As we all know, the real star of Peter Jackson's trilogy of films based on J.R.R. Tolkien 's Lord of the Rings is the beautiful country of New Zealand (plus of course, a number of "human" actors in "supporting" roles)." Tourism New Zealand even issues postcards saying "Welcome to New Zealand, Home of Middle Earth" that are distributed to cinema goers watching the films around the world. New Zealand, being a relatively young country (from a geological perspective), has a stunning diverse set of landscapes that seem to fit the various locations of Middle Earth as described by Tolkien perfectly, ranging from the idyllic and rustic Hobbiton, the rugged Misty Mountains, the mighty River Anduin to the forbidding Mordor. I first read the book(s) when I was 15, and have always felt that they would someday make a great film. Ralph Bakshi 's animated version, released in 1978, was a disappointment, but my hope was finally realised when New
Gandalf, Aragorn, Gimli and Legolas at Edoras. Legolas and Gimli at Pelennor Fields. Arwen and Frodo in the flight to the ford. Aragorn listening for clues of where the Orcs have taken Merry and Pippin. Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli being confronted by the riders of Rohan (outside camera frame). Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli encounter Gandalf the White. Gandalf calls for Shadowfax. Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli at the Orc funeral pyre. Frodo crosses the Nen Hithoel. Bonding session between Aragorn, Gimli and Legolas. Legolas looking at the horizon. Legolas spotting some Wargs and firing arrows at them. Aragorn falling off a cliff. Aragorn is offered a bowl of soup ... by “Eowyn” Arwen crossing the river at the Ford of Bruinen. Aragorn talking to Frodo at Amon Hen.