BLACK SCREEN
SUPER: New Line Cinema Presents
SUPER: A Wingnut Films Production
BLACK CONTINUES... ELVISH SINGING....A WOMAN'S VOICE IS
whispering, tinged with SADNESS and REGRET:
GALADRIEL (V.O.)
(Elvish: subtitled)
"I amar prestar sen: han mathon ne nen,
han mathon ne chae...a han noston ned
wilith."
(English:)
The world is changed: I feel it in the
water, I feel it in the earth, I smell it
in the air...Much that once was is lost,
for none now live who remember it.
SUPER: THE LORD OF THE RINGS
EXT. PROLOGUE -- DAY
IMAGE: FLICKERING FIRELIGHT. The NOLDORIN FORGE in EREGION.
MOLTEN GOLD POURS from the lip of an IRON LADLE.
GALADRIEL (V.O.)
It began with the forging of the Great
Rings.
IMAGE: THREE RINGS, each set with a single GEM, are received
by the HIGH ELVES-GALADRIEL, GIL-GALAD and CIRDAN.
GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D)
Three were given to the Elves, immortal,
wisest...fairest of all beings.
IMAGE: SEVEN RINGS held aloft in triumph by the DWARF LORDS.
GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D)
Seven to the Dwarf Lords, great miners
and craftsmen of the mountain halls.
IMAGE: NINE RINGS clutched tightly by the KINGS OF MEN...as
if holding-close a precious secret.
GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D)
And Nine...nine rings were gifted to the
race of Men who, above all else, desire
power.
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
2.
CONTINUED:
GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D)
For within these rings was bound the
strength and will to govern each race.
FADE TO BLACK
GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D)
But they were all of them deceived.
FADE UP: An ancient PARCHMENT MAP of MIDDLE EARTH...moving
slowly across the MAP as if drawn by an unseen force the
CAMERA closes in on a PLACE NAME...MORDOR.
GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D)
...for another ring was made.
TEASING SHOTS: SAURON forging the ONE RING in the CHAMBERS of
SAMMATH NAUR.
GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D)
In the land of Mordor, in the fires of
Mount Doom, the Dark Lord Sauron forged
in secret a Master Ring to control all
others.
IMAGE: The ONE RING reflecting FIERY LAVA! FIRE WRITING
emerges on the plain BAND OF GOLD.
GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D)
...and into this Ring he poured his
cruelty, his malice and his will to
dominate all life.
IMAGE: THE ONE RING falls through SPACE and into flames...
GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D)
One Ring to rule them all...
IMAGE: A GREAT SHADOW falls across the MAP...closing in
around the realm of GONDOR...
IMAGE: SCREAMING VILLAGERS, MEN, WOMEN, AND CHILDREN, RUN
from their homes, pursued by ARMIES OF HIDEOUS ORCS.
GALADRIEL
One by one the Free lands of Middle earth
fell to the power of the ring.
FADE TO BLACK
GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D)
But there were some...who resisted.
(CONTINUED)
3.
CONTINUED:
FADE UP: ISILDUR, son of the KING OF GONDOR, leads an ARMY
ACROSS the PLAINS OF DAGORLAD...
GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D)
A last alliance of Men and Elves marched
against the armies of Mordor.
GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D)
On the slopes of Mount Doom they fought
for the freedom of Middle- Earth.
TEASING SHOTS: THE BATTLE OF DAGORLAD...THE ELF LORD, ELROND,
commands rank after rank of ELVEN ARCHERS...ORCS RETREATING
before the ARMY of the LAST ALLIANCE...ELENDIL holds aloft
the great sword....NARSIL!
GALADRIEL
Victory was near!
IMAGES: THE HUGE, DARK FIGURE OF SARURON, bearing the ONE
RING on his finger, looms over the field of battle...
GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D)
But the power of the Ring could not be
undone.
IMAGE: SAURON lays waste to the armies of the LAST ALLIANCE.
With desperate courage, ELENDIL leads a charge...THE BLACK
MACE OF SAURON LASHES OUT!! IMAGE: ELENDIL'S body falls like
a crumpled rag doll... IMAGE: ISILDUR cradles the body of his
father in his arms. The SHADOW OF SAURON falls over him...
GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D)
It was in this moment..when all hope had
faded, that Isildur, son of the king,
took up his father's sword.
ISILDUR snatches up the BROKEN BLADE OF NARSIL..The BLADE
severs SAURON'S FINGERS... AND THE ONE RING FLIES from his
body.
GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D)
Sauron, the enemy of the Free Peoples of
Middle Earth, was defeated. SAURON'S
ARMOR clatters to the ground. His body
GONE....VAPORIZED! CLOSE ON: ISILDUR picks up the SEVERED
FINGER and removes the ONE RING...transfixed!
GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D)
The Ring passed to Isildur...who had this
one chance to destroy evil forever.
(CONTINUED)
4.
CONTINUED:
IMAGE: GLADDEN FIELD...ISILDUR leads a small column of men
through DARKENING WOODS...the ONE RING glinting on a CHAIN
around his neck.
GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D)
But the hearts of Men are easily
corrupted. And the Ring of Power has a
will of its own.
SUDDENLY! ARROWS FLY! They are ambushed by ORCS...ISILDUR
SCREAMS!
FADE TO BLACK
FADE UP: ISILDUR MATERIALIZES UNDER WATER...as THE RING slips
slowly from his finger. Ripples of LIGHT play across
ISILDUR'S PALE FACE...he is DEAD.
GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D)
It betrayed Isildur to his death.
IMAGE: THE RING falls through the MURKY WATERS of the RIVER
ANDUIN.
GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D)
And some things that should not have been
forgotten...were lost.
FADE TO BLACK
GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D)
History became legend...legend became
myth.
FADE UP: The waters of the ANDUIN RIVER lie dark and
undisturbed.
GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D)
And for two and a half thousand years the
Ring passed out of all knowledge.
IMAGE: SILT SWIRLS...A THIN WHITE HAND reaches
down...grasping the RING...
GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D)
Until, when chance came, it ensnared a
new bearer!
IMAGE: THE THIN WHITE HAND opens to reveal one ring.
GOLLUM (V.O.)
My Precious...
5.
IMAGE: MIST SHROUDED MOUNTAINS...
GALADRIEL (V.O.)
The Ring came to the creature Gollum, who
took it deep into the tunnels of the
Misty Mountains.
IMAGE: THE GLOOM of a MOUNTAIN CAVERN..a MURKY POOL of
WATER...in the DARKNESS the SHADOWY OUTLINE of an EMACIATED
FIGURE.
GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D)
And there, it consumed him. A RASPY VOICE
mutters in the half light...
GOLLUM
It came to me. My own. My love...
(ecstatic whisper)
My preciousness.
GALADRIEL (V.O.)
The Ring brought to Gollum unnatural long
life. For five hundred years it poisoned
his mind. And in the gloom of Gollum's
cave...
FADE TO BLACK
GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D)
It waited.
FADE UP: Bathed in COLD MOONLIGHT, the WORLD lies DARK and
STILL...the unsettled quiet before the storm...
GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D)
Darkness crept back into the forests of
the world. Rumor grew of a Shadow in the
East...whispers of a nameless fear. And
the Ring of Power perceived...its time
had now come. It abandoned Gollum.
SLOW MOTION: unseen by its KEEPER..THE RING falls to the
MUDDY FLOOR of a MOUNTAIN TUNNEL...
GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D)
But something happened then the Ring did
not intend...
FADE TO BLACK
IMAGE: FUMBLING in the dark, a SMALL HAND closes over the
6.
RING.
GALADRIEL
It was picked up by the most unlikely
creature imaginable...
BILBO
(to himself)
What's this?
A YOUNGISH LOOKING BILBO BAGGINS peers down at what lies in
his hand...PERPLEXED by what he has found.
GALADRIEL (V.O.)
A Hobbit....Bilbo Baggins of the Shire.
BILBO
(surprised)
A Ring.
SUDDENLY! A VOICE SCREAMS...ITS ANGUISH RINGING through the
COLD, DANK TUNNELS...
GOLLUM (V.O.)
Lost! Lost! My Precious is lost!!
Frightened Bilbo quickly POCKETS the ONE RING and hurries on.
DISSOLVE TO:
WIDE ON: THE CAMERA SOARS AWAY FROM THE MOUNTAINS. MOVING
FASTER AND FASTER...THEIR DARK GREEN FORESTS AND JAGGED
WHITE PEAKS RECEDING INTO THE SHROUD OF MIST
GALADRIEL (V.O.)
For the time will soon come when Hobbits
will shape the fortunes of all.
FADE TO BLACK
FADE IN:
EXT. HOBBITON WOODS -- DAY
ANGLE ON: TWO HOBBIT FEET
resting on a small rock...rising out of the LONG, OVERGROWN
GRASSES SUPER: THE FELLOWSHIP OF THE RING SUPER: THE
SHIRE....60 YEARS LATER CAMERA TRACKS TO: a Figure lies
beneath the dappled sunlight of an old tree.
(CONTINUED)
7.
CONTINUED:
White flowers are scattered among the Well seeded grasses.
An idyllic setting at the end of a long hot summer... the
figure is reading a book. ON THE SOUNDTRACK: In the distance,
growing louder..over the Gentle clip clop of an approaching
cart and horse can be heard the HUMMING OF A DEEP VOICE to
the tune of "The Road Goes Ever On and On..."
SUDDENLY! The figure in the grass sits up...looking straight
at camera is a handsome young HOBBIT, with dark curly hair
and deep blue eyes. This is FRODO BAGGINS...his EYES alight
with EXCITEMENT! Tossing away the long stem of grass in his
mouth, Frodo runs off.
CUT TO:
EXT. SHIRE LANE -- DAY
The cart rattles along a leafy lane, driven by a stooped
figure in Grey.
INTERCUT WITH; SHOTS OF FRODO RUNNING... CAREERING DOWN A
HILL. . .JUMPING OVER LOGS... DODGING TREE BRANCHES.
ANGLE ON:
The shambling OLD PONY snorts and rears as... SUDDENLY FRODO
appears on a bank above the cart.
FRODO
You're late.
CLOSE ON: GANDALF glowers at the young Hobbit...
GANDALF
A Wizard is never late, Frodo Baggins,
nor is he early. He arrives precisely
when he means to.
They look at each other a moment..then both start laughing as
FRODO'S face breaks into a smile and he leaps on to the front
seat of the cart.
FRODO
It's wonderful to see you, Gandalf!
Next to Gandalf, we see how small Hobbits are...Frodo is 3
foot 6 inches tall.
GANDALF
You didn't think I'd miss your Uncle
Bilbo's birthday?
CUT TO:
8.
EXT. HOBBITON FIELDS -- DAY
Wide on: The cart rattles past a FIELD LUPIN being tended by
HOBBITS.
FRODO
What news of the outside world? Tell me
everything!
ANGLE ON:
Gandalf looks down at Frodo, a twinkle in his eye.
GANDALF
What, everything? Far too eager and
curious for a Hobbit. Most unnatural...
Wide on: The cart rattles over a Stone bridge towards a Busy
Hobbit Marketplace.
GANDALF (V.O.) (CONT'D)
Well, what can I tell you? Life in the
wide world goes on much as if it has past
age. Full of its own comings and goings,
scarcely even aware of the existence of
Hobbits...
Close on: Gandalf as he surveys the peaceful scene before
him.
GANDALF (CONT'D)
...for which I am very thankful.
ANGLE ON:
Hobbits look up exclaiming in wonder and excitement as the
cart bearing Gandalf and Frodo rolls past the Green Dragon
Inn...towards... Wide on: The party field. Where scOrcs of
Hobbits are busy preparing for the big night.
GANDALF (CONT'D)
Ah, the long expected party. So, how is
the old rascal? I hear it's going to be
a Party of Special Magnificence.
FRODO
You know Bilbo...he's got he whole place
in an uproar.
GANDALF
Oh, well...that should please him.
(CONTINUED)
9.
CONTINUED:
FRODO
Half the Shire's been invited...
GANDALF
Good gracious, me.
FRODO
He's up to something.
GANDALF
Oh, really?
Frodo shoots a knowing look, as Gandalf averts his eyes.
FRODO
Alright then..keep your secrets. Before
you came along we Bagginses were very
well thought of.
GANDALF
Indeed?
FRODO
Never had any adventures or did anything
unexpected.
GANDALF
If you're referring to the incident with
the Dragon...I was barely involved...all
I did was give your Uncle a little nudge
out the door.
FRODO
Whatever you did...you've been officially
labelled as a Disturber of the Peace.
GANDALF
Oh, really?
ANGLE ON:
ODO PROUDFOOT looks up as the Cart passes by, deeply
suspicious.
CUT TO:
EXT. HOBBITON -- DAY
CRANE UP:
As the cart rattles into the small village of Hobbiton...a
quaint rustic settlement, nestled amongst rolling green hills
and large trees.
(CONTINUED)
10.
CONTINUED:
The Hobbits live in Hobbit Holes: neat burrows dug into the
grassy hillside, with round doors and cute front gardens.
ANGLE ON:
Excited children, chasing after the cart.
CLOSE ON:
Gandalf ignOrcs the children's cries. The children stand
deflated, watching Gandalf disappear up the lane. At that
moment: spinning balls of bright color suddenly leap out of
the cart, fizzing over the heads of the delighted children.
ANGLE ON:
Gandalf smiling to himself, well pleased with his joke. ODO
PROUDFOOT is unable to suppress a chuckle. Frodo stands up in
the cart as Gandalf reigns in the horse.
FRODO
Gandalf... I'm glad you're back. Frodo
leaps expertly from the cart. Gandalf
smiles.
GANDALF
So am I, dear boy...so am I
CUT TO:
EXT. BAG END -- DAY
Wide on: GANDALF'S CART pulls up outside the gate to BAG
END...a particularly fine example of a Hobbit hole, with a
large round front door set into a grassy hillside. There is
a sign on the gate which reads: "NO ADMITTANCE EXCEPT ON
PARTY BUSINESS." Gandalf strides up to the garden path of Bag
End. He raises his staff and raps on the front door...a
voice calls out:
BILBO (O.S.)
No, thank you! We don't want any more
visitors, well wishers, or distant
relations.
GANDALF
And what about very old friends?
Suddenly the door opens and BILBO BAGGINS stands before him.
He is a HOBBIT OF INDERTIMINATE AGE, with a mischievous
Twinkle in his eye. Wearing a dashing brocade waist coat, he
looks every inch the eccentric gentleman.
(CONTINUED)
11.
CONTINUED:
BILBO
Gandalf?
GANDALF
Bilbo Baggins!
BILBO
My dear Gandalf!
Gandalf drops to his knee to embrace his old friend.
GANDALF
It's good to see you. One hundred and
eleven years old, who would believe it!
Gandalf looks at him more keenly.
GANDALF (CONT'D)
You haven't aged a day! Gandalf and Bilbo
laugh together and enter Bag End.
BILBO
Come on, come in! Welcome, welcome!!
CUT TO:
INT. BAG END LIVING ROOM -- DAY
Bilbo leads Gandalf into Bag End...cozy and cluttered with
souvenirs of Bilbo's travels. Gandalf has to stoop to avoid
hitting his head on the low ceiling. Bilbo hangs up Gandalf's
hat on a peg and trots off down the hall.
BILBO
(Calling)
Tea? Or maybe something stronger... I've
a few bottles of the Old Winyard left,
1296...a very good year, almost as old as
I am. It was laid down by my father. What
say we open one, eh?
Bilbo disappears into the kitchen as Gandalf looks
around..enjoying the familiarity of Bag End...he turns,
knocking his head on the light and then walking into the
wooden beam. He groans.
BILBO (O.S.) (CONT'D)
I was expecting you some time last week.
Not that it matters, you come and go as
you please, always have done, always
will.
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
12.
CONTINUED:
BILBO (O.S.) (CONT'D)
You've caught me a bit unprepared, I'm
afraid...we've only got cold chicken, bit
of pickle, some cheese here...ooh, no,
that might be a little risky...
Gandalf stops in front of a framed map, charred in one
corner...it is Thorin's map of the Lonely Mountain, Gandalf
smiles to himself.
BILBO (CONT'D)
Er, we've got raspberry jam and apple
tart...got some custard somewhere. Not
much for Afters, I'm afraid. Oh
no...we're alright...I've just found some
sponge cake. Nice little snack. Hope
it's enough.
(comes into view)
I could do you some eggs if you like?
Bilbo jumps, a half eaten pork pie in his hand, as Gandalf
mysteriously appears behind him.
GANDALF
Just tea, thank you.
BILBO
Oh..right. You don't mind if...?
GANDALF
No, not at all. Go ahead. A sudden loud
knock on the front door.
MRS. SACKVILLE BAGGINS (O.S.)
Bilbo Baggins, you open this door..I know you're in there.
BILBO
I'm not home.
Gandalf watches, amused as Bilbo tries to hide.
BILBO (CONT'D)
I've got to get away from these
confounded relatives, hanging on the bell
all day, never giving me a moment's
peace. I want to see mountains
again...mountains, Gandalf... and then
find somewhere quiet where I can finish
my book...Oh, Tea!
GANDALF
So, you mean to go through with your
plan, then?
(CONTINUED)
13.
CONTINUED:
BILBO
Yes, yes...it's all inhand. All the
arrangements are made.
GANDALF
Frodo suspects something.
BILBO
'Course he does, he's a Baggins...not
some block headed Bracegirdle from
Hardbottle!
GANDALF
You will tell him, won't you?
BILBO
Yes, yes.
GANDALF
He's very fond of you.
BILBO
I know. He'd probably come with me if I
asked him. I think, in his heart,
Frodo's still in love with the Shire, the
woods and the fields... little rivers.
Bilbo stands gazing out of the kitchen
window.
BILBO (CONT'D)
I am old, Gandalf... Bilbo looks at
Gandalf sadly...
BILBO (CONT'D)
I know I don't look it, but I'm beginning
to feel it in my heart.
CLOSE ON:
Bilbo's fingers close around his waistcoat pocket...gripping
a small, unseen object.
BILBO (CONT'D)
I feel thin...sort of stretched, like
butter scraped over too much bread. I
need a holiday...a very long holiday and
I don't expect I shall return...in fact,
I mean not to.
CUT TO:
14.
INT. BAG END -- EVENING
Gandalf and Bilbo are sitting on the Bag End porch. Below
them, final preparations are being made on the Party field.
Bilbo strikes a match and lights his pipe.
BILBO
Old Toby, the finest weed in
Southfarthing!
Bilbo blows a perfect smoke ring and watches it rise into the
air. A tiny sailing ship with masts and sails glides through
the Center of Bilbo's smoke ring.
BILBO (CONT'D)
Ohhhh,
(smiles)
Gandalf my old friend...this will be a
night to remember!
CUT TO:
EXT. PARTY FIELD, HOBBITON -- NIGHT
BOOM! A FIREWORK explodes into the night sky high above
Hobbiton...in the shape of a great green tree with unfolding
branches. TILT DOWN: with glowing flowers as they rain down
from the branches...evaporating just above the up turned
faces of the delighted party-goers 144 Hobbits, feasting and
drinking Carts of beer and wine are scattered about, and the
tables are piled high with steaming scones and savories.
Gandalf hurries about, lighting fireworks with a blue spark
that dances magically from his staff... Bilbo is greeting
visitors. Frodo and SAM sit at a table drinking ale...Frodo
notices Sam's eyes keep flicking to another pretty Hobbit,
Rosie Cotton, sitting some distance away.
FRODO
Go on, Sam, ask Rosie for a dance.
SAM
(horrified)
I think I'll just have myself another
ale.
FRODO
Oh, no you don't. Go on.
Sam goes to drain his glass... suddenly it is snatched out of
his hands as Frodo thrusts him into the middle of a passing
throng of dancers.
15.
ANGLE ON: SAM'S HORRIFIED FACE
as he is Swept away. Frodo laughs and finishes Sam's beer.
ANGLE ON:
Gandalf as he sets alight a particularly spectacular firework
that draws gasps of admiration from the party guests.
Close on: Bilbo is relating stories of his adventure to a
group of young hobbit children.
BILBO
(melodramatic)
So, there I was...at the mercy of three
monstrous trolls...Have you ever heard of
a troll? Do you know what a Troll is?
Great big nasty twenty foot high smelly
things..and they're arguing...arguing
about how they were going to cook us!
ANGLE ON: A LITTLE HOBBIT GIRL'S
upturned face...her eyes growing larger and larger.
BILBO
Whether it be turned on a spit or minced
in a pie or whether they were going to
sit on us one by one and squash us into
jelly! But they spent so long arguing
the whether-to's and why-for's that the
sun's first light crept over the top of
the trees...and turned them all to stone!
STUNNED GASPS from his young Audience greet his astonishing
feat! Close on: MERRY AND PIPPIN, two mischievous Young
Hobbits in their late teens. Pippin scrambles on to the back
of Gandalf's wagon, snatching up a small firework
MERRY
(urgent whisper)
No, no..the big one...the big one! Pippin
grabs a huge rocket. CLOSE ON: FIREWORK
FUSE crackles with flame!
Merry is holding out the big rocket...he looks aghast at the
fizzing fuse that Pippin has just lit.
MERRY (CONT'D)
(worried whisper)
You're supposed to stick it in the
ground!
(CONTINUED)
16.
CONTINUED:
PIPPIN
It is in the ground.
Merry fearfully tosses the Rocket to Pippin! The fuse
sizzles angrily.
MERRY
Outside!
PIPPIN
It was your idea.
Pippin attempts to throw the fizzing rocket back to Merry.
WHOOSH! The two hobbits are suddenly blown off their feet in
a shower of sparks as the rocket blasts off with frightening
power. The ROCKET ZOOMS over the Party..It suddenly bursts
apart, forming the shape of a great red golden Dragon! Fire
gushes from its nostrils as it turns back and Flies low
towards the startled crowd. Close on: Frodo watches the
Fireworks Dragon with alarm...but Bilbo is oblivious to the
Panicking crowd and impending danger!
FRODO
Bilbo! Watch out for the dragon!!
BILBO
Dragon? Nonsense...hasn1t been a dragon
in these parts for a thousand years!
ANGLE ON: FRODO
As he hurriedly pulls Bilbo to the ground, just as the dragon
roars a few feet above their heads like a flaming express
train! Hobbits dive to the ground, tables overturn, tents
collapse, food flies everywhere. The fireworks dragon turns a
somersault and explodes over the hills with a deafening bang!
This gets the biggest Cheer of the night.
ANGLE ON: MERRY AND PIPPIN,
clothes and hair smoking.
MERRY
That was good!
PIPPIN
Let's get another one!
LARGE HANDS suddenly clamp down on Merry and Pippin's ears.
Low angle: Gandalf looking DOWN STERNLY!
(CONTINUED)
17.
CONTINUED:
GANDALF
Meridoc Brandybuck and Peregrin Took...I
might have known!
CUT TO:
MERRY AND PIPPIN
Are leaning over a barrel, washing dishes in soapy
water...with Gandalf sitting nearby, smoking his pipe and
sipping an ale. Cries of "SPEECH! SPEECH" erupt from the
party.
ANGLE ON:
Bilbo stepping on a stool...he bows in gratitude at the
applause.
FRODO
Speech!
BILBO
(clearing throat)
My dear Bagginses, and Boffins, tooks and
Brandybucks...Grubbs, Chubbs,
Hornblowers, Bolgers, Bracegirdles and
Proudfoots...
ANGLE ON: A HOBBIT WITH PARTICULARLY BIG FEET
ODO PROUDFOOT
Proudfeet!
BILBO
Today is my one hundred and eleventh
birthday. Yes, and alas...Eleventy- one
years is far too short a time to live
among such excellent and admirable
Hobbits! Tremendous outburst of approval!
BILBO (CONT'D)
I don't know half of you half as well as
I should like; and I like less than half
of you as well as well as you deserve.
SCATTERED CLAPPING as the guests try to work out if that was
a compliment or not. CLOSE ON: FRODO AND GANDALF smiling to
themselves. CLOSE ON: Bilbo...a strange hum seems to fill his
head. A bead of sweat rolls down his brow.
Bilbo's hand pulls something out of his waistcoat pocket and
holds it behind his back.
(CONTINUED)
18.
CONTINUED:
BILBO (CONT'D)
I have..things to do and I have put this
off for far too long... CLOSE ON: BILBO'S
knuckles turn white as he tightens his
grip on the small object behind his back.
BILBO (CONT'D)
I regret to announce, this is the end. I
am going now. I bid you all a very fond
farewell!! Bilbo looks across at Frodo,
hesitates... then...
BILBO (CONT'D)
(whisper)
Goodbye.
Bilbo instantly vanishes. The party explodes into an
uproar... the crowd leaps to its feet.
ANGLE ON: FRODO
staring at the empty stool in disbelief.
CUT TO:
EXT. BAG END -- NIGHT
The party is still in an excited uproar... some 50 yards away
as we pan across a moonlit lane to the front door of Bag End.
Door opens, pulled by an invisible hand.
INT. BAG END -- NIGHT
The door quietly closes...Bilbo materializes as he pulls a
plain gold ring off his finger. Bilbo laughs as he tosses the
ring in the air, then places it in his pocket.
ANGLE ON:
Bilbo emerges from the passage, carrying a walking stick. He
finds Gandalf looming over him.
GANDALF
I suppose you think that was terribly
clever?
BILBO
Come on, Gandalf! Did you see their
faces?
(CONTINUED)
19.
CONTINUED:
GANDALF
There are many magic rings in the world,
Bilbo Baggins, and none of them should be
used lightly.
BILBO
It was just a bit of fun. Oh, you're
probably right as usual.
GANDALF
You will keep an eye on Frodo, won't you?
BILBO
I'm leaving everything to him.
GANDALF
What about this ring of yours? Is that
staying too?
Close on: Bilbo...he gives Gandalf a look and nods toward the
mantelpiece.
BILBO
Yes, yes, it's in an envelope...over
there on the mantelpiece. Gandalf frowns
at the empty mantelpiece...Bilbo suddenly
feels his waistcoat with a look of guilty
surprise.
BILBO (CONT'D)
No, wait. It's here in my pocket. Isn't
that...isn't' that odd now? Yet, after
all, why not? Why shouldn't I keep it?
GANDALF
I think you should leave the Ring behind,
Bilbo. Is that so hard?
BILBO
Well, no...and yes. Now it comes to it,
I don't feel like parting with it. It's
mine. I found it. It came to me!
ANGLE ON: GANDALF LOOKS DOWN AT BILBO WITH RISING CONCERN.
GANDALF
There's no need to get angry.
BILBO
Well, if I'm angry, it's your fault! It's
mine. My own, my precious.
(CONTINUED)
20.
CONTINUED:
GANDALF
Precious? It's been called that before,
but not by you.
BILBO
So? What business is it of yours what I
do with my own things? Bilbo's voice,
shape and manner have suddenly changed.
GANDALF
I think you've had that ring quite long
enough.
BILBO
You want it for yourself!
Gandalf rises to his full height, his eyes flash, his shadow
suddenly seems to fill the room
GANDALF
Bilbo Baggins do not take me for some
conjurer of cheap tricks! Bilbo cowers
from Gandalf, disarmed by his power...a
frightened Hobbit. Gandalf's expression
softens.
GANDALF (CONT'D)
I am not trying to rob you. I am trying
to help you. Sobbing, Bilbo runs to
Gandalf and hugs him.
GANDALF (CONT'D)
All you long years we've been
friends...trust me as you once did. Let
it go!
BILBO
You're right, Gandalf...the ring must go
to Frodo.
Bilbo lifts his knapsack and heads for the front door.
BILBO (CONT'D)
It's late, the road is long... yes, it is
time.
GANDALF
Bilbo?
BILBO
Hmmm?
(CONTINUED)
21.
CONTINUED: (2)
GANDALF
The ring is still in your pocket.
Bilbo hesitates...reaches into his pocket.
BILBO
Oh, yes.
CLOSE ON: Bilbo pulls out the ring...he stares at it in his
palm. With all his will power, Bilbo allows the ring to
slowly slide off his palm and drop to the floor. CLOSE ON:
The tiny ring lands with a heavy thud on the wooden floor.
EXT. BAG END -- NIGHT
ANGLE ON:
Bilbo staggering out of Bag end...he braces himself in the
night air, Pale and Trembling, as if his loss of the ring has
weakened him. Gandalf steps up behind.
BILBO
I've thought up and ending for my
book..."And he lived happily ever after
to the end of his days."
GANDALF
I'm sure you will, my dear friend.
BILBO
Goodbye, Gandalf.
GANDALF
Goodbye Bilbo.
Bilbo walks away from Bag End, disappearing into the night,
softly singing: "The Road goes on and on."
GANDALF (CONT'D)
(softly)
Until our next meeting.
CUT TO:
INT. BAG END LIVING ROOM -- NIGHT
CLOSE ON: THE RING...Glinting on the floor...Gandalf circles
around it, a Puzzled look on his face. Gandalf slowly reaches
for the ring. His fingers barely touch the ring...the creepy
Hum rises on the soundtrack. Gandalf is sitting in front of
the fire, with his pipe...staring into the flickering flames.
(CONTINUED)
22.
CONTINUED:
BILBO (V.O.)
It's mine, my own, my precious.
GANDALF
(to himself)
Riddles in the dark.
FRODO (O.S.)
Bilbo! Bilbo!
Frodo rushes into Bag End...he stops and picks up the ring at
his feet. Gandalf continues staring into the fire, as if
locked in thought.
GANDALF
(to himself)
My precious...precious..
FRODO
(quietly)
He's gone, hasn't he? Frodo steps into
the living room.
FRODO (CONT'D)
He talked for so long about leaving...I
didn't think he'd really do it.
GANDALF
(mutters to himself)
...my own.
FRODO
Gandalf?
Gandalf turns...his eyes locking onto the ring in Frodo's
fingers.
GANDALF
Bilbo's ring.
Gandalf sorts hurriedly through Bilbo's papers...
GANDALF (CONT'D)
He's gone to stay with the Elves. He's
left you Bag End...
Gandalf holds out the envelope...Frodo drops the ring into
it.
GANDALF (CONT'D)
...along with all his possessions.
Gandolf seals the envelope with wax. He hands it to Frodo.
(CONTINUED)
23.
CONTINUED: (2)
GANDALF (CONT'D)
The ring is yours now. But it somewhere
out of sight. Gandalf rises hurriedly and
starts to gather his things.
FRODO
Where are you going?
GANDALF
I have some things I must see to.
FRODO
What things?
GANDALF
Questions. Questions that need
answering.
FRODO
You've only just arrived! I don't
understand...
Gandalf is already at the door, he turns to Frodo.
GANDALF
Neither do I. Keep it secret, keep it
safe.
Gandalf hurries out the door...leaving FRODO standing alone
in the Bag End.
ANGLE ON: THE ENVELOPE
The camera pushes in...the hum of the ring comes up on the
soundtrack. The camera pushes through the white paper to the
ring...beneath the hum the whispered murmur of BLACK SPEECH
can be heard.
CUT TO:
EXT. BARAD-DUR -- NIGHT
The jagged ruins of" BARAD-DUR. THE DARK TOWER! TEASING
IMAGES: THE HUGE DARK TOWER OF BARAD-DUR is being rebuilt!
Thousands of ORCS crawl over the surface, hauling stone and
iron up the towering heights.
WIDE ON: MOUNT DOOM...A HUGE, BILLOWING CLOUD OF BLACK FILTH
grows and spreads across the red streaked sky...casting a
shadowy pall over the nightmarish landscape.
(CONTINUED)
24.
CONTINUED:
GOLLUM (O.S.)
Baggins! Shire!!
CUT TO:
EXT. MINAS MORGUL -- NIGHT
NINE BLACK RIDERS burst out of Minas Morgul and charge toward
Camera.
EXT. THE WEST ROAD, GONDOR -- DAY
WIDE ON: A LONE HORSEMAN gallops to the crest of a hill on
the west road. The main highway south to Minas Tirith...he
looks toward the saw toothed mountains of Mordor...
...seeping out across the blood red sky, his face grave. He
spurs his horse on.
CUT TO:
INT. CITADEL, MINAS TIRITH -- NIGHT
ANGLE ON: GANDALF
making is way down into the lower depths of the Citidel.
CUT TO:
INT. CITADEL CHAMBER, MINAS TIRITH -- NIGHT
CLOSE ON: Pages flipping as Gandalf searches ancient scrolls
and books placed high on a wooden table. His eyes settle on
one old parchment. He murmurs hurriedly to himself, reading.
GANDALF
(reading)
The year 3434 of the Second Age...here
follows the account of Isildur, High King
of Gondor, and the finding of the ring of
power.
DISSOLVE TO:
CLOSE ON: ISILDUR, TRIUMPHANT, REACHES FOR THE ONE RING, HIS
EYES FIXATED ON IT.
GANDALF
(reading)
It has come to me...the ring of power!
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
25.
CONTINUED:
GANDALF (CONT'D)
It shall be an heirloom of my
Kingdom...all those who follow in my
bloodline shall be bound to its fate, for
I will risk no hurt to the
GANDALF (CONT'D)
ring...it is precious to me, though I buy
it with great pain...
CLOSE ON: ELVISH LETTERING MARKS ON THE FADED OLD DOCUMENT
IN GANDALF'S HAND.
GANDALF
(reading)
The marking upon the band begin to
fade...the writing which at first was as
clear as red flame, has all but
disappeared...a secret now that only fire
can tell...
CUT TO:
EXT. HOBBIT FARMHOUSE -- EVENING
FARMER MAGGOT is chopping wood in his garden CLOSE ON:
SNORTING HORSE NOSTRILS...as the shadow of a black rider
looms over a Hobbit House. Terrified, FARMER MAGGOT cowers in
his doorway...FANG, his dog, Whimpers and backs away.
BLACK RIDER
(hissing)
Shire? Baggins?
FARMER MAGGOT
(terrified)
There's no Bagginses around here! They
are all up in Hobbiton...that way.
The BLACK RIDER GALLOPS AWAY AT SPEED
CUT TO:
INT. GREEN DRAGON INN -- NIGHT
ANGLE ON: ROSIE COTTON
bids the last of the Patron's "Goodnight"...Sam meets her
eyes for a moment as he and Frodo leave the inn.
26.
EXT. BAG END -- NIGHT
WIDE ON: FRODO FAREWELLS SAM outside Bag End, and heads
towards the front door. Creepy POV from inside Bag end: Frodo
coming up the path.
CUT TO:
INT. BAG END HALLWAY -- NIGHT
ANGLE ON:
FRODO enters Bag End...he immediately Pauses, sensing that
something is amiss. All is quiet...Frodo peers uneasily into
the darkened living room. SUDDENLY! A large figure looms out
of the shadows, reaching for Frodo. Frodo lets out a
startled cry, pulls himself free and spins around to face his
Assailant. Gandalf steps into a shaft of moonlight. Paranoia
blazes in his eyes. His clothes are dirty and ragged from
much traveling. Hair and beard much longer an unkempt.
GANDALF
(urgent whisper)
Is it secret? Is it safe?
CUT TO:
INT. BAG END LIVING ROOM -- NIGHT
Frodo pulls the envelope out of an old chest. Gandalf,
suspicious, Alert. Without a word, Gandalf takes the envelope
and tosses it into the fireplace!
FRODO
(bewildered)
What are you doing?
Flames instantly consume the envelope...revealing the ring,
as it sinks into the red hot embers. Gandalf reaches into the
fire with a pair of tongs...he lifts the ring out.
GANDALF
Hold out your hand, Frodo...it is quite
cool.
Gandalf drops the ring into Frodo's hand...he reacts to its
weight.
GANDALF (CONT'D)
What can you see? Can you see anything?
FRODO
Nothing...there's nothing. Wait...
(CONTINUED)
27.
CONTINUED:
CLOSE ON: The Gold Band of the ring as fiery letters begin to
appear...a tiny inscription glows red...as if burning from
within.
GANDALF
...these are markings.
CLOSE ON: GANDALF...STILL...TENSE
FRO DO
It's some form of Elvish...I can't read
it.
GANDALF
(ominous)
There are few who can...the language is
that of Mordor, which I will not utter
here.
Mordor?
FRODO
GANDALF
In the common tongue it says, "One ring to rule them all, One
ring to find them, One ring to bring them all, and in the
darkness bind them."
CUT TO:
INT. BAG END KITCHEN -- NIGHT
CLOSE ON: The ring lies on Frodo's simple kitchen table.
GANDALF
This is the one ring forged by the dark
lord, Sauron, in the fires of Mt
Doom...taken by Isildur from the hand of
Sauron himself.
CLOSE ON: FRODO...STUNNED
FRODO
(quiet realization)
Bilbo found it...in Gollom's cave.
GANDALF
For sixty years the ring lay quiet in
Bilbo's keeping, prolonging his life,
delaying old age...but no longer, Frodo.
Evil is stirring in Mordor. The ring has
awoken. It has heard its master's call.
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
28.
CONTINUED:
GANDALF (CONT'D)
AT THAT MOMENT: A FLEETING, LOW WHISPER
of BLACK SPEECH
emanates from the Ring. Frodo looks at Gandalf, each knowing
the other has heard it.
FRODO
But he was destroyed...Sauron was
destroyed.
ANGLE ON: THE RING
lies between them on the table.
GANDALF
No, Frodo. The spirit of Sauron has
endured. His life force is bound to the
ring and the ring survived. Sauron has
returned. His Orcs have multiplied...his
fortress of Barad- dur is rebuilt in the
land of Mordor. Sauron needs only this
ring to cover all the lands in the second
darkness. He is seeking it, seeking it,
all his thought is bent on it. For the
ring yearns, above all else, to return to
the hand of its master: they are one, the
ring and the dark lord. Frodo, he must
never find out. SUDDENLY Frodo scoops up
the Ring.
FRODO
Alright!
CUT TO:
INT. BAG END LIVING ROOM -- NIGHT
ANGLE ON: FRODO
hurriedly entering the living room.
FRODO
(thinking fast)
We put it away, we keep it hidden! We
never speak of it again. No one know
it's here, do they? Gandalf shifts
uncomfortably.
FRODO (CONT'D)
Do they, Gandalf?
Gandalf looks at Frodo, sadly...
(CONTINUED)
29.
CONTINUED:
GANDALF
There is one other who knew that Bilbo
had the Ring. I looked everywhere for
the creature Gollum, but the enemy found
him first.
CUT TO:
INT. BARAD-DUR -- NIGHT
CLOSE ON: A teasing Glimpse of Gollum being tortured by the
Orcs. The wretched creature screams in pain.
GANDALF (V.O.)
I don't know how long they tortured
him...but amidst the endless screams and
inane babble, they discerned two words.
GOLLUM
(screaming)
S...Shire! Baggins!
CUT TO:
INT. BAG END LIVING ROOM -- NIGHT
CLOSE ON: FRODO'S HORRIFIED FACE!
FRODO
Shire! Baggins! That will lead them
here!
CUT TO:
EXT. SHIRE LANE, SOUTH FARTHING -- NIGHT
IMAGE: On a dark country lane, a Hobbit bounder lifts his
watch lantern in alarm.
HOBBIT BOUNDER
Halt! Who goes there?
Out of the darkness thunder two BLACK RIDERS...A LETHAL SWORD
swings down at the small Hobbit bounder.
CUT TO:
INT. BAG END LIVING ROOM -- NIGHT
FRODO thrusts the ring at Gandalf.
FRODO
Take it! Take it!
(CONTINUED)
30.
CONTINUED:
GANDALF
No, Frodo...
FRODO
You must take it.
GANDALF
You cannot offer me this ring.
FRODO
I'm giving it to you!
GANDALF
Don't tempt me, Frodo. I dare not take
it, not even to keep it safe.
CLOSE ON: THE RING IN FRODO'S HAND...
GANDALF
Understand, Frodo...I would use this Ring
from a desire to do good...but through
me, it would wield a power too great and
terrible to imagine.
FRODO
But it cannot stay in the Shire!
GANDALF
No, no it can't.
CLOSE ON: THE RING IN FRODO'S CLENCHED HAND.
FRODO
What must I do?
CUT TO:
INT. FRODO'S BEDROOM -- NIGHT
ANGLE ON: FRODO
throwing clothes into a knapsack...Gandalf watches him,
making plans...
GANDALF
You must leave, and leave quickly. Get
out of the Shire.
FRODO
Where? Where shall I go?
GANDALF
Make for the village of Bree.
(CONTINUED)
31.
CONTINUED:
FRODO
Bree? What about you?
GANDALF
I will, be waiting for you at the Inn of
the Prancing Pony. Frodo packs his food
into his knapsack.
FRODO
And the ring will be safe there?
GANDALF
I don't know, Frodo. I don't have any
answers. I must see the Head of my
Order. He is both wise and powerful.
Trust me, Frodo. He'll know what to go.
CUT TO:
INT. BAG END LIVING ROOM -- NIGHT
Frodo is preparing to leave.
GANDALF
You'll have to leave the name of Baggins
behind you...for that name is not safe
outside the Shire. GANDALF helps FRODO
into his coat.
GANDALF (CONT'D)
Travel only by day and stay off the road.
FRODO
(thinking)
I can cut across country easily enough.
Gandalf looks at the young Hobbit, moved by his courage.
GANDALF
My dear Frodo, Hobbits really are amazing
creatures. You can learn all that there
is to know about their ways in a month,
and yet, after a hundred years, they can
still surprise you.
SUDDENLY! A SOUND from outside.
GANDALF (CONT'D)
Get down!
GANDALF FREEZES... he moves quietly towards the window, eyes
wide with tension. He raises his staff above the window, and
slams it down on the intruder. THERE IS A YELP OF PAIN!
(CONTINUED)
32.
CONTINUED:
Gandalf hauls a small figure into the room...SAM GAMGEE
sprawls across the floor! He looks up in terror as Gandalf
looms over him.
GANDALF (CONT'D)
(angry)
Confound it all! Samwise Gamgee, have
you been eavesdropping?
SAM
I ain't been dropping no eaves, sir!
Honest. I was just cutting the grass
under the window there, if you follow
me...
GANDALF
It's a little late for trimming the
hedges, don't you think?
SAM
I heard raised voices...
GANDALF
What did you hear? Speak!
SAM
(panicked)
Nothing important...that is, I heard a
good deal about a ring...and a Dark Lord.
And something about the end of the world,
but...Please, Mr. Gandalf, sir, don't
hurt me! Don't turn me into anything
unnatural!
GANDALF
No?
FRODO SMILES
GANDALF
Perhaps not. I've thought of a better
use for you.
CUT TO:
EXT. HOBBITON FIELDS -- PRE DAWN
Wide on: HOBBITON...shrouded in a white veil of MIST. WIDER:
To reveal Gandalf, Frodo and Sam hurrying across a ploughed
field, away from Hobbiton! Gandalf leads his Horse...Frodo
and Sam are carrying knapsacks.
(CONTINUED)
33.
CONTINUED:
GANDALF (V.O.)
Come along, Samwise...keep up...
CUT TO:
EXT. HOBBITON WOODS -- DAY
Gandalf leads Frodo and Sam under the cover of Woods.
GANDALF (V.O.)
Be careful, both of you. The Enemy has
many spies in his service, many ways of
hearing...birds, beasts...
Gandalf takes Frodo to one side...
GANDALF (CONT'D)
(low voice)
Is it safe?
FRODO NODS...he pats his pocket.
GANDALF (CONT'D)
Never put it on, for then the agents of
the Dark Lord will be drawn to its
power...Always remember, Frodo, the ring
is trying to get back to its master...it
wants to be found. Gandalf wheels his
horse and gallops away.
CUT TO:
EXT. GREEN HILL COUNTRY -- DAY
MONTAGE: FRODO AND SAM hiking over the gentle Shire
Countryside...wading through a shallow stream...heating a
kettle over a small fire...clambering over stone walls.
CUT TO:
EXT. GREEN HILL COUNTRY -- AFTERNOON
Sam stops short...taking stock of his surroundings. Sam
looks back from where they came.
SAM
This is it.
FRODO
This is what?
(CONTINUED)
34.
CONTINUED:
SAM
If I take one more step it'll be the
farthest away from home I've ever been.
FRODO gives Sam a pat on the shoulder.
FRODO
Come on, Sam.
Sam takes a deep breath and steps forward. CLOSE ON: SAM'S
brown, furry foot hits the ground.
FRODO IS SMILING.
FRODO
Remember what Bilbo used to say...it's a
dangerous business...
Frodo and Sam continue their journey.
BILBO (V.O.)
... it's a dangerous business, Frodo,
going out your door...you step onto the
road, and if you don't keep your feet,
there's not knowing where you might be
swept off to.
CUT TO:
EXT. ISENGARD VALLEY -- DAY
Gandalf is galloping along the outskirts of the ancient
forest of Fangorn. Nestled in a basin at the foot of the
distant Misty Mountains, the tall black tower of Orthanc is
clearly visible
EXT. ISENGARD VALLEY -- DAY
Gandalf gallops through the gate, into the fortress of
ISENGARD...a great ring-wall of stone, a mile from rim to
rim, encloses beautiful trees and gardens, watered by streams
that flow down from the mountains.
SARUMAN (V.O.)
Smoke rises once more from the mountain
of doom...the shadow takes shape in the
darkness of Mordor; the hour grows
late...and Gandalf the Grey rides to
Isengard seeking my counsel...
The strange tower of Orthanc...hewn from a solid pillar of
black obsidian...rises up in the center of the Isengard
Circle. Gandalf arrives at the foot of the Orthanc Stairs.
35.
ANGLE ON: SARUMAN, THE WHITE WIZARD
he sweeps down the Orthanc stairs.
SARUMAN
For that is why you have come, is it not,
my old friend?
Gandalf moves quickly towards him, grimy and weary from his
long ride.
GANDALF
Saruman!
CUT TO:
EXT. ISENGARD GARDENS -- DAY
Gandalf and Saruman walk slowly between the beautiful trees
of Isengard, Saruman's clean, white robe contrasts with
Gandalf's dusty grey robes.
SARUMAN
Are you sure of this?
GANDALF
Beyond any doubt.
SARUMAN
So the ring of power has been found?
GANDALF
All these long years it was in the Shire,
under my very nose.
SARUMAN
And yet you did not have the wit to see
it! Your love of the Halfling's leaf has
clearly slowed your mind.
GANDALF
We still have time...time enough to
counter Sauron...if we act quickly.
SARUMAN
Time? What time do you think we have?
CUT TO:
INT. ORTHANC ANTE-CHAMBER -- DAY
Saruman and Gandalf are seated in a small, cluttered room to
the side of the cavernous central chamber.
(CONTINUED)
36.
CONTINUED:
SARUMAN
Sauron has regained much of his former
strength. He cannot yet take physical
form...but his spirit has lost none of
its potency. Concealed within his
fortress, the lord of Mordor sees all.
His gaze pierces cloud, shadow, earth,
and flesh. You know of what I speak,
Gandalf...a great Eye, lidless, wreathed
in flame.
GANDALF
(softly)
The eye of Sauron.
SARUMAN
He is gathering all evil to him.
SARUMAN (CONT'D)
Very soon he will have summoned an army
great enough to launch an assault upon
Middle earth.
GANDALF
You know this? How?
SARUMAN
I have seen it.
Gandalf and Saruman stride through Orthanc toward a stone
plinth on which a sphere like shape is draped with a cloth...
GANDALF
A palantir is a dangerous tool, Saruman.
Saruman lifts the cloth to reveal the Palantir.
SARUMAN
Why? Why should we fear to use it?
GANDALF
They are not all accounted for, the lost
seeing-stones...we do not know who else
may be watching. Gandalf throws the cloth
back over the Palantir.
FLASH IMAGE: A FIERY EYE!
Saruman sits upon his throne.
(CONTINUED)
37.
CONTINUED:
SARUMAN
The hour is later than you think.
Sauron's forces are already moving...the
Nine have left Minas Morgul.
GANDALF
(shocked)
The nine!
SARUMAN
They crossed the river Isen in
Midsummer's eve, disguised as riders in
black.
GANDALF
(alarmed)
They have reached the Shire? Saruman
shrugs...
SARUMAN
They will find the ring...and kill the
one who carries it.
Gandalf backs away and turns to run to the door...horrified
as the doors suddenly slam shut.
SARUMAN (CONT'D)
You did not seriously think a Hobbit
could contend with the will of Sauron?
There are none who can.
Gandalf slowly turns to Saruman...a look of dawning horror.
SARUMAN (CONT'D)
Against the power of Mordor, there can be
no victory. We must join with him,
Gandalf. We must join with Sauron. It
would be wise, my friend.
GANDALF
(deadly)
Tell me, friend, when did Saruman the
wise abandon reason for madness?
At that moment: Gandalf is suddenly blasted across the room!
He slams against the wall...pinned there by some unseen
force. With sudden effort, Gandalf wrenches himself off the
wall and swings his staff on Saruman...blasting him off his
feet! Gandalf and Saruman battle, powerful blasts throwing
them across the room. SARUMAN SCREAMS, EYES BLAZING!
Gandalf's staff is suddenly wrenched from his grasp...it
flies across the chamber into Saruman's hand! Gandalf is
flung to the floor.
(CONTINUED)
38.
CONTINUED: (2)
SARUMAN
I gave you the chance of aiding me
willingly, but you have elected the way
of pain.
Gandalf is breathing hard on the floor, his eyes look into
the madness of Saruman... Commanding two staffs, Saruman
sends Gandalf into a sickening spin. Gandalf tumbles towards
the top of the chamber...as if falling in reverse. Rushing
POV: the roof of Orthanc rockets toward camera.
CUT TO:
EXT. FARMER'S FIELDS -- DAY
Wide on: Frodo and Sam walking along a country lane which
borders Farmer Maggot's Fields. Sam is looking up...Frodo has
disappeared around a corner in the lane.
SAM
(panicked)
Mr. Frodo. Mr. Frodo! Frodo turns,
surprised as Sam comes running towards
him.
SAM (CONT'D)
(worried)
I thought I lost you. Frodo looks at Sam
suspiciously. Sam glances down,
embarrassed.
FRODO
(teasing)
What are you talking about?
SAM
(mumbling)
It's just something Gandalf said...
FRODO
What did he say?
SAM
He said..."Don't you leave him, Samwise
Gamgee."
(looks at Frodo intently)
And I don't mean to.
FRODO
(laughing)
Sam...we're still in the Shire...what
could possibly happen?
(CONTINUED)
39.
CONTINUED:
SUDDENLY! A figure comes crashing out of a hedgerow sending
Frodo flying. Frodo picks himself up, only to be knocked back
down again by Pippin.
PIPPIN
Frodo! Merry, it's Frodo Baggins.
MERRY
Hello Frodo
Merry, Pippin, and Frodo picking themselves up... a variety
of vegetables have scattered everywhere.
SAM
What's the meaning of this!
MERRY
Sam, hold this...
Merry gives Sam a large cabbage.
SAM
(accusing)
You've been into Farmer Maggot's crop!
A large pitchfork can be seen racing towards them along the
Hedgerow...angry shouts from Farmer Maggot.
FARMER MAGGOT (O.S.)
Who's that in my field! Get out of it!
Get out of my field, you young varmits!
I'll show you...get out of my corn.
Merry and Pippin hurriedly gather their booty and race
away...with Frodo and Sam on their heels.
MERRY
(looking behind him)
I don't know why he's so upset, it's only
a couple of carrots.
PIPPIN
And some cabbages...and those three bags
of potatoes that we lifted last week.
And then the mushrooms the week before.
MERRY
Yes, Pippin, my point is, he's clearly
over reacting.
The BAYING OF LARGE DOGS sounds!
(CONTINUED)
40.
CONTINUED: (2)
PIPPIN
Run!
CUT TO:
EXT. WOODED ROAD -- DAY
Frodo, Sam, and Merry and Pippin tumble head over heels down
a bank, onto a dark, wooded road. CLOSE ON: A winded Pippin,
his face inches away from a large pile of Horse droppings...
PIPPIN
That was close.
Frodo picks himself up and looks around quickly.
MERRY
(groaning)
Ow...I think I've broken something.
Pulls a LARGE CARROT, almost broken through in the middle,
out from his back pocket.
MERRY (CONT'D)
Oh.
SAM
(turning on Merry and Pippin)
Trust a Brandybuck and a Took.
MERRY
What? That was just a detour...a
shortcut.
SAM
A shortcut to what?
Pippin has spied something under the trees on the far side of
the road.
PIPPIN
(excited)
Mushrooms!
CLOSE ON: SMALL, brown mushrooms growing amongst the Loamy
undergrowth. Sam, Merry, and Pippin race toward the
mushrooms! Frodo is tense and watchful. He realizes they are
on a wooded road. Scattered leaves rise into the air Whirling
down the road as if blown by an invisible wind...
41.
SUDDENLY... THE SOUND OF HORSES HOOVES...
FRODO
I think we should get off the road.
A long drawn WAIL comes down the wind, like the cry of some
evil and lonely creature.
FRODO (CONT'D)
(more urgency)
Get off the road!
Sam grabs Merry and Pippin as the Hobbits quickly scramble
down the bank, hiding under a mossy log. THE SOUND OF HOOVES
is close... A sinister MOUNTED RINGWRATH steps into
view...hooded and faceless, mounted on a huge snarling black
horse with insane eyes ! Frodo freezes in terror. The
RINGWRAITH pauses right beside their hiding place...he sits
very still with his head bowed, listening. From inside the
hood comes a sniffing noise as if he is trying to catch an
elusive scent; his head turning from side to side.
CLOSE ON: FRODO
Beads of sweat gather on his brow. The ringwraith suddenly
slides off his horse, leaning over the mossy log, peering
suspiciously into the woods.
CLOSE ON: FRODO
He is drawing the ring out of his pocket, with trembling
hands...his face fevered and sweating as if in the grip of
some terrible INTERNAL STRUGGLE. The SOUND OF SNIFFING
intensifies as the ringwraith darts his head from side to
side like a bird of party.
CLOSE ON: FRODO SQUEEZING HIS EYES SHUT...
QUICK PSYCHIC BLASTS! AND EVIL DARK TOWER...A GREAT EYE...A
BURST OF FLAME.
ANGLE ON: SAM LOOKING AT FRODO WITH CONCERN
SAM
Frodo?
Merry desperately hurls the mushrooms across the road...the
ringwraith spins around at the sound, and darts to the far
side of the road with frightening speed. Frodo instantly
slumps...as if a PSYCHIC LINK had been broken
(CONTINUED)
42.
CONTINUED:
MERRY
What was that?
Frodo is staring, a look of shock on his face at the ring
lying in the palm of his hand.
EXT. FERRY LANE -- NIGHT
Frodo, Sam, Merry, and Pippin hurry through the
trees...slipping and sliding on the muddy ground.
SAM
Anything?
FRODO
Nothing.
PIPPIN
What is going on?
Merry moves past pippin, toward Frodo, watching
intently...Sam keeps looking around nervously.
MERRY
The Black rider was looking for
something...or someone...Frodo?
SAM
Get down!
The SILHOUETTE OF A BLACK RIDER looms against the skyline.
The Four Hobbits... sprawled on the ground, holding their
breath. The BLACK RIDER turns and departs.
FRODO
I have to leave the Shire...Sam and I
must get to Bree.
Merry looks at his friend...realizing Frodo is in deep
trouble.
MERRY
Right...Buckleberry Ferry...follow me !
The Hobbits break cover. SUDDENLY, A RINGWRAITH bursts out of
the forest TOWARD THEM!
MERRY (CONT'D)
There's another one!! Frodo, this way! !
The Hobbits run THE RINGWRAITH SHRIEKS!
QUICK CUTS:
(CONTINUED)
43.
CONTINUED:
Black horse hooves... snarling horse mouths...a fleeting
black cowl.
MERRY (CONT'D)
Frodo, follow me!
CUT TO:
EXT. BUCKLEBERRY FERRY -- NIGHT
FRODO, SAM, MERRY AND PIPPIN, are running towards the wide,
placid Brandywine river...and the FERRY.
MERRY
Get the ropes, Sam.
QUICK ANGLES: STOMPING HOOVES...SNARLING HORSES...
Four RINGWRAITHS are speeding through the Fog...converging on
the FERRY CROSSING. The HOBBITS stampede across the Wharf and
Tumble onto the Ferry.
SAM
(screaming)
Frodo!
Frodo races across the Wooden Wharf, followed by the
ringwraiths. He leaps into the Ferry.
CLOSE ON: HOOVES THUNDER DOWN THE WOODEN WHARF!
Sam and Merry shove off with the poles...the ferry slides out
into the river, just as the ringwraiths arrive. They pull up
on the end of the wharf... shrieking with rage! The Hobbits
cover their ears. The Ringwraiths wheel their horses towards
the north and Gallop away along the river bank, quickly
disappearing into the fog.
FRODO
How far to the nearest crossing?
MERRY
The brandwine bridge...twenty miles.
CUT TO:
EXT. BREE GATE -- NIGHT
ANGLE ON:
Lights of Bree...a small village of stone and half timbered
houses nestled against a low wooded hill.
(CONTINUED)
44.
CONTINUED:
A thick hedge surrounds the village...a great gate bars the
western entrance.
CLOSE ON:
FRODO, SAM, MERRY AND PIPPIN approaching the gatehouse...wild
eyes, ragged, and out of breath.
FRODO
Come on.
A SURLY GATEKEEPER glances down at them.
GATEKEEPER
What do you want?
FRODO
We're headed for the prancing pony.
The gatekeeper swings his lantern onto the hobbits, bathing
them in an uncomfortable yellow spotlight.
GATEKEEPER
Hobbits! Four Hobbits, and what's more,
out of the Shire by your talk. What
business brings you to Bree?
FRODO
We wish to stay at the inn...our business
is our own. To Frodo's relief, the
Gatekeeper unlocks the gate.
GATEKEEPER
All right, young sir, I meant no offense.
The Hobbits gratefully enter Bree...the gatekeeper eyeing
them curiously in the lantern light.
GATEKEEPER (CONT'D)
It's my job to ask questions after
nightfall. There's talk of strange fold
abroad...can't be too careful.
CUT TO:
EXT. BREE STREETS -- NIGHT
The tall BREE FOLK loom over the nervous little hobbits as
Frodo, Sam, Merry and Pippin make their way through the
Narrow Streets. Tall buildings tower above them...lights
glow dimly from behind thick curtains.
(CONTINUED)
45.
CONTINUED:
Close on: The sign of the "PRANCING PONY INN"...Frodo, Sam,
Merry, and Pippin hurry toward it.
CUT TO:
INT. "PRANCING PONY" RECEPTION -- NIGHT
Frodo, Sam, Merry and Pippin come rushing in. Frodo attracts
the INN KEEPERS'S attention.
FRODO
Excuse me.
BUTTERBUR
Good evening, little masters. If you're
seeking accommodation, we've got some
nice, cozy Hobbit sized rooms available,
Mr...ah...
FRODO
Underhill...my name's Underbill.
BUTTERBUR
Underhill? Hmmmm.
FRODO
We're friends of Gandalf the Grey...can
you tell him we've arrived? BUTTERBUR
frowns...
BUTTERBUR
(Puzzled)
Gandalf...Gandalf...Oh...
(recognition)
Oh yes! I remember...elderly chap...big
grey beard...pointy hat? Frodo nods with
relief...Butterbur shakes his head.
BUTTERBUR (CONT'D)
Not seen him for six months. Frodo is
shocked.
SAM
(worried whisper)
What do we do now?
INT. PRANCING PONY INN -- NIGHT
Wide on: the noise, smokey Inn. It is dimly lit, cheifly
from a blazing log fire...and crowded with a mixture of BIG
FOLK, LOCAL HOBBITS, and a couple of dwarfs. Frodo, Sam,
Merry and Pippin are sitting at a table against the wall...
clearly trying to remain Quiet and inconspicuous... Sam can't
help himself...he keeps casting nervous glances around.
(CONTINUED)
46.
CONTINUED:
FRODO
Sam, he'll be here. He'll come.
Merry ploinks himself down at a table, carrying a very large
mug of beer.
PIPPIN
What's that?
MERRY
This, my friend, is a pint.
PIPPIN
It comes in pints? I'm getting one!
Sam watches Pippin rise unsteadily to his feet and head to
the bar.
SAM
You've had a whole half already. Merry
watches Pippin go.
A COUPLE OF SWARTHY MEN leaning against the bar glance at
Frodo, then quickly look away.
SAM (CONT'D)
(tense)
That fellow's done nothing but stare at
you since we've arrived.
Sam indicates a BROODING STRANGER who sits alone at a table
in the far corner, smoking a curiously carved long stemmed
pipe, peering from beneath a travel stained cowl with
gleaming eyes. Frodo gestures to Butterbur...
FRODO
Excuse me, that man in the corner, who is
he?
BUTTERBUR
He's one of them Rangers; they're
dangerous folk they are, wandering the
wilds. What his right name is, I never
heard, but round here he's known as
Strider.
FRODO
(to himself)
Strider.
BENEATH TABLE: FRODO'S fingers are nervously TOYING WITH THE
RING.
47.
CLOSE ON: FRODO
Sweat runs down his brow. The Strange hum of the Ring spills
into the Soundtrack.
"Baggins...Baggins..." a creepy whisper seems to fill Frodo's
head...sound that dissolves into Pippin's loud voice:
PIPPIN
Baggins? Sure, I know a Baggins...he's
over there...
ANGLE ON: PIPPIN
sitting at the bar, chatting with Locals. Frodo leaps to his
feet and pushes his way towards the bar.
PIPPIN
(loudly)
Frodo Baggins. He's my second cousin
once removed, on his mother's side and my
third cousin twice removed on his
father's side...if you follow me.
Frodo grabs Pippin's sleeve, spilling his beer.
FRODO
Pippin!
PIPPIN
Steady on, Frodo!
Pippin pushes Frodo away...he stumbles backwards, and falls
to the floor. At that instant, the Inn goes silent and all
the attention turns to Frodo...
CLOSE ON:
The ring...in agonizing Slow motion we watch as it seems to
hang in the air for a split second...then crashes down onto
his out stretched finger. FRODO VANISHES! There is a sharp
intake of breath...followed by total silence.
CUT TO:
EXT. BREE COUNTRYSIDE -- NIGHT
The RINGWRAITHS turn sharply in their saddles...Instantly
aware that the ring is being worn. They spur their horses
towards the distant lights of Bree.
48.
INT. "PRANCING PONY" INN -- NIGHT
Sam looks sick; Pippin instantly sobers, realizing his folly;
the brooding stranger frowns...and the inn erupts into
excited babble.
IN THE TWILIGHT WORLD:
ANGLE ON:
FRODO: as he finds himself in the TWILIGHT WORLD of the ring:
THE EXCITED CROWD ARE suddenly moving in slow
motion...distorted voices...a weird photographic negative
quality. FRODO is moving in real time; against the slow
motion background. He suddenly clutches his head as he is
hit with quick images...of a GREAT EYE! AN EVIL CAT-LIKE
EYE, wreathed in flames.
VOICE OF SAURON
There is no life here in the void...only cold...only death...
FRODO is terrified! He rolls under a table, desperately
pulling the ring from his finger. FRODO MATERIALIZES into the
real world. AT THAT MOMENT: A LARGE HAND reaches under the
table and Grabs Frodo by the collar, and DRAGS HIM AWAY!
CUT TO:
INT. PRANCING PONY--CORRIDOR -- NIGHT
Frodo is roughly pushed against the wall. The Brooding
stranger looms over him.
STRIDER
You draw far too much attention to
yourself...Mr. Underhill
CUT TO:
INT. HOBBIT'S ROOM, PRANCING PONY -- NIGHT
Frodo is pushed into the Hobbit's room by Strider.
FRODO
What do you want?
STRIDER
A little more caution from you...that is
no trinket you carry.
FRODO
I carry nothing.
(CONTINUED)
49.
CONTINUED:
STRIDER
Indeed? I can usually avoid being seen
if I wish, but to disappear entirely...
that is a rare gift.
FRODO
Who are you?
STRIDER
Are you frightened?
FRODO
Yes.
STRIDER
Not nearly frightened enough. I know
what hunts you. Frodo jumps at the sound
of a noise in the corridor. Strider
deftly draws his sword.
The door bursts open and Sam, Merry and Pippin appear on the
doorway. Sam is Squaring off with is fists, Merry brandishes
a candlestick, and Pippin a chair.
SAM
(angry)
Let him go or I'll have you, Longshanks!
STRIDER SHEATHS his sword, a slight smile playing on his
lips.
STRIDER
You have a stout heart, little Hobbit,
but that alone won't save you...You can
no longer wait for the Wizard, Frodo.
They're coming.
CUT TO:
EXT. GATEHOUSE, BREE -- NIGHT
The gate keeper comes out of his Lodgings with a lantern...a
look of fear on his face. He approaches the closed gate with
great apprehension. CLOSE ON: The Gatekeeper peers out of his
Peephole.
CRASH!!
The gate crashed down on the gatekeeper...as four RINGWRAITHS
ride into Bree!
50.
EXT. BREE STREETS -- NIGHT
The four RINGWRAITHS fly done the empty streets, like
horsemen of the apocalypse.
INT. PRANCING PONY INN -- NIGHT
LOW ANGLE: the front door FLIES OPEN. The FOUR RINGWRAITHS
rush into the PRANCING PONY with WICKED SWORDS DRAWN. CLOSE
ON: BUTTERBUR hiding behind his bar... trembling and sweating
in TERROR.
INT. HOBBIT'S ROOM, PRANCING PONY -- NIGHT
INSERT: MERRY SNORING SOFTLY ON HIS PILLOW.
INSERT: PIPPIN stirs slightly, then settles back to sleep.
WIDE ON: the door creaks open...THE FOUR RINGWRAITHS silently
slide into the Hobbit's room. The LOOM above each bed,
raising their SHINING SWORDS ABOVE THE SLEEPING HOBBITS.
QUICK INSERT: Sam's eyes open wide. In unison, the RINGWRAITS
STAB THE HOBBITS, in a Slashing, hacking frenzy.
INT. STRIDER'S ROOM -- NIGHT
Strider is grimly listening to the sounds from his room.
INT. HOBBIT'S ROOM, PRANCING PONY -- NIGHT
Wide on: the RINGWRAITHS step back from the slashed beds in
triumph. CLOSE ON: a hacked blanket is pulled back to reveal
nothing but a shredded pillow. The RINGWRAITHS SHRIEK WITH
RAGE!! INSERTS: Sam sits up with a start! Close on: Another
shredded pillow is revealed! More Shrieks of rage. INSERT:
PIPPIN AND MERRY wake with a start.
CUT TO:
INT. STRIDER'S ROOM -- NIGHT
WIDE ON: Sam, Merry, and Pippin have been sleeping on
Strider's bed. Frodo stands next to Strider by the window,
peering out nervously as furious Ringwraith screeches echo
across the courtyard from the Hobbits room.
FRODO
Where are they?
STRIDER
They were once men. Strider glances
quickly at Frodo, then looks away...
(CONTINUED)
51.
CONTINUED:
STRIDER (V.O.) (CONT'D)
(quietly)
Great Kings of men. Then Sauron the
deceiver gave to them Nine Rings of
Power. Blinded by their greed they took
them without question, one by one falling
into darkness and now they are slaves to
his will.
Strider looks from the window as the Ringwraiths gallop down
the Bree Streets. CLOSE ON: Strider turns back to the
Hobbits, his face lit faintly by the Glowing Embers of the
Fire.
STRIDER (CONT'D)
They are the Nazgul, Ringwraiths, neither
living or dead. At all times they feel
the presence of the ring...drawn to the
power of the one..they will never stop
hunting you.
CUT TO:
EXT. CHETWOOD FOREST -- DAY
ANGLE ON:
STRIDER, MERRY, PIPPIN, AND FRODO march through a gloomy,
overgrown forest. Sam follows at the read leading "Bill", a
scrawny pony, who is laden with supplies.
FRODO
Where are you taking us?
STRIDER
Into the wild.
Frodo watches uneasily as Strider moves off into the cover of
the trees...
MERRY
(whispered aside)
How do, we know this Strider is a friend
of Gandalf?
FRODO
We have no choice but to trust him.
STRIDER
But where is he leading us?
ANGLE ON:
(CONTINUED)
52.
CONTINUED:
Strider stops, casts a glance back at Sam.
STRIDER (CONT'D)
To Rivendell, Master Gamgee...to the
house of Elrond.
SAM looks excited.
SAM
Did you hear that, Bill? Rivendell!
We're going to see the Elves!
Strider leads the Hobbits through the gloom of the forest.
CUT TO:
EXT. MIDGEWATER MOORS -- DAY
Aerial on: Strider leading Frodo, Sam, Merry, and Pippin
across the windswept moors. The hobbits suddenly stop and
unstrap their knapsacks.
STRIDER
Gentlemen, we do not stop until
nightfall.
PIPPIN
What about breakfast?
STRIDER
You've already had it.
PIPPIN
We've had one, yes...but what about
Second Breakfast?
Strider stares at Pippin blankly, then turns away, shaking
his head.
MERRY
I don't think he knows about second
breakfast, Pip.
PIPPIN
What about Elvenses, Luncheon, Afternoon
Tea, dinner...he knows about them,
doesn't he?
MERRY
I wouldn't count on it.
An apple is thrown to Merry, who deftly catches it. Another,
aimed at Pippin, catches him on the forehead.
(CONTINUED)
53.
CONTINUED:
MERRY (CONT'D)
(exasperated)
Pippin!
The hobbits trudge through rain, looking tired, hungry, and
miserable.
CUT TO:
INT. ORTHANC ANTE-CHAMBER -- NIGHT
Saruman stands over the Palantir, his hands cupping the
massive eye.
SARUMAN
(whisper)
The power of Isengard is at your command,
Sauron, Lord of the Earth.
ON THE SOUNDTRACK: BLACK SPEECH FILLS THE ROOM...ADMIST THE
HARSH, GUTTURAL WORDS THE VOICE OF SARUMAN EMERGES.
SARUMAN
Build me an army worth of Mordor.
INT. ORTHANC ANTE-CHAMBER -- NIGHT
Saruman is seated as his ORC OVERSEER approaches.
ORC OVERSEER
What orders from Mordor, my Lord. What
does the eye command?
SARUMAN
We have work to do.
CUT TO:
