Back in October we shared the news that our friends at Syzygy Forge were going to be bringing us some new items in 2026. They didn’t give many hints about that these items would be – adding to the collectible whisky they already make. But now their first new items have been revealed!
They tell us:
We will be producing three engraved wooden barrel lids: one featuring the primary The Lord of the Rings logo, one The Prancing Pony, and one The Green Dragon. Each design will be limited to 500 pieces, individually numbered on the reverse.
Feast your eyes!
The Prancing Pony and The Green Dragon artwork were designed by none other than Daniel Falconer, whose work at Weta Workshop, and particularly on Peter Jackson’s movies, is of course well known to us all.
Syzygy’s team go on to tell us:
The pieces themselves are quite rustic. They are made from authentic reclaimed whiskey barrels, and hearken to the “Barrels Out of Bond” chapter in The Hobbit, and are well suited for an office, study, or collector’s space.
They’re available for pre-order now. (When visiting Syzygy’s site, you’ll notice they also have a John Howe Collection coming soon! Can’t wait to see that!) And even better news – you can use the code theonering15 to receive 15% off your order! Order yours before they’re gone!
The highly anticipated animated movie The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim has its premiere in London tomorrow, December 3rd, ahead of release on December 13th. And the merchandise wagons are rolling!
There is MUCH coming your way! Clearly, the studio are planning for success – and a desire for collectibles. Here is what WB’s press release tells us:
Burbank, CA, December 2, 2024 — Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products invites fans to honor the legacy of the Rohirrim with new products inspired by the new original anime feature film “The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim,” based on the characters created by J.R.R. Tolkien. Returning audiences to the epic world of “The Lord of the Rings” Trilogy, the new collection includes stunning theatrical premiums, apparel, books, accessories, drinkware and tech accessories from premiere licensees and The WB Shop. Distributed theatrically worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures, the film will be released in theaters nationwide on December 13 and internationally beginning December 5.
“The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim” continues the legendary “Lord of the Rings” film franchise that debuted 23 years ago. The most awarded series in cinematic history, the six films have earned $6 billion at the global box office and won 17 Academy Awards. Set 183 years before the events chronicled in the original trilogy of films, “The War of the Rohirrim” tells the saga of the legendary House of Helm Hammerhand, the King of Rohan. When a clever and ruthless Dunlending lord attacks seeking vengeance for the death of his father, Helm’s daughter Héra must summon the will to lead the resistance or face total destruction.
Stand with the Rohirrim and wield beautifully designed products that echo the spirit of bravery and resilience. Whether sipping from collectible drinkware or outfitting devices with themed accessories, fans can immerse themselves in Middle-earth with cross-category products from top global licensees and the WB Shop, including:
Toys, Games & Collectibles
McFarlane Toys, renowned for its detailed collectibles, has launched a new series of four-inch scale “Collect to Build” figures featuring Helm, Héra, Wulf and Shank. Collect all four to assemble the Snow Troll. A Gold Label 4-pack exclusive to Amazon is also available now. Visit McFarlane.com for more. Each McFarlane figure comes with a piece of Snow Troll — collect all four to build, available on Amazon.
The new Funko Pop! Collection, now found on the WB Shop, is a must-have, featuring characters inspired by Héra, Helm Hammerhand and Wulf brought to life in Funko’s signature fashion.
BANDAI SPIRITS’ latest S.H. Figuarts line introduces two exciting new action figures, Héra and Wulf, each equipped with interchangeable hands, facial expressions and props for dynamic posing and display, available at Amazon.
Step into Tolkien’s legendary world with Games Workshop’s The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim – Battle of Edoras starter set. This comprehensive boxed set, available at Warhammer stores, Warhammer.com, and independent retailers, brings the epic conflicts of Middle-earth to life on the tabletop, providing everything needed to play out battles in the Middle-earth Strategy Battle Game. Whether you’re a seasoned strategist or a newcomer to tabletop gaming, experience the thrill of commanding armies in the heart of Rohan’s capital, Edoras.
For the Home
New blind bag foam bag clips and key chains bring fan-favorite characters like Héra, Wulf, and their animal companions to life in detailed designs by Monogram International. Bring Middle-earth into your home with the WB Shop’s “The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim” home goods collection featuring the “You Could Rule” can-shaped glass, a striking “Still Standing” two-tone mug and tote bag and a beautifully crafted Map of Rohan Flag.
Fashion and Retail
Dive into the WB Shop’s “The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim” apparel collection crafted for fans of Rohan’s heroic legacy. Show your allegiance with the “Shield Maiden” long sleeve shirt featuring a notable design that honors the valor of Helm’s daughter, Héra. The “Still Standing” oversized faded tee captures the courage of Helm Hammerhand and offers a relaxed fit with a vintage look. Channel your inner warrior with the collection’s “Wulf” hoodie providing warmth while standing strong against any challenge. WB Shop’s comfort colors tees—like the “You Could Rule” and “Héra” designs—offer a soft, durable feel in earthy tones, embracing the rugged spirit of Middle-earth.
Specialty retailer Hot Topic also offers an epic worthy collection of “The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim” fashions.
Tech
Enhance your workspace with “The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim” tech accessories featuring a detailed mouse pad, gaming mat and a sleek “Still Standing” laptop sleeve—all designed to bring the spirit of Rohan to your everyday space.
Publishing
From HarperCollins, begin a brand-new coloring adventure with The War of the Rohirrim Official Coloring Book, capturing the splendor of the Golden Hall atop Edoras, the breathtaking landscapes of Rohan and the ancient fortress of the Hornburg. The new The War of the Rohirrim Official Visual Companion is the ultimate introduction to every character, creature and location encountered in the new film. Both these titles are now available. In February 2025, HarperCollins will release The Art of The War of the Rohirrim, a comprehensive, large format hardcover offering unparalleled insight into the making of “The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim” and the complete creative journey from concept to finished film told by the artists and filmmakers themselves. With more than 1,000 never- before-seen sketches, drawings, character studies and environment designs, this beautiful full-color book takes readers through the development of ideas, offering a rare glimpse into the artistic development of the film, including finished designs and scenes that bring Rohan’s world to life.
Theatrical Concessions
In partnership with Snapco and Golden Link, exclusive “The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim”-inspired specialty cups and drink toppers — featuring characters Héra and Helm — bring an exciting new element to the theater experience. For extra comfort, the hooded blanket adds a cozy touch of Middle-earth garb to your movie viewing. Fans can also purchase additional collectible items such as a popcorn container shaped like a hammer and shield, plush figures and more, available at participating theaters starting this December.
About “The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim”
The original anime feature “The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim” returns audiences to the epic world brought to life in “The Lord of the Rings” Trilogy, based on the revered books by J.R.R. Tolkien. Under the direction of award-winning filmmaker Kenji Kamiyama, the talented voice cast is led by Brian Cox as Helm Hammerhand, the mighty King of Rohan; Gaia Wise as his daughter Héra; and Luke Pasqualino as Wulf. Miranda Otto, who delivered an unforgettable, award-winning performance in “The Lord of the Rings” Trilogy, reprises her role as Éowyn, Shieldmaiden of Rohan, who serves as the tale’s narrator. The voice ensemble also includes Lorraine Ashbourne, Yazdan Qafouri, Benjamin Wainwright, Laurence Ubong Williams, Shaun Dooley, Michael Wildman, Jude Akuwudike, Bilal Hasna and Janine Duvitski.
The original feature is being produced by Oscar winner Philippa Boyens, from the screenwriting team behind “The Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit” Trilogies, alongside Jason DeMarco and Joseph Chou. The executive producers are Fran Walsh, Peter Jackson, Sam Register, Ken Kamins, Carolyn Blackwood and Toby Emmerich. The screenplay is by Jeffrey Addiss & Will Matthews and Phoebe Gittins & Arty Papageorgiou, story by Addiss & Matthews and Boyens, based on characters created by J.R.R. Tolkien. The music is by Stephen Gallagher.
New Line Cinema and Warner Bros. Animation Present, in Association with Wingnut Films, a Warner Bros. Animation and Sola Entertainment Production, “The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim.” The film will be distributed theatrically worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures, released in cinemas nationwide on December 13, 2024, and internationally beginning 5 December 2024.
Don’t forget – we have you covered for all kinds of Middle-earth related goodies (including some of these exciting War of the Rohirrim pieces) in our Holiday Gift Guide!
As Tolkien fandom enjoys a period of riches, with Prime Video’sThe Rings of Power series, Kenji Kamiyama’s The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim coming out in just a few weeks, and Andy Serkis heading back to Middle-earth, there are also many fabulous new collectibles coming on to the market. Here at TORn we’re always delighted to showcase what our fellow fans of the Professor are creating. (Look out for our Gift Guide, coming next week!)
Recently we had the great pleasure of getting to know the folks behind Syzygy Forge. Their tag line is ‘Forging Superior Collectibles’ – and that they certainly do! Unusually, though, these collectibles contain alcohol… The folks at Syzygy Forge create spirits in beautiful bottles. The first of their Middle-earth collection, available to order now, is the gorgeous Green Dragon Wheated Whisky.
About Syzygy Forge, in their own words:
Syzygy Forge is a leading collectible company specializing in premium licensed merchandise. With a passion for storytelling and craftsmanship, Syzygy Forge creates unique products known for innovative and accurate design. The team strives to push the boundaries of creativity while honoring the rich legacies of iconic films, video games, and more.
A bit about Jordan Costner:
Jordan Costner entered the licensed collectible industry in 2019 and has since collaborated with major film and video game companies, delivering highly successful products that resonate with fans. Known for his attention to detail, Jordan takes pride in creating items that authentically represent the worlds they are based on.
In 2023, Jordan founded Syzygy Forge and is eagerly anticipating the launch of products inspired by his all-time favorite films, The Lord of the Rings.
“Peter Jackson, Richard Taylor and the other wizards at Weta Workshop were my childhood heroes,” says Jordan. “Growing up, I watched the bonus content on the extended editions countless times. What they achieve in the creation of their films is pure magic—and the biggest inspiration for what I do today.”
The Lord of the Rings™ The Green Dragon™ Wheated Whiskey
Step into the world of Middle-earth with The Green Dragon Wheated Whiskey, a meticulously crafted spirit inspired by the legendary inn of the Shire. This officially licensed special edition whiskey brings the warmth and charm of The Green Dragon to your glass.
Aged to perfection over four years, this wheated whiskey is artfully blended with the finest grains to create a smooth, rich, and full-bodied character. It also delivers a delicate balance of sweetness and spice, reminiscent of the lively gatherings at The Green Dragon. Every sip transports you to a cozy evening by the fire, surrounded by good friends and tales of adventure.
These carefully recreated details evoke the craftsmanship of the Shire, making The Green Dragon Wheated Whiskey not just a drink, but a collectible piece of Middle-earth lore.
Whether you’re a connoisseur of fine spirits or a devoted fan of the films, The Green Dragon Wheated Whiskey offers a unique opportunity to celebrate the brave and true. Pour a glass, raise a toast, and embark on your own unexpected journey with every sip.
Look out for Syzygy’s next collectible spirit, which will come in a bottle depicting the epic duel between Gandalf and the Balrog. Can’t wait for that one!
This beautiful mug has on one side Oscha’s own ‘Doors of Durin’ design, and on the other, TORn’s special 25th Anniversary logo:
The mugs are only available as a limited edition; they were on sale during San Diego Comic Con, and we’ve brought them back for THIS WEEKEND ONLY; after September 3rd they’ll be gone forever! You can pre-order online direct from Oscha; and for those who are at DragonCon this weekend, you can also purchase in person from TORn’s fan table (Hyatt Exhibition Level, opposite the entrance to the Art Show). So don’t delay – order this mug or grab one at Dragon Con, and celebrate the 25 years we’ve had together so far. The road goes ever on….!
Greetings from Atlanta, fellow Bagginses and Boffins, Tooks and Brandybucks, wizards and elves, Rohirrim and Beornings, Men and Women of the West, Nazgúl and Uruks, and other glorious embodiments of the diverse denizens of Middle-earth! And Proudfoots! (‘Proudfeet!’) It’s Labor Day Weekend, which means Smaug is stirring in the form of the singular Con forged by fans for fans (why, just like TheOneRing!): it’s Dragon Con time!
Now in its 37th year, and much like the world of fantasy in general, Dragon Con has always leaned heavily into its Tolkienian roots, with Middle-earth inspired programming, cosplay, partying, and a global Fellowship serving to inspire many of the 70,000 or so fans who converge on downtown Atlanta every year. And the 2024 version will be no different! Here’s a quick rundown all the Tolkien goodness that will be happening this year, indeed when there seems to be an explosion of so much we can celebrate!
Movie Guests: The Hobbits Are Coming to Dragon Con!
It’s a long-expected celebration as we welcome three excellent and admirable hobbits back to our annual party! Billy Boyd and Elijah Wood have been here before, with 2023 serving as a Frodo first for the con. It’s great to have him back, along with an inaugural visit by Dominic Monaghan. We’ll enjoy reminiscences and revelry, past shenanigans and current updates from gentlemen who still bow to no one! Find them at various times across the weekend.
Alas they’re not bringing Orli with them to Atlanta…
Media Project Updates and an Event: So Much Happening!
International South, Hyatt, 7pm Thursday 29th – watch The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power
Prime Video was so courteous to schedule the opening of Season Two of The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power on the same day that Dragon Con kicks off! They were especially gracious to allow us to host a Release Day Watch Party in a large ballroom space in one of the host hotels where we’ll get to all three of the first episodes on a big screen with 400 or so of our closest friends. There will be swag!
L401-403, Marriott, 11.30am Monday 2nd – The Rings of Power panel
TheOneRing.net will also be hosting a panel on Monday offering an opportunity for reactions and speculations from a crackerjack panel, including our good friend Willie Jenkins aka KnewBettaDoBetta.
L601-602, Marriott, 1pm Friday 30th – The War of the Rohirrim panel
Just as exciting is the upcoming December release of The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim, the anime collaboration between the same team that brought us both the LotR and Hobbit movies, along with director Kenji Kamiyama. We’ll have a dedicated panel to discuss the recently released trailers, and special recorded interview with producer Jason DeMarco as he digs into some details with staffer greendragon. (Also look for swag…!)
Centennial One, Hyatt, 11.30am Saturday 31st – Middle-earth Updates with TORn
We’ll even do some speculating about the recently announced next movie release coming in 2026, the PJ-produced, Serkis-directed The Hunt for Gollum. That will happen as part of a general update from TheOneRing.net staffers at Dragon Con, along with some good friends, covering a vast smorgasbord of things we have to look forward to in the Tolkienverse.
Some Scholarly Conversations: Academics Can Party?
Tolkien fans are noteworthy for also loving to dive deeply into Tolkien lore, characters, themes, and discussions as part of their experience. We’ll be scratching that itch on a number of fronts:
L401-403, Marriott, 1pm Saturday 31st – Here at the end of All Things: Tolkien’s Apocalyptic Visions
Our good friend, professor, and author, Constance Wagner, was asked recently about contributing to an upcoming publication discussing apocalyptic themes in fantasy literature. The inquirer wasn’t sure there really was much in Tolkien’s legendarium that dealt with that kind of thing. After Constance calmed down, she recruited a couple of us to join her in road-testing just how apocalyptic Tolkien can be, and across all the Ages of Middle-earth starting with the Music of the Ainur. And what better place to do that than among Dragon Con friends! We may have to hand out cookies to lighten the mood a bit, though.
L401-403, Marriott, 11.30am Sunday 1st – On Fairy Stories
Tolkien’s On Fairy Stories serves as a fundamental apologetic for the importance, depth, and suitedness of these stories in their application to the human condition. Plus they’re good reads. We’re looking forward to engaging with other fans on these foundational ideas.
L401-403, Marriott, 4pm Sunday 1st – The Collected Poems of J.R.R. Tolkien
With the publication of the massive three-volume edition of The Collected Poems of J.R.R. Tolkien mere weeks away, we take an hour to focus on what we can expect from this monumental effort from scholars Christina Scull and Wayne G. Hammond. And we’ll probably do a bit of group confession of how many of us skipped the poems during our first LotR reading or two. We may even listen to Tolkien himself reciting some of his verses.
Parades, Partying, Dancing and Singing: Always Trust an Elf! Or a Hobbit!
Grand Ballroom, Courtland Grand, 8.30pm Friday 30th – An Evening at Bree
Dragon Con (unlike many of those “CC” alternatives around the country), is especially knows for its literal 24-hour partying spirit, both informal and officially sponsored. One of those latter parties, indeed one of the longest standing parties across Dragon Con’s history, is our annual Evening at Bree. Always happening on the first full-day of the Con, this Friday evening festival combines live bands (since back in those the Emerald Rose glory days! – this year we’ll have Landloch’d, Beth Patterson, and the Brobdingnagian Bards playing), dancing that’ll bring joy to the most curmudgeonly hobbit, a costume contest showcasing jaw-dropping cosplay talent, and a mini-concert from Bree’s own Elf Choir who gather to rehearse and present iconic fantasy tunes all on the same day. It’s a great way to kick off the Con in a celebratory mood.
Elf Choir performing at Evening at Bree in a previous year – photo courtesy of Geek Behind the Lens
Grand Ballroom, Courtland Grand, 5.30pm Friday 30th – Sing with the Elf Choir
That Elf Choir, in addition to their larger contingent who perform at Bree, also has a dedicated group of master singers, garbed in elven cloaks and sporting ethereal lanterns, who make their way through the Dragon Con masses on their long and melodic journey into the West. Fortunately, the Grey Havens are proving elusive, and they’ll be back again this year.
Grand East, Hilton, 7pm Sunday 1st – Hobbit Drinking Songs
One of the most riotously reeling renditions of Shire shenanigans happens with the Brobdingnagian Bards’ annual concert (and excuse to dance spontaneously): Hobbit Drinking Songs. They’ve been at it long enough that many in the audience join in, at least on the choruses. And they have CDs!
Grand East, Hilton, 10pm Sunday 1st – High Fantasy Goblin Ball
One of the last parties we’ll be joining this weekend is one where staffer deej will be taking the lead: The High Fantasy Goblin Ball! We always like to pick a theme for these dance parties, usually picking a favorite decade where deej focuses her musical stylings. We’re back to the 80s this year, and using a Goblinesque orientation in whatever forms our attendees might choose. The mashup cosplay has gotten pretty hilarious in years past. The Eye of Sauron in shutter shades, anyone?
Home for this Tolkien-inspired programming, and for many of us Tolkien-addicted people, is one of Dragon Con’s 35 or so dedicated fan groups, or “tracks”: The High Fantasy Track. Home base is right in the center of all the action, on the lobby level of the Marriott Marquis (L401-403). Should you be attending Dragon Con this year, come by and say hi to fellow fans there!
Grab some merch – celebrate 25 years of TORn!
You should also, of course, visit staffers greendragon and deej at TheOneRing.net’s fan table in the Atlanta downtown Hyatt, down on the Exhibit Hall level just across from the Art Show (our usual spot). There you can get some fabulous merch – shirts, buttons, and more! Show your political allegiance by voting Gollum/Smeagol 2024; or show your love for TORn with our 25th anniversary shirt and mug.
We’re looking forward to seeing friends old and new! Now forgive us as we go finish up that last flourish on our cosplay!
We’re delighted to reveal a special collaboration we’ve worked on with our friends at Oscha: TheOneRing.net 25th Anniversary mug! Now available for pre-order.
This beautiful mug has on one side Oscha’s own ‘Doors of Durin’ design, and on the other, TORn’s special 25th Anniversary logo:
The mugs are only available as a limited edition. You can pre-order online direct from Oscha; and we’ll also have a limited quantity of mugs available for purchase in person at DragonCon this year. (Sorry, we won’t have the mugs at SDCC this week; but we will have pre-order information!) Please note, this pre-order is for a VERY limited period – it ends July 31st at 4pm BST (11am EST). So don’t delay – order this mug and celebrate the 25 years we’ve had together so far. The road goes ever on….!
