Variety had a sit-down with New Line chief Toby Emmerich about the state of the modest, smaller and newly profitable New Line film studio and its new existence under the Warner Bros. umbrella. The conversation turned of course to “The Hobbit.” We learn, among other things that executive Michael Disco will oversee the two movies for the studio. Variety also spoke with Warner’s Alan Horn who, according to the article, “… won’t predict when the first of the two “Hobbit” films will be out, but says the most probable scenario would be a release in the fourth quarter of 2012.”

It concludes with, “It’s a big bet for us. But it’s one we think will pay off given the success of ‘Lord of the Rings,'” says Emmerich. “This is one of the few movies it feels like people are waiting for.”

We know a few people who are indeed waiting for these films. In fact that “2012” date that just got thrown around may start a riot. Remember fans, biting your nails and tearing out you hair will not make things happen faster, nor will turning over cars or looting – the latter two reactions only lead to jail time. Read the whole story here.

Repost from down below..just to keep everyone in the loop:

Once again, I have confirmed the rumors:

Tobey Maguire is NOT PLAYING BILBO BAGGINS

The definitive answer I just received is ‘No truth’..plain and simple..two words…it’s over. Spread the word!

UPDATE: The director of ‘The Hobbit’, Guillermo del Toro himself, popped into our message boards to confirm this fact, Maguire is NOT playing Bilbo. More..

Peter Jackson November 2009First, HAPPY NEW YEAR WORLD! 2010 is ripe with promise for fans looking forward to the filming of two Hobbit movies to begin.

And next, Peter Jackson is now ‘Sir Peter’ as he was among a group of five New Zealanders awarded the status of ‘Knight’ or ‘Dame’ on the New Year’s list. In a written statement, Sir Peter called receiving the honor an “incredible moment”. “I didn’t think anything would surpass the 2004 Academy Awards, but I was wrong.”

A big thanks to all of those who sent in links about the story while we were enjoying the holidays with our families. There are many places to read more including: www.stuff.co.nz, www.nzherald.co.nz, and www.empireonline.com. Congrats to Sir Peter and his team who have had such a big impact on New Zealand and the world.

We’ve heard news from up on high that even the NEW address to send your Hobbity likeness for possible contention for The Hobbit is not accurate. In fact casting calls will not be announced until February 2010. That being said, get your CV (resume) and headshots ready..we will announce as soon as we have confirmation!