Yes, as many of your predicted, this was our April Fools joke for 2009! We hope we ‘got you’ for at least a little bit!

For a few months now, we’ve all been wondering why there’s been such a cloud of secrecy from Guillermo and PJ regarding progress on The Hobbit. Well, today we got wind of what could be the biggest story so far about this much anticipated film: a report that negotiations are under way for a third film!

On condition on anonymity, our source revealed that some of the main sticking points include amendments to PJ and GDT’s contracts requiring an additional 3 months of principal photography, and temporarily suspending some of their other projects.

Our insider also mentioned some legal wrangling with the Tolkien Estate to acquire additional rights to materials not currently under license which would provide the bulk of the plot for the third movie. What specifically this could be is a guess, but our source seems to imply delving into the back-story of the Istari (Wizards) including Gandalf and Saruman’s youth in Valinor. The inclusion of other young wizards at the academy would provide an opportunity for cameos from LOTR actors who’s story arc doesn’t fit into The Hobbit. The latter would go a long way toward explaining recent cryptic quotes from LOTR actors about possible appearances in The Hobbit.

We’ll keep you up to date as this story progresses. Our source is sending us an update tomorrow.

Jackie writes: Today Turbine released new assets from Book 7: Leaves of Lόrien, the latest major content update for subscribers of The Lord of the Rings Online (LOTRO): Mines of Moria. The screenshots depict new crafting instances found in Book 7.

Book 7, delivers the next installment to the epic story of LOTRO, a new 12-player raid, the Spring Festival, access to the full region of Lothlorien, and major gameplay enhancements. It is available now to subscribers in North America and Europe.

Sean BeanCelevon writes: Sean Bean has been cast as Zeus in the new fantasy film: Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief. It’s based on a series of children’s books by Rick Riordan. Sean Bean is Zeus

Reclaiming the BladeTheOneRing.net is teaming up with Galatia Films to celebrate the DVD release of ‘Reclaiming the Blade’ by giving away the ‘Late 15th Century Bastard Sword’ from Albion Swords! A prize worth nearly $500! Entering the contest is super easy – you don’t even need to answer any questions! ‘Reclaiming the Blade’ is narrated by John Rhys-Davies and features appearances by many LOTR veterans: Viggo Mortensen, Karl Urban, Bob Anderson, John Howe and Richard Taylor of WETA Workshop. The DVD will be released on March 30th, but you can place your pre-order today at the Galatia Films website. So after you enter the contest, secure your copy of the DVD today! [Contest Page] [Pre-Order the DVD]

Empire Awards 2009 Mortensen BeanAt this year’s Jameson Empire Awards, the winner of the “Empire Icon” award was kingly indeed. Viggo Mortensen was presented the award by non other than Boromir (Sean Bean) whom also became part of Viggo’s acceptance speech:

“Let’s talk about Sean Bean. Empire magazine was an early and ardent supporter of Lord of the Rings before it even came out. Now as far as I know we’re not in The Hobbit but they’re going to try and find a way, just for fun. I’m not necessarily against the idea. They may try to link that book to the book we were in. But I was looking at Tolkien’s version of the world. In order to do a prequel to The Lord of the Rings, I’d probably have to be changing Boromir’s diapers because I live longer or whatever. “

You can see a video of the acceptance speech as well as read it on Empire Online.

Jeff sent us updated information on the Kansas City LOTR Concert this May.

THE KANSAS CITY SYMPHONY & CHORUS PRESENTS THE LORD OF THE RINGS SYMPHONY THURSDAY, MAY 7 & FRIDAY, MAY 8 AT 8PM MUSIC HALL, DOWNTOWN KANSAS CITY

Join the Kansas City Symphony & Chorus on a musical journey into the realm of Middle Earth! Since its premiere in 2003, Howard Shore’s The Lord of the Rings Symphony has received standing ovations on four continents. The musical experience is heightened with projected illustrations, storyboards and more than 200 performers on stage. Tickets: $28-$88, plus all applicable taxes and fees. Tickets available now through Ticketmaster.com or call 1-800-745-3000!

In related news Howard Shore will be at the Radio City Music Hall event this fall in NYC. Watch FOTR with a 300 member orchestra and Howard shore! Tickets Available at Radio City Music Hall or Ticketmaster.com

Continue reading “Updated Kansas City Symphony News”