If you’re looking to broadcast your excitement about the fast-approaching release of The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey, you have plenty of Facebook banners to choose from. (Evie Bowman)
New Zealand courted Warner Bros. for the production of The Hobbit with subsidies and grants, but it’s coming out that the Hollywood company has a lot of reach over New Zealand’s tourism board. Locals are upset that their tax money is being used in this way, and small businesses with ties to the films are feeling bullied. (Evie Bowman)
Benedict Cumberbatch, who will be playing Smaug and the Necromaner in The Hobbit films, is reported to be joining the upcoming Monty Python alumni-helmed movie, Absolutely Anything, directed by Terry Jones. The plot revolves around a teacher (Cumberbatch) who gains magical powers, like wiping out an entire classroom and bringing people back from the dead, from some strange extraterrestrials. (Middle-earth News Contributor Nomadic Writer)
Though some are skeptical of the 3D technology used on the set of The Hobbit films, actor Ian McKellen defends the films and director Peter Jackson. “It’s not the sort of crude 3D that comes out of the screen,” said McKellen. “Rather it brings you into Middle Earth. You see round the corners. You see everything.” (Arwen Kester)
Tolkien artist Joe Gilronan is constantly painting beautiful scenes from Middle-earth. This photo is one of his current works in progress. You can keep up with all of his work on his website, or follow him on Facebook and Twitter. (Lily Milos)
Author J.R.R. Tolkien never had a dog as a pet, but there are a few that feature prominently in his works. There is, of course, Rover/Roverandom from Roverandom, Garm in Farmer Giles of Ham, and Huan in The Silmarillion, featured in an article from TheBark.com. (Lily Milos)
As part of New Zealand’s “100% Pure Middle-earth” campaign, there is a detailed feature on filmmaker Peter Jackson, his beginnings, and the must-see sites for PJ fans. (Evie Bowman)
Kabam has launched a new mobile game that is loosely based on The Hobbit. “The Hobbit: Kingdoms of Middle-earth allows players to create their own kingdoms and partner with other gamers to fight off foes in Middle-earth. Greg Ballard of Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment said, “The Hobbit: Kingdoms of Middle-earth provides an interactive way for film fans to engage in the adventure as they explore the characters, conflicts and locations in this epic fantasy world.” (Evie Bowman)
Having trouble getting those pesky stains out? Need a laundry detergent that’s wizard approved? Look no further! (Steve “Rifflo” Fitch)
Every week, our Middle-earth News reporters seek out Tolkien/Hobbit/LOTR goodness and tag their finds with their names. If you have something to contribute, feel free to submit it using the Got News Precious link in the sidebar.
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