The Hobbit is back on

Posted on December 19, 2007
Filed Under Directors, News

Being a big fan of Tolkien’s epic saga this post was a no brainer. I just wish they could have settled this a couple of years ago so that we all could have enjoyed  “The Hobbit” THIS Christmas…

Variety reports that after settling a lawsuit with Peter Jackson on “The Lord of the Rings,” New Line announced jointly with MGM that the way is clear to turn J.R.R. Tolkien’s “Hobbit” into two live-action films.

The resolution clears the way for “Spider-Man” helmer Sam Raimi to direct. While Shaye said no creative alignments have yet been made, Raimi has long been interested — as long as Jackson was involved or gave his blessing.

The studios hope to start production in 2009, shooting two films simultaneously and releasing them in December 2010 and December 2011. New Line will run production and distribute domestically, while MGM will release internationally. The studios will co-finance the films.

Jackson’s Kiwi stages, post-production and visual effects facilities — which he built to accommodate “LOTR” — likely will be used to mount “The Hobbit.” And New Zealand once again will be used as the visual backdrop for Middle-earth, this time to tell the story of how Frodo’s uncle, Bilbo Baggins, ventured from the Shire and wound up taking the One Ring from Gollum.

Jackson was unavailable to comment beyond a statement and there was no comment about the size of his “LOTR” settlement.

“I’m very pleased that we’ve been able to put our differences behind us, so that we may begin a new chapter with our old friends at New Line,” Jackson said in the statement. “The Lord of the Rings is a legacy with millions of loyal fans all over the world. We are delighted to continue our journey through Middle-earth.“

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