“The Hunt for Gollum” will hit in 2027

“The Hunt for Gollum,” directed by Andy Serkis, marks an exciting beginning to a new era for Middle-earth films. According to a recent report by Variety, Warner Bros. Discovery has officially announced that this next installment in the “Lord of the Rings” cinematic universe is slated for release on December 17, 2027. The title “The Hunt for Gollum” will remain. This clears up any initial confusion from a fan film with the same name released over a decade ago. The team expects to begin principal photography early next year in the stunning landscapes of New Zealand, a location synonymous with Tolkien’s world on screen.

Andy Serkis, known for directing “Mowgli: Legend of the Jungle” and “Venom: Let There Be Carnage,” also starred in the “Planet of the Apes” and “Star Wars” sequels.

Philippa Boyens has shared insights about the film’s story. She told Empire Magazine that “The Hunt for Gollum” will explore an intense, character-driven narrative set between Bilbo Baggins’ eleventy-first birthday and the dangerous events in the Mines of Moria. This storyline will provide audiences with a unique and previously unseen perspective on the mysterious character of Gollum.

Though the production team has not yet made official casting announcements, there is significant excitement about the possibility of beloved characters returning. Several original cast members from the earlier Middle-earth films, including Liv Tyler (Arwen), Orlando Bloom (Legolas), Sir Ian McKellen (Gandalf), and Viggo Mortensen (Aragorn), have expressed their eagerness to revisit this iconic world, generating anticipation among fans worldwide.