The Hunt for Gollum

Written By: mike on August 26, 2010 No Comment

“The Hunt for Gollum,” a short film put out by Independent Online Cinema, borrows some of the key characters from Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings Trilogy. It looks at the time shortly before the first original film begins. We see a likeness of Stryder, and a likeness of Gandalf discuss the famous “ring to rule them all.” Essentially the short film focuses on Aragon finding Gollum and intercepting the ring. For anyone who is an avid fan of Tolkien’s work the question is, “Can I get past the actor and actress changes?” Let me put this short film in perspective.

I am one of those avid Tolkien fans. I first read the Hobbit when I was nine, and I have been in love with Tolkien’s stories ever since. I was impressed with the cinematography; the sweeping landscapes were not bad. The musical score was appropriate, and the special effects were decent. I thought the fight scenes, while a little awkward, were accomplished. I enjoyed the suspense. The line in the disclaimer at the start of the film says it best, “this work is produced solely for the personal, uncompensated enjoyment of ourselves and other Tolkien fans.” If we look at the work this way, then the real question is, “Did I enjoy it?” Alright, I enjoyed it, the film made me want to have a Tolkien Trilogy movie night.