The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring

About The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring

The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring is an epic adventure fantasy film released in 2001, directed by Peter Jackson. It is the first installment in the Lord of the Rings trilogy, based on J.R.R. Tolkien's novel of the same name. The film is set in the fictional world of Middle-earth and follows the young hobbit Frodo Baggins as he and the Fellowship embark on a quest to destroy the One Ring, which would otherwise use its dark powers to enslave the world.

Making / Production

This film was produced by Barrie M. Osborne, Peter Jackson, Fran Walsh and Tim Sanders. Its production took over eight years, with the principal photography taking place in New Zealand. The film's massive scope required advanced special effects, including the pioneering use of the digital morphing and massive 'bigatures' for sets.

Actors

• Elijah Wood as Frodo Baggins: The reluctant hero and ring-bearer, who goes through a massive transformation as he travels on his perilous journey.
• Ian McKellen as Gandalf: The wise and benevolent wizard who guides Frodo and the Fellowship on their quest.
• Viggo Mortensen as Aragorn: The brave and competent warrior who plays a key role in the Fellowship's success.
• Sean Astin as Samwise Gamgee: Frodo's Sam, his dearest friend who's loyalty and faithfulness to Frodo are significant throughout the film.
• Orlando Bloom as Legolas: The agile and quick elf who aids the fellowship with his archery skills.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The scripts were written with full detailed notes from J.R.R. Tolkien's books.
• There was an initial concern when it was announced that the film was to be a trilogy, because at the time trilogies were not common and it was feared that audiences wouldn't follow the whole trilogy.
• Most of the actors had to go through extensive sword fight training.

Awards

The film received numerous awards and nominations, including four Academy Awards for Best Original Score, Best Cinematography, Best Visual Effects, and Best Makeup. It was also nominated for Best Picture.

Quotes

• "Even the smallest person can change the course of the future." - Galadriel
• "I wish the ring had never come to me. I wish none of this had happened." "So do all who live to see such times, but that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given to us." - Frodo Baggins and Gandalf

Music, Soundtrack

• The enchanting and monumental music score for the film was composed and conducted by Howard Shore. A highlight is the film's main theme, "The Fellowship Theme," which has become one of cinema's most memorable musical pieces.
• The end-credit song, "May It Be," was performed by Enya.