Overview
- Empire reports pre-production is underway in New Zealand, with the filmmakers positioning the story as an adventure with a strong psychological core.
- Andy Serkis will direct and reprise Gollum, saying the challenge is to honor longtime fans while offering something new for first-time audiences.
- Serkis is preparing to shoot later this year in New Zealand, and the film is currently aimed for a December 17, 2027 theatrical release.
- Empire’s 25th-anniversary issue reunites key cast and includes fresh interviews confirming Peter Jackson, Philippa Boyens and Fran Walsh in creative roles.
- Industry reports indicate Viggo Mortensen is unlikely to return as Aragorn, with auditions for a younger actor said to be underway in London and New Zealand.