Ian McKellen returns as Gandalf in ‘The Hunt for Gollum’ footage

A first look at Ian McKellen as Gandalf has been released, confirming that filming for ‘The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum’ is currently underway. The footage, shared by Tolkien Universe, shows the actor in full costume with the character’s signature long gray hair and beard.

Directed by Andy Serkis, who also returns to perform Gollum via motion-capture, the film is scheduled for a theatrical release on December 17, 2027. The production features returning cast members Elijah Wood as Frodo Baggins and Lee Pace as Thranduil.

The film also introduces several new cast members, including Jamie Dornan as a younger version of Aragorn (Strider), Kate Winslet as Marigol, Anya Taylor-Joy as the elf Seren, and Leo Woodall as Halvard.