As the actor responsible for giving the deplorable creature Gollum, Andy Serkis seems like he's primed to direct The Hunt for Gollum. Fans speculate that the title alludes to an incident involving the escape of the creature formerly known as Smeagol from imprisonment in Mordor.
Some fans consider this pivotal moment in the books a potential prequel to the first film in the original trilogy. This new film could potentially answer some big unsolved questions in The Lord of the Rings cinematic universe!
Gollum's escape from prison
For a creature as frail as Gollum, its resourcefulness and resilience are a testament to how the obsession with the One Ring helped it escape Mordor's prisons. As one of the most sinister places in Middle-Earth, one could only imagine what kind of torture the creature went through, more so if a prisoner manages to survive!
Plus, prison breaks are always fun to watch on the big screen, and Gollum is more than capable of escaping death!
Aragorn's role in the hunt
In the books, Gandalf contracted the ranger Aragorn to hunt down Gollum. But among the fellowship's three most formidable warriors, Aragorn was still the most mysterious. Multiple testimonies about Legolas's prowess as a warrior come from his Elven peers, while Gimli was always loud and proud about his lineage.
Fans speculate that the film will heavily feature the man known as Strider's history, including his skills and his history.
Legolas' role in the hunt
At some point in the books, Aragorn does capture Gollum and takes the creature to Mirkwood as its prison.
Fans can assume Legolas will receive the future King of the Men of the West, as well as an exploration of the Elf Prince's skills in diplomacy, hunting, and, more importantly, combat!
Saruman's machinations
Elsewhere in Middle-Earth, the evil Istari Saruman looks to rise from the ranks in Mordor's great army.
The Hunt for Gollum may shed some light on Saruman's progression as one of Sauron's most trusted officers by hunting down the Ring-corrupted creature. It might even introduce Grima Wormtongue before the wizard corrupted him.
Gollum's time with the One Ring
Ultimately, the film will be about the creature Gollum. Bearing the One Ring and its evil power can take a toll on one's physical and mental fortitude.
Potentially, the film could provide an intimate look at how the One Ring's corruption turned the creature formerly known as Smeagol into the creature we know as Gollum today.
While the parts do move, some were hidden from the original Lord of the Rings trilogy. The Hunt for Gollum could shed light on some of these parts, providing nuanced context to the ever-fascinating world of Middle-Earth.