The Filming For HOBBIT Moves To Summer 2010

Not too long ago, the great Peter Jackson told the world that they’ve finished the first script for THE HOBBIT which comes in 2 parts. They delivered the script to the studio and they’re very happy about it. Sounds like it’s going to be smooth sailing from here on out right? Nope, not even close. If you recall, Sir Ian McKellen a.k.a Gandalf once said that shooting would most likely start in Spring 2010 but Jackson just gave another update via Moviereporter.net, thanks to TheOneRing.net for the translation…

We’re currently working on the second script which we hope to have completed by the end of this year or beginning of next. When the scripts are completed, we can begin with the exact calculation of the necessary budget. We hope to start filming in the middle of next year. However, we’ve received no green light from the studio yet.

One one hand, I can understand the wait, I mean why would you want to fund a project based on only one script when there’s supposed to be more? Granted some studios have done that in the past but nothing good comes out of rushing into things. On the other hand, Warner Bros. that now owns New Line shouldn’t doubt Jackson and GDT, what else do those 2 need to do to prove that they’re worth the investment?
Some suspect MGM’s financial fiasco is what has put the greenlight on halt.
This delay does serve some grounds for concern. McKellen said filming would take about 383 days. So if it starts next summer but THE HOBBIT part I is scheduled to be release in fall 2011, that’s probably not enough room for post-production which as you know is a vital part when dealing with stories that require detailed big budget FX. Unless the Jackson’s FX wizards at Weta are real actual wizards who can perform magic and miracles within a short period of time.

THE HOBBIT part I opens 2011 and part II opens 2012