Story perspectives

New Film Explores Gollum's Origins Amid Critics' Concerns

2/20/2026

Summary

Story summary

The film The Hunt for Gollum, directed by Andy Serkis, explores Sméagol's backstory before he becomes Gollum.
Aragorn, portrayed by Viggo Mortensen, leads the quest to find Gollum, while Gandalf remains passive.
Critics worry the film may stretch Tolkien's original narrative too thin and prompt spin-offs diluting the material.
The project aims to bridge the original trilogy with new stories.
The creative team includes figures from the Oscar-winning trilogy.

1 of 1

Story summary

The film The Hunt for Gollum, directed by Andy Serkis, explores Sméagol's backstory before he becomes Gollum.
Aragorn, portrayed by Viggo Mortensen, leads the quest to find Gollum, while Gandalf remains passive.
Critics worry the film may stretch Tolkien's original narrative too thin and prompt spin-offs diluting the material.
The project aims to bridge the original trilogy with new stories.
The creative team includes figures from the Oscar-winning trilogy.