Bk1, Ch2, Shadow of the Past -- The Movie

[Mister Underhill]

<BR>Continuing our discussion of how to adapt the books:<br> <br> In “The Shadow of the Past” we have another chapter that is <u>loaded</u> with info. Although I must admit that Gandalf tells Frodo much more of the Ring’s history than I had previously recalled. I thought we had to wait until the Council to get some solid info. There is so much important information in this chapter.<br> <br> I see several problems. One is, how do we effectively convey the passage of time? This chapter takes place, if I’m not mistaken, twelve years after Bilbo’s party. Yet the scene is reminiscent of the one we just saw – Gandalf and a hobbit, discussing the Ring, in Bag End. Again, I feel the need for some device to help us quickly summarize all of this information. I feel more strongly than ever that we will need a narrator, and I’ll bet that Bilbo is our man. You don’t hire Ian Holm as Bilbo for just a few scenes in Rivendell, do you? No! You put him to work as your Narrator. Also, the fact that PJ has cast an actor to play Gil-Galad gives me cause for some speculation. Is it possible that he may choose to begin the story on a more mythic note? Open with the Battle of Dagorlad, follow Isildur’s demise along the banks of the Anduin, and then move into the story of the LOTR proper? I can’t imagine we’ll have two long, virtually back-to-back scenes of Gandalf and a hobbit talking in Bag End. <br> <br> So here’s what we need to accomplish:<br> <br> 1) Reveal the true nature and some of the history of the Ring.<br> 2) Set up the conflict – Sauron is seeking, time is short, Frodo has been chosen by fate and must bear the Ring away from the Shire.<br> 3) Introduce Sam and include him in the quest.<br> <br> Perhaps we can bridge the scenes from the first chapter to this one with a montage/voice-over which follows Gandalf’s adventures in seeking and finding Gollum. <br> <br> Most important image: the fiery letters revealed on the Ring.<br> <br> Great moment: Frodo attempting to toss the ring into the fire, only to find that he’s put it back into his pocket instead. <br> <br> What say ye?<br> <p></p>