Middle-earth fans have reason to rejoice as Warner Bros. has officially announced the next chapter in the Lord of the Rings saga: The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum. Slated for a December 17, 2027 release, this live-action film will see Andy Serkis not only reprise his iconic role as Gollum but also take the helm as director.

Set between the events of Bilbo’s birthday celebration and the Fellowship’s journey through the Mines of Moria, the film promises to delve into a previously unexplored narrative within Tolkien’s universe. The storyline is expected to focus on the pursuit of Gollum, shedding light on his activities during this pivotal period.

Peter Jackson returns as producer, collaborating once again with Fran Walsh and Philippa Boyens, the creative minds behind the original film trilogies. The screenplay is penned by Walsh, Boyens, Phoebe Gittins, and Arty Papageorgiou, aiming to capture the depth and complexity of Middle-earth.

Production is scheduled to commence in 2026, with filming set to take place in New Zealand, maintaining the tradition of utilizing the country’s diverse landscapes to bring Middle-earth to life. While the full cast has yet to be confirmed, there is speculation about the return of familiar faces, including Ian McKellen as Gandalf and Viggo Mortensen as Aragorn, though no official announcements have been made.

The Hunt for Gollum is part of Warner Bros.’ broader initiative to expand the Lord of the Rings franchise, following the release of the animated film The War of the Rohirrim in 2024. This new installment aims to offer fans a fresh perspective on the beloved universe, focusing on the enigmatic character of Gollum and his untold story.

Source: polygon.com