Those who have flocked to its first sessions will already know The Return of the King isn't just the end of a very big fairytale, it's a monster of a war movie. Its battle scenes are bigger and gutsier than its immediate predecessors and much of its summer blockbuster competition -- even if Master and Commander and The Last Samurai are grounded in military history and supposedly, the real world. [More]

Entertainment Weekly

Here are the scans from the latest issue of Entertainment Weekly featuring the entire cast of LOTR as the 'Entertainer of the Year'. [More]

Another BIG thank you to Cyloran for sending this in! With the entire backlog of emails this took a few days to find. [More]

samwise cheesegrater writes: I thought you guys at TORN might like this. Lord of the rings elves, Liv Tyler and Orlando Bloom talk marriage, sex symbols and liberation with Nui Te Koha in the Herald-Sun. [More]

Former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright suggested today that the Bush administration influenced the timing of the release of the blockbuster movie 'The Return of the King' to boost the economy before the 2004 elections... thanks to Ringer Scott O for tipping us on this spoof: [More]

Rosie writes: Howard Shore will be conducting the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra in June 2004, the Lord of the Rings: A Symphony in Six Movements for Orchestra and Chorus (with Alan Lee's Original Illustrations). [More]

'The Return of the King' raked in an estimated $246M since Wednesday, ranking as the biggest 5-day worldwide debut ever. It's estimated $73.6 million domestic opening weekend topped 'Two Towers' $62.0 million as the biggest December debut. [More]

Ringer ShelaghC dropped us a line about a roundtable discussion on the spiriual nature of RotK. Fascinating concepts regardless of one's personal beliefs or faith: [More] Potential spoilers

Meriadoc that is: ... thought you'd like to know that Dominic Monaghan made a surprise appearance before the 11 a.m. show of ROTK at the Cinerama Dome in Hollywood.... [More]

Adanedhel writes: On December 26, 2003 the distributor for Bulgaria - "Alexandra Group" is organizing a 12 hour marathon for screening of the extended versions of the first two films and the premiere for Bulgaria of ROTK. The official premiere of ROTK in Bulgaria is scheduled for January 9, 2004. The tickets for the marathon are already sold out.

'Rings' around New Zealand Kiwis discover superstardom is good for the ego, but there is a price. On a tussocked plain a few ridges from Fred Simpson's high-country New Zealand station is a battleground. Here, Sauron's orcs bludgeoned men from Rohan and Gondor to dramatic deaths, as a tiny hobbit and his best friend set out to destroy a bewitching ring. [More]

Arnold T. Blumberg writes: I am the Senior Editor of CINESCAPE and Editor of The Overstreet Comic Book Price Guide. I wrote a personal report about Trilogy Tuesday at the Uptown in DC that is now online via Scoop, Gemstone Publishing's collectibles/pop culture newsletter. [More]

Marion writes: There was an interview with Elijah Wood in the latest issue of "Focus" magazine, a German magazine, dated 15th December 2003. [More]

"The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King" raked in $73.6 million in its first weekend and put up a five-day haul of $125.1 million since debuting Wednesday, according to studio estimates Sunday. [More]

Forget the battle for Middle Earth, the most hotly debated subject of "Lord of the Rings" viewers -- at least the female ones -- is who's hotter: Viggo Mortensen or Orlando Bloom? [More]

Downfallen West writes: There is a weekly radio show here in the US called "The Savvy Traveler". The first half of this week's show features traveling to NZ, of course mentioning LotR. Here's their webbie, including a RealAudio link for anyone interested in hearing it. [More]

Ian McKellen is crossing the pond in a big way. He's slated to be a guest on the following shows December 22nd and 23rd. [More]

Ringer Time Warrior sent in these scans from People magazine feraturing Sean Astin, Elijah Wood and Viggo Mortensen. [More]

Eldarwen writes: Calling all Canadian Lord of the Rings fans! We can nominate Howard Shore to Canada's Walk of Fame. We can submit his name for nomination for 2004, Nominations are open to arts, entertainment, and sports Stars who: were born in Canada, or have spent their formative or creative years in Canada; have a minimum of 10 years experience in their field; have had a national or international impact on Canada's cultural heritage. I think he qualifies! [More]

An editorial Cartoon featured in a recent edition of The Calgary Herald has Frodo and Sam meeting some unlikely folks on the way to Mordor. [More]

Mark writes: Both Chicago Tribune film critics (Michael Wilmington and Mark Caro) today published their list for the Top 10 movies of 2003. Both picked ROTK as the Best Film of 2003!

Thanks to Ringer Luna Hobbit for this story. Audiences might not expect the heroism Samwise Gamgee exhibits in "The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King," but it comes as no surprise to actor Sean Astin. [More]

Need your fill of LoTR? Today, (if I got the dates right) Starz will be airing nothing but LoTR movies from 10:00am. Check you local guides.

After a career spanning four decades, Ian McKellen has death on his mind, writes Bryce Hallett - the Dance of Death. [More]

Long before his "eleventy-first birthday," Joe Andersen expects he'll have finished building a hobbit hole in his back yard. [More]

And then some people seem to have their sense of wonder amputated somewhere along the way. I doubt this writer has been to one of TORn's Oscar Parties, either, she really has no clue at all. [More] !!!Spoilers!!!

Ringer CRB writes that E! is showing their half-hour "Behind the Scenes: ROTK" tonight (actually it'll be Dec 21) at 3.30 am EST, then repeated at 7.30 am et Dec 21, and again at 3.30am on Dec 22. As always, check local guides.

Ringer Spy Jaxene writes in to say that Trilogy Tuesday is coming December 23rd to Costa Rica at the San Pedro theater. For about $15 one can take in all three films, plus all you-can-eat hotdogs and all-you-can drink sodas. There are still tickets available, so check it out!

I laughed all the way down this page - these LoTR spoofs of the "Got Milk?" advertisement are hilarious. Warning for minor swearing and bad language. Ooops, we seem to have squashed this site.

I'm not exactly sure how new these are, but here's two preview video clips from The Return of the King - "I'm On Your Side" and "Is There Any Hope". You can also check out this new/old gallery of rotk photos, but we'll have higher resolution versions in our scrapbook soon. [More] !!!Major Spoilers!!!

From a true Tolkien fan: Starting tomorrow afternoon, I'll be reading Lord of the Rings in one sitting. Perhaps some people might like to keep up with my progress on my website... [More]

To all those who've sent in Trilogy Tuesday reports, I can only say - I've been overwhelemed by the response. There's a pile more that I still haven't touched and I don't know whether I'll be able to get to. Which is not to say that they're bad reports, just that I don't physically have the time to get to them all. Here's some more including a sad tale from Christchurch in New Zealand. [More] !!!Spoilers!!!

Ringer Mirwen with another scoop! Looks like the BAFTA ballots were missing some key ingredients... [More]

Phillipa Boyens picked 13 year-old essayist Vivian Truong as the number one entrant. Themes highlighted by the students include staying away from gangs, curing illness, and writing like Professor Tolkien. The grand prize? A private screeing for Truong and 40 friends in the company of Ian McKellan! Thanks to LEH for the email. [More]

They cheered mightily when Legolas first appeared, hissed whenever Wormtongue showed up on-screen and applauded lustily as the Fellowship persevered in its quest to rid the world of evil. [More]

Empire Magazine took a bunch of pics they weren't able to squeeze into their printed edition. I like the Miranda Otto ones especially, but these are really very good. [More]

The thumbs are WAY up from one of US media's kingpin reviewers: ... Jackson's achievement cannot be denied. "Return of the King" is such a crowning achievement, such a visionary use of all the tools of special effects, such a pure spectacle, that it can be enjoyed even by those who have not seen the first two films... [More] !Spoliers!

Note: I can't speak for the credibility of this story or what is going on with this situation... but here is the word on the wire: I have it on good authority that UGC have received an email from Entertainment, the distribution company for Return Of The King. It is to inform that the sound problems that many have experienced on their viewing of the film. [More]

Update: I live in the UK, and although I saw it at an Odeon cinema, and also at a Showcase cinema, the sound was more than satisfactory-- Ringer NR

Thanks to Ringer Laura for this linkie. Preview screening audiences for the final episode of the LoTR movie trilogy are said to be "breathless" over the ending of the so-called 'American cut' of Return of the King, which features a spectacular car chase scene. [More] Oddball Humour Warning

Thanks to Ringer Jim for this link. After three years of hobbits, battles and drama, J.R.R. Tolkien's epic tale reached its cinematic climax this week. Join Neal Conan and his guests to trace Tolkien's path from Oxford, to the battlefields of the first world war, and to Middle Earth. [More] Audio file, possible spoilers

Ringer Didyma2 writes: In my tv guide, there is listed a half hour program entitled "What a Hobbit Wants", hosted by Elijah Wood and Billy Boyd. I have no idea what it is, but I hadn't seen any mention of it anywhere and thought Ringers would want to know. It's on MTV2 on 4:00 AM on Sunday 12/21. This in the EST zone of the US and Canada. Remember to check your local guides.

Matt spotted this great scoop: I haven't seen the film but according to the BBC Royd Tolkien (the great grandson of JRR Tolkien) also has a cameo. From Tookish: Not sure if this is old news yet! This page also contains a boatload of great LotR/RotK movie news updates. [More]

Premiere magazine has a bunch of stories about LoTR (some possibly oldies) as well as a review of RoTK. Thanks to Ringer dmsdbo for the heads up. You can access the related stories (including an Orlando Bloom interview) from the links on the right-hand side. [More]

Haste is a relative thing when it comes to a battle-heavy production with multiple endings that's 200 minutes long. Yet it isn't a crucial thing, for the invisible wizard Peter Jackson makes use of every scene to show us the meaning of magnificence. [More]

Ringer Mirwen let us know that ComingSoon.net reports on RotK's box office haul to date, 12/20/03. [More]

Ringer ShelaghC has some further information that may refute AICN's rumour that New Line is pondering "farming out" the RoTK EE FX to a digital FX house other than WETA. [More]

IGN FilmForce recently put Dominic Monaghan under the spotlight - great in-depth interview. Go read. [More]

It makes a change from those three-ring Serkises, I guess. anyway, the Sydney Morning Herald has republished an article from the Independent - a cracking interview with Andy. Regardless of whether it's a repost, it's well worth a read. [More]

Cameos, cameos everywhere ... Here's just a few of the cameos from Return of the King - there's probably lots more as well. [More] Updated !!!Spoilers!!!

David Salo is the linguist who supplied all the dialogue in Middle-earth languages for the Lord of the Rings movies. He offered to answer a bunch of questions for the readers of Muse. If you're interested in Tolkien's languanges, this may be of interest to you. Other excellent languange resources include Ardalambion and Elvish.org. [More]

After a heads up from Ringers Bramblerose and Ringer88 I went poking around the interweb, and eventually discovered what I believe to be the LoTR "Supertrailer" from the DVD on the limited edition RoTK soundtrack. It's a large (50MB) download, and personally, I don't like the pacing and cuts (and there's no new RoTK scenes) but if you have bandwidth to burn, point your Quicktime at this. [More] !!!Major Spoilers!!!

Well, the headline says it all, but WOW! Check it out! A 9.1 rating with 12,000 votes after only a few days! More

While a bit... indelicate, SFGate makes a great case for the return of the intermission. Super-size beverage, anyone? [More]

The Guardian's Victoria Barrett writes: Stoic, loyal Samwise Gamgee is the great unsung hero of The Lord of the Rings. But his interpreter - actor Sean Astin - is now planning a life outside Middle Earth. [More]

NCRegister interviews cast and crew about the catholic background of Tolkien and the religious undertones of the work, and how that played in the making of the film. Thanks to Ringer Arwen2003 for the link. [More]

The National Geographic Channel is showing an RoTK special called Beyond the Movie: The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King. It runs from 12am to 1am EST in the USA, and it has a few previously unseen scenes in it. Thanks to Ringer Melisendra for the link and don't forget to check your local guides.

Ringer Hetfool points out that Argonath.cc has what seems to be a new-ish TV spot up for download (the top-left download). The quality is low and it's in Windows Media format, but it's only a small (880k) download. We have also mirrored it.
[Argonath.cc] [TORn] !!!Major Spoilers!!!

AICN's spies have been sneaking around digging up rumours about what we may expect from the RoTK EE. I must emphasise these are rumours, and should not yet be taken as gospel. In fact the rumour about Gamling is not true (unless this changed quite recently) because I have heard otherwise from Bruce Hopkin's own lips as recently as September. [More] [Bruce On Gamling] !!!Spoilers!!!

I'm not a big comic fan, but I'm told there's been several LoTR-themed comics from Foxtrot, Dork Tower and whatnot over the last few days. Here's a couple to amuse you (I'm sure there's more out there we've missed, too). Thanks to Ringers White_Owl and Brian for the links.
[One] [Two] [Three]

Wired reviews RoTK. Thanks to Ringer Elenya for the link. The mesmerizing Lord of the Rings trilogy, which has transfixed millions for the past three years, comes to an end this month. The final chapter, The Return of the King, delivers a satisfying conclusion sure to please legions of devoted fans. [More]

Thanks to Ringer Elenya for the link to this MSN story. Elijah Wood, star of The Lord of the Rings films, is bracing for separation anxiety. [More]

Years of waiting are finally over; Peter Jacksons 'The Return Of The King' has hit cinemas all over the world. This weekend in #thehalloffire we will go through the epic conclusion of Jacksons fantastic movie trilogy scene for scene. So if you haven't seen the movie yet; run to your nearest theater now so that you can join us in marvelling at the charge of the Rohirrim, the battle of the Pelennor Fields, the Paths of the Dead and all your other favorite moments.[More]

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences today announced the seven films being considered for Achievement in Visual Effects for the 76th Academy Awards�. [More]

Richard Taylor and Tania Rodger

TORN Volunteers David Baxter and Galaphil were the lucky men with the microphone at the Los Angeles Premiere of 'The Return of the King' on December 3rd 2003. In this chapter David talks with some of the great people who made LOTR a reality behind the cameras. Barrie Osborne, Ngila Dickson, Howard Shore and Richard Taylor. [TORN Digital]

[Quicktime Hi] - [Quicktime Med] - [Quicktime Low]

BW writes: In just two days of release many things have happened at IMDb.com, firstly (on the second day) ROTK shot into the top ten movies of all time list, slotting in at #8. This pushed FOTR to #9 and sent the remaining Star Wars movie to the grey havens (out of the prestigious top ten). TTT remains at #4. With the reviews ROTK has gained and the respect of the fans, its likely it could become the all time (permanent) number one motion picture of all time, dethroning The Godfather once and for all. [IMDB]

Tash950 writes: Ian McKellen is going to be on 'Friday night with Jonathan Ross' tonight. Im not too sure of the time so people will have to check their TV listings. Its on BBC1

Joel sends along this transcript from the MSN Chat with Sean Astin. [More]

Another BIG thank you to Cyloran for this transcript from the Sean Astin interview on Good Morning America. Take a look! [More]

Ostadan writes: This only recently came to my attention - a school district project that uses The Lord of the Rings as a way of getting kids to read. I don't know if TORN has already covered it, but it looks like a terrific piece of work. [More]

LOS ANGELES (Hollywood Reporter) - A trio of world premieres, five U.S. premieres and a tribute to "Lord of the Rings" director Peter Jackson are among the expected highlights of the 19th annual Santa Barbara Film Festival, which announced its lineup Wednesday. The 11-day festival, beginning Jan. 30, also will offer World Cinema and Latin Film sections, and sidebars featuring Women in Cinema, Musicals and Cult Classics. [more]

Susan Thea Posnock writes: You'll have to forgive me, my dear readers, for getting a bit sappy. I like to have fun and kid around, but something has happened since I saw The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King, and I can't be sarcastic or flippant about it: I have fallen in love. [More]

Sweeping spectacle and historical pageantry � featuring tons of horse flesh � could dominate the ceremony Feb. 29. Everyone from jockeys and Hobbits to samurai and Civil War combatants are saddled up for a run at Oscar gold. [More]

Holly writes: There is an interview in today's (12/18) USA Today with Peter Jackson. [More]

Nick writes: This months White Dwarf (US issue 288) have a picture of Pete Jackson next to the new Oliphant miniature. It has a Orc archer next to it for scale, and it is clearly the biggest miniature in the range by far, maybe even the biggest miniature the Games Workshop has produced ever.

A Mac user writes: Excellent news for all mac users! Though we have waited long our patience will soon be rewarded! Aspyr is reported to be working on the conversion of Return of the King Game for the macs of the world. [More]

Early in �The Fellowship of the Ring,� the first film in Peter Jackson�s monumental �Lord of the Rings� trilogy, the wizard Gandalf finds himself alone in a room with the trinket that could end the world. It lies gleaming on the floor, and Gandalf regards it with an attitude of fascinated fear. The audience feels a chill that neither Jackson�s vertiginous camera angles nor Ian McKellen�s arching eyebrows can fully explain. [More]

TORn Staffer Anwyn has written up a new counterpoint. But it's not a review. Why, you ask? Read on ... [More]

Once, decades ago, Marquette University was good to J.R.R. Tolkien, a little-known Catholic author of fantasies. Now that Tolkien's properties are blockbuster movies, they in turn are very good for Marquette, which is adding to its world-class collection of original Tolkien material. [More]

You thought we were done on Trilogy Tuesday reports? There's still more, and here's some from Canada and Hawaii, as well as elsewhere. These ones contain some spoilers - so beware! [More] !!!Spoilers!!!

Neco Cockburn from the Toronto Star writes: While some may dismiss the many J.R.R. Tolkien fans as a bunch of cloak-wearing, elf-imitating nerds, those critics might be outnumbered this week in Toronto. [More]

From the Contra Costa Times: It was a gathering of the fellowship of the ring if ever there was one. A daylong event that tested the loyalty of even the truest Tolkien fans. [More]

Another really nice mention of TORn!

Mitz writes: Peter Bradshaw, the head film critic in the UK Guardian, has finally been won around by the Return of the King. A self-confessed Tolkien atheist, he hated Fellowship giving it just 2 stars out of 5 and complaining of its overblown, shallow pomposity. Towers only slightly mollified him, gaining three stars. Return of the King has 4 stars -- this constitutes a conversion of Damascan proportions. [More]

Elrond of Norway writes: As a surprise, and apparently without planning, Viggo showed up at the 00.03-show at Colosseum kino (world biggest THX). First the light was taken, as to run the film. Then the lights returned, and there he was. After a short and friendly talking to the audience, he sang his song. He also used the upportunity to promote Unicef with a flag. On his way out, he gave a big hug to Norways number one in line, Camilla, who spent 20 days in the queue.

Orithya writes: "It was announced on Thursday, that Elijah Wood will be Bacchus XXXVI at the annual Bacchus parade this Mardi Gras season. He is the youngest Bacchus in the history of the parade at 22! A special LotR float will be created for him. The parade rolls on February 22, 2004." [More]

Thanks to everyone for sending this news in!

Entertainment Weekly magazine has chosen the cast of ROTK as the Entertainers of the Year. Critic Lisa Schwarzbaum names ROTK the best film of the year in her top 10 list, and critic Owen Gleiberman (who didn't particularly care for FOTR or TTT) places it 8th on his list. Viggo Mortensen and Elijah Wood are featured on the cover of the magazine's latest issue, on newsstands today (in some areas).

The San Diego Film Critics today named Peter Jackson the year's Best Director. The Return of the King also won Best Production Design. Thanks to Nick!

The Seattle Film Critics today chose Sean Astin as the year's Best Supporting Actor, and Andrew Lesnie was recognized for Best Cinematography. The Return of the King was a runner-up for Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Adapted Screenplay. In addition, Christopher Lee was chosen to receive the group's "Living Treasure" award. Thanks to Nick!

The final installment of the Lord of the Rings trilogy rings up another victory as The Washington, DC Area Film Critics Association (WAFCA) has named Return of the King Best Film, and Peter Jackson Best Director. [More]

From the New York Times (thanks to Ringer Arik for the link): Nine hours after the first film began, audience members were told to be back in their seats at 9:45 for a very special surprise ...

"Hello everybody," came the high quaver of Gollum, and the audience shrieked as one: Gollum is addressing us! More than that, he is introducing hobbits! From the upper left door, Dominic Monaghan emerged and bounded down the stairs, touching outstretched hands, then Sean Astin, then Elijah Wood, then the voice of Gollum, Andy Serkis, holding a microphone. "This is the highlight right here, bein' with you people," Mr. Astin said. Even if was not true, it was nice of him to say. This story requires (free) registration. [More]

The Brothers Hildebrandt have been creating illustrations for several decades. Probably best know for a set of large, elaborate paintings that they created in the 1970s to illustrate three J.R.R. Tolkien calendars published this article looks at how the art of illustration works through their eyes. Thanks to Ringer Kevin for the link. [More]

A barefoot, barely dressed Scott Davis scampered on all fours into a Columbus theater, led by a friend holding a clothesline around his neck. Davis, 27, of Newark, spent about $2 at a thrift store on pants and a shirt he tore to shreds, then spent weeks gluing stray strands of hair to a skull cap to play the sniveling creature Gollum. [More]

Here we go again ... In a trend that will probably be repeated around the world, Return of the King broke New Zealand's opening day box office record yesterday, pulling in a total of $919,500. (Doesn't seem like much until you consider the size of the Kiwi population). Thanks to Ringer Moses for the link. [More]

Ringer Spy Irascian returned from his trip to New Zealand and found the time to upload a few new reports and a whole lot of awesome new pictures to his website. The reports are about the Wellington premiere parade and red carpet-craziness and pictures also include some from our very own Return of the Ringers-party! [More]

Link courtesy of Ringer Mikael. Inside Gloria Jean's Coffee at Edina's Southdale Mall, Gandalf was doing what any self-respecting "Lord of the Rings" wizard would do on a frigid Minnesota morning: caffeinating. [More]

The San Francisco Chronicle reports on Trilogy Tuesday. Thanks to Ringer Spy Time Warrior for the scans. [More]

Wow, I've only just scratched the surface on these reports - there are so many. I honestly don't think we'll be physically able to post them all. Nevertheless, much kudos to everyone who's written in - here's a bunch more from places as far flung as New York, New Orleans, Orange County, Arizona and Portland. [More]

They had not met before Tuesday, but Frank Armstrong and Tony Straquadine shared an honor of sorts when they formed the head of the line at 6:30 a.m. [More]

What has long been suspected is now confirmed. Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe (directed by Andrew Adamson) is going to be made in New Zealand. Stuff.co.nz reports that work will begin next month in Auckland. [More]

A number of stories from Stuff.co.nz. Thanks to Ringer Guy for the heads up. First up, this Trilogy Tuesday overview. [More]

Eleven hours glued to Wellington's biggest screen - for three diehard Lord of the Rings fans, it's the perfect way to pay homage to the epic trilogy. [More]

New Plymouth Lord of the Rings film fans jinxed? Yesterday's midnight opening session at Toptown Cinema 5 of The Return of the King was spoiled by equipment failure � just as the first film in the trilogy was two years ago. [More]

Three movies, 13 hours, one ring. It must be Lord of the Rings and Trilogy Tuesday. Thanks to Ringer Arwen_Evenstar for the link. [More]

I hope it's not sacrilege to start dreaming about the RotK Extended Edition... I have only seen RotK one time and have yet to begin to steep in its glory... but Ringer Brian C has written in with his speculation of some of the things we'll see in the RotK EE. [More]

Kenneth LaFave of The Arizona Republic writes: With a swoop of his cape, Theoden, the 17th King of Rohan, surrendered his broadsword and dagger at the entrance to the mall. No weapons in the theater, please. (Whoohoo, this one has a plug for TORn!) [More]

The server has been under seige for the past 48 hours, I swear! In any case, we are slowly trundling along, posting things as and when we have time. Here's a bunch more Trilogy Tuesday reports for everyone to read. Thanks to everyone who has been writing in! Expect more soon, and hopefully some pictures as well! [More]

Thanks to Ringer Spy Jeff for sending in this story from JournalNow: Winston-Salem's Wynnsong 12 movie theatre became a portal yesterday for die-hard Lord of the Rings fans. Wannabe hobbits, wizards and lords were transported, via a 12-hour trip to the movies, into a medieval fight between light and dark forces. Here and across the USA, Rings fans enjoyed "Trilogy Tuesday," a back-to-back-to-back marathon of all three films. [More]

Brandon Gray at BoxOfficeMojo.com writes "As the journey ends, the record-breaking box office run begins." Lots of comparison figures can be found here, but the article seems to concenterate on US domestic figures more than worldwide. [More]

Gollum an emotionally conflicted goblin? Someone needs to work on their terminology, perhaps. Nevertheless, if you're after fan reaction, check this out. Thanks to Ringer William for the link. [More]

Not that any of you should need a Bluffer's Guide! [More] !!!Spoilers!!!

This excellent feature about Viggo Mortensen appeared in The Age this morning. Mortensen was a Tolkien neophyte, but he read about Aragorn on the flight to New Zealand and found he liked the character, particularly his restlessness of spirit. His own childhood was similarly peripatetic ... [More]

The Return of the King made approximately $34 million dollars on Wednesday domestically. We will have a ticker on the right side of this page curtesy of our friends at Box Office Mojo. Stay tuned for more updates! [BoxOfficeMojo.com]

The award-season is upon us: today the nominations for the Golden Globes were announced. Traditionally the Globes count as a nice barometer for the Oscars in February. The Return of the King got nominated for four Globes: Best Picture (drama), Director, Score and Song! Head over to www.GoldenGlobes.org for more information! If that appears down for you as well, head over to Oscarwatch.com!

How much did RoTK make overnight? Do we really care anyway? I guess it's vaguely important to New Line. For those interested, Fox News is reporting that RoTK pulled in $8 million overnight across the United States. Thanks to Ringer Mirwen for the link. [More]

Ringer Spy Tig shares her report on the goings on at the Uptown Theater in Washington D.C. Despite many fears that the event (which sold tickets to the movies individually) would be chaotic, it turned out to be a happy success. [More]

On August 1, 2004, the Museum of Science will open the much-anticipated The Lord of the Rings Motion Picture Trilogy�The Exhibition. The Museum will be the U.S. premiere site for this international touring exhibition. [More]

If you went to a Trilogy Tuesday showing yesterday, I'm sure you were pleasantly surprised to be given a free Sideshow/Weta Film Frame Collectible . The unique collectible contained an individual film frame from each of the movies! No two pieces are alike. I'm excessively jealous of those who got them, just in case you were wondering, they are not for sale! Learn more about the piece at SideshowWeta.com. [More]

Apparently, Elijah Wood is making three TV appearances today. I can't emphasise enough - check your local guides, this is just a reminder notice. You can see him on Good Morning America, 12/17/2003, 7:00 am; Conan O'Brien (CBS), 12/17/2003, 10:00 am and on Regis, 12/17/2003, 11:00 am.

Today is Bernard Hill's Birthday! Bernard was born on December 17th, 1944 in Manchester, England. That makes him 59 today! Happy birthday Bernard!

Where better to attend the trilogy than at The Embassy, Wellington? Phil Capper was on location and wrote up this report for us. [More]

Gollum raps along in Flash. I thought this was strange and amusing, especially when the orc appeared. Thanks to all who sent in the link; apologies if it's been posted before. [More]

Spoilers? Can't get enough? Well, here's the motherlode - a detailed scene by scene for Return of the King from Shirebound's journal. (Yes, it's legit) Maybe more useful for those still having to wait, than those for whom the film is already released. [More] !!!Extreme Spoilers!!!

Trilogy Tuesday reports are beginning to trickle in from the USA and Canada. Here's a few to whet your appetite ... [More]

The amount of reviews in the last week or so for Return of the King is astonishing. All those bored journalists. However, if it's reviews you crave (both with and without spoilers), head directly to Rotten Tomatoes, which has an absolute bucketload of them - even a few that are negative. And the tomato verdict? It's fresh, apparently. Thanks to the dozens of people who have written in with review links! [More]

In contrast to the huge ticketing mess, Trilogy Tuesday seems to have come off successfully. Here is TORn Staffer Starlady's official unofficial report from the Trilogy Tuesday event in Mobile, Alabama. Fans from all over the area came together for what was truly an amazing experience. This is my story of the Mobile event; if you were there and want to add anything (stories or photos - but please include captions if you send photos!), email me at starlady@theonering.net and we�ll add them to the report! [More]

There's also a report from the Mobile Register. [More]

"I've seen FX - I know what cool stuff looks like. I don't care how pretty your christmas decorations are: if the tree is dead, the tree is dead. You can hang as many pretty baubles on it as you like, but that's still a dead tree." - Ben Wootten, Senior Designer, WETA Workshop.

This quote pithily encapsulates the greatest fear I had about Lord of the Rings - that it might turn into an action/FX fest without a depth of characterisation to make it more than junk food. [More] Minor Spoilers

For the third year in a row, we are proud to offer you a chance to voice your opinion for the latest installment of the Lord of the RIngs trilogy, The Return of the King. Please simply follow the link and type in your review of the film. We will approve the review and you can send the URL to all your friends and family. Among broad questions concerning directing and acting, we also get into specifics, so beware of Spoilers! (Ie, don't fill in a review until you have seen the movie!!!) Also, we are going to be working around the clock to approve your reviews as they come in, so please be patient with the dedicated efforts of the TORn staff. Happy ROTK day! [Ringer Reviews]

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - There is one Hollywood career Elijah Wood, star of "The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King," does not want to emulate -- Mark Hamill's. Wood, 22, is not slighting Luke Skywalker of 1977's "Star Wars." Rather, he knows that playing the key character in a series of hits like the "Rings, "Star Wars" or "James Bond" films often leaves fans unable to distinguish between the movie role and the actor. [More]

The three-part story of courage, friendship, honor and duty � spanning The Fellowship of the Ring (2001), The Two Towers (2002) and The Return of the King, which comes to theaters tonight � is ideally suited to epic filmmaking. It is steeped in fast-paced action and grand adventure, yet still grounded in humanity � a rare combination among large-scale film extravaganzas. [More]

Larry Terenzi writes: It�s sad to be alone at Christmastime. My friends have abandoned me, branded me a loon and a miscreant. While they rejoice, I�ve gone underground. My crime? I think the �Lord of the Rings� series up to this point reeks like a sweaty Orc. Okay, bad poetic license -- it�s not that foul. The epic scope of the movies is impressive and several action sequences are spectacular, as are the fanatical attention to detail and technical accomplishments. Peter Jackson�s ambition in directing the trilogy in a marathon 18-month shoot is as grand as his ability to pull it off. But for all those folks scooping up those ghastly Gollum snowglobes, have you guys pilfered Gandalf�s pipe weed? [More]

Catherine from Empire Online writes: Just wanted to keep you in the loop over Empire Online's exclusive ROTK coverage - every day this week we've got interviews with the cast and crew of the movie. Today - why Christopher Lee had his eyes on the role of Gandalf. [More]

Chris Papineau writes: This month the world will see the culmination of one of the most stunning achievements in the history of film: namely, the conclusion of the ��Lord of the Rings'' trilogy, ��The Return of the King.'' While this is the subject of abundant news coverage worldwide, for me there is a very local connection to this epic. I refer to the late Jean Roberts, a longtime Dedham resident and English teacher at Oakdale Elementary School in Dedham. [More]

Wendy writes: Check out this new interview with international superstar Orlando Bloom, who plays Legolas in the movie trilogy. Also enjoy a new Legolas photo gallery and new Legolas downloads! [More]

Today is Miranda Otto's Birthday! Miranda was born on December 16th, 1967 in Brisbane, Australia. That makes her 36 today! Happy birthday Miranda!

Yup, that little graphic on the top right does not lie. Tomorrow is the premiere of ROTK. And today Liv Tyler and some of the cast are making the chat show rounds to help promote it. Liv Tyler is/was appearing on 'Good Morning America', she will also be on 'Live! with Regis & Kelly' later this morning. In the afternoon she will be joined by a few more cast members on 'TRL' on MTV.

Yep, only 2 weeks late: A report on my day around the red carpet in Wellington and my sudden unexpected ticket to the World Premiere, including a spoiler-free review. What a day!!! Like I say, maybe it's not the same as being able to say one was at Woodstock or something, but certainly a day to remember forever. [More]

Vanessa writes: On Tuesday December 16 Elijah Wood, Billy Boyd, and Andy Serkis will be featured sometime in between YTV's primetime t.v. shows, talking to the hosts. I think its called the Zone, so any Canadian fans will hopefully catch this feature.

Mazy writes: On Wednesday December 17th, 2003 at 6 pm ET, Sean Astin will be on MSN's Live Chat. [More]

K9 writes: Although it will not be formally announced until later in the week, word is that several cast members from "The Lord of the Rings" will be in attendance at the 2004 Santa Barbara Film Festival in January of 2004. [More]

!!!SPOILER!!!Sideshow Collectibles has just posted the first picture of the latest Aragorn statue. More pictures are expected to come before the end of the year. Additionally, Sideshow/Weta is giving away a Balrog Statue, Witch-king helms and 3/4 Scale Gollum busts in contests that run into mid-january. Don't miss out! [Aragorn Figure] [Contests]

Alanna writes: On Saturday, December 27th in Washington DC, the planetarium at the National Air and Space Museum is doing a show from 5:30 to 7:00 pm called "A star shines on the hour of our meeting", about celestial phenomena in "Lord of the Rings". Admission to the museum is free, but I'm not sure about the planetarium. [More]

Mighty Squid writes: I was overjoyed to hear about the Lord of the Rings props display at Toys R Us in Times Square NYC. Thank you TORn! I must admit the prospect of going to Times Square this time of year is a bit daunting. Going to Toys R Us felt a bit like Mordor. The line to get into the store wrapped around the block. [More]

Elvis Mitchell of The New York Times loves ROTK (surprise!) [More]

TORN Volunteers David Baxter and Galaphil were the lucky men with the microphone at the Los Angeles Premiere of 'The Return of the King' on December 3rd 2003. In this chapter David meets and greets a ton of LOTR cast who stop by the mic and give a few words on what LOTR means to them. !!!SPOILERS!!! [TORN Digital]

[QuickTime Low] - [QuickTime Med] - [QuickTime Hi]

Early harps specialist Asni harps for the Rings marathon at the Embassy on Wednesday December 17th at 3PM. [More]

Andy wrote in to thank the all who attended the Return of the Ringers Premiere Party for helping raise $13,000 for the Organ Donor Awareness Campaign. He's got two new things on his website - a 'donate' button for if you want to help more but didn't get to the party, and a section where you can send PJ a message and it's guaranteed to get to him! [More]

It seems the folks at Oscarwatch.com were incorrect when they informed us that Sean Astin has won the award from the Southeastern Film Critics Association. Unfortunately is is NOT true.

Peter Jackson in Denmark

Here is a collection of images from the ROTK premiere in Denmark this weekend. Andy Serkis, Viggo Mortensen, Bernard Hill and John Rhys-Davies also attended.

LOS ANGELES, California (AP) -- A shaggy-haired, wooly-bearded Kiwi filmmaker is at the end of his epic journey. Peter Jackson has spent more than seven years developing, shooting and finishing his hugely successful trilogy of J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings." [More]

As Middle Earth mavens get set for the "Return of the King" on Wednesday, Tolkien lovers in New York plan to celebrate the "Lord of the Rings" film finale with everything from huge parties to a performance by a hip-hobbit rap group. [More]

The final instalment in The Lord of the Rings trilogy has made the American Film Institute's (AFI) best films of the year list even before its release. As well as The Return of the King, the AFI also chose Finding Nemo, In America and The Last Samurai as picks of 2003. [More]

LQ writes: TechTV will carry some stories on LOTR within some of their regular news/info programs, plus a half-hour special on ROTK. All times are East Coast and each show is repeated several times on the network. [More]

For years, Viggo Mortensen worked steadily in Hollywood as a critically respected actor. He had acted in popular movies like Carlito's Way and Witness, yet his face was largely unknown outside of film critics' circles. His face was one that blended in, which was also a nod to his acting ability, blending into his various roles. One fell swoop of a gigantic trilogy later, Viggo Mortensen is on the verge of superstardom. [More]

Brien sends in the good word: I was thrilled to see that New York Film Critics Circle has named ROTK best picture of the year � a huge boost for Oscar chances!

Pam writes: Meg Magazine is sponsoring a premiere showing of ROTK in the Philippines. The premiere will be held on December 20, 2003 at SM Megamall Cinema 10 at 2:30 PM. The organizers are high school students, so be kind! Tickets may be bought and all inquiries be sent to 09176904899 (PAM) or 09164742844 (ANGIE).

Our Line Party in Tyler, TX still has 35 tickets left. Costume and trivia contests, live sword fighting displays, free give-aways, and LOTR music and games are some of the things that make this the biggest LOTR party in East Texas. Please come join us from 5-7 PM for the party and stay until 8 PM for our private showing of ROTK. We are having this event to raise money for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and the Literacy Council of Tyler. The more tickets we sell the more money we raise for charity! [Reserve Tickets Now!]

MrCere writes: Just a reminder that today, Monday, is the last day to sign up for the www.Royalselangor.com promotion for LP3 - The return of the line. After today's last-minute sign ups, Royal Selangor will randomly pick the winners of those who have registered HERE. [More]

Just a reminder that our own Liv Tyler will be on 'The Late Show with David Letterman' tonight on CBS. The show airs at 11:35PM, get those VCR's ready! [CBS.com]

While I was in New Zealand, one location I did want to visit was the Putangirua Pinnacles - where the Paths of the Dead were filmed. Here's a small photo essay of some of the pictures I took there. [More]

A week or so ago I reported that the Return of the Ringers party raised around $10,000 for the Organ Donor Awareness Campaign. Tehanu writes that just yesterday she finally handed campaign head Andy Tookey a cheque for $13,107 - a truly astonishing achievement. Huge thanks and congratulations to everyone - organisers, helpers, donors and attendees! [More]

Frodo's Girl sums up the experience of being in Wellington for the Premiere weekend, party and all. There's a link to the website of the official photographer for the party - lots of pics of the classy guests as well as the stars who attended. And she also bears rumours of a plan to REPEAT the party next year! [More]

Barbara is a professional movie critic in Germany. She sent this great review in - some spoilers here in that it really does pick out some of the best bits. But most important is her overall impression which emotionally charged with admiration and pleasure in the achievement of a great movie. [More]

The organisers of Australia's Best of Both Worlds want it known that there is no truth to the rumour circulating the Net saying that Viggo Mortensen is confirmed as a guest at their LOTR convention in March. Whether or not this situation changes, accurate information about those guests confirmed to attend can be found on their website.