It became one of the most talked about scenes in Peter Jackson’s second Hobbit film (for both fans and detractors). Now WIRED has posted a new video that gives a behind the scenes look at the construction of the seven minute barrel sequence from The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug. The two and a half minute video discusses the complex editing process as well as the visual effects work done for the sequence. Continue reading “WIRED goes behind the scenes of ‘Desolation of Smaug’ Barrel Escape — VIDEO”
Category: WETA Digital
This image was slipped under our door deep in our network of mines where TheOneRing.net staff labors to make the internet safe and interesting for Tolkienites. Unable to find the sneaky culprit, we have no choice but to share with the world this exclusive look at page 22-23 from Weta Workshop’s new book, “Smaug: Unleashing The Dragon.”
As you might expect, the book brings readers face-to-face with the magnificent creature created for Peter Jackson’s “The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug.” From the pages we can preview, this is a book with concept art and text from the artists at Weta Digital and Weta Workshop; This spread from Gus Hunter who presents a couple of variations of body types of Old Smaugy. TORn friend Daniel Falconer is the author as he has been on Weta’s previous books about the creation of the Hobbit films.
A larger size version is available by clicking below.
WETA Digital has released a brand new two and a half minute video exclusively to the The Hollywood Reporter detailing the creation of the dragon Smaug. Thanks to Ringers Makaw, Brandon, Will P., and Jesse for notifying us about the video!
The Hollywood Reporter also spoke to Smaug VFX artist David Clayton (who is nominated for an Academy Award for his work on the film) about the process of translating actor Benedict Cumberbatch’s motion capture performance into the fire-breathing creature you see on the screen in The Desolation of Smaug. Continue reading “Bringing Smaug to Life: New Making-of video from Weta Digital”
If you’re a die hard fan of Peter Jackson’s Middle-earth adaptations, chances are you probably know the name Joe Letteri. Winner of four Academy Awards, Mr. Letteri has been an instrumental part of bringing the magical world of J.R.R. Tolkien’s books to life through the art of visual effects.
Now Mr. Letteri has once again been nominated for his work – this time for The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug. The Los Angeles Times’ Cristy Lytal took some time to ask him some questions ahead of the Oscar ceremony – which will be held on March 2nd. Naturally, the interview focused mostly on the creation of the film’s visual centerpiece – Smaug. Continue reading “Oscar winning visual effects artist Joe Letteri speaks with the L.A. Times”
That mischievous little sneaker known as Gollum (or Smeagol, depending on his mood) has another notch in his belt (er, loincloth). Even 10+ years after making a splash in Hollywood, he just can’t stop picking up awards.
Yesterday, the 41st Annual Annie Awards were held. The Annies celebrate achievement in film and television animation. The award for ‘Character Animation in a Live Action Production’ was given to Jeff Capogreco, Jedrzej Wojtowicz, Kevin Estey, Alessandro Bonora and Gino Acevedo for their work on Gollum in The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey. Continue reading “‘The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey’ wins Annie Award”
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced their nominations
for the 86th Annual Academy Awards this morning, and The Desolation of Smaug received 3 nods.
Congratulations to the nominees! The ceremony will be held on March 2nd. Continue reading “‘The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug’ nominated for 3 Oscars”