Gandalf in "The Hobbit" has been cast!

[Camma]

Gandalf: There can be only one!

Well at least they've gotten one thing right.  IIRC Jackson is producing but not directing on this one.

[El Condor]

Awesome news about McKellan!  :thumbup:

As far as why not PJ and why two movies, I'll take a stab:

While written by the same author, "Hobbit" and "LoTR" are definitely two different books.  I can understand the desire to see the prequel via a different, though likewise gifted, vision.  Del Toro's track record is impressive, particularly when it comes to fantastical worlds.  This story is in very good hands.

With two movies, they give breathing space for the story to unfold.  LoTR was compressed despite the trilogy format.  "Hobbit" would have to be severely eviscerated to fit within the bounds of one (even lengthy) film.  I like this decision - it gives me faith that the makers are committed do doing the book justice.

EC

[B A D]

The Hobbit was meant to be a children's tale, although one linked to the overall signifigance of Tolkien's personal mythology. I don't think he even had a grand purpose for Ring, or Dul Gurdur befor Urwin and Undin asked him to write a sequel to the Hobbit. Eventually he took the threads from the book and wrote "A long expected party" and the rest was history.

And I agree with Birdie. I have no desire for this movie to be rushed. I want to see the Trolls. Rivendell again. I want Beorn, Mirkwood in all its ickyness, the lake men, Smaug(!!!) to be laid out like  a 7 course meal to be digested slowy.

[yell0w_lantern]

Hopefully Elrond won't be as angry as in LoTR.