Cameras start rolling for The Hobbit, March 21st

Source: One News

According to Waikato Times, the patter of furry Hobbit feet will soon return to Hobbiton. The farm, located outside of Matamata, NZ is geared up and ready for filming, although an exact date has not been confirmed. Rumors of a February 14th start date have been circulating, however Melissa Booth, The Hobbit’s publicist has denied any knowledge of a specific start date, keeping the truth “secret and safe” for now. What we do know is Hobbiton Tours has announced they will be closed for filming between February 14th and March 20th, 2011.

Hobbiton has also reportedly received a face lift. Nick Kirsopp, owner of Matamata’s Robert Harris cafe quoted to Waikota times about Hobbiton’s renewed appearance, saying "They've built it using concrete and stone, not plywood and polystyrene this time." When referring to visitors who’ve returned to Hobbiton since it’s revamp he states, "Comments range from ‘It's amazing,’ to ‘It looks like a real village, quite captivating.’"

Any fan of J. R. R. Tolkien’s treasured book, The Hobbit, knows the Shire is where Bilbo Baggins first sets out on his adventure; when a gray capped wizard comes knocking at his door.

The films, which will be in two parts, are set to release sometime in December 2012 and December 2013, respectively.