[Black screen]

Narrator (V.O.)

I amar prestar aen. The world is changed.
Han mathon ne nen. I feel it in the waters.
Han mathon ne chae. I feel it in the earth.
A han noston ned 'wilith. I smell it in the air.
Much that once was is lost. For none now live who remember it.
 
[The words 'The Lord of the Rings' appear in gold lettering on the screen, the screen fades back to black, then a fire comes onto the screen. A pair of tongs are seen pouring a heated liquid into a mould.]
 
It began with the forging of the Great Rings.
 
[Three Elf hands are seen, each wearing one of the elven rings, which each have jewels on them. We see the Elves looking at the rings on their fingers.]
Three were given to the Elves: immortal, wisest and fairest of all beings.
 
Seven to the Dwarf-lords: great miners and craftsmen of the mountain halls.
[We see the dwarves take their rings.]
 
And nine. Nine rings were gifted to the race of men, who above all else desire power.
[The men are seen with their rings.]
 
For within these rings was bound the strength and will to govern each race. But they were all of them deceived.
[We see a map of Middle-earth, which darkens as the screen blacks out.]
 
For another ring was made.
[Map is shown again, this time showing Mordor.]
 
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.
[We see Mount Doom, a volcano, spitting out lava from the top. We see Sauron's face, wearing a golden mask. Then we see a more distant shot of Sauron, this time holding something up in his hand.]
 
And into this Ring he poured his cruelty, his malice, and his will to dominate all life.
[Fire blots out his image, and in the fire we see round, gold ring. We see a close shot of Sauron, with the Ring on his hand. The camera zooms in on the Ring, which has fiery Elvish letters on it.]
 
One Ring to rule them all.
[Once again, we see a map of Middle-earth. A dark cloud originating from Mordor spreads to the rest of Middle-earth.]
 
One by one, free lands of Middle-earth fell to the power of the Ring.
[The map blends into a village in Middle-earth, where people are running away from Orcs, who are brandishing axes, and burning down houses.]
 
But there were some who resisted.
[We see an army of men marching, then a long shot of the battle field, where there are thousands of Men, Elves, and Orcs in battle, marching towards each other. The camera moves up to show Mount Doom.]
 
A last alliance of Men and Elves marched against the armies of Mordor. And on the slopes of Mount Doom, they fought for the freedom of Middle-earth.
 
[We see an Orc snarling, then a line of archers shooting arrows. Once again, we see a long shot of the battle field, with Orcs falling off cliff tops as they are shot. There are tens of thousands on the battle field. Then we see close shots of an army of Elves and men, commanded by Elrond.]

 

Elrond:

Tangado haid! Leithio i philinn!
[Translation: "Hold [your] positions! Fire the arrows!"]

 

[The Elves/Men have their shields drawn, and as the Orcs charge towards them, they draw their swords and fight them. Many Orcs fall.]

 

Narrator (V.O.)

Victory was near. But the power of the Ring could not be undone.
[Sauron appears, and with him, a hazy cloud. We see a close up shot of his hand, which is wearing the Ring. The fiery letters are very clear. Sauron swings his mace, and the men and Elves against him are flung outwards, yelling in pain. The king charges forward, trying to kill Sauron. Sauron slashes at him, flinging him to the ground. His sword falls. Isildur, his son, runs to his side, and takes off his helmet.]
 
It was in this moment, when all hope had faded, that Isildur, son of the king, took up his father's sword.
[As he grabs at the sword, Sauron steps on it, breaking it. Still holding the hilt of the broken sword, Isildur slashes at Sauron's hand, cutting off the finger which wears the Ring. The finger, still with the Ring on it, falls to the ground, as Sauron falls backwards. Isildur sits up and leans over the Ring, as Sauron is destroyed in a light that seems to come from his body. A bright light comes from him, and a cloud spreads over the battlefield, killing all the Orcs and Sauron's allies. Sauron's helmet falls to the ground, smoke coming out of it.]
 
Sauron, the enemy of the Free peoples of Middle-earth, was defeated.
[Isildur, amazed, picks up Sauron's finger, with the Ring on it.]
 
The Ring passed to Isildur, who had this one chance to destroy evil forever.
[We see the Ring in Isildur's hand, and as he holds it, the finger of Sauron turns to powder.]
 
But the hearts of men are easily corrupted. And the Ring of power has a will of its own.
[We see Isildur on a horse, and the Ring on a chain around his neck. He is attacked by Orcs. One jumps onto his back, and the others shoot him with their arrows. He is seen in the Great River, dead, with three arrows in his back.]
 
It betrayed Isildur to his death.
[The Ring is seen floating down to the bottom of the river.]
 
And some things that should not have been forgotten were lost. History became legend; legend became myth. And for two and a half thousand years the Ring passed out of all knowledge. Until, when chance came, it ensnared a new bearer.
[The screen fades to black. Then we see the same part of the river, some time later. We then see the Ring, half buried, still on the river floor. A hand is seen closing over it.]

 

Gollum:

My preciousss.
[We see Gollum holding the Ring in his hand, then a shot of the Misty Mountains.]

 

Narrator (V.O.)

The Ring came to the creature Gollum who took it deep into the tunnels of the Misty Mountains. And there it consumed him.
[We see Gollum, deep in a cave, squatting on a rock, looking at the Ring in his hand.]

 

Gollum:

It came to me. My own. My love. My own. My Preciousss... Gollum...

 

Narrator (V.O.)

The Ring brought to Gollum unnatural long life. For 500 years it poisoned his mind. And in the gloom of Gollum's cave it waited.
[Screen blacks out, then we see an indistinct shape, which comes into focus: a full moon. The image sharpens more, and we see it behind the cover of a tree.]

Darkness crept back in the forest of the world. Rumour grew of a shadow in the East, whispers of a nameless fear.
[We see a ripple in the Great Lake, the screen merges into a shot of a red sunset.]
 
And the Ring of Power perceived its time had now come.
[We hear the sound of metal on rock, echoing through Gollum's cave, and see the Ring falling.]
 
It abandoned Gollum. But something happened then, the Ring did not intend. It was picked up by the most unlikely creature imaginable.
[A hand is seen on the Ring.]

Bilbo:

What's this?

 

Narrator (V.O.)

A Hobbit. Bilbo Baggins of the Shire.
[We see a full view of a Hobbit, who fingers it, then smiles.]

 

Bilbo:

A ring.

Gollum:

[Offstage, in the distance]: Lost! My Precious is lost!!!

Narrator (V.O.)

[We see the outside of the Misty Mountains, now moving away from them.]
For the time would soon come when Hobbits would shape the fortunes of all.
 
[The screen blacks out.]

---

A Long Expected Party

[Screen fades in, and we a scene in the woods, where a Frodo is sitting under a tree, reading a book. All is green and peaceful, and bird are singing loudly. The words "The Fellowship of the Ring" appear, then 'The Shire... 60 years later.' We hear a voice singing.]

 

Gandalf:

[Sings]:
Down from the door where it began,
[Hums/Half mutters]: Now far ahead the road as gone,
And I must follow if I can...
[Frodo stands up, taking a pipe out of his mouth as he does so. He looks across the woods, and as he does so, his face breaks into a sudden smile, and he runs off. We see the back of a cart, and of Gandalf, who is singing.]

Gandalf:

[Sings]:
The Road goes ever on and on,
Down from the door where it began,
Now far ahead the road has gone,
And I must follow if I can.

[Frodo comes to the side of the path on which Gandalf's cart is travelling. He folds his arms.]

Frodo:

You're late.

Gandalf:

[sternly]: A wizard is never late, Frodo Baggins. Nor is he early. He arrives precisely when he means to.
[They look at each other for a moment, as though trying to keep a straight face. Then, as Gandalf's mouth begins to twitch, their faces both break into sudden smiles, and they laugh richly. Frodo jumps onto Gandalf's lap, arms outstreched.]

Frodo:

It's wonderful to see you, Gandalf!

Gandalf:

[He catches him, embracing him as he does so, swaying from side to side with Frodo in his arms, laughing once again. They break apart, and Gandalf looks at Frodo.]
You didn't think I'd miss your uncle Bilbo's birthday? [He touches Frodo's face affectionately, and laughs.]

Frodo:

What news of the outside world? Tell me everything!

Gandalf:

Everything? You're far to eager and curious for a Hobbit. Most unnatural... [The cart approaches the mill.] Well, what can I tell you? Life in the wide world goes on, much as it has this past Age. [They cross a narrow stone bridge.] Full of its own comes and goings. Scarcely aware of the existence of Hobbits. For which I am very thankful.
[The cart passes through a crowded marketplace, where Hobbits can be seen going about their daily tasks, leading pigs and goats, exchanging goods, or just eating.]

Hobbit:

[Waves] Look! It's Gandalf! [Gandalf tips his hat.]
 
[The cart moves out of the marketplace, and on, to the top of a slope, where we are given a magnificent view of a more quiet part of the Shire, which is lush, and green. Several hobbit-holes can be seen beneath the hills.]

Gandalf:

Ooh - The long expected party. [We see a group of twenty or so hobbits working on party preparations. Ten or so try to keep a tent up, while others carry tables and chairs.]

Hobbit:

Hold it!

[Hobbits can be seen putting up a banner saying 'Happy Birthday Bilbo Baggins'. As it is raised, the Hobbits cheer, and they clap and cheer more loudly when it stays up.]

Hobbbits:

Yeah, Bilbo, yay, up we go... etc...

 

[Gandalf and Frodo continue on, on what seems to be a grassy path through the woods.]

Gandalf:

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 the whole place in an uproar.

Gandalf:

Now, well, that should please him.

Frodo:

Half the Shire's been invited!

Gandalf:

Good gracious me!

Frodo:

He's up to something.

Gandalf:

Hmm... [Mutters]

Frodo:

All right then, keep your secrets.
[The cart passes a hobbit-hole, with a chimney breathing white clouds of smoke, and a line of clothing hung on its roof. Two Hobbits stand by the gate, talking, and wave as the cart passes them by.]
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 dragon, I was barely involved.
[Gandalf looks at Frodo; Frodo looks back doubtfully.]
All I did was give your uncle a little nudge out of the door.

Frodo:

[Half-laughing]: Whatever you did, you've been officially labelled a disturber of the peace.

Gandalf:

[Mutters]: Oh, really?

 

[A hobbit by the name of 'Proudfoot' sees Gandalf, while sweeping the front of his house, and eyes him rather sourly. Hobbit children are seen running through the fields, and following the cart.]

Hobbit kids:

Gandalf! Gandalf's here!! GanDALF!

 

[The Hobbit kids climb a fence, and run past the gate at which the Proudfoot hobbit and his wife are standing. The Proudfoot hobbit mouths something, then closes his mouth, as though pained. Soon, the Hobbit children come to the road that the cart is on, and stand on one fork of it.]

Hobbit kids:

Fireworks, Gandalf... Gandalf! Fireworks, Gandalf...

 

[Gandalf takes the other fork.]

Hobbit kids:

Ohhhh...

[Gandalf lets some fireworks out of the back of the wagon.
The Hobbit children jump up and down, and cheer. Frodo smiles to himself, then looks at Gandalf, rather amused.]

Gandalf:

Oooh... [Laughs] Oooh...

[The Proudfoot hobbit laughs, and as he does so, his wife walks towards him, hands on her hips, giving him a rather quelling look. His smile vanishes, and he adopts a grumpy expression.]

 

[The cart comes to the woods, and slows down.]

Frodo:

[Holds onto one of the posts of the wagon.] Gandalf - I'm glad you're back.

Gandalf:

So am I, dear boy. [Frodo jumps off the wagon, and waves, as he leaves.]
[Mutters to himself]: So am I.

[Frodo runs off into the fields, and Gandalf continues on to Bag End. As he stops his cart in front of it, Gandalf looks at the hobbit-hole, and sighs in satisfaction. He opens the gate, which reads 'No admittance except on party business,' then continues on to the front door, which he knocks on, with his staff.]

Bilbo:

No, thank you! We don't want any more visitors, well-wishers, or distant relations!

Gandalf:

And what about very old friends?

 

[Bilbo opens his front door.]

Bilbo:

Gandalf?

Gandalf:

Bilbo Baggins. [Holds his hands out to him.]

Bilbo:

My dear Gandalf! [He walks towards Gandalf, who kneels down and embraces him.]

Gandalf:

Good to see you. One hundred and eleven years old. Who would believe it? [Looks at Bilbo.] You haven't aged a day. [They both laugh.]

Bilbo:

Come on, come in! Welcome, welcome. [Shuts the door.]

[Mutters]: Oh, here we are.

[He takes Gandalf's stick and hat.]

Tea? Or maybe something a little stronger. I've got a few of bottles of the old Winyard left. 1296. Very good year. Almost as old as I am. Ha ha ha ha ha. It was laid down by my father. What's say we open one, eh?

Gandalf:

Just tea, thankyou. [Gandalf hits his head on one of the lights. Then, as he's putting it straight, he hits his head on the ceiling.] Ohh...

Bilbo:

[Mutters in the background]: I was expecting you sometime last week. Not that it matters. You come and go as you please. Always have done and always will. You caught me a bit unprepared, I'm afraid. We've only got some cold chicken and a bit of pickle... There's some cheese. Oh no, that won't do. We've got rasberry jam, an apple tart... But not much for afters. Oh, no, we're all right. I've just found some sponge cake.

[Gandalf looks at some maps on the table.]

Bilbo:

I can make you some eggs if you li-- Ganda- Gandalf?

Gandalf:

Just tea, thank you.

Bilbo:

Oh, right. [Stuffs some cake in his mouth, and mumbles]: You don't mind if I eat, do you?

Gandalf:

No, not at all.

Female Hobbit:

[Bangs on door.] Bilbo! Bilbo Baggins. [Bangs on door more loudly.]

Bilbo:

I'm not at home! 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?

Bilbo:

Yes, yes, it's all in hand. All the arrangements are made. [Bilbo gets the tea, and Gandalf takes the lid off for him.]

Bilbo:

Oh, thank you.

Gandalf:

Frodo suspects something.

Bilbo:

'Course he does. He's a Baggins! Not some blockheaded 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, the fields. Little rivers. I'm old, Gandalf. I know I don't look it, but I'm beginning to feel it in my heart. 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.

---

[The night of the party. Bilbo and Gandalf are sitting outside Bag End together.]

Bilbo:

Old Toby. The finest weed in the Southfarthing.

[Bilbo blows a smoke ring, and Gandalf blows a ship that goes through it.]

Bilbo:

Gandalf, my old friend. This will be a night to remember.

---

[Fireworks go off, everyone cheers. It is the night of the party, and Hobbits are dancing to music.]

Bilbo:

[Is talking to some guests.]

Hello, hello. Fatty Bolger. Lovely to see you. Welcome, welcome!

 

Frodo:

Go on, Sam, ask Rosie for a dance!

Sam:

I think I'll just have another ale.

Frodo:

Oh, no you don't! Go on!
[Sam stands up for another ale, but Frodo pushes him towards Rosie. They dance. Frodo laughs.]
 
[Gandalf lets off a bright blue firework, that opens out over party site.]
 
[Bilbo is sitting on a low bench, telling a group of young Hobbit children a story.]

Bilbo:

So there I was, at the mercy of three monstrous trolls. And they were all arguing amongst themselves about how they were going to cook us. Whether it be turned on a spit, or whether they should sit on us one by one, squash us, to jelly.

Hobbit girl:

[Gasps]

Bilbo:

And they spent so much time arguing, the whitertos and the whyfors that the sun's first light crept over the top of the trees -poof-

Hobbit kids:

[Gasp]

Bilbo:

And turned them all to stone! [Nods]

---

[Gandalf takes out some fireworks from a wagon in a tent. As he leaves, Merry and Pippin come out from behind the tent.]

Pippin:

[Whispers]: Quickly!
[Merry gives Pippin a leg up onto the wagon.]

---

[Gandalf is letting off some butterfly fireworks for the young Hobbit children.]

Gandalf:

Oh! Up they go!

---

[Pippin takes out a cracker.]

Merry:

No, no, the big one, big one. [Pippin takes out a dragon shaped one. Pippin lights it.]

Pippin:

Done. [Pushes the top end towards Merry.]

Merry:

You're supposed to stick it in the ground. [Pushes it back to Pippin.]

Pippin:

It is in the ground! [Pushes it back to Merry, who pushes it back to Pippin.]

Merry:

Outside... [They continue pushing the lit firework back and forth.]

Pippin:

This was your idea! [Cracker goes off, and Merry and Pippin are both thrown to the ground. The cracker lets out fireworks, and the Hobbits cheer. Then it turns into a fiery dragon. The Hobbits scream and run away from it, knocking down tables of food as they do so.]

Frodo:

[To himself]: Bilbo...

[Loudly]: Bilbo, watch out for the dragon!

Bilbo:

Dragon? Nonsense, there hasn't been a dragon in these parts for a thousand years! [The 'dragon' passes overhead, and slowly, the Hobbits who had been crouching down, begin to lift their heads. The 'dragon' then goes off in to the distance, filling the sky with fireworks.]

Hobbits:

Oh! [They cheer.]

Merry:

That was good!

Pippin:

Let's get another one.

Gandalf:

[Grabs them by the ears.] Meriadoc Brandybuck and Peregrin Took. I might've known.

 

[Merry and Pippin are seen washing up the dishes. Gandalf sits nearby, watching them, drinking tea, and smoking.]

The Hobbit crowd

Speech, Bilbo! Speech! [They cheer and clap.]

Frodo:

Speech!

[Bilbo walks up to the front of the crowd.]

Bilbo:

My dear Bagginses and Boffins! [Cheers from the crowd.]
Tooks and Brandybucks! [Cheers from the crowd.]
Grubbs! [More cheers.]
Chubbs! [Yet more cheers.]
Hornblowers! [Cheers]
Bolgers! [Cheers]
Bracegirdles! And Proudfoots!

Proudfoot:

Proudfeet!

[The crowd laughs, as Bilbo waves his hand dismissively, in the direction of the Proodfoot Hobbit.]

 

Bilbo:

Today is my one hundred and eleventh birthday! [Cheers from the crowd.].

Hobbit in the crowd:

Happy Birthday!

Bilbo:

Alas. Eleventy one years is far too short a time to live amongst such excellent, and admirable Hobbits. I don't know half of you half as well as I should like, and I like less than half of you half as well as you deserve.
[The Hobbits look at one another, as though trying to work out if this were a compliment. Gandalf eyes him, as though half-amused.]

I er ... I have things to do.

[Puts his hand into his pocket, and takes out a gold ring.]

[Whispers]: I've put this off for far too long. I regret to announce this is the end. I'm going now. I bid you all a very fond farewell.

[Whispers]: Goodbye.

[He vanishes, and the crowd gasps. Gandalf and Frodo look troubled. He makes his way back to Bag End, still invisible, and takes off his ring once he has closed the door behind him. He appears, laughing. He flips the ring into the air, then catches it, putting it back into his coat pocket. Humming, he picks up his stick, and enters the living room, where the fireplace is already lit.]

 

Gandalf:

I suppose you think that was terribly clever.

Bilbo:

[Gasps, looking around him, and seeing Gandalf.]

Come on Gandalf. Did you see their faces? [Laughs]

Gandalf:

There are many magic rings in this 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... You will keep an eye on Frodo, won't you?

Gandalf:

Two eyes, as often as I can spare them.

Bilbo:

I'm leaving everything to him.

Gandalf:

What about this ring of yours, is that staying too?

Bilbo:

[Impatiently]: Yes, yes. It's in an envelope over there, on the mantlepiece... No, wait it's - here in my pocket. [Takes the ring out and fingers it.] Why - isn't that - isn't that odd, now. Yet after all that, why not. [Whispers]: 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!

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. [Eyes bulge]

Gandalf:

Precious? It's been called that before, but not by you.

Bilbo:

Oh, what business is it of yours what I do with my own things?!

Gandalf:

I think you've had that ring quite long enough.

Bilbo:

You want if for yourself!!

Gandalf:

[Rises up, and becomes very angry.]
BILBO BAGGINS! DO NOT TAKE ME FOR SOME CONJUROR OF CHEAP TRICKS! I AM NOT TRYING TO ROB YOU!!
[Becomes normal again.]
I'm trying to help you.
[He kneels down beside Bilbo, and places his hand on his shoulder.]
All your long years, we've been friends. Trust me, as you once did, hmm? Let it go.

Bilbo:

You're right, Gandalf. The ring must go to Frodo. [Prepares to leave.] It's late, the road is long... Yes, it is time... [Walks out the front door.]

Gandalf:

Bilbo - the ring is still in your pocket.

Bilbo:

[Sheepishly]: Oh - yes.

 

[Puts it on the palm of his hand, and turns his hand over, letting it drop. It does not bounce. Bilbo turns and walks out his door, and Gandalf follows him.]

Bilbo:

I've thought up an ending for my book.

[He turns around to look at Gandalf.]

"And he lived happily ever after, to the end of his days"

Gandalf:

And I'm sure you will, my dear friend.

Bilbo:

Goodbye Gandalf.

Gandalf:

Goodbye, dear Bilbo.

[They shake hands.]

Bilbo:

[Bilbo leaves.] The road goes ever on and on, etc.

Gandalf:

[Softly, to himself]: Until our next meeting.

Gandalf:

[Walks back into the house. He leans over the ring, and reaches out the touch it, but sees a red eye. He leaves it on the floor. The scene cuts out, and we see him sitting by the fire, smoking.]

Voice of Bilbo (V.O):

It's mine. My own. My precious.

 

Gandalf:

Riddles in the dark...

Frodo:

[In the distance]: Bilbo! [Opens door.] Bilbo! [Leans over, and picks up the ring.]

Gandalf:

A precious... Precious...

Frodo:

He's gone, hasn't he?

Gandalf:

[Lets out a puff of smoke.]

Frodo:

He talked so long about leaving. I didn't think he'd really do it... Gandalf?

Gandalf:

[Turns around to face Frodo.]

Frodo:

[Shows Gandalf the ring in the palm of his hand.]

Gandalf:

[Smiles] Bilbo's ring. He's gone to stay with the Elves. He's left you Bag End.

[He holds out an envelope to Frodo, who puts the ring into it. Gandalf seals the envelope with a red stamp.]

Along with all his possessions. The ring is yours now.

[Gandalf holds out the envelope to Frodo, who, after a moment's pause, takes it.]

[Whispers]: Put it somewhere out of sight.

 

[Gandalf makes his way towards the front door.]

Frodo:

Where are you going?

Gandalf:

There are some things that I must see to.

Frodo:

[Follows him down the corridor.] What things?

Gandalf:

Questions.

[He takes his staff and hat.]

Questions that need answering.

Frodo:

You've only just arrived. I don't understand.

Gandalf:

[He looks troubled, and turns around to face Frodo.]

Neither do I.

[Bends over so that he face to face with Frodo.]

Keep it secret.

[Places his hand on Frodo's shoulder.]

Keep it safe.

[He leaves, and shuts the door.]

Frodo:

[Looks at the envelope in his hand.]

[We see shots of Mount Doom, then Minas Morgul.]

 

Voice:

Shire! Shire! Baggins!

[The Gates of Minas Morgul open, and the riders in black are seen riding out from them. Then the scene switches to Gandalf, who is riding up a slope and looking out onto Mount Doom. He then rides off to Minas Tirith, and enters a building full of old scrolls.]

 

Gandalf:

[Reads]: 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.

[Images are seen of Isildur taking the Ring from the hand of Sauron.]

It has come to me...

Gandalf (V.O):

The One Ring, which 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 Ring. It is precious to me...

[As Gandalf reads these lines, we see images from the Prologue: Isildur picks up Sauron's finger, which holds the Ring. As he lays it out on the palm of his hand, the finger is turned to a powder, and carried away with the wind.]

 

Gandalf:

...though I buy it with a great pain...

Gandalf (V.O):

The markings upon the band begin to fade.
[We see images of Isildur fingering the Ring. As he does so, the markings begin to fade.]

 

Gandalf:

The writing which at first was as clear as red flame, has all but disappeared, a secret now that only fire can tell.
[The camera zooms in on Gandalf, who looks up from the scroll he has been reading.]

---

 

[Scene switches to a house in the Shire. It is dark, and a man and his dog are standing outside the door, when a rider in black approaches. The dog starts barking, but backs into the house.]

 

Rider:

Shire. Baggins.

Hobbit:

There's no Bagginses around here. They're all up in Hobbiton. That way...

[Rider leaves.]

---

 

The Shadow of the Past

 

[Scene switches to Hobbiton, where Frodo is at the Green Dragon Inn. Sam and Frodo leave, and pass by Rosie Cotton, a Hobbit Lass who is drying a cup.]

Sam:

Good night.

Rosie:

Good night.

[Frodo and Sam leave, and walk back to Bag End.]

Frodo:

Good night, Sam.

[Frodo enters Bag End, while Sam continues on his way home. Upon entering Bag End, Frodo finds the windows open, and his papers flying about the house. Suddenly, he feels a hand on his shoulder. He turns around, and sees Gandalf.]

 

Gandalf:

Is it secret? Is it safe?

Frodo:

[Searches in a box, where he finds the envelope he put the ring into.] Ah.

Gandalf:

[Grabs it from him, and throws it into the fire.]

Frodo:

What are you doing?

Gandalf:

[Takes it out from the fire with tongs, and holds it out to Frodo.] Hold out your hand, Frodo. It's quite cool.

Frodo:

[Holds out his hand, as though expecting it to be hot. Gandalf drops the ring onto his palm.]

Gandalf:

What can you see? Can you see anything?

Frodo:

[Examines the ring.]. Nothing. There's nothing.

Gandalf:

[Sighs in relief.]

Frodo:

Wait... There are markings. It's some form of Elvish. I can't read it.

Gandalf:

There are few who can. The language is that of Mordor, which I will not utter here.

Frodo:

Mordor?!

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."

 

[Gandalf sits at the table, smoking, while Frodo makes tea.]

Gandalf:

This is the One Ring, forged by the Dark Lord, Sauron in the fires of Mount Doom, taken by Isildur from the hand of Sauron himself.

Frodo:

Bilbo found it. In Gollum's cave.

Gandalf:

Yes. For 60 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's heard its master's call.

Frodo:

But he was destroyed. Sauron was destroyed.

[Sounds come from the Ring, and Gandalf and Frodo look at it, as though afraid of it.]

Gandalf:

[Whispers]: No, Frodo. The spirit of Sauron endured. His life force is bound to the Ring, and the Ring survived. Sauron has returned. His Orcs have multiplied, his fortress of Barad-dûr is rebuilt in the land of Mordor. Sauron needs only this Ring to cover all the lands in a second darkness. He is seeking it. Seeking it, all his thought is bent on it. The Ring yearns above all else to return to the hand of its master. [Whispers]: They are one. The Ring, and the Dark Lord. Frodo - he must never find it.

Frodo:

[Takes the envelope containing the Ring, and walks into the next room, as though seeking for a place to hide it.]
All right. We put it away. We keep it hidden. We never speak of it again. No one knows it's here, do they?

Gandalf:

[Gandalf remains silent.]

Frodo:

[Fearfully]: Do they, Gandalf?
[He turns around to face Gandalf.]

Gandalf:

There is one other that knew that Bilbo had the Ring. I looked everywhere for the creature Gollum. But the enemy found him first.

[We see shots of Gollum being tortured.]

I don't know how long they tortured him for. But amidst the endless screams and inane babble, they discerned two words.

Gollum

SHIRE! BAGGINS!

Frodo:

[As though horrified]: Shire! Baggins?! But that would lead them here!

---

[The scene switches, and the riders in black are seen galloping across a road in the Shire. A Hobbit holds out a lantern.]

Hobbit:

Who goes there?

[The hobbit's concerned expression turn to one of horror, as one of the riders swing a sword at his head.]

---

 

Frodo:

[Desperately]: Take it Gandalf! Take it! [Frodo holds out the Ring to Gandalf.]

Gandalf:

[He backs away fearfully.]
[With fear in his voice]: No, Frodo.

Frodo:

[Urgently]: You must take it!

Gandalf:

[Firmly, yet fearfully]:You cannot offer me this Ring.

Frodo:

[Desperately]: I'm giving it to you!

Gandalf:

[Urgently, fearfully]: DON'T ... tempt me, Frodo!

Frodo:

[Frodo lowers his hand.]

Gandalf:

I dare not take it. [Whispers]: Not even to keep it safe. 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.

Frodo:

[Closes his hand over the Ring.]

What must I do?

[We hear a cupboard door creaking, and we see Frodo packing to leave.]

Gandalf:

You must leave. And leave quickly.

Frodo:

Where? Where do I go?

Gandalf:

Get out of the Shire. Make for the village of Bree.

Frodo:

Bree... What about you?

Gandalf:

I'll be waiting for you, at the inn of the Prancing Pony.

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 do. You'll have to leave the name of Baggins behind you, for that name is not safe outside the Shire. Travel only by day, and stay off the road.

Frodo:

I can cut across country easily enough.

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.

[A clicking noise is heard. The camera view moves to the window.]

Gandalf:

Get down.
[He takes his staff, slowly moving towards the window, then points his staff out of the window, and hits at something. Quickly, he grabs it from outside the window. It turns out to be a male Hobbit. He drops him onto the table.]

Confound it all, Samwise Gamgee! Have you been eavesdropping?

Sam:

I haven't been dropping no eaves, sir. Honest. I was just cutting the grass under the window there, if you follow me.

Gandalf:

A little late for trimming the verge, don't you think?

Sam:

I heard raised voices...

Gandalf:

What did you hear? SPEAK!

Sam:

N-n-n-nothing important. That is I heard a good deal about a ring, Dark Lord, and something about the end of the world, but, please Mr. Gandalf, sir, please don't 'urt me. Don't turn me into anything - unnatural...

Gandalf:

No... Perhaps not... [Whispers]: I've thought of a better use for you.

---

Three is Company

 

[The next day, at dawn, Gandalf is seen leading his horse into the woods, with Frodo and Sam following him.]

Gandalf:

Come along, Samwise, keep up. Be careful, both of you. The enemy has many spies in his service: Birds, beasts...
[To Frodo]: Is it safe?

Frodo:

Puts his hand over his coat pocket.

Gandalf:

Never put it on. For the agent 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 rides off into the woods, birds are heard screeching.]

[Sam and Frodo set off. We see several shots of them travelling across the countryside. After some time, they come to a field, with knee-high crops. Sam stops.]

Sam:

This is it.

Frodo:

This is what?

Sam:

If I take one more step, it'll be the farthest away from home I've ever been.

Frodo:

[Walks back towards Sam.] Come on, Sam.

Sam:

[Takes step.]

Frodo:

[Puts his hand onto Sam's shoulder.]

Remember what Bilbo used to say?

[They continue walking.]

"It's a dangerous business... [Voice changes to Bilbo's.]

Bilbo (V.O):

Frodo, going out your door. You step out onto the road, and if you don't keep your feet, there's no knowing where you might be swept off to."

---

 

[Scene switches to Gandalf. He rides off to Isengard, to find Saruman, the head of his order. We see shots of him on the way to Isengard.]

Saruman:

Smoke rises from the mountain of Doom, and the hour grows late, and Gandalf the Grey rides to Isengard, seeking my counsel. For that is why you have come, is it not? My old friend...

Gandalf:

Saruman. [Bows head.]

---

[Gandalf and Saruman are talking as they walk in the tree-filled garden next to the tower Orthanc. Birds can be heard squaking.]

Saruman:

You are sure of this?

Gandalf:

Beyond any doubt.

Saruman:

[Slowly, thoughtfully]: So the Ring of Power has been found.

Gandalf:

All these long years, it was in the Shire, under my very nose.
[Saruman gives Gandalf a rather scathing look.]

Saruman:

[Condescendingly]: And yet you did not have the wits to see it.
Your love of the Halflings' leaf has clearly slowed your mind.

Gandalf:

[Hurriedly]: But we still have time. Time enough to counter Sauron if we act quickly.

Saruman:

Time? What time do you think we have?

[They stop walking, and Gandalf looks at Saruman.]

 

---

[The scene moves to Saruman's room, where Saruman sits on a chair of elaborate design, while Gandalf stands before him.]

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.
[Gandalf looks up.]
You know of what I speak, Gandalf. A Great Eye, lidless, wreathed in flame.

Gandalf:

[Whispers]: The Eye of Sauron.

Saruman:

He is gathering all evil to him. Very soon he will summon an army great enough to launch an assault upon Middle-earth.

Gandalf:

[His eyes narrow.] You know all this? How?

Saruman:

I have seen it.

---

 

[Gandalf and Saruman are walking into the hall.]

Gandalf:

[Walks towards the palantír.] A palantír is a dangerous tool, Saruman.

Saruman:

Why? Why should we fear to use it? [Takes cover off the palantír.]

Gandalf:

They are not all accounted for, the lost Seeing-stones. We do not know who else may be watching.
[Puts the cover back onto the palantír.]

Saruman:

The hour is later than you think. Sauron's forces are already moving. The nine have left Minas Morgul.

Gandalf:

[Whispers]: The Nine?

Saruman:

They crossed the river Isen on Midsummer's Eve, disguised as riders in black.

Gandalf:

They've reached the Shire?

Saruman:

They will find the Ring, and kill the one who carries it.

Gandalf:

[Whispers]: Frodo! Frodo!
[Makes for one of the 4 exits, but as he approaches it, Saruman looks at it, and it closes. Gandalf makes for the other 3 exits, but each are closed as he heads for them.]

Saruman:

You do not seriously think that a Hobbit could contend with the will of Sauron? There are none who can. 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:

Tell me, friend. When did Saruman the Wise abandon reason for madness?

 

[Furious, Saruman shouts out, pointing his staff as he does so, and pinning him high up, against the wall, causing Gandalf to shout in pain. Saruman walks to him slowly, with his staff pointed at him, then lets him drop to the ground. But as Saruman approaches him, Gandalf points his staff at him, causing him to fall onto his back. The duel begins, and for some time they make hits at each other, each causing the other to fall to the ground. It seems that Gandalf is winning, as he sends Saruman flying through the shut door, but Saruman soon recovers, and, seeing weariness in Gandalf's face, makes a sudden movement with his hand, causing Gandalf's staff to fly into his own. Saruman throws Gandalf to the ground, then approaches, one staff in each hand.]

 

Saruman:

[Pointing both staffs at Gandalf.]

I gave you the chance of aiding me willingly, but you have elected a way of pain!

[He uses his staff to throw him to the top of the tower of Orthanc.]

---

A Short Cut to Mushrooms

 

[The scene shifts back to Frodo and Sam. We see Sam, who is now walking along a path. On either side of him are crops considerably taller than himself. He looks around him, and cannot see Frodo.]

Sam:

Mr. Frodo? Frodo! FRODO! [Frodo comes into sight, and Sam sighs in relief.]

I thought I'd lost you.

Frodo:

What are you talking about?

Sam:

It's just something Gandalf said.

Frodo:

What did he say?

Sam:

"Don't you lose him, Samwise Gamgee." And I don't mean to.

Frodo:

Sam, we're still in the Shire. What could possibly happen?

[Just then, Merry and Pippin come out from the bushes, and fall onto Frodo and Sam.]

 

Pippin:

Frodo! Merry - It's Frodo Baggins!

Merry:

Hello, Frodo.

Sam:

[Heaves Pippin off Frodo.] Get off him! Come on, Frodo.

Frodo:

What's the meaning of this?

Merry:

[To Sam]: Hold these. [Puts an armful of cabbages into Sam's arms.]

Sam:

You've been into Farmer Maggot's crop!

Farmer Maggot:

[Barking noises are heard.] Oi! You get back here! Get out of my fields! You know what's gonna happen when I catch up with you?

Sam:

[Stands holding the cabbages and carrots.] OOh. [Drops them on the ground and follows the others into the cover of Farmer Maggot's crop.]

Merry:

I don't know why he's so upset. It's only a couple of carrots

Pippin:

And some cabbages. And then those three bags of potatoes we lifted last week, and, and, the mushrooms, the week before!

Merry:

Yes, Pippin, my point is, he's clearly overreacting! Run!

[They run, but come to the edge of a steep slope. Pippin, Merry, and Frodo try to keep their balance, and almost manage, but then Sam hits into the back of Frodo, causing them all to fall down the slope.]

 

Pippin:

[Lands just inches away from a pile of manure.]

Oh. That was close.

Merry:

Ahhh. Ohhh. I think I've broken something. [Pulls out a broken carrot from underneath him.]

Sam:

Trust a Brandybuck and a Took.

Merry:

What? It was just a detour. A shortcut.

Sam:

A shortcut to what?

Pippin:

[Spots something on the ground.] Mushrooms!!

[Sam, Pippin, and Merry and whispering, as they put some mushrooms into a bag.]

Merry:

Take that one...

Pippin:

That's mine... Mmmm... That's nice, Merry. Here's a nice one, Sam.

 

Frodo:

I think we should get off the road.

[The sound of a horse neighing is heard, and the leaves rustle on the ground.]

Frodo:

Get off the road! QUICK!

 

[The Hobbits hurry off the road, and find a hiding place under the roots of a tree. Merry and Pippin fight over the bag of mushrooms.]

Sam:

[Whispers]: Be quiet!

 

[A rider in black comes dismounts, and comes towards their hiding place. Frodo closes his eyes, and takes out the Ring, and as he does so, the rider turns his face towards him. Frodo holds the Ring near to his finger, preparing to put it on, but Sam notices, and taps him on the shoulder. Frodo opens his eyes, and puts the Ring away, and as he does, the Rider looks away. Merry throws the bag of mushrooms off into the distance, and the rider moves towards it. The Hobbits leave their hiding place and run.]

 

Merry:

What was that?

[Frodo does not answer, but takes out the Ring, holding it in the palm of his hand.]

---

 

[The Hobbits are shown running through the woods in the dark. At least one rider is nearby.]

Merry:

Anything?

Frodo:

Nothing!

Pippin:

What is going on?

Merry:

That Black Rider was looking for something. Or someone... Frodo?

Frodo:

[Turns around to face Merry.]

Pippin:

[Urgently]: Get down!

[The Hobbits get down, and a Rider is seen nearby.]

Frodo:

I have to leave the Shire. Sam and I must get to Bree.

Merry:

Right... Bucklebury Ferry. Follow me.

[The follow Merry, but a black rider sees and chases them.]

Merry:

Run! Frodo, this way! Follow me! Frodo! Hurry! Run! Frodo!

[They run, and come to the river. Sam, Merry and Pippin are there, but Frodo is still being chased by a black rider.]

Merry:

Get the rope, Sam!

Sam:

Frodo!

The Hobbits:

Run, Frodo! Go! Hurry! Come on! Faster! Jump!

[The others have untied the boat, and it is drifting off. Frodo runs, and manages to jump onto the boat. The rider stops at the river bank, and turns around.]

Frodo:

How far to the nearest crossing?

Merry:

The Brandywine bridge. Twenty miles.

[The rider is seen riding off, and is joined by at two other Riders in black.]

---

At the Sign of the Prancing Pony

 

[The Hobbits are seen approaching the gate into Bree.]

Frodo:

Come on.

[They knock on the gate. The gatekeeper opens a shutter, but it is too high up to see the Hobbits, and opens a lower one.]

Gatekeeper:

What do you want?

Frodo:

We're heading for the Prancing Pony.

Gatekeeper:

[Opens gate.] Hobbits. Four Hobbits! What business brings you to Bree?

Frodo:

We wish to stay at the inn. Our business is our own.

Gatekeeper:

Alright, young sir, I meant no offence. It's my job to ask questions after nightfall. There's talk of strange folk abroad. Can't be too careful.

 

[The gatekeeper lets them in. Bree is full of men, or 'big folk', as the Hobbits call them, and it is a rough area. One of the Hobbits bump into one of the men.]

Man:

Out of the way! Watch where you're walking.

[Eventually, they find the inn of the 'Prancing Pony', and enter it.]

 

Frodo:

[Walks up to the counter.] Excuse me.

Innkeeper:

Good evening, little masters. If you're seeking accommodation, we've got some nice cozy, Hobbit-sized rooms available... Mr... er...

Frodo:

Underhill. My name's Underhill.

Innkeeper:

Underhill, yes...

Frodo:

We're friends of Gandalf the Grey. Can you tell him we've arrived?

Innkeeper:

Gandalf? Gandalf... Oh.... yes! I remember. Elderly chap. Big grey beard, and pointy hat.

Frodo:

[Smiles and nods.]

Innkeeper:

Not seen him for 6 months.

Frodo:

[Turns around to face Sam, Merry, and Pippin.]

Sam:

What do we do now?

[The scene skips to the Hobbits sitting at a table.]

Frodo:

Sam - he'll be here. He'll come.

Merry:

[Makes his way to the table, with a large mug of drink, but bumps into a man.]

Man:

Get out of my way!

Pippin:

What's that?

Merry:

This, my friend, is a pint.

Pippin:

It comes in pints? I'm getting one. [Walks off.]

Sam:

You've got a whole half already!! [To Frodo]: That fellow's done nothing but stare at you since we arrived.

Frodo:

[To innkeeper, as he walks past.]
Excuse me. That man in the corner. Who is he?

Innkeeper:

[Looks at the man.] He's one of them Rangers. Dangerous folk, they are, wandering in the Wilds. What his right name is, I've never heard, but around here, he's known as Strider. [He walks off.]

Frodo:

Strider...

[Frodo fingers the Ring.]

 

Voice of the Ring (V.O)

Baggins. Baggins. Baggins... Baggins...

Pippin:

Baggins? Sure I know a Baggins. He's over there [Pippin is talking to some men, and points to Frodo.]. Frodo Baggins. He's my second cousin once removed on his mother's side and my third cousin, twice removed... [The voices of the other people in the room drown out his voice.]

Frodo:

[Anxiously makes his way towards Pippin to stop him.] Pippin! [He grabs him, causing him to spill some of his drink.]

Pippin:

Steady on Frodo!

Frodo:

[Trips on the foot of one of the men, falling backwards. As he hits the ground, the Ring flies upwards, and it falls back down onto his finger, causing him to disappear.]

 

 

[The black riders are seen coming closer to the inn: they are drawn to its power. Frodo sees the world in darkness when he puts on the Ring. There are many shadows, and he hears a voice.]

 

Voice (V.O):

You cannot hide. I see you. There is no life in the void. Only death.

Strider

 

Frodo:

[Frodo sees a great red eye, and pulls the Ring off his finger. Just as he is recovering, he finds a hand on his shoulder. The man, 'Strider' (who will be referred to as Aragorn), pulls him up the stairs into his room.]

Aragorn:

You draw far too much attention to yourself, Mr. Underhill.

Frodo:

What do you want?

Aragorn:

A little more caution from you, that is no trinket you carry.

Frodo:

I carry nothing.

Aragorn:

Indeed. I can avoid being seen if I wish. But to disappear entirely. That is a rare gift.
[He pinches the candles in the room to put them out, and takes off his hood.]

Frodo:

Who are you?

Aragorn:

Are you frightened?

Frodo:

Yes.

Aragorn:

Not nearly frightened enough. I know what hunts you.

[The door is opened, and Aragorn (Strider) draws his sword. Merry, Pippin, and Sam are seen standing in the doorway. Sam has his fists held forward.]

Sam:

Let him go, or I'll have you, Longshanks!

Aragorn:

You have a stout heart, little Hobbit. [Puts his sword away.] But that will not save you. You can no longer wait for the wizard, Frodo. They're coming.

---

A Knife in the Dark

 

[The scene switches to the Black riders. The gatekeeper hears them coming to the gate, and walks towards it. The Black riders knock down the gate, and enter Bree.]

 

[The scene switches back to the Hobbits, who are sleeping. Then we see the Black riders approach, and enter the Hobbit rooms. There is a rider standing over each bed, and in unison, they thrust their swords into them. They do this several times, but when they take the blankets off, they find that there was no one sleeping in the beds. They turn over the beds, and ride off.]

[The scene switches back to Aragorn (Strider), who is sitting by the window with the Hobbits, who have awoken.]

Frodo:

What are they?

Aragorn:

They were once Men. 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 to darkness. Now they are slaves to his will. They are the Nazgul. Ringwraiths. Neither living nor dead. At all times they feel the presence of the Ring. Drawn to the Power of the One. They will never stop hunting you.

---

 

[The next day, Aragorn (Strider) is seen leading a pony into the countryside, with the Hobbits following him.]

Frodo:

Where are you taking us?

Aragorn:

Into the Wild.

Merry:

How do we know this Strider is a friend of Gandalf?

Frodo:

We have no choice but to trust him.

Sam:

But where is he leading us?

Aragorn:

To Rivendell, Master Gamgee, to the House of Elrond.

Sam:

Did you hear that? Rivendell. We're going to see the Elves.

 

[They walk on for some time. At one point, Aragorn (Strider) hears the Hobbits whispering behind him, and realises that they have stopped.]

Aragorn:

[Turns around.] Gentlemen. We do not stop 'till nightfall.

Pippin:

What about breakfast?

Aragorn:

You've already had it.

Pippin:

We've had one, yes. What about second breakfast?

[Aragorn turns around, and continues on.]

Merry:

Don't think he knows about second breakfast, Pip.

Pippin:

What about elevenses? Luncheon? Afternoon tea? Dinner? Supper? He knows about them, doesn't he?

Merry:

I wouldn't count on it.

[Aragorn throws an apple back, and Merry catches it. He hands it to Pippin, pats him on the back. Then Aragorn throws another apple, which hits Pippin on the head. Pippin looks up, and around him, bewildered.]

Merry:

Pippin...

---

[In Isengard: Saruman is using the palantír.]

Saruman:

The power of Isengard is at your command, Sauron, Lord of the Earth.

Voice of Sauron (V.O):

Build me an army worthy of Mordor.

 

[The scene switches to a room in Saruman's tower.]

Orc 1:

What orders from Mordor, my lord?

Orc 2:

What does the Eye command?

Saruman:

We have work to do.

 

[The Orcs outside Isengard are uprooting all the trees. We see Gandalf on top of the tower of Isengard. Then we see the Orcs working down below, pulling down the trees.]

Orc:

The trees are strong, my lord. Their roots go deep.

Saruman:

Rip them all down.

[Once again, we see Gandalf at the top of the tower of Isengard. It is raining, and there is no shelter.]

 

---

[The scene goes back to Aragorn (Strider) and the Hobbits.]

Aragorn:

This was the great watchtower of Amon Sul. We shall rest here tonight.

[The Hobbits settle down in a corner. Aragorn takes out four short swords, and passes one to each Hobbit.]

Aragorn:

These are for you. Keep them close. I'm going to have a look around. Stay here.

[Some time later, when it is dark, Frodo wakes up suddenly. Merry, Pippin, and Sam are cooking something around a fire.]

Merry:

My tomato's burst.

Pippin:

Could I have some bacon?

Merry:

Ok. Want a tomato, Sam?

Frodo:

[Gets up, and walks over to his friends.]

[In an urgent voice]: What are you doing?!

Merry:

Tomatoes, sausages, nice crispy bacon.

Sam:

We saved some for you, Mr. Frodo.

Frodo:

[Stamps onto the fire, putting it out with his bare feet.]

Put it out, you fools! Put it out!

Pippin:

Oh, that's nice! Ash on my tomatoes...

[The cry of the Nazgul is heard. The Hobbits draw their swords, and see the Nazgul encircling Amon Sul.]

Frodo:

[Gesturing for the others to go up to the top of the watchtower.] Go!!!

[The Nazgul follow the Hobbits to the top, and face them.]

Sam:

Back you devils!!!

Flight to the Ford

 

[The Riders draw their swords, and swipe Merry, Pippin, and Sam out the way. Frodo falls backwards. The riders stand over him with their swords, and Frodo puts on the Ring. He sees the faces of the riders in bright light. The Witch-King steps forward, and speaks to Frodo in the Black Language. Horrified, Frodo pulls his hand (with the Ring on it), away from the Witch-King, who then stabs Frodo in the shoulder.]

Frodo:

Ahhhh

Aragorn:

Ahhhh!

 

[Aragorn appears behind the Witch-King, with a torch in one hand, and a sword in the other. He takes on the Nazgul Frodo takes the Ring off.]

Sam:

Frodo! [He runs over to Frodo.]

Frodo:

Oh, Sam.

 

[Aragorn manages to set the Nazgul alight, and they flee from the watchtower. We see Sam, Merry, and Pippin crowded around Frodo.]

Sam:

Strider! Help him Strider!

Aragorn:

He has been stabbed by a Morgul blade. This is beyond my skill to heal. He needs elvish medicine. [He picks Frodo up over his shoulder, and they head off into the night.] Hurry!

Sam:

We're 6 days from Rivendell! He'll never make it!

Aragorn:

Hold on, Frodo.

Frodo:

Gandalf!!!

 

---

 

[We see shots of the caverns of Isengard. A moth flies up to the tower of Isengard, where Gandalf is imprisoned. Gandalf catches the moth in his hand, and begins to speak to it in Elvish.]

Gandalf:

[Something in Elvish to moth] … Fetch Gwaihir, fetch Gwaihir... Go...

[We see Orcs cutting down trees near Isengard, then more footage in the caverns of Isengard. Saruman watches, as a Uruk-hai comes out from mud.]

 

---

 

[Aragorn and the Hobbits have stopped walking.]

Sam:

Mr. Frodo? He's going cold!

Pippin:

Is he going to die?

Aragorn:

He's passing into the Shadow World. He'll soon become a Wraith like them.

 

[The cry of the Nazgul is heard.]

Merry:

They're close!

Aragorn:

Sam, do you know the Athelas plant?

Sam:

Athelas?

Aragorn:

Kingsfoil.

Sam:

Kingsfoil, aye, it's a weed.

Aragorn:

It may help to slow the poisoning. Hurry! [He gives Sam a torch, and then goes off to look for the weed. He finds some, and takes out a knife to cut it, but finds a blade at his throat.]

 

Arwen:

What's this, a Ranger, caught off his guard?

 

Arwen:

Frodo... Im Arwen. Telin le thaed. Lasto beth nîn, tolo dan na ngalad.

[Translation: "I am Arwen. I've have come to help you. Hear my voice. Come back to the light."]

Merry:

Who is she?

Arwen:

Frodo.

Sam:

She's an Elf.

Arwen:

He's fading. He's not going to last. We must get him to my father. I've been looking for you for 2 days.

Sam:

Where are you taking him?!

Arwen:

There are 5 Wraiths behind you. Where the other four are I do not know.

Aragorn:

Dartho guin Berian. Rych le ad tolthathon.

[Translation: "Stay with the Hobbits. I will send horses for you."]

Arwen:

Hon mabathon. Rochon ellint im.

[Translation: "I'm the faster rider. I'll take him."]

Aragorn:

Andelu i ven.

[Translation: "The road is too dangerous."]

Pippin:

What are they saying?

Arwen:

Frodo fîr. Ae athradon i hir, tur gwaith nîn beriatha hon.

[Translation: "Frodo is dying. If I can get across the river, the power of my people will protect him."]

I do not fear them.

Aragorn:

Be iest lîn.
[Translation: "According to your wish."]

Arwen, ride hard. Don't look back!

Arwen:

Noro lim, Asfaloth, noro lim!

[Translation: "Ride fast, Asfaloth, ride fast."]

 

[Arwen rides off with Frodo.]

Sam:

What are you doing! Those Wraiths are still out there!!

---

Arwen:

[Arwen is chased by 8 riders, one reaches out for Frodo.] Noro lim, Asfaloth! [She reaches the river. Riders stop on the other side.]

A Rider:

[Give up the Halfling, She-Elf!]

Arwen:

If you want him, come and claim him. [Riders start to cross river.]

Nîn o Chithaeglir, lasto beth daer, Rimmo nîn Bruinen dan in Ulaer!

[Translation: "Waters of the Misty Mountains listen to the great word: flow waters of Loudwater against the Ringwraiths!"]

 

[The water rises from the river, drowning the riders. Frodo becomes fainter, and makes strange noises.]

Arwen:

No! No! Frodo, no! Frodo, don't give in! Not now! [Whispers]: What grace is given me, let it pass to him. Let him be spared. Save him.

---

Elrond:

[Standing over Frodo.]

Lasto beth nîn. Tolo dan na ngalad.

[Translation: "Hear my voice, come back to the light."]

---

Many Meetings

 

Frodo:

Where am I?

Gandalf:

You are in the house of Elrond, and it is 10 o'clock in the morning, on October the 24th, if you want to know.

Frodo:

Gandalf!

Gandalf:

Yes, I'm here. And you're lucky to be here too. A few more hours, and you would have been beyond our aid. But you had some strength in you, my dear Hobbit.

Frodo:

What happened, Gandalf? Why didn't you meet us?

Gandalf:

Oh, I'm sorry Frodo. I was delayed.

 

[- - - - Flashback - - - -]

Saruman:

A friendship with Saruman is not lightly thrown aside. One ill turn deserves another. It is over. Embrace the power of the Ring, or embrace your own destruction!

Gandalf:

There is only one Lord of the Ring. Only one who can bend it to his will. And he does not share power. [Jumps off tower onto the eagle, Gwaihir.]

Saruman:

So you have chosen death.

[We see that the eagle takes Gandalf far, across mountains.]

[- - - - End flashback - - - -]

 

Frodo:

Gandalf? What is it?

Gandalf:

Nothing, Frodo.

Sam:

Frodo! Frodo!

Frodo:

Sam!

Sam:

Bless you, you're awake!

Gandalf:

Sam has hardly left your side.

Sam:

We were that worried about you, weren't we, Mr. Gandalf!

Gandalf:

By the skills of Lord Elrond, you're beginning to mend.

Elrond:

Welcome to Rivendell, Frodo Baggins.

---

[Frodo walks around Rivendell with Sam, and meets Merry and Pippin. He embraces them. Then Frodo sees Bilbo, who is reading a book.]

 

Frodo:

Bilbo!

Bilbo:

Hello, Frodo, my lad!

Frodo:

Bilbo! [Reads]: There and back again, A Hobbit's tale, by Bilbo Baggins. This is wonderful.

Bilbo:

I meant to go back. Wander at the power of Mirkwood. Visit Lake-town. See the Lonely Mountain again. But age, it seems has finally caught up with me.

Frodo:

[Flips through the book, and comes to a map of the Shire.]

I miss the Shire. I spent all my childhood pretending I was off somewhere else. Off with you on one of your adventures. But my own adventure turned out to be quite different. I'm not like you, Bilbo.

Bilbo:

My dear boy.

---

Sam:

[To himself]: Now, what have I forgotten?

Frodo:

Packed already?

Sam:

No 'arm in being prepared.

Frodo:

Thought you wanted to see the Elves, Sam.

Sam:

I do.

Frodo:

More than anything.

Sam:

I did… It's just… We did what Gandalf wanted, didn't we? We got the Ring this far to Rivendell. And I thought, seeing as how you're on the mend, we'd be off soon. Off home.

Frodo:

You're right, Sam. We did what we set out to do. The Ring will be safe in Rivendell. I am ready to go home.

---

Elrond:

His strength returns.

Gandalf:

That wound will never fully heal. He will carry it the rest of his life.

Elrond:

And yet, to have come so far, still bearing the Ring, the Hobbit has showed extraordinary resilience to its evil.

Gandalf:

It is a burden he should never have had to bear. We can ask no more of Frodo.

Elrond:

Gandalf, the enemy is moving. Sauron's forces are massing in the East. His eye is fixed on Rivendell. And Saruman, you tell me, has betrayed us. Our list of allies grows thin.

Gandalf:

His treachery runs deeper than you know. By foul craft Saruman has crossed Orcs with goblin-men. He's breeding an army in the caverns of Isengard. An army which can move in sunlight, and cover great distance at speed. Saruman is coming for the Ring.

Elrond:

This evil cannot be concealed by the power of the Elves. We do not have the strength to fight both Mordor and Isengard!

[Gandalf wanders off, to the balcony.]

Gandalf. The Ring cannot stay here. [Boromir arrives, then Legolas and other Elves, then Gimli and other dwarves.]

Elrond:

This peril belongs to all Middle-earth. They must decide now how to end it. The time of the Elves is over. My people are leaving these shores. Who will you look to when we've gone? The Dwarves? They hide in their mountains seeking riches. They care nothing for the troubles of others.

Gandalf:

It is in Men that we must place our hope.

Elrond:

Men? Men are weak. The race of Men is failing. The blood of Numenor is all but spent. Its pride and dignity forgotten. It is because of Men the Ring survives. I was there, Gandalf. I was there three thousand years ago...

[We see a flashback shot, where Isildur cuts the Ring from Sauron's hand.]

...And Isildur took the Ring. I was there the day the strength of men failed.

 

[- - - - Flashback - - - -]

Elrond:

Isildur! Hurry. Follow me.

Elrond (V.O):

I led Isildur into the heart of Mount Doom. Where the Ring was forged. The one place it could be destroyed.

Elrond:

Cast it into the fire. Destroy it!!!

Isildur:

No. [Isildur turns and leaves.]

Elrond:

Isildur!!!

[- - - - End flashback - - - -]

 

Elrond:

It should have ended that day, but evil was allowed to endure. Isildur kept the Ring. The line of kings is broken. There's no strength left in the world of Men. They're scattered, divided, leaderless.

Gandalf

There is one who could unite them. One who could reclaim the throne of Gondor.

Elrond:

He turned from that path a long time ago. He has chosen exile.

---

Boromir:

The shards of Narsil. The blade that cut the Ring from Sauron's hand. [He fingers the blade, and cuts his finger.] It's still sharp. [Sees Aragorn watching him.]

But no more than a broken heirloom.

[He puts the sword back in its place and walks off. As he walks off, the sword falls, but he does not pick it up.]

[Aragorn picks up sword, and places it back in its place. He stands in front of the sword for a while.]

Arwen:

Why do you fear the past? You are Isildur's heir, not Isildur himself. You are not bound to his fate.

Aragorn:

The same blood flows in my veins. The same weakness.

Arwen:

Your time will come. You will face the same evil and you will defeat it.
A si i-Dhúath ú-orthor, Aragorn. Ú or le a ú or nin.
[Translation: "The Shadow does not hold sway yet. Not over you, not over me."]

---

[Aragorn and Arwen stand talking, on a bridge in the grounds of Rivendell.]

 

Arwen:

Renich i lú i erui govannem?
[Translation: "Do you remember when we first met?"]

Aragorn:

Nauthannen i ned ôl reniannen.
[Translation: "I thought I had strayed into a dream."]

Arwen:

Gwenwin in enninath. Ú-'arnech in naeth i si celich. Renech i beth i pennen?
[Translation: "Long years have passed. You did not wear the troubles you carry now. Do you remember what I told you?"]

Aragorn:

You said you'd bind yourself to me, forsaking the immortal life of your people.

Arwen:

And to that I hold. I would rather share one lifetime with you, than face all the Ages of this world alone.

[She gives him her necklace, the Evenstar jewel, a symbol of her immortality.]

I choose a mortal life.

Aragorn:

You cannot give me this.

Arwen:

It is mine to give to whom I will. Like my heart.

[They kiss.]

---

The Council of Elrond

 

[The scene switches to a part of Rivendell, where Dwarves, Elves, and Men, are sitting in a semicircle.]

 

Elrond:

Strangers from distant lands, friends of old. You have been summoned to answer the threat of Mordor. Middle-earth stands upon the brink of destruction.

None can escape it. You will unite, or you will fall. Each race is bound this fate, this one doom. Bring forth the Ring, Frodo.

Frodo:

[Places the Ring onto the table.]

Boromir:

So it is true.

Unknown:

The doom of man.

Boromir:

It is a gift. A gift to the foes of Mordor.

[Stands up.]

Why not use this Ring? Long has my father, the Steward of Gondor kept the forces of Mordor at bay by the blood of our people are your lands kept safe. Give Gondor the weapon of the enemy. Let us use it against him!

Aragorn:

You cannot wield it. None of us can. The One Ring answers to Sauron alone. It has no other master.

Boromir:

And what would a Ranger know of this matter?

Legolas:

This is no mere Ranger. He is Aragorn, son of Arathorn. You owe him your allegiance.

Boromir:

Aragorn? This is Isildur's heir?

Legolas:

And heir to the throne of Gondor.

Aragorn:

Havo dad, Legolas

[Translation: "Sit down, Legolas."]

Boromir:

Gondor has no king. Gondor needs no king.

Gandalf:

Aragorn is right. We cannot use it.

Elrond:

You have only one choice. The Ring must be destroyed.

Gimli:

What are we waiting for?! [Tries to smash the Ring with his axe, but breaks the axe. He is thrown backwards, onto the ground.]

Elrond:

The Ring cannot be destroyed, Gimli, son of Gloin, by any craft that we here possess. The Ring was made in the fires of Mount Doom. Only there can it be unmade. It must be taken deep into Mordor, and cast back into the fiery chasm from whence it came.

[We hear the voice of the Ring, speaking in the Black Language.]

Elrond:

One of you must do this.

Boromir:

One does not simply walk into Mordor. Its black gates are guarded by more than just Orcs. There is evil there that does not sleep. And the great Eye is ever-watchful. It is a barren wasteland, riddled with fire and ash and dust. The very air that you breathe is a poisonous fume. Not with ten thousand men could you do this. It is folly.

Legolas:

Have you heard nothing Lord Elrond has said? The Ring must be destroyed!

Gimli:

And I suppose you think you're the one to do it?!

Boromir:

And if we fail, what then? What happens when Sauron takes back what is his?

Gimli:

I will be dead before I see the Ring in the hands of an Elf!

 

[All the Elves stand up, then the Dwarves, then everyone except Frodo.]

Gimli:

Never trust an Elf!

Gandalf:

Do you not understand? While you bicker amongst yourselves, Sauron's power grows! None can escape it! You'll all be destroyed! [Frodo hears the voice of the Ring, speaking in the Black language.]

Ash nazg durbatuluk, Ash nazg gimbatul, Ash nazg thrakatuluk, Agh burzum-ishi krimpatul
[Translation: "One Ring to rule them all, One Ring to find them, One Ring to bring them all and in the darkness bind them."]

Frodo:

I will take it! I will take it!

[Everyone else stops to listen to him.]

I will take the Ring to Mordor... Though - though I do not know the way.

 

 

Gandalf:

I will help you bear this burden, Frodo Baggins. As long as it is yours to bear.

[Goes to stand next to Frodo, putting his hand on his shoulder.]

Aragorn:

If by my life or death, if I can protect you, I will.

[Gets up from his seat, and kneels beside Frodo.]

You have my sword.
[Gandalf winks at Elrond.]

Legolas:

And you have my bow.

[Also stands beside Frodo.]

Gimli:

And my axe.

[Stands beside Legolas.]

Boromir:

[Walks slowly towards Frodo.]

You carry the fates of us all, little one.

Aragorn:

[Places his hand on Frodo's shoulder.]

Boromir

If this is indeed the will of the Council, then Gondor will see it done.

Sam:

Here!

[Jumps up from behind some bushes he has been hiding behind, and runs up from behind them, causing Aragorn to lift his hand off Frodo's shoulder, to let Sam come through.]

Mr. Frodo's not going anywhere without me.

Elrond:

No, indeed, it is hardly possible to separate you from him, even when he is summoned to a secret Council, and you are not.

 

[The camera moves to Merry and Pippin, who are standing in the entrance.]

Merry:

Oi! We're coming too!

[Merry and Pippin leave the door, and half run towards Frodo.]

You'll have to send us home tied up in a sack to stop us.

Pippin:

Anyway, you need people of intelligence on this sort of mission. Quest. Thing.

Merry:

Well that rules you out, Pip.

Elrond:

Nine companions. So be it! You shall be the Fellowship of the Ring.

Pippin:

Great. Where are we going?

---

The Ring Goes South

 

[We see shots near the entrance of Rivendell, where Bill the pony is standing ready, next to a few others. Then we see Bilbo and Frodo together in a room. Bilbo takes out a sword from its cloth wrappings.]

 

Bilbo:

My old sword, Sting. Here, take it. Take it.

Frodo:

It's so light.

Bilbo:

Yes, yes… made by the Elves, you know? The blade glows blue when orcs are close. And it's times like that, my lad, when you have to be extra careful. Here's a pretty thing. Mithril. As light as a feather, and as hard as dragons scales. Let me see you put it on. Come on...

Frodo:

[Eagerly begins to unbutton his shirt.]

Bilbo:

[Sees the Ring hanging from a chain on Frodo's neck.].

Oh - M-my old ring. Oh! I sh-should very much like - to hold it again, one last time.

Frodo:

[Begins to button up his shirt again.]

Bilbo:

[Transformed by the Ring, makes a grab towards Frodo, his eyes bulging out.]

Frodo:

[Alarmed, backs away.]

Bilbo:

[Now normal again, backs away, and sinks into a chair, with his back to us. He sits, there, weeping.]

I'm sorry I brought this upon you, my boy... I'm sorry that you must carry this burden... I'm sorry for everything!

[Frodo places his hand reassuringly onto Bilbo's shoulder, and Bilbo, in a sudden movement, places his hand onto Frodo's.]

---

 

[The Fellowship departs from Rivendell. The next scene shows the Fellowship travelling together.]

 

Gandalf (V.O):

We must hold to this course, west from the Misty Mountains for 40 days. If our luck holds, the Gap of Rohan will still be open to us. From there our road turns east to Mordor.

---

[We see the Fellowship stopped to have lunch. Sam helps himself to sausages, while Boromir teaches Merry and Pippin swordplay.]

 

Boromir:

Two, one, five. Good! Very good.

Aragorn:

[While smoking]: Move your feet.

Merry:

You look good, Pippin.

Pippin:

Thanks.

Boromir:

Faster.

 

Gimli:

If anyone was to ask for my opinion, which I note they're not, I'd say we were taking the long way round. Gandalf! We could pass through the Mines of Moria. My cousin Balin would give us a royal welcome.

Gandalf:

No, Gimli. I would not take the road through Moria unless I had no other choice.

[Legolas notices something in the distance. Boromir is now fighting with Pippin. He hits him.]

Pippin:

Ahhh.

Boromir:

Sorry.

Pippin:

Get him!

Merry:

Arr, ow... For the Shire!

Pippin:

Hold him. Hold him down, Merry!

Merry:

You've got my arm! You've got my arm!

Sam:

What is that?

Gimli:

Nothing. It's just a wisp of cloud.

Boromir:

It's moving fast. Against the wind.

Legolas:

Crebain from Duneland!

Aragorn:

HIDE!

Boromir:

Merry!

Aragorn:

Frodo! Hurry! Take cover!

[Sam puts out the fire, taking the pan of sausages with him, while Frodo, Aragorn, and the others take their cloaks and other belongings, hiding behind the rocks. The Crebain come through the area, exploring it thoroughly, as though they know they are there.]

Gandalf:

Spies of Saruman. The passage south is being watched. We must take the pass of Caradhras.

---

 

[The Fellowship are seen walking up the steep and snowy mountains. Frodo falls, tumbling down a small snowy slope.]

Aragorn:

Frodo!

[He helps him up, and places his hands on his shoulders, while Frodo brushes the snow off his clothes. He then searches for the Ring, to find he has dropped it. Boromir picks it up by the chain. Aragorn slowly takes his hands from Frodo's shoulders, putting them onto the hilt of his sword.]

Aragorn:

Boromir.

Boromir:

It is a strange fate that we should suffer so much fear and doubt over so small a thing. Such a little thing.

[Holding the chain of the Ring in his right hand, he moves his left towards the Ring itself.]

Aragorn:

Boromir! Give the Ring to Frodo.

Boromir:

[Walking slowly towards Aragorn and Frodo.]

As you wish. [Holds out the Ring.]

[Frodo grabs it.]

Boromir:

I care not. [Laughs and ruffles Frodo's hair. He walks off, and Aragorn takes his hand off the hilt of his sword.]

---

[The birds seen in the previous scene make their way to Isengard, where Saruman is.

Saruman:

So Gandalf, you tried to lead them over Caradhras. And if that fails, where then will you go?

[[We see the Fellowship once more, caught in a heavy snow storm.]

Saruman (V.O.):

If the mountain defeats you, will you risk a more dangerous road?

 

[We see Legolas who walks slightly ahead of the others, with ease, but behind him, Gandalf and the others and finding it difficult to walk in the snow. Aragorn and Boromir are holding two Hobbits each, and it seems that without their help, the Hobbits would be blown off the mountain. Then we hear a voice, though we cannot make out the words.]

Legolas:

There is a fell voice on the air.

Gandalf:

It's Saruman! [Boulders fall.]

Aragorn:

He's trying to bring down the mountain! Gandalf, we must turn back!

Gandalf:

No!! Losto Caradhras, sedho, hodo, nuitho i 'ruith!
[Translation: "Sleep Caradhras, be still, lie still, hold [your] wrath."]

Saruman:

[He stands on the pinnacle of the tower Orthanc, with his arms outstretched, and his staff in his right hand.]
Cuiva nwalca Carnirassë! Nai yarvaxëa rasselya taltuva ñotto-carinnar!
[Translation: "Wake up cruel Redhorn! May your blood-stained horn shall fall upon the enemy-heads"]
[A bolt of lightning hits the mountain, bringing down snow and rocks.]

 

[The Fellowship are buried beneath the snow, but, with some difficulty, manage to get themselves out of it.]

Boromir:

We must get off the mountain! Make for the Gap of Rohan! Or take the west road to my city!

Aragorn:

The Gap of Rohan takes us too close to Isengard.

Gimli:

We cannot pass over a mountain. Let us go under it! Let us go through the Mines of Moria.

Saruman (V.O):

Moria. You fear to go into those mines. The Dwarves delved too greedily and too deep. You know what they awoke there in the darkness of Khazad-dûm: Shadow and flame.

Gandalf:

Let the Ring-bearer decide... Frodo?

Frodo:

We will go through the mines.

Gandalf:

So be it.

---

A Journey in the Dark

 

[The Fellowship come to a dark, slimy place, and we see a stone wall.]

Gimli:

The walls of Moria.

Gandalf:

Well, let’s see... Ithildin. It mirrors only starlight and moonlight. [The clouds covering the moon drift away, and a door is revealed.]

It reads: "The doors of Durin, Lord of Moria. Speak friend and enter."

Merry:

What do you suppose that means?

Gandalf:

Oh, it's quite simple. If you are a friend, you speak the password, and the doors will open.

Annon Edhellen edro hi ammen!

[Translation: "Gate of the Elves open now for me!"]

 

Ando Eldarinwa a lasta quettanya, Fenda Casarinwa!

[Translation: "Gate of Elves listen to my word, Threshold of Dwarves!"]

 

Aragorn:

Mines are no place for a pony. Even one so brave as Bill.

[Takes the baggage off Bill, the baggage pony.]

Sam:

Bye bye, Bill.

Aragorn:

Go on, Bill. Go on. Don't worry Sam. He knows the way home.

[Merry and Pippin are throwing stones into the water. As Pippin is about to throw one, Aragorn grabs him by the collar.]

Aragorn:

Do not disturb the water.

[The camera shifts over to Gandalf, who sits down and takes off his hat.]

Gandalf:

Oh, it's useless.

Frodo:

It's a riddle. Speak 'friend', and enter. What's the Elvish word for friend?

Gandalf:

Mellon.

[Doors open, the Fellowship walks into the mines.]

Gimli:

Soon, Master Elf, you will enjoy the fabled hospitality of the Dwarves! Roaring fires, malt beer, ripe meat off the bone! This, my friend, is the home of my cousin Balin. And they call it a mine. A MINE!

Boromir:

This is no mine. It's a tomb.

[We see dead, and rotting Dwarves and Orcs, covered in cobwebs.]

Gimli:

No! Nooo! NOOOO!

Legolas:

[Takes out an arrow from a dead body.] Goblins!

Boromir:

We make for the Gap of Rohan. We should never have come here! Now get out of here! Get out!!

[The Fellowship backs out, Frodo is taken by a tentacle from a creature in the water.]

Merry:

Frodo!

Pippin:

Frodo! Help!

Frodo:

Strider!

Sam:

Strider!

Frodo:

Help!

Sam:

Get off him!

Merry:

Aragorn!

 

[The Hobbits slash at the creature with their swords. They manage to free Frodo from the creature, but as he backs away from the water, many tentacles come out from the water, this time swinging Frodo high up in the air.]

Frodo:

Ahhh...

Merry:

Frodo!

Frodo:

Strider!

[Legolas shoots the tentacles with his bow, while Boromir and Aragorn enter the water, and slash at the tentacles with their swords. Aragorn cuts off the tentacle that is holding Frodo, and Boromir manages to catch Frodo as he falls.]

 

Gandalf:

Into the mines!!!

Boromir:

Legolas! Into the cave!

Unknown:

Run!

[The creature comes out of the water and crumbles the doors down, blocking the way out, and blocking out the light.]

Gandalf:

We now have but one choice.

[He fits a stone onto the end of his staff, producing light.]

We must face the long dark of Moria. Be on your guard. There are older and fouler things than Orcs in the deep places of the world.

Quietly now. It's a four-day journey to the other side. Let us hope that our presence may go unnoticed.

 

[Climbing upwards, Pippin lets some rocks fall onto Merry.]

Merry:

Pippin!

 

[After some time, we come to an opening, where there are three passages to choose from.]

Gandalf:

I have no memory of this place.

 

[The Fellowship stops for a while.]

Pippin:

Are we lost?

Merry:

No.

Pippin:

I think we are.

Merry:

Shhh. Gandalf's thinking.

Pippin:

Merry...

Merry:

What?

Pippin:

I'm hungry

Frodo:

[Frodo sees something some distance away. He hurries towards Gandalf, and sits beside him.] [To Gandalf]: There's something down there!

Gandalf:

It's Gollum.

Frodo:

Gollum?

Gandalf:

He's been following us for three days.

Frodo:

He escaped the dungeons of Barad-dûr?

Gandalf:

Escaped. Or set loose. He hates and loves the Ring. As he hates and loves himself. He will never be rid of his need for it.

Frodo:

It's a pity Bilbo didn't kill him when he had the chance.

Gandalf:

Pity? It was pity that stayed Bilbo's hand. Many that live deserve death. Some that die deserve life. Can you give it to them, Frodo? Do not be too eager to deal out death and judgement. Even the very wise cannot see all ends. My heart tells me that Gollum has some part to play yet, for good or ill, before this is over. The pity of Bilbo may rule the fate of the Ring.

Frodo:

I wish the Ring had never come to me. I wish none of this had happened.

Gandalf:

So do all that come to see such times, but that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given to us. There are other forces at work in this world, Frodo, besides the will of evil. Bilbo was meant to find the Ring. In which case you were also 'meant' to have it. And that is an encouraging thought. Eh - it's that way.

Merry:

He's remembered.

Gandalf:

No, but the air doesn't smell so foul down here. If in doubt, Meriadoc, always follow your nose.

Let me risk a little more light.

[The light on his staff brightens, and the Fellowship find themselves in a great hallway, with tall pillars, as far as the eye can see.]

Behold the great realm of the Dwarf-city of Dwarrowdelf.

Sam:

There's an eye opener, and no mistake.

The Bridge of Khazad-dûm

 

[They walk on, but as they do so, Gimli sees a doorway to the side. It is strewn with the bodies of dead orcs. Gimli runs through the door into a chamber.]

Gandalf:

Gimli!

Gimli:

No! Oh, no! No. [He weeps.]

Gandalf:

"Here lies Balin, son of Fundin, Lord of Moria." He is dead then. It's as I feared.

[Gandalf gives Pippin his hat and staff.]

Gimli:

[Quietly, in prayer]: Kilmin malur ni zaram kalil ran arag. Kheled-zâram. Balin tazlifi.
[Translation unavailable.]

Legolas:

[To Aragorn]: We must move on. We cannot linger.

Gandalf:

[Reads]: "They have taken the bridge and the second hall. We have barred the gates but cannot hold them for long. The ground shakes. Drums, drums in the deep. We cannot get out. A Shadow moves in the dark. We cannot get out. They are coming."

[Pippin touches a skeleton by a well, and it falls in, dragging with it a large bucket, and making much noise.]

Gandalf:

Fool of a Took! Throw yourself in next time, and rid us of your stupidity.

[Drumming noises are heard. Frodo's sword glows blue.]

Sam:

[Sees the blue blade.] Frodo!

Legolas:

Orcs.

[Boromir runs to the door and two arrows narrowly miss his head.]

Aragorn:

[To the Hobbits]: Get back! Stay close to Gandalf!

Boromir:

They have a cave-troll.

[They bar the doors, then stand facing them, their bows and swords out.]

Gimli:

Let them come! There is one dwarf yet in Moria that still draws breath.

[The orcs come; they fight.]

[Cave troll comes.]

Sam:

I think I'm getting the hang of this!

Aragorn:

Frodo!

[Frodo is dragged by the troll.]

Frodo:

Aragorn! Aragorn!

Aragorn:

Frodo!

[Aragorn fights the troll, saving Frodo from it. He thrusts a spear into its chest, but it does not pierce its thick hide. Then the troll hits Aragorn, and he is thrown aside. Frodo runs to Aragorn's side, and faces the troll. The troll hurls a spear at Frodo, and he is pinned against the wall.]

[Merry and Pippin jump onto the troll's back.]

Sam:

Frodo! FRODO!!

[Legolas shoots an arrow into its throat, and it collapses. Aragorn crawls over to Frodo.]

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