Fans of J.R.R. Tolkien’s epic saga are in for a treat as the legendary filmmaking trio of Sir Peter Jackson, Fran Walsh, and Philippa Boyens reunite to produce two new films set in the fantastical universe of Middle-earth. Warner Bros. Discovery has announced that the first of these films, tentatively titled “Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum,” is slated for release in 2026 and will be helmed by “LOTR” veteran Andy Serkis.
Andy Serkis, widely celebrated for his portrayal of the character Gollum, will not only direct but also star in this upcoming project. The screenplay will see the collaborative efforts of Walsh, Boyens, along with Phoebe Gittins and Arty Papageorgiou, promising a deep dive into Tolkien’s rich mythology.
Expressing his excitement, Serkis remarked, “Yesssss, Precious. The time has come once more to venture into the unknown with my dear friends, the extraordinary and incomparable guardians of Middle Earth Peter, Fran, and Philippa.” This statement echoes the enthusiasm surrounding the project, highlighting the team’s eagerness to explore new narratives within the beloved landscape of Middle-earth.
The filmmaking team also shared their sentiments in a joint statement, saying, “It is an honour and a privilege to travel back to Middle-earth with our good friend and collaborator, Andy Serkis, who has unfinished business with that Stinker – Gollum!” They added, “As lifelong fans of Professor Tolkien’s vast mythology, we are proud to be working with Mike De Luca, Pam Abdy, and the entire team at Warner Bros. on another epic adventure!”
The success of the original “Lord of the Rings” trilogy, which grossed nearly $6 billion worldwide, set a high bar for cinematic achievements. The trilogy garnered numerous accolades, including 11 Academy Awards for the final film, “The Return of the King.” Peter Jackson’s innovative approach to directing the trilogy simultaneously revolutionized the filmmaking process and set a precedent for future projects.
Andy Serkis, apart from his iconic acting contributions, also served as the 2nd Unit director on Jackson’s “The Hobbit” trilogy and directed the 2021 film “Venom: Let There Be Carnage,” showcasing his versatile talents in the film industry.
The announcement of these new films by Warner Bros. Pictures and New Line Cinema, both divisions of Warner Bros. owned by CNN’s parent company, has stirred excitement and anticipation among “Lord of the Rings” enthusiasts and the film community. As the project moves forward, fans eagerly await the return to the enchanting realms of Middle-earth, promising new adventures and a revival of the magic that has captivated audiences for decades.
