Ian McKellen as Gandalf in Peter Jackson's LORD OF THE RINGS
© 2001 New Line
McKellen Assesses LORD OF THE RINGS
By: Frank KurtzDate: Wednesday, July 25, 2001
Source: Sir Ian McKellen
In a new posting on his official website, Ian McKellen is answering a question about the coming LORD OF THE RINGS films and if the final product will effectively capture the feel of the books.
McKellen expresses his opinion on the matter, saying, "From what I have seen of the finished FELLOWSHIP OF THE RING, the audience will feel that everything they see onscreen was actually happening when the cameras rolled, including the monstrous and supernatural. Hobbiton may be peaceful, but only before the story starts! The music is appropriately emotional and atmospheric, using a full orchestra overlaid with solo voices, choir and single instruments the full range. I must stress that I have seen very little of the completed movie."
Regarding all that talk of reshooting on the film, McKellen dismisses any panicky talk of it, saying, "Some observers earlier in the year over-reacted to the Grey Book's news that Peter Jackson was making minimal adjustments to the beginning of that film. They assumed that something had gone badly wrong -- in part, perhaps, a cynical reaction to the unanimous approval of the 'Cannes footage' where journalists and distributors raved over 20 minutes of completed film.
"For a film director to adjust things between the completion of principal photography and the movie's release is, of course, commonplace, akin to a chef's last-minute seasoning or an author's spellcheck. Throughout filming, I was impressed by Peter Jackson's overall view, confirmed in Wellington this month, when he sensed after each session exactly which piece of which take should make it into the final cut. Some directors fashion their film in the editing suite, whereas Peter Jackson seems to cut it all together in his head in advance.
"In June, following the success of Cannes, Robert Shaye and his close associates at New Line watched on the big screen at Peter's headquarters his preliminary version of the first film in their trilogy. Bob is not a man to mince words but what could have been a nerve-wracking confrontation between producer and director passed off in mutual enthusiasm, confirming the truth that The Fellowship of the Ring is on course and on time. Next, Howard Shore will fit his composition to the final cut, when he records the music in London next month."
Check out all of Ian McKellen's latest on the films as well as what else the actor is up to by clicking on the source link above.
