This weekend, Ian McKellen stirred excitement among fans at a fantasy convention in London by revealing that Frodo Baggins will appear in Andy Serkis’ upcoming Lord of the Rings prequel, The Hunt for Gollum. Frodo’s return isn’t the only familiar face rumored for the film set to release in 2027, but his involvement raises intriguing questions about the timeline established in Tolkien’s universe.
As an established voice in fantasy storytelling, I feel compelled to unpack the significance of Frodo’s appearance alongside the events leading up to it. So, let’s delve into the timeline of The Hunt for Gollum.
When Is The Hunt for Gollum Set?
Producer Philippa Boyens revealed to Empire Magazine that The Hunt for Gollum takes place after Bilbo’s birthday party but before the Fellowship enters the Mines of Moria. Fans will recognize this timeline as part of the events in The Fellowship of the Ring, particularly highlighted in Galadriel’s prologue, which covers the discovery of the One Ring.
While the films highlight specific scenes, Tolkien’s timeline conveys an extensive journey with significant time lapses, prompting the question of how this narrative will unfold in the upcoming film.
How Many Years Passed Between Bilbo’s Party and the Fellowship’s Formation?
One of the most intriguing elements often lost in cinematic adaptations is the nearly two-decade gap between Gandalf’s departure from the Shire and the Council of Elrond, which lays the groundwork for the quest to destroy the One Ring.
In Tolkien’s writings, Bilbo celebrates his 111th birthday in the year 3001 of the Third Age. After this milestone, Gandalf enlists Aragorn to track Gollum, leading to intense events that unfold over the subsequent decades. Gollum, desperately seeking the ring thief, is captured by Aragorn in 3009, escapes from Mirkwood following a Mordor onslaught, and this knowledge culminates in the revealing of the ring’s location during Elrond’s counsel in October 3018.
Here’s a breakdown of the significant events leading to the Fellowship:
- Bilbo’s Birthday: 3001 – The parties begin.
- Gandalf Seeks Gollum: 3001 – Recruitment of Aragorn for Gollum’s capture.
- Gollum’s Capture: 3009 – Escapes and further pursuit.
- Council of Elrond: 3018 – Discussion and decisions about the One Ring.
Thus, what seems like a brief interval in the movies conceals nearly 70 years of complex narratives and character developments.
What Was Frodo Doing During This Time?
Unfortunately, we lack detailed insights into Frodo’s life during these two decades. What is clear is that he remained at Bag End after Bilbo left, safeguarding the One Ring as Gandalf instructed. The Dúnedain rangers, tasked by Gandalf to monitor the Shire, suggest that Frodo led a quiet life, free from adventures.
How Could Frodo Appear in The Hunt for Gollum?
Frodo’s involvement in The Hunt for Gollum may not be as extensive as one would expect. The film could depict time differently, following a loose chronology similar to Peter Jackson’s adaptations. Events may focus on Frodo at various pivotal moments, including Gandalf’s departure and his eventual return to the Shire, where he hears news about the One Ring.
Another possibility mirrors how Frodo appeared in The Hobbit trilogy, perhaps using framing devices from his writing in Return of the King. This approach could effectively link past and present, enriching the narrative without requiring Frodo to be heavily involved.
Curious about more insights from the fantasy realm? Explore related content on Moyens I/O for deeper dives into these beloved tales and characters.