This incredible Smaug bus was used for a “Russ” (Spring break shenanigans in Norway). The original Smaug artwork was created by Jeanette Brown, and the company responsible for spray painting the bus is Asker Farvehandel. The bus will be washed off and sold at the end of the Russ celebrations, so unless you live in Norway, you’re unlikely to ever spot Smaug on the highway. (spotted by Middle-earth News reporter Lily)
In Portland, Orgeon today, a man dressed in chain-mail with a helmet, shield and carrying a sword and staff ran into traffic and started attacking a woman’s car. The woman called police, and when they arrived, the man told them he was a “high-elf engaged in battle with the evil Morgoth.” M̶o̶r̶g̶o̶t̶h̶ The car suffered several wounds. (tweeted to @MiddleEarthNews by @EastBayBaggins)
Barret Bowdre at Humane Pursuits argues that while Star Wars is regarded as being more morally complex than Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings, Tolkien’s story teaches virtue by exploring the value of friendship, the power of sacrifice, and the importance of home. Bowdre maintains that The Lord of the Rings has much more to teach us than Star Wars ever could. Read his full article, Visions of Home and Friendship, and tell us if you agree! (spotted by Middle-earth News reporter Lily)
Richard Taylor, co-founder and creative director of Weta Workshop, displayed some of his makeup talent in a show Tuesday in Shenzhen, China, where he was invited to be a jury member at the 5th China International (KingBonn) New Media Short Film Festival. Click here to see photos of his awesome demonstrations. (spotted by Middle-earth News reporter Valdis)
Feast your eyes on the trailer for the official HobbitCon 2014 DVD that is expected to be released in September! To pre-order the DVD, visit fedcon.tv. (spotted by Middle-earth News reporter Alice)
