Gollum Takes Center Stage in Upcoming 'Lord of the Rings' Feature

Fans of J.R.R. Tolkien’s “Lord of the Rings” works have something new to look forward to – an upcoming live-action film called “The Hunt for Gollum.” Screenwriter Philippa Boyens confirmed the project is currently in development and set to be directed by Andy Serkis, famous for portraying Gollum.

“The Hunt for Gollum” will tell an untold part of the character’s story between key events in Tolkien’s books. Boyens said it centers around “the personality split of Gollum/Sméagol and the events that happened between Bilbo Baggins’ birthday party and the time the fellowhip spent in Moria.” Original trilogy director Peter Jackson and collaborators Fran Walsh and Boyens are involved in crafting the story.

Recent speculation that the film would be split into two parts has been clarified. Boyens stated in an interview that it is definitively one movie and not two. An earlier misunderstanding arose from conceptual discussions of more than one potential future film – “The Hunt for Gollum” being the first. Iconic actor Sir Ian McKellen’s comments led to the misreported idea of a two-part film.

While plot details are still unknown, Jackson has hinted it may explore Gollum’s conflicting identities. Orlando Bloom expressed openness to return as Legolas, even through technology if needed, but Hugo Weaving says he has no plans to reprise Saruman. Gandalf’s involvement depends on story details but Boyens believes many future ideas include the wizard.

The “Lord of the Rings” trilogy grossed $2.964 billion globally between 2001-2003, with “The Return of the King” winning Peter Jackson Academy Awards. The “Hobbit” trilogy from 2012-2014 generated approximately $2.9 billion worldwide. As the franchise continues to capture audiences, fans anticipate learning more about the upcoming “The Hunt for Gollum” film hitting theaters in the future.