New film based on Tolkien's work
A new film titled The Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum is set to be released on December 15, 2027. It continues the story of the beloved fantasy series created by J. R. R. Tolkien.Original trilogy's legacy
The original trilogy of The Lord Of The Rings, consisting of The Fellowship Of The Ring (2001), The Two Towers (2002), and The Return Of The King (2003), is now regarded as a cult classic. It was directed by Peter Jackson and is noted for its faithfulness to the source material.Commercial and critical success
The trilogy was a commercial success, earning nearly three billion dollars worldwide and winning 17 Oscars. However, it did not universally appeal to all audiences, as some critics and viewers had strong opinions about its ending.Jack Nicholson's reaction
Jack Nicholson, a three-time Oscar winner, expressed dissatisfaction with the ending of The Return Of The King during the 2004 Golden Globes. He told Elijah Wood, who plays Frodo Baggins, that he had not enjoyed the conclusion of the third film.Nicholson's story revisited
Nicholson recounted this experience on the set of The Graham Norton Show in 2011. He admitted he had left the theater before the end and waited for his children in the car. Billy Crystal also referenced Nicholson's reaction during a conversation at the 2004 Oscars.Criticism of the ending
These criticisms were not unique to Nicholson, as the film's ending, which lasts 27 minutes, was perceived by some as excessive. Billy Crystal remarked during the Oscar ceremony that the film had "eleven nominations, one for each of its endings."Enduring fan reception
Despite these criticisms, the ending of The Return Of The King is considered by many fans to be a fitting conclusion to the epic saga. It has remained a topic of discussion among fans and critics alike.
