The first footage of Ian McKellen, returning as Gandalf in "The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum," has appeared online. In a behind-the-scenes video published by the Tolkien Universe community on Twitter/X, the actor is seen in his recognizable guise after completing his makeup.
The plot of "The Hunt for Gollum" is based on events and materials from "The Fellowship of the Ring" and the appendices to J.R.R. Tolkien's novel. The story will tell how Aragorn, then known as Strider, at Gandalf's request, sets out to find Gollum to preempt Sauron and prevent him from discovering the location of the One Ring.
Filming for the movie began in mid-July 2026. Andy Serkis is directing and will also reprise his role as Gollum (Sméagol). In addition to Serkis and McKellen, Elijah Wood (Frodo Baggins) and Lee Pace (Thranduil) will return to their roles.
Newcomers to the cast include Jamie Dornan as a young Aragorn (Strider), Leo Woodall as a new character named Halvard, Anya Taylor-Joy as Serene, and Kate Winslet as Marigold. Philippa Boyens, Phoebe Gittins, Peter Jackson, Art Papageorgiou, and Fran Walsh are working on the screenplay.
The premiere of "The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum" is scheduled for December 17, 2027 — on the same day as "Avengers: Secret Wars."