Filming Begins on The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum, With First Look Video Showing Andy Serkis Back in Character
Director and actor Andy Serkis has announced the commencement of principal photography for The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum, releasing an exclusive behind-the-scenes video that provides the first glimpse of the production in motion.
The video captures Serkis on the motion capture stage at Weta Studios in New Zealand on day one of filming, showcasing the actor’s return to his iconic role as Gollum. While not a traditional trailer, the footage offers insight into the production’s technical approach and New Zealand setting, with the location likely to be recognizable to fans of the original films.
In the behind-the-scenes footage, Serkis describes heading onto the mocap stage for the first day of shooting. After being informed the team will begin with scene one featuring himself, he immediately assumes a characteristic Gollum pose while standing atop a nearby box, demonstrating his familiarity with the character after nearly two decades. The moment captures Serkis fully in character, growling as production commences.
The film marks a significant continuation of the Lord of the Rings legacy through a new theatrical release, with Serkis taking on both directorial and lead acting duties. His performance-capture portrayal of Gollum helped revolutionize the technology in cinema, and his return to the character represents a major milestone for the anticipated project.