The Hobbit

[Geekyfanboy]

Indeed, The Hobbit will have some BIG shoe's to fill. Can they re-create the amazing production quality, visuals, design, music, everyhtimng which made LOTR so amazing?

Two words... Peter Jackson

[Bryancd]

Indeed, The Hobbit will have some BIG shoe's to fill. Can they re-create the amazing production quality, visuals, design, music, everyhtimng which made LOTR so amazing?

Two words... Peter Jackson

Indeed, I have faith that if Del Torro or whoever directs, Jackson will "Put the band back together" so to speak. :)

[Feathers]

I'm also looking forward to these. I was never really a fan of the animated version although I remember it well enough.

These will hopefully do justice to the book but I can't say I'm too worried on that score either. Rhys-Davies as Gloin would be great but I can't remember how much of the dwarf story he really carries. Thorin obviously shoulders most of it.

As for Ian Holm as Bilbo - he's already done it and I don't think he'd drop 50 years that convincingly. Anyway, he'll always be Frodo to me the thirteen hours of BBC radio dramatisation that sit on the shelf beside me carry to much weight for me to ever see him as a young Bilbo.

[Bromptonboy]

As for Ian Holm as Bilbo - he's already done it and I don't think he'd drop 50 years that convincingly. Anyway, he'll always be Frodo to me the thirteen hours of BBC radio dramatisation that sit on the shelf beside me carry to much weight for me to ever see him as a young Bilbo.

Yes, I have listened to that BBC version as well, and really like it.  Wasn't Michael Hordern reading Gandalf in that series?  Have you heard the Rob Inglis unabridged audiobook version of The Hobbit and LOTR?  They are SPECTACULAR!

[Feathers]

Yup, that was Michael Horden. I find it very hard to accept any other Gandalf...well, until the film. No, I haven't heard the other. I may have to look it up.

[Bromptonboy]

Hordern is one of my favorites.  I used to love the voice he supplies to 'Badger' in 'The Wind In The Willows'.  I would use my 5 year old nephew (at the time) as an excuse to watch those shows.  Even bought them on DVD for my kids to watch now. 

[Feathers]

He used to narrate the Paddington Bear stories (I think) when I was growing up, so to that extent he was a familiar voice to be comfortable with but he carried the authority (and anger when required) to do Gandalf a treat. I wonder how he would have handled it on screen?

[Bromptonboy]

Hmmm, it would be interesting to see him do the role of Gandalf - if we could conjure him back when he was in his late 60's or early 70's - and give him a proper beard.

I fondly recall him as the narrator of my of my favorite Kubrick films - Barry Lyndon.  ((not many people share my fondness for that movie))

[Bromptonboy]

Just got this notice on The Hobbit mailing list:

Casting for Hobbit Extras Starts Next Week
Posted: 13 Dec 2009 10:42 AM PST
Casting for Hobbit extras starts in New Zealand next week.
You need to submit head shots and resumes via post only. Don't turn up and don't telephone, you will simply annoy folk and get your file thrown in the trash.
Full instructions can be found by clicking here:

http://www.acting-auditions.org/2009/12/mgm-studios-casting-information-in-new.html

If you go for it I wish you the best of luck.
Please come back and let us know how you get on.

[Bromptonboy]

Peter Jackson Talks Hobbit Casting
Posted: 27 Dec 2009 02:26 PM PST
Peter Jackson has been talking about the problems they face casting for The Hobbit.
In the video interview you can see below he explains how they are looking for particular characteristics in the actors who are auditioning for the parts of Dwarves, Elves and of course, Hobbits.
He also confirms the rumors that were circulating the internet about The Hobbit being delayed a few weeks ago (not reported here) were well off the mark. Shooting is still on course to start March/April time.
He does note however that it's in the hands of the studio as they have to wait for the go ahead from them.
As long as shooting starts by the middle of the year though, The Hobbit will be ready for release Christmas 2011.
The second Hobbit movie script should be with the studio any time now.

http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/hr/index.jsp

[Bromptonboy]

Arise Sir Peter Jackson
Posted: 30 Dec 2009 11:46 AM PST
Peter Jackson is to be made a Knight Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit in the New Years honours list for services to film although it's more than likely also a nod of thanks towards his services to New Zealand in general.
One of New Zealand's favorite sons and winner of 12 Oscars, Jackson's filming of The Lord of the Rings did wonders for his homelands tourism industry.
He established the Weta Studios, production company Wingnut Films and in 2003 opened a film post production facility, Park Road Post Production, in Wellington.
"Park Road Post Production has enabled Jackson and other film-makers to make films in New Zealand to an international standard," the citation says.
Weta Studios are regarded as the best in the business and was where James Cameron placed his trust for the special effects in Avatar currently wooing cinema audiences
As well as bringing employment and recognition to the movie industry in New Zealand, Sir Peter isn't shy when it comes to putting his hand in his pocket and giving up his time to support worthy causes in his homeland.
He financially supports the International Institute of Letters at Victoria University, the South Wellington Montessori School and the Miramar North Primary School.
He also lends his support the 48 Hour Film Festival, the Wellington Fringe Festival and is the patron of the GiveLife New Zealand Organ Donation Awareness Charity.
The proud Kiwi said when asked about becoming a Knight, "This is an incredible moment in my life. I didn't think anything would surpass the 2004 Academy Awards, but I was wrong."
"The feeling of gratitude and pride I have in accepting this honour from my home country is profound."
With filming due to start on The Hobbit in the New Year, Sir Peter will be looking forward to once again putting the spot light on his beloved New Zealand.

       

[Bromptonboy]

Oh boy, here we go....

The Hobbit Casting Call Out For Lead Roles
Posted: 04 Jan 2010 05:23 PM PST
The official casting call is out for the lead roles in The Hobbit with details going to the major agencies regarding the parts of Bilbo, Thorin Oekensheild, Fili and Kili, Bard, Primula Brandybuck, Gloin, Drogo, Itaril, Radagast The Brown and the voice of Smaug.
Did you spot the odd one out?
Here's the details released about the part of Itaril:
ITARIL - female, A woodland Elf, this character is one the Silvan Elves. The Silvan Elves are seen as more earthy and practical. Shorter than other elves, she is still quick and lithe and physically adept, being able to fight with both sword and bow. Showing promise as a fighter at a young age, ITARIL was chosen to train to become part of the Woodland King's Guard. This is the only life she has ever expected to live, until she meets and secretly falls in love with a young ELF LORD. This role will require a wig and contact lenses to be worn. Some prosthetic make-up may also be required. LEAD. AGE: 17-27.
A little artistic license to introduce a strong female character perhaps?
Noticeable parts missing from the call include Gandalf, Gollum and Elrond which backs up what we already knew in that those parts are already spoken for.
If those are missing because they are spoken for then by the same token the fact that Bilbo is included in the list puts an end to all the rumors that the part has already been taken. Here's what they are looking for in the main lead role:
BILBO - A well to do, respectable Hobbit. Although he doesn't realize it himself, Bilbo has a good deal of courage; he can be practical and resilient. He has a good sense of humour, and is able to appreciate the ridiculous. He is very quick on the uptake and is well read having been encouraged to read widely by his mother. The most distinguishing characteristic about Bilbo is his humanity; he is empathetic with a big heart and generous spirit. LEAD. AGE: 25-35.

[Rico]

Glad it looks like they will be using some of the actors from LOTR to blend the two together.  I hope they go mostly with lesser known actors - especially for Bilbo.

[Meds]

Casting call think I may put a audition in lol

[Bryancd]

Casting call think I may put a audition in lol

I have seen you can grow some impressive facial hair...I say Dwarf for you..... :)