Gandalf and Frodo in "Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum"
Apparently, Ian McKellen and Elijah Wood are taking on their iconic roles once again
News from Middle-earth: Ian McKellen spoke at a fan event in London about the upcoming live-action film "The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum". He talked about two characters in particular: Gandalf and Frodo are once again part of the story – and apparently played by Ian McKellen and Elijah Wood!
Wood was also at the event alongside other "Lord of the Rings" actors such as Sean Astin and Dominic Monaghan. McKellen did not explicitly mention that he and Wood are part of the cast of "The Hunt for Gollum". But his statements and the reaction of the Frodo actor strongly suggest it.
"I'll tell you two secrets about the casting: There's a character in the movie called Frodo, and there's a character in the movie called Gandalf. Apart from that, my lips are sealed."
The cast members of the original "Lord of the Rings" trilogy in attendance responded with applause. And Elijah Wood in particular couldn't help but grin. It is fitting that McKellen had already mentioned in the past that he would like to take on the role of Gandalf again.
Start of filming and further details
The acting legend also revealed that filming will begin in May 2026. It is already known that the story will take place at the same time as "Fellowship of the Ring". At the center of the story is Gollum, who will once again be played by Andy Serkis. Serkis will also be directing the film. Philippa Boyens and Fran Walsh, two screenwriters who have already worked on the previous "Middle-earth" films, are also on board. Boyens spoke some time ago with the entertainment magazine Empire about what we can expect in "The Hunt for Gollum".
"It's quite an intense story, which falls after the birthday party of Bilbo and before the Mines Of Moria. It's a specific chunk of incredible untold story, told through the perspective of this incredible creature."
It is also known when we can expect the new "Lord of the Rings" film. However, fans will have to wait a little longer. "The Hunt for Gollum" will be released in cinemas on December 17, 2027.
"The Lord of the Rings" trilogy by Peter Jackson
The main reason why a new Middle-earth film is being released after many years is the success of Peter Jackson's film adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings". The trilogy is considered a milestone in film history. Released between 2001 and 2003, the film series is known to consist of "The Fellowship of the Ring", "The Two Towers" and "The Return of the King". But what makes the series one of the greatest cinematic successes of all time?
Respectful adaptation of the original
Although Peter Jackson took some liberties, the trilogy remains true to the spirit and tone of Tolkien's work. The central themes – the battle between good and evil, friendship, hope and sacrifice – are impressively conveyed. The focus on the emotional core of the story, especially Frodo and Sam's journey, gives the adaptation depth and humanity.
Epic production and visual masterpiece
Jackson's staging and realization of Middle-earth also more than convinced fans. The breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand, combined with the set design, costumes and miniature models, make the fantasy world seem tangible. The targeted use of CGI – especially for creatures such as Gollum or the mass scenes in the battles – was revolutionary for the time.
Strong characters and an outstanding cast
The films thrive on their believable characters. Whether Frodo, who carries the heavy burden of the ring, Aragorn, who has to find his place as king, or Sam, the true hero in the shadows – every character is given room to develop. The acting performances, for example by Ian McKellen as Gandalf or Viggo Mortensen as Aragorn, give the characters depth and authenticity.
Emotionality and universal themes
Despite the fantastic world, "The Lord of the Rings" is deeply human. Friendship, loyalty, courage, despair, seduction through power – all these elements touch the audience directly. Jackson succeeds in interweaving great battles and intimate moments to create a particularly emotional movie experience.
Unforgettable soundtrack
Howard Shore's score is an integral part of the success. The epic themes, both the sombre tones of Mordor and the hopeful theme of the hobbits, accompany the audience throughout the trilogy. The music not only emphasizes moods, but is also firmly linked to the characters, places and moments.
A cinematic synthesis of the arts
With his trilogy, Peter Jackson not only created three individual films, but a self-contained cinematic epic. Each part builds on the previous one, character arcs are consistently developed further and the dramaturgical tension is maintained right to the end. The extended editions deepen the experience even further and make the trilogy one of the most complete works in cinema history.
