For many years, fans across the world have dreamed of the day when The Lord of the Rings trilogy could be brought to life on the screen. Up until the present time, the technology needed to make film versions of J. R. R. Tolkien’s massive epic novels simply did not exist. Now, with the recent amazing advances in computer technology in the movie industry, it is entirely possible to visually recreate Tolkien’s landscapes, locations, and creatures for the screen. With the proven power of the source material, the limitless possibilities offered by computer technology, and the sheer amount of talent amassed for the project, it is abundantly clear that there has never been a better time than the present to bring these stories to life. And the fact that the studios financing the films are almost assured a wealth of profit from both the movies themselves and promotional tie-ins doesn’t hurt, either.

Official Lord of the Rings Movie Site

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Peter Jackson, commonly referred to as "PJ" by fans, is in control of the three movies. Jackson is a New Zealander whose previous films include The Frighteners, Dead Alive, and Heavenly Creatures. He was the recipient of a London Critics Circle Award as Director of the Year in 1996 for his work on Heavenly Creatures.

Official Peter Jackson Homepage | Peter Jackson Films

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Instead of micromanaging the project and overseeing every small detail, Jackson has delegated some of the responsibility to others, although he does still have the final say. The three movies are not being shot in sequence, one after another, but are instead being filmed at the same time. This method of shooting the movies will save both time and money in the long run. Jackson is controlling the main unit for filming, and full second and third units are also working on various scenes in different locations. Jackson maintains control of the other two units via satellite videoconference.

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Peter Jackson’s Wingnut Films Limited is producing the movies, and New Line Cinema is financing them. New Line will also be in charge of distribution.

New Line Cinema | Official Peter Jackson Homepage

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Peter Jackson himself turned the books into a screenplay, in collaboration with Frances Walsh, Philippa Boyens, and Stephen Sinclair. Jackson and Walsh shared an Oscar® nomination for Best Original Screenplay for 1994’s Heavenly Creatures.

Official Peter Jackson Homepage

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The members of the Tolkien estate have stated repeatedly that they do not wish to be involved with the film project, although they have not released to the public any specific reasons why they made this choice. The merchandising rights belong to Saul Zaentz Company, so the Tolkien estate has no control over movie-related merchandise.

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