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Casting Rumors on LORD OF THE RINGS
Well, today I've heard from 3 different sources that an offer has been made to ELIJAH WOOD to play Frodo in the three LORD OF THE RINGS movies that Peter Jackson will begin shooting at the end of the summer. Now, I know for a fact that Elijah read for the part, and before that I knew he was looking at the 3 scripts, and before that... Back when Elijah was working on THE FACULTY and we were talking geeky stuff, he expressed that his favorite book was THE LORD OF THE RINGS. So... Where is this? Between this and to story over at Cinescape it sounds like the casting process might be at that point where final decisions are being made.
Cinescape is reporting that Timothy Spall (the photographer in "Secrets and
Lies", a film everybody should rush out and rent immediately) has been cast
as Gimli in Peter Jackson's "The Lord of the Rings"! Warwick Davis
apparently spilled the beans on this story at the Star Wars Celebration when
he admitted that he had auditioned for the part and lost it to Spall.
I think this is a brilliant casting move, and it gives me great confidence in
Jackson. Spall has the stature and the voice for Gimli. He'll be great.
(He also played Rosencrantz in the Branagh version of "Hamlet".)
I have long been absent, but still I lurk.
Call me,
Overstreet.
So far, I think these are a pair of wonderful choices if this pans out. I'm looking into confirming these right now with folks on LORD OF THE RINGS. But these are the first serious casting choices we've received. What with all the Connery stuff and McGoohan, etc...
Seems like exciting things are a coming up!
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I just want to be the first to say it. I am still not clear on the digital processing or whatever that they're going to be doing to make the hobbits smaller than the rest of the people. I'm sure that it's not nearly as stupid as it sounds. I mean, there are probably some ingenious aspects to the process that I haven't thought of. I don't think that if it was really as stupid as it sounds, they would be doing it. But, anyway, as far as full sized people as hobbits, Elijah wood seems appropriate. I know a lot of people probably don't like him, for whatever reasons, but I think he's a good actor. And he definitely has the look of a potential hobbit, and the strong presence and aura that we would expect Frodo to have. It also seems like a good idea to me to cast young people as grown-up hobbits, since Tolkien definitely portrays them as very child-like.
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the more I think that Elijah Wood is a great choice. He really LOOKS like Frodo, if you think about it. That's pretty cool. Peter Jackson's going to make the OTHER great trilogy, I guarantee it. As for Gandalf, well...Ian McKellen, baby!
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Hey, all...
"Moriarty" here.
Wow. What an odd and surprising choice. Elijah Wood. What's really funny is how right it sounds upon hearing it. He's got the looks for it, and he's a good actor. I'm glad to hear that he loves the books. It's the reason I'm personally rooting for Christopher Lee as Gandalf. I know he loves and cherishes the books, and he's going to be playing the same Gandalf that Tolkein wrote. He's not going to come in and "reinterpret" Gandalf out of movie-star pride. Same with Wood. If he's a fan, he's going to come at it trying to be Frodo... the real Frodo, the one we all know.
Seriously... these films are shaping up beautifully.
"Moriarty" out. -
I must say that I am in agreement with the rest of you. I was hoping that the hobbits would all be unknowns but Elijah Wood does seem to be perfect for the part. He is just the right age because Frodo was turning 33 which equates to roughly 18 in human years so he should still appear to be a late teenager. I hope that PJ remembers that Bilbo might be 111 but he still appears as a 50ish hobbit (due to his possession of the ring for all those years) and that should be played by a 30ish person. Chistopher Plummer for Gandalf.
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With all the crap flying around, with popular actors and actresses getting parts just because they are flavour of the month, it is very refreshing that Pete Jackson is casting the right people for the right part.
I for one would like to see unknowns, and certainly Sean Connery as far a way from LOTR as possible.
If you look at the Star Wars I, Ewan McGregor seems to have gotten the part based on his Trainspotting film, and Liam Neeson for his role in Schindler's List.
Top Marks to PJ. The more I hear about the trilogy of movies, the more I like, whereas with Star Wars I, the more I hear and see the less enthusiastic I become. -
Maybe this is some misunderstanding, but on my books it says:J.R.R. Tolkien not Tolkein.
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Uh, Jar Jar is completely computer animated. It would be tough for him to play gandalf unless they wanted him to be totally digital. I think this would be a mistake.
As for the role of Gandalf, I think many of the standard top picks (Connery, Stewart, McGoohan etc.) would detract from the role. Christopher Lee is a good choice. (Of course, I'd love to see Branagh get a bite on that role. After Dead Again and Frankenstein, he has shown the depth needed.)
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yes...I can see him as Frodo.
Good choice if its true. -
to quote the lord of the Nazgul.
"Do you not now Sarcasm when you see it?"
As to PJ, he hasn't dont anything so far to discourage my aspirations for the films, Keep it up Peter
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dont=done :)
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What in the hell is wrong with you people? My faith in this movie has just diminished, and I think you are all in denial. While the hobbits are described as being child-like, that reference is to appearance and stature; Frodo still has to convey a sense of maturity that a twenty-year-old teen idol cannot pull off. I can't see bothering to disappoint myself with this movie anymore.I wonder who they are going to find to play 100+ year-old Bilbo. I hear Ben Savage really liked the book. I guess that makes him perfect for the part.
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Man, Lord of the Rings is my favorite book too. How lucky can you get? Must be a dream come true for Elijah...
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This is a great bit of casting, I hope it's true. Elijah has the right look and certainly has the ability. As for Timothy Spall as Gimli, I admit I haven't seen any of his performances, but the pictures I found on the web showed Spall to be a bit overweight. I wonder if that's the look all the Dwarves will have or if Spall will be working out to put on some muscle. I suppose it all comes down to what Jackson's vision of the Dwarven race. Personally I always envisioned them as short but having powerfully muscled arms. Perhaps I played too much D&D as a kid. In any case, I can't wait for this movie.
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I just can't see Elijah Wood as Frodo. I just don't get it and I am surprised that everyone else finds it uber-exceptional. Didn't anyone see Deep Impact? Maybe it would be a great idea to cast younger people as hobbits (except for Bilbo) but Wood seems like he's too much of a cry baby. Peter Jackson, generations will judge you for who you cast; find someone better!
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kudos to Bear for your message...while i am not disposed to trash or back away from my hope for these films based upon this potential casting choice, you are absolutely correct that the role of frodo demands a gravity and seriousness that to me requires an adult actor, not an 18 year old.... and no, 33 for hobbits did not equate to 18, and they were only childlike in that they were small, and by and large, loved pleasure...it was pointed out many times in the books that frodo was an entirely different sort of hobbit, of a far more serious nature than most
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Well, I seem to have more confidence in Peter Jackson every time I hear something apparently legitimate about this project. First point: Can anybody get a picture of Timothy Spall on their website? I've never heard of the guy, but I'm curious about his "fit" for the role of Gimli. Second: If the Elijah Wood rumor pans out, it will be an indication that Jackson has cast at least one actor who really CARES ABOUT THE MATERIAL. Christopher Lee also falls into that category, and I hope he gets cast somewhere in this project, even if it isn't Gandalf. Third: This casting saga is one incredible example of "The Internet rumor that wouldn't die". Jackson said himself, eight months ago on THIS website, that he didn't think Connery was right for the role of Gandalf. He said it again in Brussels (I believe) a few weeks ago. The only way Connery will be Gandalf is if New Line Cinema strong-arms Jackson into casting someone in a pivotal role that he doesn't want. This is certainly conceivable, but unlikely in my view. I personally would be hopping mad if the studio forced me to cast Connery if I really wanted someone else in arguably the most important role in the film. Anyway, the only way the "Connery as Gandalf" rumor will die, is if someone ELSE is cast. I'm hoping and praying that this happens soon, so we can all get on with talking about OTHER aspects of this project.
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I do not disagree that Frodo is described as being unusually serious for a hobbit his age, but that does not change the fact that hobbits age slower than humans with the obvious exception of those of Numenorean descent. His 33rd birthday is the age where hobbits "come of age" and are no longer seen as children but as a young adult. The actor portraying Frodo must appear to be that age while being able to act more serious and mature than his age. And don't be fooled by Bilbo's age. He has not aged a day in the 60 or so years since the events in the Hobbit due to his possession of the ring. Again, he should look mid 30ish in human years. I always thought of Oliver Platt when I thought of Bilbo. He's the right age for appearances sake and I always thought he looked like a giant hobbit anyway.
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Way back when I read Harry's interview with Elijah Wood and I saw that EW wanted a part in the LoTR movie, I knew he'd be perfect for Frodo. I'm glad most of you agree. As for the few people out there who only know Elijah Wood from Deep Impact and The Faculty, let me suggest you rent some of his EARLIER movies, before he got the rep of being a "teen idol": The Ice Storm, Radio Flyer, and Paradise, for instance. Trust me, guys, Wood is a very, very good actor when he's given the right part. And you've got to admit, he does have the hobbit "look." Man, I hope this rumor turns out to be true! I think he'd be a perfect Frodo.
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We should remember that although Frodo is 33 years old at the very beginning of the story, there is a 17-year gap between Bilbo's disappearance and Frodo setting out with the Ring. For the overwhelming majority of the story, Frodo is 50 years old, NOT 33. Just to set the record straight.
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Finally someone with some sense suggests Branagh for the role of Gandalf! I couldn't agree with you more and I firmly believe there isn't another actor alive who could actually play the role and not make it laughable! Although I have nothing against Elijah Wood, I don't think he's a good choice for Frodo by any means. Far to cute. Perhaps he could play Merry or Pippin, but I think he definately lacks the gravity and strength required to pull-off Frodo. And I can't say I'm happy that the most pivotal character in the series has most likely been cast as a pre-pubescent boy!
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I can't say that I'm familiar with Elijah Wood's overall ability these days. I haven't seen him since 'Radio Flyer'. I* had thought of someone a bit older (and British) for the part. I'm not too worried, though. Jackson knows what he is doing. The only casting choice(s) that would bring this flick down would be Keanu Reeves as Strider or Connery as Gandalf.
You can find a picture of Timothy Spall (great choice!) on The Bastards Have Landed, Jackson's official fansite. www.freespeech.org/tbhl
I agree completely with Moriarity: Christopher Lee as Gandalf. He's grown into a very good actor, and he's also intimidating as hell. While this really isn't criteria for nailing a part, he truly loves the books. He practically danced for joy in a recent interview when he found out LotR was being filmed. Ian McKellan would not be bad, either...nor would Patrick McGoohan. I just have a soft spot for Lee, one of the men that appeared on the TV screen when I fell in love with horror films so many years ago.
I suppose we'll find out soon enough what the real casting scoop is, but what's next? It's not like the plot is a huge secret, as it was with Star Wars. Until Christmas of 2000 (that's roughly 20 months, folks...I won't even have college to distract me before then), folks'll have to make do with whatever contraband can be found: FX shots, models etc. What does the future hold?
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Does anyone know the specs on Elijah? I've seen him in DI and The Faculty, and thought he was OK - not exactly what I would think of as the serious type, though. How old is he? I always thought he was like 13, 14, or maybe 15. I mean, I know they're going to be filmed close together and all, but I don't want his voice changing from Fellowship to Return. How tall is he? What about some more physical attributes on the Gimli guy?
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Kingasaurus is correct that Frodo is actually 50 when he sets out for Rivendell, but again he is described as not having aged at all since he took possession of the Ring so he would look the same as he did at the age of 33. On another note, is it me or does Liam Neeson look identical to his role of Sir Gawaine in Excalibur. He has the same topknot and everything.
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Adrian Paul. The guy from Highlander the TV series. What do you think?
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Wow! I never thought about it, but Oliver Platt WOULD be perfect for a hobbit. I disagree with the "Bilbo is young" bit...he's not that young-looking, 50s-ish is about right. I mean, if the guy was 111 and looked 30...that would just be WAAAAY too suspicious. And don't forget, the ring may prolong your life, but it doesn't do much for your looks (Gollum, anyone?) But I do think Platt would be fantastic as...SAMWISE! Just check out "Bulworth" to see how well he can play the "simpering sidekick" (not the same character, but there's elements that are similar...the willingness to do insane thigns because the master is doing them first.)
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I personally could not abide Elijah in either THE FACULTY or DEEP IMPACT. Simply put, I thought he was terrible and when I first read that he has been offered the part, I literally clawed at my face in agony. These movie were about to be ruined, I thought.
Then someone reminded me that Elijah was in THE ICE STORM. And he did a pretty good job in that. Maybe that's because he was working with Ang Lee who's a pretty damn fine director in my estimation. Then I remembered Elijah being good in RADIO FLYER and even that Mel Gibson movie (was it called FOREVER YOUNG?).So, yeah, maybe Elijah does have the talent. And then when you factor in that he's working with a good director (who gave us the greatest performance in Michael J. Fox's career IMO), maybe there is reason for me to retain hope after all.
Yes, yes there is. Good luck, Elijah. Make us proud and I'm sorry if my comments above were too mean.
P.S. Rebecca Romijn for Galadriel. -
I think Elijah Wood is great for the role, and I'm glad to hear so many others support him, too. He is a good actor who needs a greate r opportunity to display his abilities (check out "The Ice Storm").
As for Gandalf, I like most of the suggestions that have been posted here, with the exception of Tom Baker. I'd just expect him to be wearing a long scarf the entire time. He played a (sort-of) wizard before, you know, in one of those campy Sinbad movies...he was atrocious.
And as for the Lucas casting decisions, who the hell seems to think that Ewan was "A-list" after Trainspotting? He got the part because he was right for it, not because he had a picture somewhere in Tiger Beat. Most people I know had never even heard of him before he was cast in the upcoming movie. -
Having seen Ice Storm and some other movies, yeah I'm down with Elijah Wood. personally, I think whoever Jackson picks 4 Gandalf will be a total surprise (and probably someone no one has thought of). What I really want to know is who's gonna
play Saroman ? That guy needs to be super cool. Also Sam, that's gonna be a hard character to pull off, cause he's gotta be loyal w/o being fawning or annoying. Anywho, my 2 cents. -
Spall is perfect for Gimli and I hope the rumour is true [and if you look on one of the previous LOTR web sites I suggested him first.As for Wood well for one thing Frodo is 50 not 33 for the main partof the book as he is 33 at Bilbo's going away party and 17 years then elapse.Also Bilbo is 128 by then and it was the ring that kept him young so without the ring he quickly grew older and more tired.I picture Peter Sallis in the role [although 78 is stretching it a bit he is still fairly active and could pass for 10 or 20 years younger]
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Here's some images of Timothy Spall. Not very good ones but you can imo picture Gimli :)
http://www.metroactive.com/papers/metro/01.28.99/gifs/stillcrazy-9904.jpg
http://www.cinema1.com/movies/secretsandlies/image06.jpg
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I've been a fan of Tim Spall ever since I saw him in the RSC production of "Nicholas Nickleby"! [On TV, not live, unfortunately.] I agree he would be perfect for Gimli. And to the person who thought he would be too fat -- I agree he looked pretty chunky in "Secrets and Lies," but part of that could have been the bulky sweaters he word in that role -- overall he's pretty powerfully built (think Brian Dennehy), not fat. And in heavy dwarf armor it wouldn't make too much difference anyway!
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I for one don't have a problem with Wood as Frodo. But what I do have a problem with is people suggesting folks like Keanu (aaargh, god no!) and the Highlander guy FOR ARAGORN. In the books, Aragorn WAS ACTUALLY IN HIS SIXTIES!!! (Check the appendices) But of course he only looked to be in his thirties because he was descended from a race that were extraordinarily long lived (the Numenoreans) - although he was described as being VERY weathered. I imagine someone looking leathery and a bit like Clint Eastwood did in Dirty Harry, but of course sans bad acting and Yank accent. So we need someone who can put that across. If I see some pretty-boy in the role of Strider I will personally hunt down and kill Peter Jackson. Strider was not pretty, and was described as having a hook nose and grey flecked hair. Do the math. He scared the shit out of the Hobbits when they first ran into him in Rivendell, and he is indeed 'the man with no name' at first. Also I always thought Dwarves looked like short stocky/fat Vikings, so that other guy sounds about right. This is looking promising. Oh yes, Christopher Lee for Gandalf would be nice, but he's quite old and looking frail; Gandalf had a bit of vigour to him, so as good as he would be, I still think Tom Baker is better for The Grey. Lee would be excellent as Saruman. Christopher Plummer as Elrond if at all, but frankly I don't want to see any of those kinds of names. Just get William Shatner in there somewhere. Whoops, just kidding.
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I have pictures of both Timothy Spall and Elijah Wood on my site. As well as links to their filmographies. I invite you to visit my site for the latest Tolkien Movie News!
Joram
Tolkien Movie News
http://www.upstel.net/~manka/tolkienpage.html
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If we have Rebecca Romnjhinnhnhhhnnhn-Stamos as Galadriel, then I'm sorry but Wood and Lee just wont do. We'll have to have Keanu as Strider then. And then they could get it on, oh yeah! (Nothin' like a little incest to make a myth authentic!) And then we could get Yahoo Serious to be Gandalf, that dude who played Boss Hog could be Gimli. And David Hasslehoff could be Elrond. Legolas=Ellen. Theoden=Luke Perry. Eowyn=Tori Spelling. Arwen=Xuxa (strange and exotic) or Janeanne Garafalo (it's really a toss-up). Sam=Robin Williams. Merry and Pippin=Eddie Murphy and Martin Lawrence. Saruman=Screech from Saved by the Bell. Gollum=Air Bud. Frodo=Ben Stein. Denethor=Craig Kilborn. Treebeard=Tommy Lee Jones. (And then we could have him find the entwives and then Fimbrithel=Vivica Fox.) And (my favorite) Sauron=Carrot Top (and then he could become good in the end). Or we could just make the whole fellowship Babewatch actresses! And they could steadily lose more and more of their clothes with every battle (which would turn in to love scenes... all that pushing and thrusting)....... Either that, or PJ could make a good movie. ;-)
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First, let me clear up an inaccuracy. Aragorn was not in his 60s, he was actually 87 when the War of the Ring broke out in TA 3018 (he was born in 2931). Yes he was weather beaten and hardened from his 60-plus years traveling all over Middle Earth. Tolkien describes him in Appendix A as "the most hardy of living Men" in that age. However, he was of pure, untainted, royal Numenorean blood and, therefore, as has been stated by another poster, "in his prime." For what I consider one of the definitive images of Aragorn, go to the Rolozo Tolkien website, under the Images section and look at Ted Nasmith's "Death of Boromir." Now that is Aragorn (grey-flecked hair, weather-beaten face and all)! Cheers.
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First, let me clear up an inaccuracy. Aragorn was not in his 60s, he was actually 87 when the War of the Ring broke out in TA 3018 (he was born in 2931). Yes he was weather beaten and hardened from his 60-plus years traveling all over Middle Earth. Tolkien describes him in Appendix A as "the most hardy of living Men" in that age. However, he was of pure, untainted, royal Numenorean blood and, therefore, as has been stated by another poster, "in his prime." For what I consider one of the definitive images of Aragorn, go to the Rolozo Tolkien website, under the Images section and look at Ted Nasmith's "Death of Boromir." Now that is Aragorn (grey-flecked hair, weather-beaten face and all)! Cheers.
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Harry Dean Stanton = Gandalf. Steve Buscemi = Gollum. Jenna Elfman = Legolas. Jonathan Schaech = Strider. Albert Brooks = Bilbo.
HARRY DEAN STANTON MUST BE CAST AS GANDALF!!! -
I am in total agreement with Vanyar. Nasmith's Aragorn in "The Death of Boromir" is perfect. For all of you who think that Aragorn was a hook-nosed, craggy faced man, you must remember that he was hiding his beauty. Tolkien talks about Gandalf and Aragorn disguising their inner radiance on several occassions. When Frodo first sees Aragorn at The Prancing Pony, he sees an evil looking ruffian. However, when he espies Aragorn with Arwen at Rivendell, he thinks him the most handsome, beautiful man he has ever seen. The peope of Gondor have the same reaction when he finally reveals himself to them. As far as the Hobbits go, they were always being mistaken for children. Pippen has the hardest time convincing that kid at Minas Tirith, Bergil, that he's nearly twice his age!
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Elijah Wood, eh? I can see it. Frodo does have that Brandybuck blood in his veins, after all- he's not one of the short, hairy-footed hobbits. And Spall will do quite nicely as Gimli. Now we need a Legolas to complement him. Jonathan Rhys-Meyers, anyone? And I LOVE the idea of Oliver Platt as Sam. His Bulworth performance does indicate he has the stuff, as does his work in Funny Bones and even the Impostors. All have Gamgeean elements. If PJ's casting along national lines then all the hobbits will be American (they are the heroes, after all, and it's New Line's money), so that leaves... Jamie Kennedy and Seth Green for Merry and Pippin... no no no I'm KIDDING. (Or am I?) Bilbo's still the stumper, though. Charming, old, physically a little frail... (Damn, Joseph Cotton would have been perfect. Oh well.) If it's got to be a name (and what's the point of speculating otherwise?), how about Martin Landau? Now THERE'S someone who looks like he's worn a Ring of Power for a few decades! No, it's got to be someone more... comforting. Nope. I'm stumped. Anyone got any ideas? (And the first person to suggest Richard Attenborough gets a kick in the arse.)
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I must agree that although Gandalf is going to be the mascot of these movies, Sam is the one whose casting is going to make 'em or break 'em. He has possibly the most actable and certainly the most human character development in the book, as he is in many ways an "everyman;" and therefore it is imperative that the audience can identify with him. Sam is the one who takes the spotlight when he and Frodo break off into their own journey, as Frodo becomes increasingly drained by the Ring. Our sympathy with that journey depends on our endearment to him, which Tolkien produced in very subtle ways that can very easily be lost on the egocentricity of a non-proffessional Hollywood wannabe. As far as I'm concerned, this is the Oscar-worthy role--and nothing less will do!
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I must agree that although Gandalf is going to be the mascot of these movies, Sam is the one whose casting is going to make 'em or break 'em. He has possibly the most actable and certainly the most human character development in the book, as he is in many ways an "everyman;" and therefore it is imperative that the audience can identify with him. Sam is the one who takes the spotlight when he and Frodo break off into their own journey, as Frodo becomes increasingly drained by the Ring. Our sympathy with that journey depends on our endearment to him, which Tolkien produced in very subtle ways that can very easily be lost on the egocentricity of a non-proffessional Hollywood wannabe. As far as I'm concerned, this is the Oscar-worthy role--and nothing less will do!
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Spall is such a good actor. That's brilliant casting if you ask me Jackson!
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No, I am not thrilled with Ellijah Wood as Frodo but I will reserve judgement until I see him. I like McGoohan as Gandalf. Liam Neeson would be a perfect Aragorn but he will be hard to get. Christopher Lee would be good as Saruman or for a much larger role, how about Denethor?
The Hobbits are going to be hard to cast. I do think Wood is too young looking. I really hope he is not cast but wild horses could not keep me away from this movie. -
No, I am not thrilled with Ellijah Wood as Frodo but I will reserve judgement until I see him. I like McGoohan as Gandalf. Liam Neeson would be a perfect Aragorn but he will be hard to get. Christopher Lee would be good as Saruman or for a much larger role, how about Denethor?
The Hobbits are going to be hard to cast. I do think Wood is too young looking. I really hope he is not cast but wild horses could not keep me away from this movie. -
It's very true that, while there is so much talk about Frodo, it's really Sam that comes off as a far more heroic figure. Frodo goes through very little change during the three books, as he is already rather wise, brave and honorable. Sam, on the other hand, is transformed by the time the trilogy ends, especially during the final book and the confrontation with Shelob and the orcs. His character *grows* a we read. Certainly he has some of the best lines of the book. I think Tolkien cared for Sam very deeply, and I can't imagine a character in need of profoundly good casting (well, Gandalf and Aragorn) more than Samwise.
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Is Christopher Lee that guy who acted in all the Dracula films? I can't remember..has anyone got a recent picture posted ?
What about Ioan Gruffudd for Frodo? Serious, not a well known heart throb, no yankee accent.... well I think he's a great actor. I only ever saw Elijah Wood in Flipper - hardly a recomendation for a part of this weight. I think he'd get irritating through three movies.
I'd always thought of Gimli as much younger, but Timothy Spall'd make a great dwarf. Yeah, I ca see him as Gimli.
Legolas needs to be really good looking, young too. Can't think of anyne right now, ....
Does anyone know of a british casting office? A teensy part as an extra ..............
I can dream. -
Here's an idea for someone who could play another hobbit (either Merry or Pippin, since I guess he's too young-looking for Sam): what do you guys think about Tobey Maguire? As for the person who suggested Liam Neeson as Aragorn: I think you're right on the money! Also, Timothy Spall is perfect for Gimli. I HAVE seen Secrets and Lies, and he's a great actor with a lot of heart and a very sturdy presence. Now, please, PJ, just don't break this great casting trend by putting Connery in as Gandalf; he'd suck all the attention away from the other players, and he's not REALLY right for the part anyway. Ian McKellan gets my vote. :-)
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Okay, guys, I'm just throwing these out. Love 'em or loathe 'em: Tim Roth as Gollum, Catherine Zeta-Jones as Arwen, Carrie-Ann Moss as Eowyn, Edward Norton as Wormtongue, and John Goodman as Bombadil (okay, yeah, I know THAT part probably won't be in the movie, but still...).
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Yes, Elijah Wood is one actor I've pictured as Frodo for a while now. Those who doubt him, AVOID NORTH! He was VERY good in FOREVER YOUNG, and AVALON. He was also haunting in the ICE STORM. But I really want to mention JOHN NEVILLE (Well Manicured Man of X-files fame) would be an excellent Gandolf. And his 'Baron Munchausen' co-star Sarah Polley has been hitting the high marks of critics lately, she would make a great elf! Christopher Lee should be Saruman, and Ian MacKellin should be Elrond!
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Stupid, stupid me. I forgot,
IAN HOLM would make an excellent Bilbo! At first I thought Anthony Hopkins, then remembered that Bilbo isn't as wise as Sir Anthony seems. Ian Holm is no dummy, but he's played the humbled man VERY well(his King Lear was awesome)! -
Wood as Frodo really sucks!!! I
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Elijah Wood sounds OK, i guess, even though I imagined him as Pippin. My only concern is that I always picture Frodo at the end of the saga as really worn out by the ring, and I am not so sure he can pull it off. When I think about Frodo in the movie,it's always someone like Michael J. Fox in "The Frighteners".Tired and beat sot of guy.
About Platt: he sounds good, but if Wood got Frodo part it wouldn't work, because Sam is supposed to be even younger than his boss, and really naive and such.
FORGET ABOUT LIAM NEESON AND EWAN MACGREGOR!!!!!! As much as I like these two, they're in Star Wars already, and I sincerely doubt it would be possible for them to be in two sci-fi trilogies even if they want to.
My choice for Aragorn would be someone fortysomething like Daniel Day-Lewis or Ralph Fiennes, who can look rugged AND beautiful (in a Numenorean way) at the same time. BTW, who is Sean Bean? (this guy was elected by PJ fans in the TBHL voting booth)
I like Tom Baker for Gandalf, but Connery, unlikely as he is, would also be OK. His voice is powerful enough for the "One ring to rule them all" speech. Then again, he would look to Merlin-y.
Finally, Galadriel: she is Arwen's grandmother for chrissakes. She has to look at least a little bit older than her. So there are two choices: get a beautiful blond thirty to fortysomething actress or find a beautiful blond extremely young actress with the acting ability to show thousands of years of age and wisdom only through her eyes. My opinion is that the second option is only available through CGI.
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Here is the ultimate wizard duo:
Max Von Sydow as Gandalf and Patrick McGoohan as Saruman.
Although at first McGoohan seemed cool for Gandalf, I think he comes off as too scary and intense and would be a perfect Saruman. (Gandalf is supposed to appear kindly yet stern most of the time)
John Hurt might not be a bad second choice for Saruman, or even Richard Harris.
I'm pleasantly surprised by some of the above suggstions, Oliver Platt and Ian Holm are great ideas. Anyone think of a good Elrond? (The elves are the tough part, many of the older ones are supposed to appear very old and yet youthful and beautiful at the same time.)
If rumors so far are true Peter is off to a decent start. But please folks, lets end the Tom Baker type stuff. Yeah I thought he was cool too back in 1976, but it's not like he's been doing a lot since. I know geeks want to claim this film as their own, but I think we need to set some limits.
P.S. check out Max Von Sydow's small part in 'What Dreams May Come' to see what a perfect Gandalf he would be. (He's only 69 years old too I think, but looks appropriately ancient)
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I think one person here was close to finding the perfect Gandalf. As much as I respect Kenneth Branaugh (sp?) for his performances, there is another actor in Mary Shelley's Frankenstein who would be perfect as Gandalf.
Before you start wretching at my suggestion, see the movie and you'll know what I mean.
Gandalf should be played by John Cleese, as long as he didn't play a Monty-Python comic but the serious role he beautifully brought to life in Frankenstein.
See the movie, and if you have seen the movie and don't quite remember his masterful job, see it again. Once you have, you will know that I speak true! -
I've had a chance to mull these things over, and I'm obsessed with elves now. Everytime I see a weird looking actor I think, "He's an elf! She's an elf!" I thought that Rufus Sewell of Dark City would make an excellent Legolas. I picture the Middle-Earth elves as being darker and a bit (just a bit) swarthier than the Vanyar (the High Elves, a la Galadriel and Elrond). And yes, he is English. I used to be obsessed with Heather Graham as Galadriel, because I like the idea of a really young-looking actress playing this immortal, thousand-year-old character. But lately I've been thinking Elizabeth's Cate Blanchett would be even better. She's even Australian...she could commute. Liam Neeson is the exact right type for Aragorn, but obviously one fantasy trilogy is enough for him. So who's LIKE Liam Neeson? You know, in my weaker moments I actually think...heh, get ready to hate me...that they should get Mel Gibson for Aragorn. He's getting up there in age, he's done the medieval battle thing, he's ALSO Australian, he's a decent actor who's human seeming, yet an action hero. Enough of that. Ian McKellen really is a toss up, watch Gods & Monsters for his Gandalf side, watch Apt Pupil for his Saruman side. I think I slightly favour Saruman.
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You BASTARDS, don't you know that
Gandalf is to BE PLAYED BY
TOM BAKER.
Crazy Eyes you see!
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Ian Holm would make an excellent Bilbo, and he is familiar with the story. He player Frodo in the BBCs 13-hour Lord Of The Rings radio series in 1980. I would also like to add my support for Tom Baker as Gandalf. He is a wonderful actor, and would treat the part with the respect a 'big-name' actor (no offence, Tom)wold not give it.
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Wel, here goes Mr. Picky again. Sorry, but I am a perfectionist by personality so I need to clarify something Blah Blah posted. Galadriel is a High Elf, but she is not of the Vanyar. She is of the Noldor (Feanor's kin, in fact). Neither is Elrond (although he has some pretty nifty relatives). He has the blod of Maiar, Teleri and Edain in his veins. Not too shabby a lineage. Oh, and just for the record book, Galadriel was somewhere on the order of 10,000 years old or so (figuring roughly 3,000 years for each Age of Middle Earth). Oh, and my hat is off to Farmer Cotton for the kind words and support re: Aragorn. Eglerio! Yes, Tolkien even mentions that Aragorn's voice was disguised. He started out sounding like some bucolic country bumpkin, but his true, regal commanding voice came out in private with Frodo et al. For a really good interpretation of that, listen to the Strider-Frodo Prancing Pony scene in the 13-hour BBC drama and listen to how the actor portraying Strider changes his voice. Very subtle, yet insightful. And hi to MorGoth again. I'll talk to you off-line, Elf Friend. Cheers.
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Someone above mentioned that as much as they liked Oliver Platt for Sam, that he couldn't do it because of Wood's age, ie. Sam is younger than Frodo. don't forget though, that Frodo does not age in the 17 years that he is in possession of the Ring whereas Sam would have aged so while Sam is younger he should actually look older. I first suggested Platt fo the role of Bilbo but I do think he would make a perfect Sam. As far as I am concerned there is only one ethereal presence that could manage the role of Galadriel and that is Michelle Pfeiffer. Someone asked who Sean Bean is. I haven't seen him in much but I do know that he played the IRA terrorist out to get Jack Ryan in Patriot Games. I've always pictured someone like Ralph Fiennes for Elrond and Jeremy Irons for Aragorn.
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Sean Bean would be perfect in this role. Check him out as Sharpe in the British TV series about the Napoleonic wars. The first episodes were shown on masterpiece theater, but I had to rent the rest from the video store.
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Technically, Frodo is supposed to look at about that "coming of age" age. The problem is that most eighteen-year-olds on the screen are played by twenty-five-year-olds, so that's what we picture when we think of Frodo's age. On top of that, Merry and Pippen need to be younger, and none of us think of hobbits as children-- not singing beer songs and puffing on their pipes all day long, and anyhow not in the scene in Gondor when Pippen, the youngest, gets together with a real human child. As for Neeson, I agree, he's taken! Using him for both of the biggest trilogies of our generation would only make a stereotype of the genre and its hero, so let's maintain our dignity as fans of the original, please! Pfeifer would be the same case, now that she's going to be Titania--Tolkien despised his characters being compared with fairy-tale fairies such as Shakespeares'--and anyway, she's already a stereotype of the beautiful woman. We're trying to take this story out of the Hollywood context.
Ditto about Sean Bean--the "Who the Hell Is he" part. I saw him in Patriot Games, which was not exactly inspiring, and I'm suspecting sabotage of that TBHL casting poll until somebody tells me what everyone knows about him that I don't.
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What a shame Jeremy Brett is dead! He would have made the ideal Gandalf.
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Isn't Elijah a little to young for Frodo?
What do you think? -
What the hell is going on there?
I don't think that's a good idea.
Wood for Frodo? No i don't think so!
Well, and what was that:
Sean Connery for Gandalf -- pretty
cool!
But Wood -- no, pleeeease no! -
Speaking of "It's too bad 'so and so' is dead ...," we would have had the perfect Gandalf if he had not died in 1995, and that was Michael Hordern. He was a wonderful character actor, and an accomplished Shakespearean. He was the voice of Gandalf in the BBC Radio LOTR drama. If anyone has a copy of "El Cid" lying around, pop it in and look at the early scene where Chuck Heston (I agree he should in no way be connected with LOTR though I like him as an actor) has brought home some Moorish prisoners. His dad, Don Diego, is Michael Hordern. The man had the presence and the voice. Oh well, I vote for Chris Lee or Patrick MacGoohan as a close second. Namarie.
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Istari are Miar. They are from the lands across the sea, and are not subject to our ageing process. They should show effects of weather, but not the years, with the exception of the weariness time passing brings.
I would prefer powerful young actors over older actors for this reason.
Branagh would make a great Saruman or Gandalf. I see Saruman as dark haired, though. (DeNiro? Maaaaaaybe Duval, but he's pushing it.)
Boromir strikes me more as the Connery/McGoohan/Lee type. Besides, Connery seems to like dying in the middle of things lately anyway.... -
I'm having some difficulty trying to swallow the last suggestion for the role of Boromir. I can accept your view of a younger powerful actor for the role of Gandalf although he does need to have a long grey beard and long grey hair, but I don't get where anyone could get the idea that Boromir looks about 70 years old. He is the son of Denethor who is in the prime of his adulthood. I would think somewhere around 35 - 40 although he is of Numenorean descent which is a very long lived race. In any event, I don't believe this powerful warrior should look as if he is more comfortable using a cane than a sword.
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Sorry, Seafox, but although Istari (wizards) were indeed Maiar, they were put into bodies that looked old. To quote Tolkien in "Unfinished Tales": "...they went about in simple guise, as it were of Men already old in years but hale in body, travellers and wanderers,...and Men perceived that they did not die (unless it were that they aged somewhat in looks), while the fathers and sons of Men passed away." Gandalf and Saruman looked like old, vigorous but old, men. They were both white-haired. And Boromir was definitely in his prime, just a few years older than Faramir. And please, PJ, whatever you do, don't make the Numenorians (Boromir included) look like bearded Vikings! (ala Bakshi - ugh). Namarie.
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Okay, guys, this one took me awhile to come up with, but I think I've hit on the perfect actor for Aragorn: Gabriel Byrne. Not sure who he is? Rent The Usual Suspects and look at someone OTHER than Kevin Spacey (yeah, I know that's hard, but do it anyway). Byrne plays the real lead, the guy who gets killed in the first scene and then shows up in flashbacks. He's also in the Coen brothers' early film Miller's Crossing. Byrne is VERY Irish, with gray (I think) eyes, fair skin, and jet black hair just turning gray around the temples. He has a wonderful rumpled face that works equally well for a scoundrel or a king. AND he's a great actor, as you'll see if you rent these films I mentioned. Now that I've thought of him, I can't imagine anybody who could fill the role of Aragorn better than this guy. (Oh, and BTW, I like that suggestion of Ian Holm as Bilbo, too.) Somebody tell Peter Jackson!
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Hello again Folks!
Yesterday I read all this here and - man you're all
right. Lee for the role of Saruman, what a great idea.
Timothy Spall will be a perfekt dwarve, I've seen
some pics of him in a TV-magazine and at the first
second I was just shocked. But then I looked at him and
right, what a mighty old dwarve.
BUT: i CAN'T agree with this Wood-Stuff. I mean, he is just
to young and i can't see him in the role of Frodo.
Wood and the one mighty ring? Nope, can't imagine that.
OK, any coments to this? Mail me to:
nocturnal_shadow@hotmail.com
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Here are a few thoughts from an avid follower of the author, the books and the upcoming movie. I'm one of the many that have been continously encouraged by the actions of Mr Jackson over the last year or so (We're rooting for you Peter!!). This thread is an excellent read so far, so I thought I'd air some of my own thoughts while we're at it.
Aragorn
Someone asked who Sean Bean is. Bean's latest role was as the punchdrunk mercenary in Ronin. The guy that didn't cut the job requirements, and was given the boot by DeNiro's character. he also played an evil 006 in what I believe was the first Bond movie with Pierce Brosnan as lead (I'm only a casual Bond fan, so I fear I don't remember the title). He also played in a late-medieval-times mini-series for British television. the biggest thing against Bean in my opinion is his complexion. he seems to be naturally reddish blonde. He might be a good Faramir though. Personally I like the thought of Daniel Day Lewis as Strider. Although it wasn't so much to his presence, the last 5 minutes of Last of the Mohicans gives me goosebumps every time. He certainly has the range, and just maybe the weight, needed.
Frodo:
Elijah Wood wouldn't have got the role if he just looked like Frodo (and he sure does to me). If he has indeed got the lead, then he must have ousted an army of takers. I think he's got it in him.
Sam:
Don't have any good suggestions here although I suspect a young Bob Hoskins would have been suitable. Hard to find that "humble but strong" combo. Hope this goes to an unknown.
Gandalf:
I must say I'm surprised that I'm the first to express irritation by the suggestion that Kenneth Brannagh should get this role. I love his work (in particular as Dr Frankenstein and Henry V) but if he's Gandalf, then I'm The Dark Lord Sauron himself!! Brannagh is tiny, while Gandalf loomed over people like an eagle (and not just hobbits). Brannagh would IMHO make a better Bilbo than Gandalf (might even make a decent one). Unfortunately Brannagh presence comes in a very stylised package that is his, and his alone. I don't belive actors with such predefined charisma would be suited for the prime LOTR cast. It is for the same reasons I find Connery and Gibson offensive suggestions. I'm unable to express how much the image of Keanu Reeves as Aragorn scares me. He keeps his head above water in The Matrix, Devil's Advocate, Point Break and such, but he completely ruined Jonathan Harker in Dracula. Connery would probably give a memorable performance in grey, but does anyone actually think he's capable of a delivering an _inspiring_ performance? I fear not. It is Max Von Sydow for me I think (snyone seen "Hamsun"?), or maybe Patrick McGoohan.
Saruman:
Christopher Lee sounds good to me. The idea of clashes between him and Von Sydow gives me chills. McGoohan could pull this one off too, he just looks like eats fireballs for breakfast! ;)
Alrighty, those are the heavyweights that spring to mind this evening. Here are some other random thoughts:
Elrond:
Someone mentioned Gabriel Byrne. I'd slip him in here, not as Aragorn.
Legolas:
This guy:
http://www.sol.no/harket/img/pix/looking.jpg
Galadriel:
Gwyheth Paltrow has the build, but I'm not sure about her presence. Maybe Dolph Lundgren, who knows...
Boromir:
Sounds like a good way to ressurrect Tom Berenger's career. Can I say "Platoon"? Thank you. He would walk all over Elijah Wood and change the outcome of the book I tell you! Clancy Brown (The Kurgan) might be even better suited.
The Voice of Sauron:
Ron Pearlman
Anyways, just some personal opinions. Funny how some semi-solid rumours can spark these entertaining debates...
Sverre
PS!
Harry! I saw you with Ebert! Job well done! -
Edward Norton for Frodo!!Check out the innocent and persecuted Frodo look in Primal Fear and the world weary one in American History X!Don't you guys think Holly Hunter and Terence Stamp would make a great elven pair?
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Wow! Excellent suggestions and insights. Gabriel Byrne as Aragorn. That is an excellent idea. He is a very subtle, yet powerful actor. He also played Aramis in the recent "Man in the Iron Mask." he definitely has the presence and exudes a quiet, restrained intensity (gravitas if you will). I like it, Aleytys! And Sverre, you are absolutely correct about Branagh. While I love the man's acting, he ahas a very defined screen persona that just wouldn't work in LOTR. Besides, he's not tall and lean enough to be Gandalf (Mithrandir did indeed "loom" over others -- he was tall -- enough to be considered by Men as kin to the Eldar). And Ron Perhlman is a great choice as the voice of Sauron. Namarie.
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Sverre, after your impressive comments reference Branagh and Perhlman, I decided to check out the image at the website you mentioned. Man, this guy is almost the splitting image of Ted Nasmith's illo "Legolas Draws the Bow of Galadriel" (see the Rolozo Tolkien site!). Anywho this guys seriously looks like an Eldarin prince. Hmmm, he looks familiar, too. Isn't he the lead singer for that Swedish new wave band from the 80s called "aha?" If he can act, he would make a great Legolas. And thank you for having the insight to pick someone with BLACK HAIR! Yes, folks, Legolas and Thranduil have black hair not blond. They are, after all, Teleri, like Luthien and Thingol. And Teleri also (like the Numenoreans) tended to have grey eyes. As a matter of fact, getting back to the hair, MOST elves had black hair. Only a few houses of the Noldor had blond hair (the House of Finwe [e.g. Galadriel] being the main one). And I believe most of the Vanyar were blond. Anyway, to make a long post even longer, good call on Legolas, Sverre. I'd like to here more of your ideas.
Namarie' -
I've been picturing Jeremy Irons in the role of Aragorn but I must say that Byrne or Daniel Day Lewis would both be excellent choices. If you'd like to Byrne wielding a longsword he played Uther Pendragon in the movie, Excalibur, obviously a much younger Gabriel Byrne. I still think Christopher Plummer is the actor for Gandalf and I think Angus MacFayden would make an excellent Legolas. I hadn't thought of it before, but many kudos go out to the person who suggested Clancy Brown for Boromir. He would be excellent in the part. Recently, he was the drill sergeant in Starship Troopers.
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Legolas not blonde? You've got to be kidding! I've only read LoTR 14 times, but I'm SURE I remember reading that he's blonde! Of course, I could just be influenced by the psychedelic Jimmy Cauty LoTR poster hanging over my computer....Ahem! Okay, enough bragging. ;-) I admit, I could conceivably be wrong. So, Sverre, who IS this very Elvish-looking young man in the picture, and can he actually act? If he can, I'd say you've found our Legolas. Okay, so who do we have here now as our ideal cast? Elijah Wood as Frodo, a given. Timothy Spall as Gimli, also given. I vote Ian McKellan for Gandalf and Gabriel Byrne for Aragorn, but I'll take Max Von Sydow and Daniel Day Lewis as runners-up. Clancy Brown as Boromir? Yeah, sounds good to me! I've always liked him, and he's great at playing "conflicted" tough guys. Michelle Pfeiffer as Galadriel--a no-brainer! Ian Holm as Bilbo--you betcha. So, what do you guys think about my votes for these other roles: Tobey Maguire as Merry, Carrie-Ann Moss as Eowyn (or maybe Sarah Polley), and Catherine Zeta-Jones as Arwen.
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As much as I like Sarah Polley, I think she's too young for the role of Eowyn. I don't remember how she's supposed to be or if Tolkien ever even told us her age but my impression has always been late 20's/early 30's. I picture Charlize Theron in the role. I just can't picture Carrie Anne Moss in this role. Maybe its me but I find it difficult to think of her in anything but tight black leather pants wearing cool shades. Also, I don't picture her as a blonde which Eowyn needs to be. What about Billy Zane for the role Faramir. He always seems to get typecast as a villain, but I think he would do incredible justice to the noble younger brother of Boromir. He's got such strong facial features which I think are important in any descendent of the Numenoreans.
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I'd been wondering why nobody had suggested Gabriel Byrne for Aragorn; I thought maybe he had already been brought up and dismissed. I think he'd be excellent. He has that "look fairer, but feel fouler" quality. Has anyone suggested Nicole Kidman for Galadriel?
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Yeah, the guy in the picture is Morten Harket, lead singer of 80's pop-rockers A-ha. It was someone else who frist pimped him as Legolas (on the Nightrunner forum) and I've been tooting his horn ever since. I've seen him act in a few smaller roles, mostly Norwegian films (not Swedish ;), and he can definetely act. To what level I'm not quite sure but he shows promise and has a very maticuluos but natural English accent, which I think would fit an elf. Now all we need to do is get PJ to sit up and take notice (doh)! As for Legolas being dark haired or blonde, I don't believe his hair was described in LOTR, but the bloodline to which he belongs was as far as I know dark haired (Vanyar could give you the full history I'm sure ;). Kidman as Galadriel just might work (better than my half-ass Gwyneth suggestion anyways), and I'd like to throw a word in for Anthony Hopkins as Denethor. has been mentioned before as Eowyn, and I'm not such a stranger to the idea. It seems within the realm of possibility, considering her "Heavenly Creatures" connection with PJ. I've sadly missed out on HC. Anyone know if it is out on DVD?
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Uhm, that's Kate Winslet I'm talking about towards the end. Forgot her name for a second... :/
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Mel Gibson is NOT Australian. He was born in the United States.
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Kate Winslet for Eowyn? Hmm, might work--but I still favor Carrie-Ann Moss. I DO think she could convincingly go blonde, since she has fair skin and her eyes are blue. Anyone who's seen The Matrix knows she can really kick butt, and her angular facial features would work nicely for a Rohirrim. But I also like Winslet and would like to see her in LoTR--just not sure where (I don't think she's right for Galadriel). And speaking of Galadriel, Nicole Kidman is stunning, but I'm not sure she could project the age/wisdom thing as well as Michelle Pfeiffer can. The more I think about Daniel Day-Lewis, the more I think he'd work best in the role of Faramir. Think about it: he's got the athleticism and the intellectualism.
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I do not think elijah wood should be playing fodo, he's way to young.
Eventhough hobbits get older than humans i don't think they are supposed to look like 20 year olds when they are 50 as Frodo is when he starts his journey...
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I just wanna say that Daniel-Day Lewis is great for Aragorn. But I think that Elijah is too young to handle the role. Edward Norton could be Pippin. Shy timid and first , then grows physically and mentally. But I have no idea who Sam could be.
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Robin Williams would make a perfect Tom Bombadill.
And I always thought of Bilbo as someone looking like Tom Baker but smaller...
But he's apparantly been trying out for the role of Gandalf.
Someone metioned Anthony Hopkins as Denethor and i think that would be perfect.
And if Gollum wasn't computeranimated I would say Rik Mayall as gollum... -
I have to agree with chyren that Aragorn should be the Clint Eastwood type...
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After reading MEGAN "the importance of being sam" I can only say that MEGAN is right on the money. This is the most important casting of the movie. This part can make or break the film. I wish Peter Jackson the best of luck with this film. I like Sir Anthony Hopkins as Denethor, Michelle Pfeiffer as Galadriel and
CHRISTOPHER LEE IS SARUMAN!!!! -
How can anybody see Elijah Wood as a good choice for Frodo? I agree he has the right aura and skill for the role. I also agree that an actor who actually CARES about LotR (Christopher Lee/Tom Baker ? also falls in that category) will pull off a much more convincing performance. But Frodo was 50 years old when he set off on the quest. And the average lifespan for hobbits is 100. I think he would be better cast as Pippin. There's also this: the other hobbits are supposed to be YOUNGER than Frodo. On the matter of Timothy Spall, I think he looks right for Gimli. I don't know anything about his skill so I guess I'll go rent one of his movies :) Michelle Pfeiffer is PERFECT for Galadriel. Whoever said she doesn't have the commanding presence for the role is sadly mistaken: she's an exceptionally talented actress. I do not think that playing queen Titania in A Midsummer Night's Dream is that big a problem. It's not like AMSND is going to be even a tenth a big as LotR.
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Sorry Dufusyte, but I just can't go that step toward Rohirrim as Cowboys. Yippee kaiay get along little mearas just isn't in me. How did you arrive at this theory? I'm curious. The Rohirrim were definitely modeled only after the Anglo-Saxon archetype. Dan 42 and Lady Eowyn -- regarding Frodo and his age -- first of all, Hobbits look younger than their age, and, second, Frodo began wearing the Ring at age 33, so he looked 33 until the day he left Middle Earth. He looked the same age as his cousins. Also, while I like Michelle's acting very much, I just can't see her carrying off Galadriel, There is just that indefinable majesty and depth that I don't think she has. In fact, I can't think of any actress that can do it. It'll be very interesting to see who PJ casts in the role. Oh, and MorGoth, thanks for the backup on the dark-haired/dark-eyed elf issue.
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Whaddabout Merry and Pippin? Who do you all think should play them? After all, they're in the whole story and if they're annoying it'd really bite....So who's your casting pick?
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I think Elijah Wood is just as perfect for the role of Frodo as Sigourney Weaver was for the part of Dianne Fossey in 'Gorillas in the mist'. He has proven he can play very difficult roles (for example in "The icestorm" and he certainly has the kind of looks I would imagine Frodo to have after reading through the ring trilogy.
Perfect choice! -
I can't agree with vanyar, that Frodo should look like a 20 year old, I think that Frodo should look like he's 33 like he is eventhough he's a hobbit...
I don't think hobbits look younger than humans just becuase they normally get older. -
One thing people have to remember is that A list actors get A list money. They WILL cast good actors from the Blist for most of the roles because most of their budget will be CGI and Costumes and sets.
Forget having a wish list with 10 A lister's because it just cant happen. the Gimli casting of Timothy Spall makes senseas he would be cheap enough and a good enough actor to carry his role.
therefore
Legolas - Guy Pearce
Arwen - Peta Wilson
Strider - Teamaru Morrison (from once were warriors...i know hes a maori but look at him and tell me he doesn't look the part..and it would allow for easier casting of other local extras)
Gandalf- this is tough since there are so many great character actors but Ian Mckellan does sound good ...Brian Blessed is a bit too barrel chested but he has the voice who knows take your pick of one of the many suggestions. Patrick Stewart might be good now that I think of him.
Sauraman- Christopher Lee (he wants in and he is so good at being bad)
Balrog- CGI voice Clancy Brown
Sauron- well hes CGI but voice wise Ron Pearlman or maybe James Earl Jones (the only problem is then he sounds like Darth Vader)
Gollum- CGI with Mark Hamill doing the voice...from his work in cartoons I can confirm he could carry this one off with the right mixture of menace and pathetic desperation.
The Hobbits - god again with the toughies no matter who you cast people will make a fuss about it but at the risk of being lynched
Merry&Pippen - Edward Furlong and Maguire (they are good actors and they look the part)
Bilbo - Its almost to much to hope for Ian Holm
Sam - Oliver Platt
Frodo - a thankless role if ever there was one but if i was pushed I'd say Krenneth Branagh could do it, spo could Edward Norton at a crunch or that guy from Four Weddings and Sliding doors whose name escapes me but I think they will cast younger and go for Elijah Wood (to be honest he looks more like Merry or Pippen to me but I think he could pull it off if we are willing to give him a chance)
You could do some stunt casting with some of the other roles getting Big Names for a few days work relatively cheap or just go for relative unknown stage actors who could add some depth & weight to short appearances.
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Okay, before anyone denounces me as a heretic, let me remind you that I am as rabid a LoTR fan as they come (at one period in my life, I even celebrated Tolkien's birthday each year by re-reading LoTR). Okay, now, with that out of the way, I have to ask: just how important is it that the actor who plays Frodo be 30 or older? It seems to me that most of the people who object to Elijah Wood being cast as Frodo do so purely on the grounds that he looks too young for the part. And while other Wood supporters have argued that Frodo should look young anyway because he's had the Ring so long (which certainly does makes sense), I have to wonder: would it really be blasphemy to cast the movie with hobbits a little younger than Tolkien imagined them? No, I'm not talking about bringing in KIDS like (Valar forbid!) Jonathan Lipnicki, but if PJ goes with twentysomething actors (and actors like EW who can play twentysomething), they'll do better with portraying that childlike hobbit innocence than Kenneth Branagh or anyone in his age group could. Besides, how many people on this forum are either in their teens and twenties now, or first read LoTR in their teens and twenties? Don't you/didn't you picture the hobbits as close to your own age? I know *I* never seriously thought Frodo as middleaged, and I still don't, even though I'm 31 now, myself. Let's face it, Elijah Wood is about as close to the perfect Frodo as we're going to get, outside Middle Earth.
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I think Connery Lee and Baker could all pull off Gandalf but for those who want less famous people here are two elderly thesps that have dignity but not fame-Frank Finlay who played the hilarious Porthos in the three musketeers opposite the late great Oliver Reed as Athos,and was the witchsmeller in Blackadder series one otherwise John Wood who was Edward the 4th in Ian McKelllens Richard the third.Just alternative ideas
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Some good ideas on this thread. Keanu Reeves is ridiculous for any part as he can not act. I would second the nomination for Cate Blanchett as Galadriel. She has the presence, mature beauty and disposition, and has played queen. Gwyneth Paltrow as Eowyn would be great. She has the stature, blond hair, and is hopefully athletic enough (?).
Frodo? I have no idea. Except not Elijah Wood. He is too YOUNG. Frodo is a mature, weary character who must look older than 19 and a bit more careworn as well.
That picture of the guy for Legolas is perfect. The guy cast as Gimli is good.
Daniel Day Lewis is just way too short to play Aragorn. He was very good in "Last of the Mohicans", where he had to play a strong, physical role, but he is just not tall enough. Sean Connery would be fine for the role , but he is just too well know and too wanted for this movie to pull it off.
Patrick Stewart's name has not come up too much, but he might be a good Gandalf. -
H, I'm new too this page, but I feel I can contribute to the discussion about whether or not Elijah Wood will be suitable as Frodo. I have first seen him in Forever Young, a movie I didn't really care for. That was back in 1992 and when in spring 1993 I heard he is Huck Finn, I simply couldn't see that. I always thought Huck Finn must ba a 15year old redhaired brat, so this cute 10year old from Forever Young - no way!!! Then in fall 1993 I saw "The adventures of Huck Finn" starring Elijah Wood as an Inflight movie on the transatlantic flight from a vacation to the U.S back to Germany where I live - and I was exhilarated at Wood's performance! He simply didn't NEED to fit into the usual Huck Finn cliche, he could convince all by himself. The next year I saw "The Good Son" with Wood dwarfing Culkin (who was by far not as bad as some claim, but simply no match) in the portrayal of a terrified boy who stands alone against everyone and to the adult world appears close to madness. If anyone doubts Woods ability to excel in a most complex role, check out those two (and try to ignore the not-so-believable story of The Good son as such). DI and Faculty as well as Flipper before might have given Wood the impression of a teenie idol, however I think he did a good job at least in DI and Faculty (didn't see Flipper), it was certainly not his fault that there simply was nothing more in this parts for him to excel. Regarding age I first want to point out Huck Finn again (he would appear much to young then for that but definetely wasn't) and then that shooting for LOTR won't be on for quite a while and completing the trilogy will take even longer - so the Elijah Wood in LOTR (if it is to happen at all, taht is of course) won't be much resemblance to the youth you probably have in mind from DI or Faculty. I like LOTR a lot and I like Elijah Wood - I say he will be fantastic as Frodo and everybody who doubts it now will know better when he sees the movies - about the same way Anne Rice had to apologize to Tom Cruise whom she couldn't see as Lestad in "Interview with a Vampire" until he actually saw his performance.
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Everybody seems to be talking about sean connery as gandalf and I do think that he'd be really good and could definitely do it, but the problem would be this: Frodo and the rest of the hobbits are really the main characters; it's from their point of view that the story is told, and connery would, as would other famous actors with a lot of presence, kind of drown them out, if you know what I mean. I think they need someone just as imposing but less scene-stealing.
Who cares about Elijah Wood's age? Makeup and acting can change that pretty easily. And the hobbits always seemed younger to me, probably because they were fairly innocent and sheltered from the rest of the middle-earth. I think Woods could do it. -
Lady Eowyn, I guess I was thinking Frodo looked 20-ish since 33 is considered "coming of age," which is generally considered to be between 18 and 21 for us western humans. So, I figured they looked that age. Hmmm, maybe they don't. In any event, at the time of the War of the Ring, Frodo, Sam and Merry all looked roughly the same age -- Frodo-50 (looked 33), Sam-38, Merry-36. Pippin was the baby of the group at 28. Also, thanks Sverre for straightening me out on A-Ha being Norwegian. For some reason I thought they were Swedish -- go figure. In any event, if he can act (I didn't know he had done anything except the old MTV video for their first hit song) he would be a great Legolas. Cheers.
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Just stop this crazy "Who will play Frodo" thing.
Take a look at Wood, his face,his eyes, the talent to play Frodo the right way...Wood = Frodo.
He will also be a very important connection to a generation that never heard of Tolkien...but was raised with Jerry Springer, South Park and Pepsi. I assume that the most important thing to do here for Jackson is to bring the magic of Tolkien in a way that can either satisfy the die-hards and also will atract the new ones. I myself don't care about this stupid age discussions or if the actors are "exactly" the same as described by Tolkien..The most important thing for me is to feel that wonderful thrilling feeling I experienced while reading the book, and I hope all non-Tolkien fans will be surprised by these movies in a fantastic way. -
Camerion, you are absolutely right. It ultimately doesn't matter who plays Frodo (or any other character for that matter) as long as the heart and soul of that magnificent book shines through and fills us with the majestic, mythic feeling. Of course, we can still pick all the nits we want to. Hopefully we'll all do so in a respectful and courteous manner. Yeah, I know, I'm an anomaly in this age of "me first, the heck with you, who needs manners anyway." But, I've never let being considered a man out of his time stop me before. I just enjoy all the friendly banter over this film. We've waited a looooong time for this to actually happen. Now that it is, we should savor it. OK, I'll be quiet now . . . for now. :-)
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Its too bad that Ruth Gordon is not alive for this movie because she would have played the perfect Lobelia. And the actor who played Eddie Haskell on Leave It To Beaver would have made the perfect Ted Sandyman if he was young enough now to play the part. I think Peter Sallis would make an excellent Gaffer.
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I previously said that Elijah Wood was too young to play Frodo but the more I think about it, the more he makes sense. I had always pictured hobbits as thirty-ish looking, kinda like Willow. But in LotR, when comparing the hobbits with the others, it's easy to see how much younger/childish they are. The best way to portray this is surely to have 20-year-old actors. I really should learn to trust Peter Jackson! BTW, I never put Wood's acting ability in any doubt. To Vanyar: Michelle Pfeiffer is the ONLY actress who has that "indefinable majesty and depth" needed for Galadriel. It's frustrating: mere words can't express how much I think she would be perfect for the role.
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Dan42. I must say, the more I've thought about Michelle P. portraying Galadriel, the more I like the idea. Of course, PJ's film magic can me her appear as talk as needed (she is already very slender and graceful). And she definitely has the type of haunting, ethereal beauty to physically portray Lady G. And the more I think of her sensitive roles (she is absolutely radiant as Isaboe in Ladyhawke), the more I am swayed. You've convinced me, Michelle P. would make a superb Galadriel. Too bad PJ doesn't have the ducats to sign her. I can here Michelle now poignantly intoning, "I pass the test. I will diminish and go into the West, and remain Galadriel." I'm glad you had the insight to think of Michelle P. and stuck to your guns. I'm a convert. What do you think of Madeleine Stowe (Cora Munro in Last of the Mohicans) as Arwen? Cheers.
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It sure would help if I could type. It would help even more if I proofread my text (like I'm always telling my workers). Anyway, what i meant to say early in my last post, is "PJ's film magic could me=make Michelle P. as talk=tall as needed" Duh, learn to type, Vanyar. Cheers.
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without meaning offense to anyone, i would like to suggest that we are not making the best advantage of the opportunity we have on this site to discuss important issues about the filming of lotr, especially since we know pj reads at least some of this stuff. to any reader, is it worthwhile to wade through countless random opinions about (for instance) who should play who, with hardly any argument behind them,(and truly, to "go see" a million so-and-sos in a million movies to witness their potential as attested by one person is not practical)and can we expect to get any further than when we started this way? it's not that anyone's opinion isn't valuable, but what is there to attract special notice in one more than another, or to demonstrate the sensitivity of a deeply-thought idea, if we do not talk about the subtleties of (for instance) the characters and certain actors' styles, that we care about? i think there are a number of interesting problems we could solve together, that go more in depth to the artistic representation than the casting, too, if we worked and spoke in ways more conducive to group discussion and debate than just another blurt. or perhaps i am the only one who wants to be more serious, perhaps someone knows of another site where the discussion of these issues goes further? i am excited about the possibilities of what is close to a democratic, collective art-making, (never mind how much influence we actually have on pj's conscious decisions, the unified focus of a group's consciousness is powerful)but the problem in this potential is that the "product" of our work could become "levelled down" to our lowest collective potential rather than our highest collective potential. does anyone agree?
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Madeleine Stowe as Arwen? I guess she looks ok but I'm not *that* impressed. Remember: she's supposed to be the likeness of Luthien, the most beautiful elf that ever walked the earth. morGoth: did you make a point FOR or AGAINST Michelle Pfeiffer as Galadriel? I'm just not sure :)
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It's a definite yes from me! Elijah Wood *should* play Frodo. At first I thought, Nah! Elijah's too... something... to be a hobbit. But he's got that cute little grin that says "I'm a hobbit", so I guess we should make him a hobbit. Oh and, by the way, "LOTR" is not his fav book - it's "The Hobbit"!! So there :P
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I was re-reading the trilogy (I admit it's been a while) and I realized that JRRT really liked his horses. He even tells where the ponies end up after the stable is sacked. Being an equestrienne myself, I thought that was cool. I wonder where they're going to find a horse that lives up to Shadowfax's description. Whoever they get to be Gandalf had better be able to ride, because Shadowfax is supposed to go with neither saddle nor bridle...it'd be cool if they actually did that, but kinda dangerous...last time I tried that I ended up on my head. Dumb dumb dumb.
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Elijah Wood should play Frodo 100% he's the best choice so far!
I can't wait for this movie to be made, my dad read all these books to at bedtime when I was 9. So go Elijah!!!!!!!! :-) -
Elijah Wood should play Frodo 100% he's the best. I can't wait for the movie to come out. My dad read these books to me at bedtime when I was 9. Go Elijah !!!!!!!!!
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....I don't know casting that well but I do know the trilogy and most of J.R.R.Tolkien's work. This is required reading in school in the U.K. and has a large following in the U.S. for several decades. So you might notice the concern of all the previous posts. At 47 years old, I have wanted to see this in film since the early 60's, and not some cartoon version like Ralph Backshi's. This will be I believe one of the most important and serious films that we may see for some time. So, it has to be done correctly and for it to be meaningful Mr. Jackson will have to follow the books closely. He has already stated his commitment to maintaining the aura of the books. For that reason alone, I am very excited, but must wait for the opening day much like Bilbo waiting for the party..!!...one last note..even though I am American...we do expect the actors to have British or Australian accents....lol..!!
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FyreWizrd is right on the mark. LOTR is one of the most amazng pieces of literature ever written and deserves to be handled in the most detailed, sensitive, and loving manner possible. I believe it ought to be required reading in high school here in America. As for the accents -- ABSOLUTELY!!! I really don;t care who is cast as long as they do their role right, but they MUST have Brit, Kiwi, or Aussie accents. If the actor has to learn to do the accent properly, so be it. Elijah, get practicing! As JRRT put it, Middle Earth is a "particularly English" mythology and, therefore, should have that tone. Besides, I much prefer the way British accents set the tone for the story of Middle Earth. Just listen to the BBC LOTR drama and you'll see what I mean. By the way, just in case you are wondering, I'm an American not a Brit, so I can;t be accused of national bias. Sorry, but American accents won't work for any of the characters in LOTR. It just won't work (anybody remember Costner in RH:Prince of Thieves? -- shudder). Namarie.
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Acutally I always thought that the residents of Bree sounded like they had a midwestern american accent, like the people from north minnesota or maybe wisconsin. just in my head, though, donchaknow...
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I think that Elijah hase to play the part ...
But he is so good h -
Hey , I think he shud play in any movie he wants , he can dedide that!!
But anyway , he is SO cool and so pretty(Most when he was young !)
Well , bye ...
Brandy kisses from BELGUIM
Ps : Thell to my friend , Babs , that I am NOT mad anymore---->
Ik ben NIET meer boos op je Baba !
Maar een belofte is een belofte ..
Denk jij er ook eens over na ... -
I think he is the cutest young actor and has real beautiful eyes.He is also wise and a good actor who can
succeed in any role.
love from istanbul Turkey:) -
Hey TeeNWITCH ,
I am From Belguim ,
Like you shud know and I think he is THE best :
A saw THESE movies of him and yeserday I saw the movie DEEPIMPACT (I realy liked it !)
-THE GOOD SON (COOL! and horror and Elijah plays with the actor :Muculy Culcin)
-THE ADVENTURES OF HUCK FINN (he was young and I liked his eyes)
And I gowing to the videoteek(in DUCHT)--->where you can rente movies ...
and This is the list of movies of him I want to see !!
-RADIOFLYER
-THE NORD(or NORTH)
-THE ICE STORM
Well, rithe a text under this and a woud be verry happy !!!!! (Ps If you know Other movies from him and they are COOL than just rithe a text under this !!!!!!
HE CAN PLAY IN EVERY MOVIE HE WANTS ,HE'S THE BEST !!!GO,GO ,GO ELIJAH (WOOD)
xxx BELGIUM
xxx POUCKY
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Of course, little of this would come to pass due to the budget PJ seems to be working with, but we might as well have fun here. My proposals are mostly just my favorite of others' suggestions. I like Gabriel Byrne as Aragorn. Gandalf and Saruman should be fought over by Max Von Sydow, Patrick McGoohan and Nicol Williamson (if he's currently sane). Michelle Pfeiffer, I hate to say, IS Galadriel. Anthony Hopkins IS Denethor. Billy Zane, Johnny Depp, and Billy Crudup are all in the Legolas mold... I think Keanu Reeves is vastly underrated as an actor (his Siddhartha was quite extraordinary, I thought, and his only real clunker was Dracula), and could also play Legolas, though he's wrong for Aragorn. Rupert Everett would make a passable Elrond. Hope Davis (Myth of Fingerprints) would be a great Eowyn. Arwen Evenstar... impossible to cast. Maybe Milla Jovovich or Gwyneth Paltrow with black hair and contact-grey eyes would be striking enough. Elijah Wood is perfect for Frodo, but it'll be tough to find an equally young Sam, Merry and Pippin to match his talent. Just off the top of my head.
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Ok ok ok people,here we go:
Frodo *has* to be played by ELIJAH! It's just common sence!(and Yason, he can grow some facial hair you know!).The only person to play Gandalf is TOM BAKER!Whoever suggested that JAIME
KENNEDY and SETH GREEN as Merry and Pippin was a mind reader!Good choice!EDWARD NORTON or JOSEPH FIENNES for Wormtounge.CLAIRE DANES should be Eowyn.As for Galadriel...i was thinking of MICHELLE PFIEFFER but then again that would be too expected so I thought maybe KATE BLANCHET,MILLA JOVOVICH or even that girl form SPECIES.I have so many faces for Bilbo...how about:BOB HOSKINS, DANNY DEVITO,OLIVER PLATT,JOHN GOODMAN,FRED SAVAGE(if he put on some pounds),or mayyyybe
even(dare i say it?) ROBIN WILLIAMS? I agree with Jesswin on the choices of BILLY ZANE and JOHNNY DEPP but spare me on the CUDRUP guy! Someone mentioned JOHN NEVILLE...WHO THE HELL IS HE? If he is that "smoking-guy" i'm gonna kill! Call me crazy but SUSAN SURRANDON should be in there somewhere...just a thought.Please i beg you though, NO CONNERY AND NO PALTROW! -
So sorry Yason, I meant to back you up on the whole Elijah thing...it was Mqb that I wanted to tell. Ok now for a little back up on the whole thing with you people who are doubting him as Frodo. Let me drill this into your heads: THIS BOY HAS MAJOR TALENT!!! Sure he has had some corny movies on his resume but
*really* people who hasn't?
He is only 18! As for movies I do recomend that you see these choice flicks for further
proof:AVALON, PARADICE, RADIO FLYER, FOREVER YOUNG, HUCK FINN,
THE GOOD SON, THE WAR(best performance he's ever done) and ICE STORM. All the others were kinda cheesy or not a role that truly fit his talent.I will bet money that he can pull this off! Having a crush on the guy for about 8 years has led me to believe that the more passionate he is about the topic of his role the better he performs...and everyone now knows that he has read this book and self-proclaimed that it was his favorite! Maybe it's the true fan coming out in me that makes me want you guys to believe in him as much as i do. Whatever it is i am glad that the majority of you like the idea of him as Frodo as do i...obviously.
ok enough said. -
Tee, hee... Cheers.
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Guess this is the only way to get a post returned to this TB. In fact, ALL the Tailenders who were (shudder) banned and deleted should come back and post. Oh yeah...LARST!
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Here I was thinking I'd be sneaky and post last where no-one would bother to look... Cheers.
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I can't believe this is what passed for an AICN talkback way back then! How civil! How informative and charming! Thanks for the link. I totally forgot that we argued about Frodo's age. Ah me...those were happier times, eh? Namarie, mellyn!
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