The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001)

The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001) is an epic fantasy adventure film directed by Peter Jackson and written by Fran Walsh, Philippa Boyens, and Jackson. It is based on the first volume of J. R. R. Tolkien’s novel, also titled The Fellowship of the Ring, which was published in 1954. The story takes place during the Second Age of Middle-earth and revolves around the Rings of Power given to the lords of Elves, Dwarves, and Men. Unbeknownst to them, the Dark Lord Sauron creates the One Ring in Mount Doom using a great part of his power. With this ring, he plans to dominate all other rings and conquer Middle-earth. After being abandoned by Gollum, the Ring falls into the hands of a hobbit named Bilbo Baggins, who remains unaware of its dark past.

After sixty years, Bilbo celebrates his 111th birthday in the Shire and reunites with his old friend, the wizard Gandalf the Grey. However, upon departing for one final adventure, Bilbo leaves his inheritance – including the Ring – to his nephew Frodo. Upon investigating the Ring, Gandalf uncovers its true nature and learns that Gollum was captured and tortured by Sauron’s Orcs. During this torture, he revealed two important words: ‘Shire’ and ‘Baggins’. Realizing the danger that lies ahead, Gandalf returns to warn Frodo to leave the Shire at once. As they begin their journey with Frodo’s loyal friend, gardener Samwise Gamgee, Gandalf heads to Isengard to meet with fellow wizard Saruman. However, he soon discovers Saruman’s betrayal and alliance with Sauron who has sent his nine undead Nazgûl servants to find Frodo.