Of Thorin Oakenshield and The Hobbit - a perspective from across the Tasman

Thank you Sir Peter Jackson

Timeline of The Hobbit 2012. The Journey so far .....

Wk 51:    Week of 2nd January 2012      Break

January 3rd:  J.R.R. Tolkien's Birthday 

January 3rd: Peter Jackson pays tribute to veteran sword master Bob Anderson on his Facebook page.

January 4th: Interview with Peter Jackson in The Telegraph.com.au

January 5th: "Bret Mckenzie talks The Hobbit": Total Film

January 5th: "Some Speculation on The Hobbit Finale" Empire Magazine 

January 6th: "The Hobbit's Martin Freeman has troubled relationship with fame". Digital Spy

January 6th: "Hobbit Forming: Will Peter Jackson give Tolkien's Story a new ending?" The Guardian Film blog

January 6th: New image of Martin Freeman as Bilbo in this article from "Spinoff Onine"

January 6th: "Actor Luke Evans Thrilled with The Hobbit Experience" from Hollywood Celebrity and Entertainment Daily News.

Wk 52:    Week of 9th January 2012 

10th January: "Cumberbatch excited by Hobbit Role" The Press Association UK

10th January: "Michael Persbrandt talks a wee bit about Beorn". Thanks to Anton S over at TORn.

10th January: Article on the Movies.com site by Larry D. Curtis:  'The Hobbit' Countdown, Character Guide: Who is Thorin Oakenshield? (And we don't just mean Richard Armitage)". 

11th January: Construction started on new set on northern tip of Miramar Peninsula. "Hobbit eyes move to failed film set". Stuff NZ.

11th January: Interview with Richard Armitage on the MTV site: "Richard Armitage's Journey to 'The Hobbit' Best 'By Far' The UK actor is Middle-earth's most badass dwarf and One to Watch in 2012"

14th January: Article in the Los Angeles Times: 'The Hobbit' An Unexpected Journey: On and off Screen" with new photo of Martin Freeman as Bilbo with 'Sting'.

From LATimes Hero Complex
 

15th January: Article on Screen Rant site: "New 'Hobbit' images; Interviews with Philippa Boyens & Richard Armitage

Wk 53:    Week of 16th January 

16th January: "Smaug in 'The Hobbit' will be Extra-ordinary". Interview with Andy Serkis on MTV site at the Golden Globe Awards. Tintin wins Golden Globe for best animated film.

17th January: "Government congratulates Sir Peter Jackson" on Golden Globe for Tintin. West of Memphis to get screening at Sundance Film Festival. (NZ Herald)

18th January: "Andy Serkis Promises Smaug will be "Extraordinary" in The Hobbit" - MTV Blog

18th January: Peter Jackson and Fran Walsh at Sundance Film festival in Utah. Deadline New York and MTV site.

19th January: "Weta Digital's Oscar hopes" - Stuff NZ.

19th January: Casting call for extras in Wellington for 'The Hobbit'. "Casting Call in Wellington" Dominion Post and Trademe.

20th January: "Peter Jackson Explains 'Hobbit'/'Lord of the Rings' Link". From MTV.com. Interview on Comicbookmovie.com: "Peter Jackson Talks The Hobbit, Filming for Both Movies Wraps in July".

 21st January: Peter Jackson leaves Sundance Film festival to return to New Zealand and preparations for recommencemnt of The Hobbit filming. "Hollywood Reporter.

22nd January: "Elijah Wood Talks THE HOBBIT, Filming in 3D, and the Film's Similarity to LORD OF THE RINGS".  Article on Collider.com site.

Wk 54:    Week of 23rd January

23rd January: "Hobbit filming like a 'family reunion'" - TVNZ

23rd January: Article from Hero Complex in the Los Angeles Times: "'The Hobbit': Andy Serkis says Gollum is 'printed in my DNA'"

24th January: "Jackson's 'Hobbit' doubles film speed to 48frames". The Associated Press.

24th January: Bret McKenzie (Lindir in The Hobbit) nominated for an Oscar for Best Original Song, 'Man or Muppet' in "The Muppets". Weta Digital nominated in Best Visual Effects category for "Rise of the Planet of the Apes".

25th January: Filming part of the barrel scene takes place at the Aratiatia rapids near Taupo. Rotorua Daily Post. 

25th January: Mark Hadlow (Dori) directing the Anthony Harper Summer Theatre Production: "The Complete History Of Christchurch Abridged (CHOCA)" in Christchurch. The show runs from 1st February to Sunday 19th Feb in the Botanic Gardens. From Scoop.co.NZ. Press release from Christchurch City Council.

25th January: "Evangeline Lilly talks 'Real Steel' (now on Blu-Ray) and playing a Warrior Elf in 'The Hobbit'". From EW.com. 

25th January: Feature in Total Film: "Behind the Scenes of The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey. on set with Peter Jackson"

26th January: Sir Ian McKellen to be awarded the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Letters for services to acting by the University of Ulster. BBC News Northern Ireland.

26th January: Martin Freeman to do voicework for animated movie "Saving Santa". Collider.com.

27th January: New photo of four dwarves (Oin, Bifur, Dwalin,Bofur) and Bilbo on Yahoo Movie site.

28th January: Casting call/auditions being held at the Belmont Hall, Hutt city, Wellington. TVNZ & NZHerald

28th January: "Hobbit hopefuls flock to audition". TVNZ and "3,000 people turn out for The Hobbit casting" Radio New Zealand.

29th January: Cate Blanchett comments on her role in The Hobbit. "Blanchett attends Louis Vuitton opening" Sky News.

29th January: "Peter Jackson's Movies will boost tourism". Article in StuffNZ

29th January: Sylvester McCoy Interview on YouTube.

Wk 55:    Week of 30th January - Cast returns to NZ?

Benedict Cumberbatch heading to NZ. Mentioned in interview with BBC.

Richard Armitage states filming schedule starts again in late January in MTV interview.

February 4th: "Workwise drivers saved the day on Hobbit job". Article in Waikato Times.

February 5th: Article on Collider.com: "Andy Serkis talks Rise of the Apes, The Hobbit, Directing 2nd Unit, 3D and More at SBIFF"

Wk 56:    Week of 6th February - Filming Recommences.

Filming recommences? Martin Freeman scheduled to return according to his partner Amanda Abbington in this article.

Stephen Fry mentions in interview with DigitalSpy that he will return to Wellington to recommence filming.

February 7th: 5 page article in UK SFX magazine. Scans available on RichardArmitageNet.com. Thanks very much to admin.

February 7th: Luke Evans talks The Hobbit. at ES British Film Awards.

February 8th: Billy Connolly casting as Dain Ironfoot announced by Peter Jackson.  

February 9th: Luke Evans in NZ. Tweet @LukeEvansactor: "Just got to NZ."

February 11th: Peter Jackson quake strengthening chapel. From StuffNZ and Dominion Post.

Wk 57:    Week of 13th February

February 15th: Peter jackson to direct Tintin sequel. Guardian UK.

February 15th: Article in StuffNZ about Claire Prebble, jewellery designer at Weta. "Jewellery designer's work goes global". Another article here.

February 15th: "Hobbit aids flood-hit providers" StuffNZ. Benefits of Hobbit filming to tourist/accommodation providers in Nelson.

February 15th: @Stephen Fry twitter: "Well, I'm in Wellington, NZ. More or less ready to hit the ground running and film tomorrow. Jet lag will have to wait."

February 16th: @Stephen Fry tweets: "Off to work in a sunny Wellington. My brain has quite simply no idea who I am what I'm doing or how to operate its legs. Ho hum."

February 17th: @StephenFry: "Gaaah. Overslept. Driver had to ring my doorbell - On way to make up ashamed. First time in 30 years I've not been up in time for a pick up"

@StephenFry: "Sitting ruefully in makeup. Fortunately not too late. I don't think filming will be delayed, but - oh - the shame."

@StephenFry: "I'm the kind of person who'd rather be an hour early than half a minute late. Everyone v sweet as someone was later so I don't feel so bad"

February 17th: "Stephen Fry happy to fly to NZ for a flat white" TVNZ

February 17th: Sir Richard Taylor announced as New Zealander of the Year.

February 18th: "Just use your imagination". Article in NZ Herald on Paul Tobin - conceptual designer for Weta Workshop.

February 19th: Report about James Nesbitt's horse winning at Ascot. James Nesbitt according to this report will not return to New Zealand until after the horse races at Cheltenham on March 15th. He is currently working on a project in Leeds.

Wk 58:    Week of 20th February

20th February: Stephen Fry creates controversy by criticising NZ Broadband service.

20th February: Biography of William Kircher published on "NZOnScreen" website.

21st February: Orlando Bloom set to film Zulu in July.

22nd February: 1st Anniversary of  killer earthquake in Christchurch.

22nd February: Martin Freeman in cast of 'Svengali' which starts production next week for 6 weeks. Martin Freeman to juggle his commitments on 'The hobbit' in NZ with his cameo role commitment in 'Svengali' in London.

23rd February: Article in NZ Herald "Scene Stealers: Young actors following their famous parents' lead". Peter Hambleton and daughter Sophie are interviewed.

25th February: Tweet from @Lukeevansactor: "A long week. Working very hard. Incredibly rewarding though. weekend now, off to gym."

Wk 59:    Week of 27th February

27th February: Bret McKenzie (FIGWIT in LOTR) and now to reprise his role as Lindir in The Hobbit wins an Academy Award for 'Best Original Song' category.

27th February: Some of the cast appear on a promotional video for 2012 New Zealand International Arts Festival’s Shakespeare online video project, Bard Enough.

29th February: Interview with Benedict Cumberbatch on the MTV site. (Benedict Cumberbatch appears to have completed his part in the filming for the time being).

29th February: Interview with Viggo Mortensen including some thoughts on 'The Hobbit'.

1st March: "Sony buys Sir Peter's West of Memphis Doco". Article on thewest.com.au (West Australian) site reporting that Sony Pictures has acquired the rights to distribute West of Memphis.

1st March: Production Video #6: On location with THE HOBBIT (Part 2) published on Peter Jackson's Facebook page.

March 2nd: "Massive Scale of Hobbit revealed in Jackson's on-set Video" TVNZ report. Report also in The Dominion Post "Massive Scale of Hobbit Filming Revealed"

March 2nd: Article in The Dominion Post on Bret Mackenzie winning his Oscar.

March 2nd: "Hobbit filming was delayed due to flooding". Report on 3News site.

March 4th: Interview in NZ Herald with Bret McKenzie

Wk 60:    Week of 5th March

March 7th: 'Hobbit' already promoting Otago" - Otago Daily Times

March 8th: "Kiwi actor hails Pelorus shoot". Marlborough Express.

March 8th: "Peter Jackson ambassador for New Zealand Book Week" Examiner.com

March 9th: Interview with Martin Freeman in Digital Spy re. "The Pirates".

Wk 61:    Week of 12th March

13 March: "Hobbit pub threatened with legal action" - BBC News.

13 March: John Callen and Mark Hadlow named on the judging panel for Childfund New Zealand's Young Playright's Challenge "Pens Against Poverty".

14th March: "Fry weighs in on Hobbit Row" Stephen Fry defends pub in row over its trading name as "The Hobbit" in StuffNZ. Story also on TVNZ

14th March: Birmingham Mail reports that another cafe loses its battle over trading name as "Hungry Hobbit". "Moseley cafe the Hungry Hobbit set to drop H's in trademark row"

14th March: Sir Ian McKellen writes blogpost on his website with regard to the Hobbit trademark issues. Report on TVNZ on this issue.

15th March: Business Insurance reports that the Hobbit pub dispute had been resolved. Story ran also in The Guardian.

15th March: "James Nesbitt wins with Riverside Theatre at Cheltenham Festival". The Guardian. 

?James Nesbitt (Bofur) reportedly returns to NZ after Cheltenham??.

Wk 62:    Week of 19th March

19th March: "Sir Ian McKellen and Stephen Fry to pay for the Hobbit pub in Southhampton's licence fee" Report in the Daily Echo. Report also in NZHerald (21st March)

21st March: "The Hobbit Countdown: Billy Connolly's Dain, The Baddest Dwarf in Middle-Earth". Article by Larry D. Curtis on Movies.com site.

22nd March: Stephen Fry interviewed by NZHerald. "Twelve Questions with Stephen Fry".

22nd March: "Actor Luke Evans named as Police brand ambassador"

22nd March:  TheOneRing.net reports that herr-der-ringe-film.de has posted new images that could be the set for Dale.

24th March:  "Lips sealed on weta venture" - report in Canterbury Star about Fiona Thomson, a leatherworker who worked on costumes for The Hobbit.

Wk 63:    Week of 26th March

26th March:  Stephen Fry on break from filming - tries bungee jumping.

1st April: "Connolly 'tickled' to transform into a dwarf warrior - in a fat suit". Article in NZherald. (Billy Connolly now in NZ to film).

Wk 64:    Week of 2nd April

2nd April: "Wellywood pulls in $500m for capital's economy". Article in The Dominion Post about the boost to the economy as a result of the film industry.

3rd April: "Hobbits pay quick visit to Nelson". Article in the Nelson Mail.

3rd April: "Tahunanui's real lord of the rings". Article about the Ring Maker Grant Parkins in NelsonMail.

4th April: Sir Ian Mckellen announces that he will be performing a one man stage show throughout New Zealand in May/June in order to raise funds for the earthquake damaged Isaac Theatre in Christchurch. Article in The Press: "McKellen Wizadry for Christchurch Theatre"

4th April: The British High Commission in Wellington has announced that they will be hosting a street party to acknowledge "100 days to Go" until the London Olympics on April 18th. To start the celebration, a fun run will be held with actors from The Hobbit being invited. "100 Days to Go street Party" DominionPost.

5th April: TheOneRing.net posts an article on The first Official Hobbit T-Shirts.

5th April: Peter Jackson publishes early publicity photos on his facebook page.

Friday 6th April:    Good Friday

Saturday 7th April: TheOneRing.net and Larry D. Curtis report that they have accepted an invitation from Wingnut Films and Warner Bros. to an embedded set visit in Wellington. Larry Curtis is a Senior Staff member of TORn, writer and photographer and his articles are well known to those of us who are TORn members.

Saturday 7th April: "Weta reveals the art of making chainmail". Article in the Dominion Post.

Sunday 8th April:  Easter Day

Wk 65:    Week of 9th April   

9th April: "Sneak peek at Hobbit set". Article in StuffNZ.

9th April: Sir Ian McKellen to open his one man show in Stratford, NZ "Shakespeare link daws McKellen to open in Straford" Taranaki Daily News.

10th April: Article from Weta: "Ask the Weta crew: Peter Lyon answers your questions". Q&A with Weta's Swordsmith.

11th April: "Stephen Fry finishes scenes for The Hobbit". NewsTalkZB (Auckland).

12th April: Casting call for elven extras on Trademe.

13th April: "Hobbiton marketing hopes". Article in NZHerald re. economic and tourism benefits The Hobbit will bring to NZ.

13th April: Article in NZHerald re Stephen Fry and Billy Connolly both spending easter weekend at Peter Jackson's Masterton estate.

13th April: Article over at TheOneRing.net about HarperCollins publishing Official Tie-in books to the two Hobbit films. Houghton Miffin Harcourt to publish US Tie-ins.

Wk 66:    Week of 16th April

16th April: Stephen Fry's last day at the studios. @Stephen Fry: "That's it! Driving away from studios. Time to pack, sleep & catch flights home. What a ride, what a cast & crew, what a city, what a country"

16th April:"Sir Ian McKellen NZ  tour to save Isaac Theatre Royal" Feature and interview on 3News site.

18th April: Celebrity Fun Run with Hobbit cast invites (and other celebs) for British High Commission's Street Party "100 Days to Go" until London Olympics. Present were Sir Ian McKellen, Ryan Gage, Graham McTavish and Adam Brown.

18th April: "Stephen Fry sits for Aussie Artist" Article on StarOnline site.

18th April: Interview with Bret McKenzie where he mentions working on The Hobbit. Herald Sun.

18th April: "Luke Evans talks The Hobbit" on Collider.com

21st April: Conan Stephens at "Armaggedon" in Wellington. Article in Dominion Post.

22nd April: "Peter Jackson link to Tolkien revealed". NZHerald

22nd April: Interview with Conan Stevens on TheOneRing.net website. Thanks to Larry D Curtis.

22nd April: Warner Bros. to Preview 'The Hobbit' at CinemaCon 2012. Article on Hollywood Reporter site.

Wk 67:    Week of 23rd April

23rd April: Mention of "Hobbit" actors (including Martin Freeman, Andy Serkis, Sir Ian McKellen and Bret McKenzie) attending red carpet Premiere of "Good for Nothing". Dominion Post.

24th April: 10 minutes of clips from "The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey" were aired at CinemaCon2012 in 48fps. The overall reaction was mixed. A balanced article quotin +ve and -ve reactions, can be found here: "Peter Jackson Stuns film industry with 3D footage of The Hobbit". News.com.au. Peter Jackson appears to have anticipated that the new look would take a little bit of getting used to by some in the audiences. 

"Film purists will criticize the lack of blur and strobing artifacts, but all of our crew--many of whom are film purists--are now converts.  You get used to this new look very quickly and it becomes a much more lifelike and comfortable viewing experience." 48 Frames per Second - Peter Jackson Facebook.

26th April: John Rawls cast as Azog - Post on TheOneRing.net. site.

26th April: "Luke Evans Brushes off Hobbit Controversy" - from Entertainmentwise. Article in Collider.com. "Luke Evans Talks The Raven and The Hobbit 48fps"

26th April: "Close Up: Back in The Hobbit" - article in The Guardian.

27th April: Article on TheOneRing.net - "Hobbit Footage Review & Massive Spoilers: Full coverage & Analysis" by Quickbeam.

27th April: "Peter Jackson responds to complaints about 'The Hobbit' footage". EW.com and Hollywood Reporter.

Wk 68:    Week of 30th April

30th April: "Esther casts a Magic Spell". Article in the Marlborough Express about Master Weaver Esther Nitschke who has spent two years weaving yarn for The Hobbit costumes.

1st May: "Peter Jackson Considering Dolby Atmos for 'The Hobbit'" Article in Hollywood Reporter.

2nd May: Report in StuffNZ stating actors such as Orlando Bloom given time out from filming for short period.

6th May: "Ian McKellen on NZ Theatre Mission" NZHerald

7th May: "Hobbit Shooting Close to Wrap". Article in The Dominion Post. 2nd Unit to complete filming ahead of schedule.

9th May: Video interview with Sir Ian McKellen from TVNZ on his one man performances to raise funds for the earthquake damaged Isaac Theatre Royal. He also comments on 'The Hobbit'

Wk 69:    Week of 7th May

8th May: "Matamata tills ring from Hobbit's pulling power" Article in Waikato Times.

8th May: TourismNZ close to signing a deal with The Hobbit movie makers to share some of the intellectual property in order to help promote NZ as a tourist destination. Sky News.

Wk 70:    Week of 14th May

18th May: Interview with Luke Evans in WalesOnline.

19th May: "Tourism hopes hang on The Hobbit"

20th May: "A Wizard on the Stage in NZ". Otago Daily Times.

Wk 71:    Week of 21st May

21st May: "Wizard McKellen charms audience" Nelson Mail.

23rd May: Article on TheOneRing.net site "Peter Jackson, celebrities raise funds for NZ's Court Theatre."

24th May: NZ Herald. "Hobbit set revealed in aerial views".

27th May: Christopher Lee turns 90.

Wk 72:    Week of 28th May

Wk 73:    Week of 4th June

4th June: Sir Peter Jackson receives an Additional Member of the Order of New Zealand in the Queen's Birthday honours. In 2002 he was made a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit, and a Knight of the Order in 2010.

6th June:  Peter Jackson posts The HOBBIT production Video #7 on his Facebook page.

(I have to add that the vlog was a little "brightener" as this was the day of my Dad's funeral.)

June 6th:  NZ Herald: "Hobbit Premiere set for Wellington". The date will be November 28th.

June 6th: "Council to spend $1.15m on Wellington's world premiere of first Hobbit movie". Wellington Scoop.

June 7th: Peter Jackson posts 7 photos on his Facebook page from the vlog.

June 7th: Article in TotalFilm: "the New Faces of The Hobbit"

June 9th: Ken Stott to star in the Chekhov play "Uncle Vanya" commencing November 2nd at the Vaudeville Theatre, West End of London. 

Wk 74:    Week of 11th June

11th June: "All the world's a Stage".  Article in the Otago Daily Times about Ian McKellen On Stage.

12th June: Warner Bros expected to present "The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey" on the Saturday of ComicCon. Thanks to ComicBookMovie site.

13th June: Interview in The Australian with Billy Connolly. Brief mention of The Hobbit and Dain. "Pixar's first taste of heroine in Brave".

13th June: Interview on MSN NZ site with Billy Connolly. "Billy Connolly back in New Zealand"

13th June: Interview in the Herald Sun with Billy Connolly. Small mention of his role of Dain Ironfoot who reportedly "rides a pig".

14th June: "Bonnie Prince Billy gets vocal in Brave"

15th June: Interview with Dean O'Gorman in Stuff NZ. "From Middle-earth to Vietnam"

Wk 75:    Week of 18th June

18th June: Peter Jackson and Elijah Wood on judging panel for 48hr film festival. "Hobbit Star's 48 Hour Quest" NZ Herald.

18th June: Report from Mr Cere over at TheOneRing.net on TORn's activities at ComicCon 2012.

19th June: Warner Brothers shuts down NZ office. Report on TV New Zealand site.

20th June: "Hobbit to target tourists". The Southland Times. DVD release in 2013.

21st June: "Filming Hobbit 'like a war' says star dwarf". Interview with Billy Connolly in NZ herald.

21st June: "Welly cinemas must upgrade for Hobbit" Dominion Post article on 48fps.

22nd June: "Sir Ian's Theatre Magic" Dominion Post

Wk 76:    Week of 25th June

25th June: "Ian McKellen joined by Hobbit Cast at one man charity show" - Digital Spy

25th June: "McKellen weaves his magic to enthral crowd" Dominion Post

26th June: "Doing their Hobbit for Christchurch" NZ Herald. Article on Hobbit cast joining sir Ian McKellen on stage.

27th June: "Hobbit key to tourism campaign" Otago Daily Times.

27th June: @Lukeevansactor tweets: "I start the final four days of shooing tomorrow. Have an ache in my gut. It's nearly Over."

27th June: Variety confirms Warner Bros will present "The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey" at ComicCon 2012 on July 14th.

28th June: "In Conversation with Ian McKellen" The Wall St Journal.

28th June: TheOneRing.net's Mr Cere reports: "Hobbit line up announced for Comic-Con includes Jackson, McKellen, Serkis, Armitage, Freeman, Boyens"

30th June: From 'The Hobbit' Facebook page:

We're excited to announce that we will be bringing The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey to San Diego Comic-Con! Join director Peter Jackson, producer Philippa Boyens, Sir Ian McKellen, Martin Freeman, Andy Serkis and Richard Armitage for a special look at the upcoming film on Saturday, July 14th, in Hall H.

30th June: "The Hobbit Confirmed for Comic-Con 2012". Article on TotalFilm.com site. 'The Hobbit Stars' footage confirmed for Comic-Con 2012. Digital Spy.

Wk 77:    Week of 2nd July.

July 2nd: Interview in Collider.com with Hugo Weaving. "Hugo Weaving Talks LAST RIDE, Working with the Wachowskis Again for CLOUD ATLAS and Returning to Rivendell for THE HOBBIT"

July 2nd: New photos from The Hobbit have been published in the latest Entertainment Weekly magazine and on EW.com.

Picture from EW.com

July 2nd: "THE HOBBIT Stars Ian McKellen and Martin Freeman on EW Cover, Plus Comments from Peter Jackson and New Images". Collider.com

July 3rd: "Over $500,000 raised for Isaac Theatre Royal" from The Press.co.nz. 

July 3rd: Middle-Earth News hosts an exclusive interview with John Bell, Hobbit actor.

July 4th:" "Theatre box to be named in Sir Ian's honour". In recognition of the work Sir Ian did in raising $354000 to help repair the earthquake damaged Theatre Royal. Article in GayNZ.

July 4th: Hobbit actors "appear" in the background of a video clip of "You Say" by musician Claude Rains. Check it out on Claude Rains' facebook page

July 6th:  FILMING FINISHED!!! Message from Peter Jackson's Facebook page.

We made it! Shoot day 266 and the end of principal photography on The Hobbit. Thanks to our fantastic cast and crew for getting us this far, and to all of you for your support! Next stop, the cutting room. Oh, and Comic Con! 
Cheers, Peter J

July 6th: "'We Made It': Peter Jackson finishes Hobbit shoot". NZHerald.

July 6th: "Filming for The Hobbit wraps up". StuffNZ

July 7th: Wrap up party scheduled 

July 7th: "Hobbit wrap party a hot ticket". StuffNZ

The Journey begins - Timeline of The Hobbit shoot for 2011 (with RA additions).

Wk 1:     Wk of Jan 10th:            Dwarf training camp 

Wk 2:     Wk of 17th Jan

Wk 3:     Wk of 24th Jan:        Sir Peter Jackson admitted to hospital 25th Jan

Wk 4:     Wk of 31st Jan

Wk 5:     Wk of 7th Feb           

11th Feb:    Press conference 

Wk 6:        Wk of 14th Feb:    Scheduled start of filming (delayed as a consequence of Sir Peter Jackson's health).

Wk 7:        Wk of 21st Feb      

22nd Feb: Sir Ian McKellen posts about arriving in Wellington.

22nd Feb: 12.51pm.  Christchurch Earthquake. 

25th Feb:    Sir Ian writes "Partying with the dwarves" on his blog. Jon Callen only one absent.

Wk 8:        Wk of 28th Feb

4th March: Sir Ian writes of his first meeting with Peter Jackson. He describes preliminary sketches of the dwarves' costumes.

Wk 9:        Wk of 7th March:      

13th March: Cricket match for Christchurch. The Hobbit cast present. RA photographed. 

Gandalf watching cricket

Wk 10:      Wk of 14th March        

17th March:  First rehearsal

Wk 11:      Wk of 21st March:   Powhiri. Start of filming 5 weeks after scheduled start. 

Richard Armitage and cast at Powiri

Wk 12:      Wk of 28th March

March 31st: Sir Ian reports about the re-emergence of  Gandalf and the emergence of the dwarves in costume at the start of filming.

Wk 13:      Wk of 4th April 

4th April @ RobertKazinsky (Fili) twitter:
"17.5 hour day, exhausted and ready to do it all again tomorrow".

5th April: @RobertKazinsky (Fili) twitter:
"Being on set with Ian Mckellen is great and all, but being on set with Gandalf is way way better."

@Robert Kazinsky (Fili) twitter:
"sorry sorry, of course I mean SIR ian, Sir. As a rabid Tolkien fan myself, seeing SIR ian as Gandalf is like the pope meeting Jesus."

Wk 14:      Wk of 11th April 

13th April @ RK (Fili) tweets: "........... a day on set with PJ, Happiness".

14th April: Peter Jackson posts the "Start of Production" video.

Wk  15:     Wk of 18th April  

19th April: @RobertKazinsky (Fili)  twitter: 
"TROLLS! LEG IT!"       

20th April: "Leg it! Is a British saying that would usually mean run away as fast as your little legs might carry you, as in, hoof it, leg it etc etc. "                

22nd April Good Friday & Easter

24th April : Peter Jackson reports that Robert Kazinsky is leaving the production.

Wk 16:      Wk of  25th April Anzac Day holiday/Easter Mon.

April 30th: Hugo Weaving on set of The Hobbit with Peter Jackson.

May 1st: Dean O'Gorman cast as Fili; Lee Pace cast as Thrandull.

Wk 17:      Wk of  2nd May

Wk 18:      Wk of  9th May: 

11th May:     Ian McKellen reports Martin Freeman has left NZ to film  Sherlock. Sylvester McCoy in Wellington.

Wk 19:     Wk of 16th May:  

May 19th:  Peter Jackson announces a break in filming in less than three weeks so that editing; visual effects and preparation for large scenes can commence. Casting of Stephen Fry, Ryan Gage and Conan Stevens announced.

22nd May:  RiseUp Christchurch Telethon. Sir Ian McKellen appears on stage with Mark Hadlow. An ensemble of dwarves provide a video skit of their costumes. Sir Ian mentions filming with Hugo Weaving and Cate Blanchett. (ie White Council scenes).

Thorin in costume ..... I don't think 

22nd May:  Martin Freeman wins BAFTA. Mistakenly reveals Benedict Cumberbatch's casting in The Hobbit.

Wk 20:     Wk of 23rd May:

May 28th: Peter Jackson announces that Orlando Bloom will reprise Legolas.

29th May: Message from Richard Armitage to fans reporting that he was about to leave Wellington for a short hiatus in filming.

Wk 21:     Wk of 30th May:

30th May: Peter Jackson posts photo of "The White Council planning the attack on Dol Guldur" featuring PJ, Cate Blanchett, Hugo Weaving and Sir Ian McKellen. 

30th May: Warner bros. announces official titles of the two movies.

1. "The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey". Release Date: December 14th 2012
2. "The Hobbit: There and Back Again". Release Date: December 13th 2013.

31st May: Sir Ian blogs about the casting of Benedict Cumberbatch.

Wk 22:   Wk of 6th June  

9th June: Sir Peter Jackson and film crew arrive in Queenstown, NZ . Links here and here. The first article mentions a hiatus/break for the actors until August. This article however states that sir ian Mckellen will be present at a charity screening of "This Prison Where I Live", although his twitter account has him located back in London. His new play "The Syndicate" will open on 21st July in the UK.

? Break in filming? How long?

 Wk 23:      Wk of 13th June.

15th June:  RA in UK.  Disturbance in the Richard Armitage fandom.
 Jacob Kamara a fashion journalist based in London, who states that he "mostly writes about unconventional menswear", tweeted:

@ Jacob Kamara 

Had great fun shooting Richard Armitage yesterday. Busy busy day today.

Needless to say this sent many of RA's fans over to Jacob's twitter page with much delighted gushing about the prospect that a) RA was back in the UK as opposed to him not being buried in the wilds of NZ enjoying blissful anonymity; and b) that RA might be viewed in suits .... although, will they be unconventional?   This shoot was for an article reportedly to be published in "Recognise Magazine".

 

19th June:      (Guy of Gisborne returned to our screens in Robin Hood Series 3. ABC1 Sundays 5.40pm.) 

Wk 24:       Week of  20th June.

20th June:    Peter Jackson updates his Facebook page as follows: "THE HOBBIT casting update". Here he announces the casting of Luke Evans (Bard); Evangeline Lilly  (Tauriel - daughter of Mirkwood); Barry Humphries (Goblin King) and confirms that Benedict Cumberbatch will be voicing Smaug. He also states that the first block of filming has finished and they have been scouting for locations.

23rd June: "Hobbit First Look" - 3 photos from the film shoot published in EW.com

 

 

 

Wk 25:  Week of 27th June.

 

June 30th:  Described by Weta and Sir Peter Jackson  as a "good luck charm", Empire Magazine is to have The Hobbit on its cover. Empire was invited on to the set barely a month into filming. Report will be in the August edition.

Thanks, Admin at RichardArmitageNet.com. Scans available on RichardArmitageNet.com: 1, 2, 3,  4,      

Wk 26:      Week of 4th July.
 
4th July:  Article in Total Film Magazine entitled: "Richard Armitage talks The Hobbit"

 

 

8th July:  Peter Jackson releases first pictures of NORI (Jed Brophy), ORI (Adam Brown) and DORI (Mark Hadlow) on his Facebook page.

9th July:   Pictures released on Peter Jackson's Facebook page and Yahoo Movies of OIN (John Callen) and GLOIN (Peter Hambleton) 

8th/9th July:  Production video #2 released on Peter Jackson's Facebook page.

WK 27     Week of 11th July:

12th July:  Peter Jackson publishes a link on his Facebook page to MSN Entertainment's Hitlist Blog featuring a picture of Fili (Dean O'Gorman) & Kili (Aidan Turner).

 

14th July:     Photo of Bombur, Bofur and Bifur from StuffNZ site:

15th July:   Photo of Balin and Dwalin released in TIME:

July 15th: Richard Armitage on being cast as Thorin quoted in Issue 8 of Project Magazine available on iPad and scanned at RichardArmitageNet.com

             

July 16th:  Ian Holm & Christopher Lee were reported to be shooting scenes for 'The Hobbit' in the UK. 

July 17th:  TheOneRing.net was given the first picture of Thorin Oakenshield  to unveil.

Wk 28:    Week of 18th July:

July 19th:  Peter Jackson and Andy Serkis in Paris for TinTin photo call. Orlando Bloom rumoured to be travelling to New Zealand shortly to begin reprising his role as Legolas in "The Hobbit". (From TheOneRing.net).

 July 20th:  RA in LA at Opening night of "Captain America, The First Avenger" Is heading N, S, E, or W (towards NZ)? 

 

July 21st:  Peter Jackson publishes his 3rd Production video.

July 21st :   Peter Jackson sends a composite photo of the dwarves to TheOneRing.net

Wk 29:    Week of 25th July:

29th July: Orlando Bloom in Sydney.

30th July: Stephen Fry tweets: "Flying from Cape Town to Jo'burg to Sydney to NZ tomorrow. Will be Tuesday by the time I land in Wellington. Hobbitry beckons."

31st July; Luke Evans states in an article for "Wales Online" "I start in a week’s time, and I’m there for a year.”

Wk 30:    Week of 1st August

5th August: @stephen Fry: "Morning all. Dinner time here. Had a great day of costume and wig testing."

6th August: Tweet from Wellington resident: "Lunching @MaranuiSurfClub two tables away from #RichardArmitage AND #OrlandoBloom - sooo exciting.... soooo handsome!"

Wk 31:    Week of 8th August

8th August: @Mr_Luke_Evans: "great day in wellington. its getting very exciting."

9th August: @Ryan Gage: "Having a great time here in beautiful NZ but saddened to hear of the rioting back home."

11th August: @Mr_Luke_Evans: "the stunt guys on this movie are awesome!!! just wanted to put that out there!!!"

Wk 32:    Week of 15th August

15th August: @Stephen Fry: "Wellington is beside itself with delight. Snow falling in the nation's capital for the first time for 35 years they tell me."

15th August: @Stephen Fry: "NZ has, bless it, gone officially mad. First snow in Auckland since the 30s. Children running along with open mouths to taste the flakes :)"

15th August: @Mr_Luke_Evans: It's snowing in wellington and the crew have never seen it snow here. It's a very funny sight!!

17th August: @Stephen Fry tweets: "V v v busy day. But highly fun. I can say no more without violating 420 NDAs and binding oaths. Weather most peculiar at the moment."

19th August: @Ryan Gage: "I've had a fun first week but I'm looking forward to getting some deep sleeping done this weekend."

20th August: Peter Jackson writes an article about the Memphis3 on his facebook page here.

Filming recommenced according to this article

Wk 33:    Week of 22nd August

22nd August: RA's birthday 

23rd September: Evangeline Lily (Tauriel) in Wellington
24th August: Stephen Fry's birthday. 

25th August: RA sends message to RichardArmitageOnline thanking his fans for birthday wishes. About Wellington, he writes:

" ..... there is nowhere I would rather be at this moment than exploring "Middle Earth" with my new family of Dwarves, Elves, Men, Wizard and Hobbit. What a gift to be here, in this place, at this time. I can't wait to share it with everyone. I am a very fortunate man."

27th August: Orlando Bloom leaves Wellington. Spotted at Sydney airport.

28th August: Stephen Fry leaves NZ: @Stephen Fry "Byebye kiwiland. You're a hard place to leave. Will miss flat whites and tua tua:" 

Wk 32:    Week of 29th August

30th August: Luke Evans tweets from South Island while on a short break. Orlando Bloom reportedly returns to NZ after promoting Three Musketeers in Sydney.

Wk 33:    Week of 5th September:

5th September:   Filming scheduled to resume.    

5th September:  Report in The Dominion Post has cast and crew heading to Nelson on South Island for filming in mid November/December. Melissa Booth, publicist stated that "she was unable to confirm locations as they were in the throes of filming."

 8th September: Martin Freeman's Birthday   in NZ.

10th September: Preview of Nina Gehl's exhibition for The Hobbit cast at the Page Blackie Gallery, Wellington. 

Wk 34:     Week of 12th September

13th September: Luke Evans leaves Wellington for UK: @Mr_Luke_Evans: "Quantas 27 hour flight here I come. London, I'll see you on the other side!!!"

Wk 35:    Week of 19th September    TOLKIEN WEEK 

September 22nd:  "Hobbit Day"   Bilbo and Frodo Baggins' birthdays. 

September 23rd: Casting call for extras at Wanaka, South Island NZ. Report about call for extras at Queenstown Events Centre.

September 24th: Casting call for extras at Twizel and Tekapo, South Island NZ.

September 25th: Auditions for extras to be held at the Oamaru Opera House, on South Island, North of Dunedin. 

Wk 36:    Week of 26th September

September 26th: Report in Otago Daily Times about Hobbit extras casting call at Oamaru Opera House. (Casting call was for townspeople and filming will be in Lake Pukaki-Twizel area November/December.

September 28th: Waikato Times report on the closure of Matamata to the public from October 5th to November 8th. (Confirming we won't be able to see it on our trip as our dates clash!)

September 28th: Larry Curtis from TORn reports that Howard Shore has started the score for The Hobbit.

September 30th: Sir Ian McKellen in New Zealand. (Mentioned in this article)

September 30th: Sir Peter Jackson interviewed by John Key, NZ PM. PJ reports that they are filming with goblins; dwarves on rocky cliff paths with thunder and lightening (? Chapter 4, "Overhill and Underhill"?) in the Wellington studios but will be on location in 2 -3 weeks. Filming will extend until halfway through next year.

September 30th: Legolas in Paris/UK.

Wk 37:    Week of  3rd October

October 5th: Publicity for TinTin on Peter Jackson's Facebook. (New trailer) in preparation for Premiere on October 26th.

October 6th: UK Premiere of Three Musketeers with Orlando Bloom and Luke Evans present.

October 7th: @Mr_Luke_Evans tweets "See you soon back in NZ" before heading to Baltimore and then back to Wales!

October 7th: Article on "Hobbit spotting" in Matamata in the Waikato Times. 

October 9th: Orlando Bloom mentions returning to New Zealand "soon" with his family in this interview. 

Wk 38:    Week of 10th October

October 11th: Interview from Digital Spy with Orlando Bloom with small mention of the Hobbit but his lips are fairly firmly sealed. 

October 12th: Article in Waikato Times stating that Hobbit production-related people may be in the vicinity of Te Kuiti from October 20th to November 6th. (30th is a definite). Click on map (left) to enlarge.

October 13th: Stuff NZ reports fire engines at Hobbit studios - false alarm .. maybe firies wanted a glimpse of filming? 

 

October 13th: One of the West Memphis 3 (Damien Echols) reportedly heading to NZ as the guest of Peter Jackson and may be offered a small part in the movie. (from Hollywoodnews.com)

October 15th: One year since New Line.Warner Bros. announced that The Hobbit was greenlit and that  Peter Jackson would direct The Hobbit in two installments. (Thanks to TORn) and StuffNZ.

October 15th: Bofur (James Nesbitt) and Bombur (Stephen Hunter) in Auckland for Rugby World Cup semi-finals. No other cast sightings.

October 16th: Day 272   .... waiting for more news.

ON LOCATION?

Wk 39:    Week of 17th October    Matamata?

17th October: Report in the Otago Daily Times re. plans to install a 10,000 litre watertank near Arcadia station, Glenorchy, to water grasses and plants for 'The Hobbit'.

17th October: Report on "Red Epic Camera" to be used on the movie by Geek.com.

19th October: Report stating Elijah Wood in NZ filming. (unconfirmed).

19th October: James Nesbitt (Bofur) in news again stating he will break from filming to go to the Rugby World Cup finals.

20th October:  Pelorus Bridge in Marlborough  named as a location for filming between 6th and 16th December. Article in Stuff.co.NZ states the Pelorus River will feature in the barrel ride scene.

20th October: Icelandic Horses to be featured in 'The Hobbit' from Iceland Review online. 

 

21st October: Article on Pelorus Bridge shoot. from Marlborough Express.

 

22nd October:  Tweet from @Vaughndavis: "200 vehicles left Wellington for #hobbit shoots today, along with Peter Jackson's way sexy Gulfstream jet (photos later)" (Many thanks to RAnetdotcom for finding this).

23rd October 2011: Article in Dominion Post: "Hobbit crews to hit the road in convoys".

This time last year:

20th October 2010: The fight heats up to keep 'The Hobbit' filming in NZ.  (Thanks to TheOneRing.net archives)

21st October/22nd October 2010 (AEST): The main cast (Bilbo and the dwarves) is announced!

Wk 40:    Week of 24th October    Matamata/ Mangaotaki/ Te Kuiti.

25th October: Film Crews at Matamata reports NZ Herald.

25th October: Otago Daily Times publishes photo of set at Arcadia Station near Glenorchy.

29th October: Blog report from Samdir over at the HDRF site on set at Mangaotaki. Many thanks for posting.

30th October: Official announcement that Wellington will host the world premiere of The Hobbit. Video of Sir Peter Jackson and John Key at Matamata. Article on Matamata in NZ Herald here.

Wk 41:    Week of 31st October   1. Matamata/Mangaotaki/Te Kuiti/Waitomo 2. Queenstown & Lake Wakapitu area (set being built)

October 31st: Sir Peter Jackson turns 50!       Article in the Dominion Post.
 

October 31st: "Hobbit stars go Country" (Waikato Times) . Hobbit actors in Te Kuiti and Piopio.

October 31st: First blog post on "AintitCool.com" from Eric Vespe (Quint) on set at Matamata.

October 31st: Interview with Luke Evans in Moviefone. (Luke to return to NZ in 3 weeks and remain there until the middle of next year).

November 3rd: Hobbit production activity reported in Waikato Times at Wharepapa South (North of Auckland).

November 4th: Peter Jackson publishes the Hobbit Production Video #4.

 

 

 

Wk 42:   Week of 7th November  1. Mt Ruapehu/Ohakune. 2. Matamata/Mangaotaki/Te Kuiti   North Island. 4. Dunedin/Nelson - South Island. 5. Middlemarch/Ranfurly.

November 8th: Set activity close to Arcadia Station, near Glenorchy with mountain backdrop.

November 10th: Report on progress of set building at Arcadia Station near Lake Wakatipu in Stuff NZ. Close up pic of building in background.

November 10th: Report in the Wanganui Chronicle stating filming activity on location near Okahune and Mt Ruapehu.

November 10th: Report in the NelsonMail stating that Hobbit cast and crew will be in Golden Bay for a week before returning in December to film at Pelorus Bridge.

November 12th: Otago Daily Times reports that 320 cast and crew flew in to Dunedin on Thursday evening to start filming in the area.

November 12th: Hobbit crew and cast also spotted arriving at Nelson airport last night (Friday) for filming at Takaka Hill. (from Stuff NZ)

November 12th: Animals from wildlife reserve in Christchurch off to visit Glenorchy to star in The Hobbit. Thanks to TORn and Roheryn for this story.

November 13th: Peter Jackson and Fran Walsh spotted at Skyline Gondola Park at Queenstown by TORn member Glaurung. Many thanks to them for posting. Below: Photo of Queemstown Hill from Gondola Park taken November 8th.

November 13th: TORn member docdanz sends report that there is a "hive of activity" across the Taieri River from Middlemarch (South Island between Dunedin and Queenstown). Many thanks to TORn and docdanz for posting.

Photos taken just outside Middlemarch on November 6th

November 13th: Small snippet about The Hobbit in Sir Ian McKellen's blog.

Wk 43:    Week of 14th November    1. Middlemarch/Ranfurly?Queenstown 2. Nelson

November 14th: Report #3 from The Hobbit set by Eric Vespe of AinititCoolNews.

November 14th: "Flotsam and jetsom Rumours in NZ" from TORn member The Beard reporting about filming near Nelson.

November 14th: "Mum's the word: it's riddles in the dark" - Otago Daily Times report on filming in Taieri  region.

November 15th: "Hobbit spotting rife in Otago" Report in NZ Herald about filming in Otago Region (Strath Taieri)

November 15th: Report on Filmonic site quoting an interview with Andy Serkis who stated that the first Hobbit trailer would be out at Christmas time. 

November 16th: Interview with Howard Shore - mention of Hobbit score.

November 17th: Orlando Bloom spotted in Queenstown - Otago Daily Times and New Zealand Herald.

November 17th: "Little seen of Hobbits" - Nelson Mail.

November 17th: Interview with Andy Serkis in Variety. Discussion about motion capture and acting performance/recognistion. Andy quoted as saying: "I'm currently doing 'The Hobbit,' and actors are coming on set and knocking performances out of the park."

November 17th: Peter Jackson, Sir Ian Mckellen, Orlando Bloom spotted dining out in Queenstown. From Mountain Scene.

November 18th: Report on "The Leader: Motueka News" about the filming at Takaka Hill near Nelson: "Hobbit folk try to keep a low profile" and "Rogue sightings of Hobbits" from The Marlborough Express.

November 19th: Report in Nelson Mail "Hobbit Cast and Crew due Back" stating that the crew (which was the second unit) would be joining the main unit at Ranfurly, near MiddleMarch. The Main unit would return in December.

November 19th: NZ Herald report on The Hobbit trailer debut.

 Wk 44:    Week of 21st November    1. Glenorchy, Queenstown. 2. Middlemarch/Ranfurly?3. Te Anau/Twizel.

November 21st: Article on The Hobbit in French Magazine: Studio Cine Live. Many thanks to RichardArmitageNet.com for scans. Quote from Richard Armitage:

"Richard Armitage (Captain America) plays the valiant heir of the Dwarves’ kingdom, Thorin Oakenshield. “When I auditioned for the role of Thorin, I’ve never imagined for a second that I would get the part”, says the British actor, “when I’ve learned the good news, I was incredulous. It was the same when I had to do make-up and costume screen-tests. However, when I finally met Peter Jackson, I indeed realised that I was going to explore the Middle Earth!”. When he was a young dwarf prince, Thorin witnessed the destruction of the realm of Erebor. Forced to exile, he became a strong fighter and a charismatic leader, whose only desire is to destroy the creature responsible for his people's misfortune. “Thorin feels a surpressed anger and I take advantage of this role to express my own dark side”, adds Richard Armitage. “It’s liberating! I pushed limits of my performance outside my “comfort zone”. I do not want to rest on my laurels”." (RichardArmitagenet.com)

November 21st: Interview with Benedict Cumberbatch regarding his preparation for the role of Smaug on Collider site.

November 22nd: Filming completed at Glenorchy. (Ref.)

November 23rd: Cast and crew moved to Te Anau. (Ref.)

November 23rd: "Sir Peter Jackson luges in Queenstown during his downtime" from Mountain Scene.

November 23rd: Interview with Bret McKenzie (Lindir) in The Hollywood Reporter.

November 23rd: Writer and photographer, Larry D Curtis (Mr Cere at TheOneRing.net) reported to be travelling to Queenstown and Wellington. While in Wellington, he will mark the 12 month countdown to the World Premier. Looking forward to his reports.

November 24th: Article in the Otago  Daily Times about the Glenorchy site and loss of an old beech tree in a storm originally chosen for a scene. Set builders had to construct an artificial tree to replace it. Thanks to Otago Daily Time's James Beech for a great description of his visit to the set.

November 24th: Article in NZ Herald: "Sir Peter's great Southern Inspiration" . Filming at Arcadia Station near Glenorchy.

November 24th: Article in The Dominion Post reporting Sir Peter Jackson and Fran Walsh have bought Wellington's historic BATS Theatre building thus securing a permanent home for the theatre. Second article here.

November 24th: Eric Vespe from Ain'tItCoolNews publishes his Set Report #4. (Filming near TeKuiti/Mangaotaki - (week of 7th November approx).

November 24th: "Hobbit's hush-hush around Twizel area". Article forom Timaru Herald.

November 25th: "Hobbit crew big Spenders" Article on the Otago Daily Times by James Beech re. the benefits to the local community of hosting The Hobbit production cast and crew.

November 25th: NZ Herald "Hobbiton's Green Dragon tipped for Pulling Pints". Article on the permanency of the Hobbit holes and Pub at Matamata.

November 26th: "A Visitation of Hobbits". Editorial in the Otago Daily Times about the work of Peter Jackson, and the Hobbit filming in the Otago area.

Luke Evans due back in NZ for Bard the Bowman.

November 26th: Tweet from Luke Evans  "New Zealand is gorgeous!! Good to be back!!"

November 26th: NZ Election: John Key is returned as PM. (Instrumental in changing labour laws and thus allowing the Hobbit filming to remain in NZ).

November 27th: Eric Vespe from Ain'tItCoolNews publishes his Set Report #5. In it he outlines a scene featuring Gandalf and Thorin. Of Richard Armitage's performance, he writes:

"Armitage does a great job with Thorin’s inner struggle. The look on his face isn’t someone locked into a decision. Gandalf urges him to seek Elrond’s help, for the good of the quest. Instead of playing it like a stone-faced general, Armitage does weigh his options and mostly in reaction to Gandalf’s words, not in his own dialogue.

In other words he conveys the struggle with his face, giving Thorin a depth I was anticipating. I’m sure the inclination would be for Armitage to play it stubborn and he does, but he layers it with some real emotion." from Quint on the set of The Hobbit Part 5 - Thorin's Dilemma

Wk 45:    Week of 28th November    1.  Twizel/Lake Pukaki?/ Tekapo/Queenstown                        

November 28th:  Interview with Elijah Wood who stated that The Hobbit trailer would be shown before Tintin in the US.          

November 29th: Sir Ian McKellen updates his Hobbit Blog with a post entitled "Moving On" where he describes his journey from Wellington to Matamata in order to start location shooting.

November 30th: "Orlando Spins our Wheels in Queenstown" from Mountain Scene. (Orlando Bloom mountain biking).

December 1st: "Secrecy surrounds Hobbit filming". Report in the Otago Daily Times about the shoot near Wanaka.

December 1st: First article published on TORn written by Larry D Curtis (Mr Cere) as he travels through New Zealand. "LOTR still found in the fabric of Queenstown".

December 1st: "Actors Journey to Middle Earth". NZ Herald 

December 3rd: Interview with Martin Freeman's partner of 11 years, Amanda Abbington: "Abbington: Hobbit cast like family".

Wk 46:     Week of 5th December    1.  Nelson/Pelorus Bridge 

December 5th: Hobbit cast and crew in Nelson area. "Hobbit cast crew mass for filming" Nelson Mail.

December 5th: "Interview with Howard Shore" Film Music Magazine.

December 6th: Article in Marlborough Express: "Hobbits elude us , but we get to set"

December 6th: Peter Jackson's documentary on West Memphis 3 to premiere at Sundance.

December 6th; Stars arrive in Nelson. Thanks to TheOneRing.net for story.

December 7th: " Stars land in Nelson for The Hobbit" - article in the West Australian.

December 7th: Article in TORn stating that rumours reporting a delay in The Hobbit release were untrue.

December 8th: "Hobbit stars back as movie gears up" - article from The Press NZ and Nelson Mail

December 9th: Article in Timaru Herald "Students get precious Insight" about filming in Twizel.

December 9th: "Hobbit stars touch down" - Marlborough Express. 

December 11th: Report on TORn: "Hobbit Teaser Trailer shown at BNAT13 Film Fest". Description of how Eric Vespe of AICN took the trailer to BNAT for first showing.

Wk 47:    Week of 12th December    Pelorus Bridge. Nelson/Wellington.

December 13th: Article in "Tonight" on Australian Jodie Morrison, shoe and bootmaker for The Hobbit and Phantom of the Opera in Cape Town. She describes her work on the Hobbit production in article: "Shoemaker of the Opera"

December 14th: Filming ceases at Pelorus Bridge/Nelson area because of torrential rain. NelsonMail: "Rain puts early end to Hobbit".

December 14th: ONE YEAR UNTIL THE FIRST PUBLIC SCREENING OF "THE HOBBIT: AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY" (not in Autralia though). Warner Brothers releases official synopsis. From IFC site. "The Hobbit Premiere Countdown begins with release of Official Synopsis"

December 14th: More on The Hobbit teaser trailer at TORn here.

December 15th: @EricVespe tweets: "Only two shooting days left and 6 days remaining in town"

December 16th: Interview with Stephen Fry where he talks about his role as Mayor of Laketown: Digital Spy.

Wk 48:    Week of 19th December   Day 336  Break in Filming

December 19th: @EricVespe (approx 3.00pm NZ time): "That's a wrap on The Hobbit for 2011. Felt like the end of a school year around the studio."

December 19th: Interview with Martin Freeman in TotalFilm: "Martin Freeman talks The Hobbit."

December 19th: Peter Jackson nominated for Golden Globe award for Tintin.

December 20th: Interview with Martin Freeman in Stuff.co.nz: "Freeman struggles with dirty scenes"

December 20th: "Martin Freeman feels no Hobbit pressure" - Sky News Australia.

December 20th:  Set report #6 published on AICN. "Good Morning Koro".

December 2oth (Dec 21st: Australian & NZ Time): The Hobbit trailer is released on iTunes Trailers.

Debut of First Trailer

December 21st: Peter Jackson up for Auction for charity, Medecine Mondiale. TVNZ

December 21st: Interview with Andy Serkis in FilmNews.

December 21st: Tintin premieres in the USA. The Hobbit trailer to be shown at the screening.

December 22nd: Peter Jackson Reveals more about The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey in exclusive interview. The Telegraph.com.au

December 22nd: Empie magazine publishes "the Hobbit teaser trailer breakdown"

December 23rd: Peter Jackson publishes Production Video #5 on Facebook.

December 24th: Message from Richard Armitage sent to RichardArmitageOnline. Of his work on The Hobbit and the year that has passed he states:

"It's been one of the most memorable years I have ever experienced, the big birthday (which I tried to ignore, by sleeping through it!) and the privilege to be in NZ working on The Hobbit has made this year unforgettable. The places we have been to and the things we have seen, have surpassed all my expectations." Thanks to RichardArmitageOnline

December 25th: "Martin Freeman and Andy Serkis Discuss Filming "Gollum's Cave" Scene in The Hobbit" Interview on ComicBookMovie.com site.

 

 Wk 50:   Week of 26th December. Break

December 27th: "Christopher Lee talks the Hobbit" Thanks to TORn for posting.

December 28th: Article in FilmNews.co.uk: "Peter Jackson thrilled with Hobbit setting"

December 28th: "Peter Jackson talks The Hobbit". Adelaide Now

December 29th: Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman comment on acting and audiences. "Cumberbatch: Audiences have to care". From the UK Press Association.

December 30th: "Otago stars in new 'Hobbit' video". Otago Daily Times.

December 30th: Orlando Bloom still in NZ. Article in Wairarapapa Times - Age

December 30th: "Martin Freeman suggests Hobbit love scene". Post on FilmNews.co.uk

Into 2012