It’s difficult to believe “The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring” was released more than a decade ago now; 10 years since we were first introduced to director Peter Jackson’s vision of J.R.R. Tolkien’s rich fantasy world. And after years of delays thanks to MGM’s financial woes, it’s finally time to return to Middle-earth.
The first trailer for “The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey,” the first film in Jackson’s two-part retelling of “The Hobbit,” we’re introduced to Bilbo Baggins (Martin Freeman) as a young man faced with a daunting task. The unassuming hobbit is summoned by Gandalf the Grey (Ian McKellen) to aid 13 dwarves in their quest to reclaim their kingdom from the villainous dragon Smaug (Freeman’s “Sherlock” co-star Benedict Cumberbatch).
Jackson is splitting “The Hobbit’s” story between this film and “The Hobbit: There and Back Again,” and it’s uncertain where the first film will end and the second will begin. But one thing is for certain: Gollum (again played via motion capture by Andy Serkis) will return, his epic reappearance in the new trailer more than enough to whet fans’ appetite.
I think the first trailer is the perfect tease, giving fans a plentiful look at Middle-earth (including some old favorite characters) without giving too much away. The song underscoring the action is a great way to build anticipation as the trailer goes on, and seeing Freeman embody Bilbo only reaffirms for me that he was the perfect choice for the character.
“The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey” bows Dec. 14. Check out the trailer below.
What do you think? Is Freeman the right person to bring young Bilbo to life? Are you excited Jackson is revisiting Middle-earth? Sound off in the comments section.
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For years apparently Peter Jackson had little interest in making this. Why now? Oh that’s right….lots and lots of money. Think I’ll pass