For about a week now, I have been fighting with a nasty case of the flu, confined to bed, and barely getting to check the latest news on TORn. Last Friday, I opened my frontdoor to discover a ‘get well’ package. Lo and Behold, someone had sent me the newest collectible from LOTRshop.com: ‘The Three Wizards.’ Yeah, you know, the ‘Three Wizards’ prize from a few contests ago has finally shown itself, and I must say, it is AMAZING.
So what is it?
It is a limited edition framed photograph of Gandalf (Ian McKellen), Saruman (Christopher Lee), and Peter Jackson as they are preparing for a scene outside of Orthanc.
Now this isn’t any normal cheap computer print-out. This is an actual photograph captured by Pierre Vinet, one of the still photographers on set during the filming of The Lord of the Rings. The frame is equally as valuable. The photo is perfectly mounted in a black wood frame with off-white matte and covered by UV-filtering plexiglass.
The true test of the quality of this product was how my SOTORN would react to it. (SOTORN? Yeah, you know, Significant Others of Tolkien Obsessed Reactive Ninnies) Well, she loves it. So much so, she said, “I would rather have this in our living room than The Two Towers poster!” She is also a photographer by trade, so that gives you a good idea of the quality of this piece in the eyes of someone who knows about such things.
Here is the description from the LOTRshop.com which includes dimensions and other important info:
A stunning juxtaposition of Middle-earth and twenty-first century filmmaking, it shows Gandalf, Saruman, and Peter Jackson during production of The Lord of the Rings movie trilogy. Still photographer Pierre Vinet captured this defining moment on location in New Zealand as Ian McKellen (Gandalf), Christopher Lee (Saruman) and writer/director Peter Jackson prepared to shoot another scene. Each wizard is dressed in his powerful garb — Gandalf and Saruman wear their flowing robes, while Jackson strolls beside them in his trademark shorts — and each holds his magic-making device — Gandalf and Saruman carry their staffs, while Jackson holds his notes for the day’s shooting. The photograph is a full 12 by 18 inches, is professionally matted and framed in an 18 1/2 by 23 1/2 inch black wood frame, and is protected by UV-filtering Plexiglass. A holographic New Line Cinema sticker is affixed to the rear of the frame to certify the photograph’s authenticity. Perfect for display in your home or office, this exclusive item is available in strictly limited quantities. Don`t miss the opportunity to own this amazing photograph which shows these three masters as they bring The Lord of the Rings to life!
If you are looking for that perfect gift for someone this season, this is something that will brighten any Holiday.
