The return of The Hunt for Gollum has long been desired by fans of both The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit, and with The Hunt for Gollum 2 (2024), we finally get the continuation of the story that explores the mystery of the creature who was once a hobbit — but now is something much darker. Directed by James McLeod and building on the momentum of its original film, The Hunt for Gollum 2 promises to be an even darker, more thrilling chapter in Gollum’s twisted journey through Middle-earth.

The story picks up where the first film left off. After Gollum’s escape from the clutches of Aragorn and his relentless pursuit of the One Ring, he continues his maddening journey, leading him to new, dangerous alliances with those who seek the power of the Ring. As Gollum’s obsession grows, so does the threat he poses to all who cross his path. Meanwhile, Aragorn, still hot on Gollum’s trail, finds himself caught between his duty to protect the free peoples of Middle-earth and the need to understand the creature’s dark obsession with the Ring.

What makes The Hunt for Gollum 2 so captivating is its exploration of the thin line between good and evil, humanity and monstrosity. Gollum’s twisted relationship with the Ring is fully realized, and his obsession with reclaiming the One Ring intensifies as he draws closer to its malevolent influence. The film deepens the character study of Gollum, bringing new layers of anguish, desperation, and torment to his already complex psyche.

Visually stunning, The Hunt for Gollum 2 brings back the beautiful and haunting landscapes of Middle-earth, from the dark forests of Lothlórien to the looming mountains of Mordor. The film uses breathtaking CGI to bring the creatures of Middle-earth to life and to depict the growing corruption of Gollum as he falls deeper under the Ring’s spell. The action sequences are pulse-pounding and intense, while moments of emotional weight show the true cost of Gollum’s obsession — both on himself and on those around him.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gVr7nPixorA

The performances are superb, with David Wenham returning as Aragorn in a more intense and conflicted role. Gollum, voiced by Andy Serkis, brings an even more terrifying portrayal of the creature, highlighting both the malice and the tortured soul trapped within. Their interactions continue to provide some of the most dynamic and intense scenes in The Lord of the Rings universe.