Middle-earth is finally starting to feel close again. As fans have been curious for years about what a new live-action The Lord of the Rings film would be like, The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum project is beginning to transform from an exciting concept into a real film. Although there are still many uncertainties regarding the cast, according to Andy Serkis's recent comments, this project is now closer than ever. It seems fans won't have to wait too long for significant updates.

In a conversation with Steve Weintraub from Collider about the Animal Farm film, Serkis was asked how long he has known that Stephen Colbert would co-write the script for The Lord of the Rings. Serkis noted that these developments have been ongoing for a while. "When you're here in New Zealand, it's possible to hear about these kinds of things," Serkis said, expressing that Colbert is a Tolkien fan and has been doing trivia with some producers here. This adds quite a nice energy to the project.

Serkis also provided a more practical update on when filming for his movie will begin. "We are very close to starting filming," Serkis emphasized that they are in an exciting process. "We have a great team," he added. These statements indicate that the project is progressing rapidly.

When it comes to casting, regarding speculation about whether Elijah Wood and Ian McKellen will return to their roles as Gandalf and Frodo Baggins, Serkis responded with a laugh, "Yes, that's completely secret, but an announcement will be made soon." These two original stars are already prominently part of the film's DNA. While Serkis returns to the role of Gollum, he is also taking on the direction of the film. This creates an important link between the new installment and Peter Jackson's original trilogy. Jackson's return as a producer gives the project a sense of continuity with the previous films.