Elijah Wood|Wood]] hadn't been finalized,<ref name=":40" /> but [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] expressed a desire to return to [[New Zealand]] for filming. [[Liv Tyler]], [[Evangeline Lilly]] and, especially, [[Orlando Bloom]] have also expressed interest in reprising their parts,<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.nme.com/news/film/the-lord-of-the-rings-cast-say-they-would-jump-to-return-for-new-spin-off-movies-3853893|articlename=‘The Lord Of The Rings’ cast say they would “jump” to return for new spin-off movies|author=Damian Jones|dated=11 April 2025|website=NME}}</ref> while [[Dominic Monaghan]] expressed a desire to visit the set.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://nypost.com/2025/11/06/entertainment/dominic-monaghan-reveals-plans-for-next-lord-of-the-rings-movie/|articlename=Dominic Monaghan reveals big plans for next ‘Lord of the Rings’ movie — including possible return as Merry
By|author=Eric Todisco|dated=6 November 2025|website=New York Post}}</ref> [[Evangeline Lilly|Lilly]] had proceeded to do so, but indicated that she will have no further involvement with the project. [[Orcs]] are set to appear in the film, with [[Shane Rangi]] and [[Lawrence Makoare]] having reportedly been contacted.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/thelegacyofnerd/status/1979621220246344016|articlename=BREAKING: ‘The Hunt For Gollum’ Begins Filming in May 2026|author=@thelegacyofnerd|dated=8 October 2025|website=Twitter}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]]' comments about seeing the interiors of [[Barad-dûr|Barad Dur]] might suggest the involvement of [[Benedict Cumberbatch]].<ref name=":36">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lYYSsook-4Y|articlename=Philippa Boyens ('ESDLA: LA GUERRA DE LOS ROHIRRIM'): "Queríamos que se sintiera como algo nuevo"|author=eCartelera|dated=10 December 2024}}</ref>

[[Andy Serkis|Serkis]], [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] and [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had all spoke to [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]],<ref name=":3">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://theplaylist.net/the-war-of-the-rohirrim-philippa-boyens-on-the-new-anime-the-hunt-for-gollum-the-future-of-the-lord-of-the-rings-20241223/|articlename=‘The War Of The Rohirrim’: Philippa Boyens On The New Anime, ‘The Hunt For Gollum’ & The Future Of ‘The Lord of the Rings’|author=Rodrigo Perez|dated=23 December 2024|website=The Playlist}}</ref> who had previously said he'd be "open to it" if it makes sense for "the age I am now"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.gq-magazine.co.uk/article/viggo-mortensen-interview-2024|articlename=Viggo Mortensen re-used Aragorn's sword in new movie The Dead Don't Hurt “Because it's really good”|author=Rafael Motamayor|dated=28 May 2024|website=GQ}}</ref> but after [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] pitched it to him as "Digital make-up" they agreed he'd wait to read the script: With the approach to [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] happening sometime between June<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.thetimes.com/culture/film/article/ian-mckellen-if-this-is-my-last-job-id-better-get-it-right-hadnt-i-n3t38g6tb|articlename=Ian McKellen: ‘When a script arrives, I think this might be my last job’|author=Dominic Maxwell|dated=8 June 2024|website=The Times of London}}</ref> and September,<ref name=":2" /> the approach to [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] may have taken place in mid-June, just prior to an interview in which [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]] said "The script is the most important thing to me", seemingly no longer harping on the age quota.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/viggo-mortensen-lord-of-the-rings-script-feminism-1235935628/|articlename=Viggo Mortensen on Respecting Audiences, How Scripts Are Key “Unless I’m Broke,” New ‘LOTR’ Films|author=Georg Szalai|dated=30 June 2024|website=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] said they need to "drag" him.<ref name=":36" />

While in London for ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|The War of the Rohirrim]]'' premiere, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also "had lunch with an [[Elves|Elf]] lord" who "would fall into that story."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.instagram.com/nerdoftherings/reel/DDgKw47uxkJ/|articlename="Philippa Boyens teases an “elf lord” returning for Hunt for Gollum! "|author=Matt Graf|dated=12 December 2024|website=Instagram}}</ref> Although this could refer to [[Orlando Bloom|Bloom]] or even [[Marton Csokas]], [[Lee Pace]] is the most likely as he was shooting ''The Running Man'' in London at the time.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://people.com/glen-powell-films-running-man-reboot-37-years-after-arnold-schwarzenegger-movie-8745529|articlename=Glen Powell Films Running Man Remake in London 37 Years After Original Arnold Schwarzenegger Movie|author=Jen Juneau|dated=14 November 2024|website=People}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had since divulged that they expect "some of the cast who were originally in" ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'', as well as "some incredible new talent."<ref name=":28">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.jedinews.com/events/articles/indiana-comic-con-andy-serkis-full-panel/|articlename=Indiana Comic Con: Andy Serkis Full Panel|author=James Burns|dated=11 April 2025,|website=Jedi News}}</ref> [[Ian McKellen|McKellen]] had since confirmed that [[Gandalf]] and [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]], surely to be played by himself and [[Elijah Wood|Wood]], are scheduled to reappear in the piece.<ref name=":12" />

Casting seems to have started in November,<ref name=":40">Steve Schofield ''et al'', "25 Years of Fellowship", ''Empire'' (March 2026), pp. 46-70.</ref> with young boys auditioning for the boy [[Gollum|Smeagol]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/KnightGambit/status/2011815291198849220|articlename=Small Tidbit.....|author=Caleb Williams|dated=16 January 2026|website=Twitter}}</ref> and two of his fellow [[Stoors|Stoor]] riverfolk - a young girl and a young adult boy - in what looks like a setup for [[Gollum|Smeagol]]'s preoccupation with a birtday present. Actors in their early thirties auditioned for a young "[[Aragorn|Strider]]",<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://knightedgemedia.com/2026/01/the-hunt-for-gollum-casting-call-teases-young-strider-and-his-fellow-dunedain-rangers/#google_vignette|articlename=‘The Hunt for Gollum’ Casting Call Teases Young Strider and His Fellow Dúnedain Rangers|author=Caleb Williams|dated=16 January 2026|website=Knight Edge Media}}</ref> with 29-year old Leo Woodall reportedly tipped for the role.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://knightedgemedia.com/2026/03/rumor-leo-woodall-cast-as-strider-in-lord-of-the-rings-the-hunt-for-gollum/#google_vignette|articlename=RUMOR: Leo Woodall Cast as Strider in ‘Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum’|author=Caleb Williams|dated=7 March 2026|website=Knight Edge Media}}</ref> While there had been reports that the studio is not hoping to get Viggo<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://x.com/ViewerAnon/status/1998489358849159181?s=20|articlename=I can confirm this|author=ViewerAnon|dated=9 December 2025|website=Twitter}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had spoken about potentially having to "hand off"<ref name=":3" /> from [[Viggo Mortensen|Mortensen]], and rumours had pointed to the inexpediency of the deaging.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://3dvf.com/en/a-cult-actor-from-the-lord-of-the-rings-on-the-departure-the-question-arises-for-the-prequel-dedicated-to-gollum/#google_vignette|articlename=A Cult Actor from The Lord of the Rings on the Departure? The Question Arises for the Prequel Dedicated to Gollum|author=Quentin Couprie|dated=13 December 2025|accessed=3DVF}}</ref> The age differential - Mortensen was 42 while shooting ''Lord of the Rings'' - may well suggest scenes alternating between this younger character, and either an old [[Aragorn|Elessar]] and/or the "mature" [[Aragorn]] of the [[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|''Fellowship of the Ring'']] era.''<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://medium.com/p/dcf21faf019e|articlename=The Hunt for Gollum and the Aragorn problem|author=Chen Geller|website=Medium}}</ref>'' [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] had earlier spoke of meeting [[Aragorn]] when he was "quite young" in ''[[The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies|The Battle of the Five Armies]],'' but not so young that it didn't seem plausible to her to have [[Viggo Mortensen|Viggo]] play him circa 2011''.<ref name=":39" />'' The audition scene, although not necessarily representative of the film, also implies the presence of the other [[Rangers of the North|Rangers]], perhaps including [[Halbarad]]. A younger Strider could also feature in a "Young Aragorn" picture.

Serkis had since reaffirrmed that he would "love the old cast" back.<ref name=":41" /> Other roles auditioned for include women in their thirties and fifities: the latter was presumed to be Smeagol's grandmother or [[Gilraen]] but is now confirmed as a "lead" role, with Kate Winslet relocating to New Zealand for five months. The thirties' part<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://knightedgemedia.com/2026/03/the-hunt-for-gollum-lead-female-characters-casting-are-underway-exclusive/#google_vignette|articlename=‘Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum’ Lead Female Characters Casting Are Underway (EXCLUSIVE)|author=Caleb Williams|dated=5 March 2026|website=Knight Edge Media}}</ref> is reportedly circled by Anya Taylor-Joy. Some presume this to be [[Arwen]], but if so the quota is older than [[Liv Tyler]], who was 23 at the time of [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'']].

==Plotline==
The exact events the film covers remain undisclosed. There's ambiguity concerning both the exact timeframe for the film, and whether it will focus more on [[Gollum]] or [[Aragorn]]. An official "blurb" for the movie reads: "The pic explores [[Aragorn]]’s adventures as a [[Rangers of the North|ranger]], specifically his quest to capture [[Gollum]] between [[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]] and [[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|Fellowship of the Ring]], tracking him to keep the [[The One Ring|Ring]]’s location from [[Sauron|Sauron."]]<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://deadline.com/2026/01/box-office-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy-25th-anniversary-1236689724/|articlename=‘Lord Of The Rings’ Trilogy 25th Anniversary Event Rings Up $11M In Worldwide Box Office|author=Anthony D'Alessandro|dated=19 January 2026|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> A more extended synopsis had also been circulating:<blockquote>Before the Fellowship, one creature's obsession holds the key to Middle-earth's survival -- or its demise. In The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum, we meet young Smeagol -- an outsider drawn to trinkets and mischief -- long before The One Ring consumed him and began his tragic descent into the tortured, deceitful creature Gollum. With the ring lost and carried away by Bilbo Baggins, Gollum finds himself compelled to leave his cave in search of it. Gandalf the Grey calls upon Aragorn, still known as the ranger Strider, to track the elusive creature whose knowledge of the whereabouts of the ring could tip the balance toward the Dark Lord Sauron.
Set in the shadowed time between Bilbo's birthday disappearance and the Fellowship's formation, this perilous journey through Middle-earth's darkest corners reveals untold truths, tests the resolve of its future king, and explores the fractured soul and backstory of Gollum, one of Tolkien's most enigmatic characters.

Directed by original cast member Andy Serkis, produced by Peter Jackson, and written & produced by Fran Walsh and Phillipa Boyens -- the creative team behind the Oscar-winning trilogy -- this live-action movie bridges the beloved films with new characters, returning heroes, and a deeply engaging origin story that resets the stage for, and changes everything you know about the legendary Lord of the Rings trilogy.</blockquote>Strictly speaking, [[Aragorn]]'s hunt for [[Gollum]] begins during the events depicted in Jackson's [[The Fellowship of the Ring (2001 film)|''The Fellowship of the Ring'']], and in October, [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] said the story "falls after the [[Bilbo's Farewell Party|birthday party of Bilbo]] and before the Mines Of [[Moria]]".<ref name=":22">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.empireonline.com/movies/news/lord-of-the-rings-hunt-for-gollum-wont-be-two-films-second-philippa-boyens-exclusive/|articlename=The Hunt For Gollum Won’t Be Two Films, But A Second LOTR Film Is Incoming, Philippa Boyens Confirms|author=Ben Travis|dated=18 October 2024|website=Empire}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] added that the role of [[Aragorn]] is "very central" to the movie.<ref name=":36" /> Andy called the storyline "pivotal."<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1md7lim/the_lord_of_the_rings_the_hunt_for_gollum_andy/|articlename=The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum - Andy Serkis says "this part of the story is pivotal"|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=30 July 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> [[Ian McKellen]] had described the plot as "[[Aragorn]] trying to find [[Gollum]] with [[Gandalf]] directing operations from the sidelines."<ref name=":42" />

However, ''a'' hunt for [[Gollum]] is begun by the [[Silvan Elves]] after Gollum first leaves the [[Misty Mountains|mountains]] in search of [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]], and in December Jackson said the film "tells us what happened to [[Gollum]] between ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' - end of [[The Hobbit (film series)|''The Hobbit'']] - and the beginning of ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]''".<ref name=":6">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/red-carpet-premiere-for-the-lord-of-the-rings-the-war-of-the-rohirrim/P3BS7U5NPS5EMFLPUV4SYSYFDU/|articlename=Red carpet premiere for The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim|author=Mitchell Hageman|dated=11 December 2024|website=New Zealand Herald}}</ref> [[Andy Serkis|Serkis]] had since confirmed this timeframe: "It sits, kind of, in the timeline between ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]'' - between losing the [[The One Ring|Ring]] to [[Bilbo Baggins]] - and ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]''."<ref name=":18">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.youtube.com/watch?t=1218&v=U-dw8DQDf90&feature=youtu.be|articlename=Kazakhstan feels like the center of the world - Andy Serkis {{!}} Interview of the Day|author=Silk Way / Qazaqstan|dated=15 July 2025|website=YouTube}}</ref> [[Dol Guldur]], the [[Nazgûl|Nazgul]] and [[Orcs]] are all said to potentially play part in the film.

[[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also alluded to other storylines: "we are finding a lot of threads of story that are surprising in there when you really go in there and examine it".<ref name=":29">{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.slashfilm.com/1734018/philippa-boyens-lord-of-the-rings-war-of-the-rohirrim-exclusive-interview/|articlename=War Of The Rohirrim's Philippa Boyens Reveals Details About The Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum [Exclusive Interview]|author=Ben Pearson|dated=13 December 2024|website=/Film}}</ref> Events as varied as [[Aragorn]]'s sojourn in [[Lothlórien|Lórien]] with [[Arwen]], the fall of [[Balin's folk]], [[Boromir]]'s quest for [[Rivendell]] and much else occur concurrent to the time of the Hunt.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.reddit.com/r/lotr/comments/1iutc9r/building_bridges_so_what_happens_between_the/|articlename=Building Bridges: So, what happens between the trilogies that The Hunt for Gollum could possibly cover?|author=u/Chen_Geller|dated=21 February 2025|website=Reddit}}</ref> "You see the layers and layers of story that’s underneath there and how interconnected they all are", she adds.<ref name=":3" /> [[Peter Jackson|Jackson]] also made comments to this effect: "Some pretty interesting stuff happens that we reference in passing in [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The'' ''Lord of the Rings'']], but there’s a lot of more deep detail to it."<ref name=":6" />

[[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] adds that "We get to go to some places that we've never been before" in Middle-earth." One such place - only glimpsed in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|Fellowship of the Ring]]'' - is the interiors of [[Barad-dûr|Barad Dur]].<ref name=":36" /> Both she and Serkis alluded to new characters<ref name=":28" /><ref name=":5" /> and new dramatic situations, saying it's "surprising"<ref name=":7" /><ref name=":27" /><ref name=":29" /> and could be enjoyed be people wo don't know the novels.<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://www.amica.it/video-post/andy-serkis-dirigero-signore-anelli-tornero-batman/|articlename=Andy Serkis, da Gollum a regista: «Dirigerò “Il Signore degli Anelli” e tornerò con Batman»|author=Emanuele Bigi|dated=27 June 2025|website=Amica}}</ref> [[Philippa Boyens|Boyens]] also shared that one of the practicalities they were busy figuring out in the writing is "How does he [<nowiki/>[[Aragorn]]] pick up his scent? How does he find his trail, how does it happen?"<ref>{{Cite web|articleurl=https://nerdist.com/article/nerdist-philippa-boyens-interview-the-war-of-the-rohirrim-the-lord-of-the-rings-future/|articlename=Philippa Boyens Talks the Future of THE LORD OF THE RINGS Movies and Naming a Tolkien Character in THE WAR OF THE ROHIRRIM|author=by Rotem Rusak|dated=19 December 2024|website=Nerdist}}</ref>

==Cast==
{| class="wikitable mw-collapsible"
|- style="background: var(--tg-color-surface-2);"
!Actor!!Role
|-
|[[Andy Serkis]]||[[Gollum]]<ref name="Gollum"></ref>
|-
|[[Elijah Wood]]
|[[Frodo Baggins]]<ref name=":12" />
|-
|[[Ian McKellen]]
|[[Gandalf]]<ref name=":12" />
|}

{{title|italics}}

{{references}}

{{screen}}

[[Category:Films]]

[[fi:The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum]]