BLACK SCREEN SUPER: New Line Cinema Presents SUPER: A Wingnut Films Production BLACK CONTINUES... ELVISH SINGING....A WOMAN'S VOICE IS whispering, tinged with SADNESS and REGRET: GALADRIEL (V.O.) (Elvish: subtitled) "I amar prestar sen: han mathon ne nen, han mathon ne chae...a han noston ned wilith." (English:) The world is changed: I feel it in the water, I feel it in the earth, I smell it in the air...Much that once was is lost, for none now live who remember it. SUPER: THE LORD OF THE RINGS EXT. PROLOGUE -- DAY IMAGE: FLICKERING FIRELIGHT. The NOLDORIN FORGE in EREGION. MOLTEN GOLD POURS from the lip of an IRON LADLE. GALADRIEL (V.O.) It began with the forging of the Great Rings. IMAGE: THREE RINGS, each set with a single GEM, are received by the HIGH ELVES-GALADRIEL, GIL-GALAD and CIRDAN. GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D) Three were given to the Elves, immortal, wisest...fairest of all beings. IMAGE: SEVEN RINGS held aloft in triumph by the DWARF LORDS. GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D) Seven to the Dwarf Lords, great miners and craftsmen of the mountain halls. IMAGE: NINE RINGS clutched tightly by the KINGS OF MEN...as if holding-close a precious secret. GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D) And Nine...nine rings were gifted to the race of Men who, above all else, desire power. (MORE) (CONTINUED) 2. CONTINUED: GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D) For within these rings was bound the strength and will to govern each race. FADE TO BLACK GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D) But they were all of them deceived. FADE UP: An ancient PARCHMENT MAP of MIDDLE EARTH...moving slowly across the MAP as if drawn by an unseen force the CAMERA closes in on a PLACE NAME...MORDOR. GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D) ...for another ring was made. TEASING SHOTS: SAURON forging the ONE RING in the CHAMBERS of SAMMATH NAUR. GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D) 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. IMAGE: The ONE RING reflecting FIERY LAVA! FIRE WRITING emerges on the plain BAND OF GOLD. GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D) ...and into this Ring he poured his cruelty, his malice and his will to dominate all life. IMAGE: THE ONE RING falls through SPACE and into flames... GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D) One Ring to rule them all... IMAGE: A GREAT SHADOW falls across the MAP...closing in around the realm of GONDOR... IMAGE: SCREAMING VILLAGERS, MEN, WOMEN, AND CHILDREN, RUN from their homes, pursued by ARMIES OF HIDEOUS ORCS. GALADRIEL One by one the Free lands of Middle earth fell to the power of the ring. FADE TO BLACK GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D) But there were some...who resisted. (CONTINUED) 3. CONTINUED: FADE UP: ISILDUR, son of the KING OF GONDOR, leads an ARMY ACROSS the PLAINS OF DAGORLAD... GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D) A last alliance of Men and Elves marched against the armies of Mordor. GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D) On the slopes of Mount Doom they fought for the freedom of Middle- Earth. TEASING SHOTS: THE BATTLE OF DAGORLAD...THE ELF LORD, ELROND, commands rank after rank of ELVEN ARCHERS...ORCS RETREATING before the ARMY of the LAST ALLIANCE...ELENDIL holds aloft the great sword....NARSIL! GALADRIEL Victory was near! IMAGES: THE HUGE, DARK FIGURE OF SARURON, bearing the ONE RING on his finger, looms over the field of battle... GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D) But the power of the Ring could not be undone. IMAGE: SAURON lays waste to the armies of the LAST ALLIANCE. With desperate courage, ELENDIL leads a charge...THE BLACK MACE OF SAURON LASHES OUT!! IMAGE: ELENDIL'S body falls like a crumpled rag doll... IMAGE: ISILDUR cradles the body of his father in his arms. The SHADOW OF SAURON falls over him... GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D) It was in this moment..when all hope had faded, that Isildur, son of the king, took up his father's sword. ISILDUR snatches up the BROKEN BLADE OF NARSIL..The BLADE severs SAURON'S FINGERS... AND THE ONE RING FLIES from his body. GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D) Sauron, the enemy of the Free Peoples of Middle Earth, was defeated. SAURON'S ARMOR clatters to the ground. His body GONE....VAPORIZED! CLOSE ON: ISILDUR picks up the SEVERED FINGER and removes the ONE RING...transfixed! GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D) The Ring passed to Isildur...who had this one chance to destroy evil forever. (CONTINUED) 4. CONTINUED: IMAGE: GLADDEN FIELD...ISILDUR leads a small column of men through DARKENING WOODS...the ONE RING glinting on a CHAIN around his neck. GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D) But the hearts of Men are easily corrupted. And the Ring of Power has a will of its own. SUDDENLY! ARROWS FLY! They are ambushed by ORCS...ISILDUR SCREAMS! FADE TO BLACK FADE UP: ISILDUR MATERIALIZES UNDER WATER...as THE RING slips slowly from his finger. Ripples of LIGHT play across ISILDUR'S PALE FACE...he is DEAD. GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D) It betrayed Isildur to his death. IMAGE: THE RING falls through the MURKY WATERS of the RIVER ANDUIN. GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D) And some things that should not have been forgotten...were lost. FADE TO BLACK GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D) History became legend...legend became myth. FADE UP: The waters of the ANDUIN RIVER lie dark and undisturbed. GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D) And for two and a half thousand years the Ring passed out of all knowledge. IMAGE: SILT SWIRLS...A THIN WHITE HAND reaches down...grasping the RING... GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D) Until, when chance came, it ensnared a new bearer! IMAGE: THE THIN WHITE HAND opens to reveal one ring. GOLLUM (V.O.) My Precious... 5. IMAGE: MIST SHROUDED MOUNTAINS... GALADRIEL (V.O.) The Ring came to the creature Gollum, who took it deep into the tunnels of the Misty Mountains. IMAGE: THE GLOOM of a MOUNTAIN CAVERN..a MURKY POOL of WATER...in the DARKNESS the SHADOWY OUTLINE of an EMACIATED FIGURE. GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D) And there, it consumed him. A RASPY VOICE mutters in the half light... GOLLUM It came to me. My own. My love... (ecstatic whisper) My preciousness. GALADRIEL (V.O.) The Ring brought to Gollum unnatural long life. For five hundred years it poisoned his mind. And in the gloom of Gollum's cave... FADE TO BLACK GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D) It waited. FADE UP: Bathed in COLD MOONLIGHT, the WORLD lies DARK and STILL...the unsettled quiet before the storm... GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D) Darkness crept back into the forests of the world. Rumor grew of a Shadow in the East...whispers of a nameless fear. And the Ring of Power perceived...its time had now come. It abandoned Gollum. SLOW MOTION: unseen by its KEEPER..THE RING falls to the MUDDY FLOOR of a MOUNTAIN TUNNEL... GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D) But something happened then the Ring did not intend... FADE TO BLACK IMAGE: FUMBLING in the dark, a SMALL HAND closes over the 6. RING. GALADRIEL It was picked up by the most unlikely creature imaginable... BILBO (to himself) What's this? A YOUNGISH LOOKING BILBO BAGGINS peers down at what lies in his hand...PERPLEXED by what he has found. GALADRIEL (V.O.) A Hobbit....Bilbo Baggins of the Shire. BILBO (surprised) A Ring. SUDDENLY! A VOICE SCREAMS...ITS ANGUISH RINGING through the COLD, DANK TUNNELS... GOLLUM (V.O.) Lost! Lost! My Precious is lost!! Frightened Bilbo quickly POCKETS the ONE RING and hurries on. DISSOLVE TO: WIDE ON: THE CAMERA SOARS AWAY FROM THE MOUNTAINS. MOVING FASTER AND FASTER...THEIR DARK GREEN FORESTS AND JAGGED WHITE PEAKS RECEDING INTO THE SHROUD OF MIST GALADRIEL (V.O.) For the time will soon come when Hobbits will shape the fortunes of all. FADE TO BLACK FADE IN: EXT. HOBBITON WOODS -- DAY ANGLE ON: TWO HOBBIT FEET resting on a small rock...rising out of the LONG, OVERGROWN GRASSES SUPER: THE FELLOWSHIP OF THE RING SUPER: THE SHIRE....60 YEARS LATER CAMERA TRACKS TO: a Figure lies beneath the dappled sunlight of an old tree. (CONTINUED) 7. CONTINUED: White flowers are scattered among the Well seeded grasses. An idyllic setting at the end of a long hot summer... the figure is reading a book. ON THE SOUNDTRACK: In the distance, growing louder..over the Gentle clip clop of an approaching cart and horse can be heard the HUMMING OF A DEEP VOICE to the tune of "The Road Goes Ever On and On..." SUDDENLY! The figure in the grass sits up...looking straight at camera is a handsome young HOBBIT, with dark curly hair and deep blue eyes. This is FRODO BAGGINS...his EYES alight with EXCITEMENT! Tossing away the long stem of grass in his mouth, Frodo runs off. CUT TO: EXT. SHIRE LANE -- DAY The cart rattles along a leafy lane, driven by a stooped figure in Grey. INTERCUT WITH; SHOTS OF FRODO RUNNING... CAREERING DOWN A HILL. . .JUMPING OVER LOGS... DODGING TREE BRANCHES. ANGLE ON: The shambling OLD PONY snorts and rears as... SUDDENLY FRODO appears on a bank above the cart. FRODO You're late. CLOSE ON: GANDALF glowers at the young Hobbit... GANDALF A Wizard is never late, Frodo Baggins, nor is he early. He arrives precisely when he means to. They look at each other a moment..then both start laughing as FRODO'S face breaks into a smile and he leaps on to the front seat of the cart. FRODO It's wonderful to see you, Gandalf! Next to Gandalf, we see how small Hobbits are...Frodo is 3 foot 6 inches tall. GANDALF You didn't think I'd miss your Uncle Bilbo's birthday? CUT TO: 8. EXT. HOBBITON FIELDS -- DAY Wide on: The cart rattles past a FIELD LUPIN being tended by HOBBITS. FRODO What news of the outside world? Tell me everything! ANGLE ON: Gandalf looks down at Frodo, a twinkle in his eye. GANDALF What, everything? Far too eager and curious for a Hobbit. Most unnatural... Wide on: The cart rattles over a Stone bridge towards a Busy Hobbit Marketplace. GANDALF (V.O.) (CONT'D) Well, what can I tell you? Life in the wide world goes on much as if it has past age. Full of its own comings and goings, scarcely even aware of the existence of Hobbits... Close on: Gandalf as he surveys the peaceful scene before him. GANDALF (CONT'D) ...for which I am very thankful. ANGLE ON: Hobbits look up exclaiming in wonder and excitement as the cart bearing Gandalf and Frodo rolls past the Green Dragon Inn...towards... Wide on: The party field. Where scOrcs of Hobbits are busy preparing for the big night. GANDALF (CONT'D) Ah, the long expected party. 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 he whole place in an uproar. GANDALF Oh, well...that should please him. (CONTINUED) 9. CONTINUED: FRODO Half the Shire's been invited... GANDALF Good gracious, me. FRODO He's up to something. GANDALF Oh, really? Frodo shoots a knowing look, as Gandalf averts his eyes. FRODO Alright then..keep your secrets. 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 the Dragon...I was barely involved...all I did was give your Uncle a little nudge out the door. FRODO Whatever you did...you've been officially labelled as a Disturber of the Peace. GANDALF Oh, really? ANGLE ON: ODO PROUDFOOT looks up as the Cart passes by, deeply suspicious. CUT TO: EXT. HOBBITON -- DAY CRANE UP: As the cart rattles into the small village of Hobbiton...a quaint rustic settlement, nestled amongst rolling green hills and large trees. (CONTINUED) 10. CONTINUED: The Hobbits live in Hobbit Holes: neat burrows dug into the grassy hillside, with round doors and cute front gardens. ANGLE ON: Excited children, chasing after the cart. CLOSE ON: Gandalf ignOrcs the children's cries. The children stand deflated, watching Gandalf disappear up the lane. At that moment: spinning balls of bright color suddenly leap out of the cart, fizzing over the heads of the delighted children. ANGLE ON: Gandalf smiling to himself, well pleased with his joke. ODO PROUDFOOT is unable to suppress a chuckle. Frodo stands up in the cart as Gandalf reigns in the horse. FRODO Gandalf... I'm glad you're back. Frodo leaps expertly from the cart. Gandalf smiles. GANDALF So am I, dear boy...so am I CUT TO: EXT. BAG END -- DAY Wide on: GANDALF'S CART pulls up outside the gate to BAG END...a particularly fine example of a Hobbit hole, with a large round front door set into a grassy hillside. There is a sign on the gate which reads: "NO ADMITTANCE EXCEPT ON PARTY BUSINESS." Gandalf strides up to the garden path of Bag End. He raises his staff and raps on the front door...a voice calls out: BILBO (O.S.) No, thank you! We don't want any more visitors, well wishers, or distant relations. GANDALF And what about very old friends? Suddenly the door opens and BILBO BAGGINS stands before him. He is a HOBBIT OF INDERTIMINATE AGE, with a mischievous Twinkle in his eye. Wearing a dashing brocade waist coat, he looks every inch the eccentric gentleman. (CONTINUED) 11. CONTINUED: BILBO Gandalf? GANDALF Bilbo Baggins! BILBO My dear Gandalf! Gandalf drops to his knee to embrace his old friend. GANDALF It's good to see you. One hundred and eleven years old, who would believe it! Gandalf looks at him more keenly. GANDALF (CONT'D) You haven't aged a day! Gandalf and Bilbo laugh together and enter Bag End. BILBO Come on, come in! Welcome, welcome!! CUT TO: INT. BAG END LIVING ROOM -- DAY Bilbo leads Gandalf into Bag End...cozy and cluttered with souvenirs of Bilbo's travels. Gandalf has to stoop to avoid hitting his head on the low ceiling. Bilbo hangs up Gandalf's hat on a peg and trots off down the hall. BILBO (Calling) Tea? Or maybe something stronger... I've a few bottles of the Old Winyard left, 1296...a very good year, almost as old as I am. It was laid down by my father. What say we open one, eh? Bilbo disappears into the kitchen as Gandalf looks around..enjoying the familiarity of Bag End...he turns, knocking his head on the light and then walking into the wooden beam. He groans. BILBO (O.S.) (CONT'D) I was expecting you some time last week. Not that it matters, you come and go as you please, always have done, always will. (MORE) (CONTINUED) 12. CONTINUED: BILBO (O.S.) (CONT'D) You've caught me a bit unprepared, I'm afraid...we've only got cold chicken, bit of pickle, some cheese here...ooh, no, that might be a little risky... Gandalf stops in front of a framed map, charred in one corner...it is Thorin's map of the Lonely Mountain, Gandalf smiles to himself. BILBO (CONT'D) Er, we've got raspberry jam and apple tart...got some custard somewhere. Not much for Afters, I'm afraid. Oh no...we're alright...I've just found some sponge cake. Nice little snack. Hope it's enough. (comes into view) I could do you some eggs if you like? Bilbo jumps, a half eaten pork pie in his hand, as Gandalf mysteriously appears behind him. GANDALF Just tea, thank you. BILBO Oh..right. You don't mind if...? GANDALF No, not at all. Go ahead. A sudden loud knock on the front door. MRS. SACKVILLE BAGGINS (O.S.) Bilbo Baggins, you open this door..I know you're in there. BILBO I'm not home. Gandalf watches, amused as Bilbo tries to hide. BILBO (CONT'D) 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? (CONTINUED) 13. CONTINUED: BILBO Yes, yes...it's all inhand. All the arrangements are made. GANDALF Frodo suspects something. BILBO 'Course he does, he's a Baggins...not some block headed 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 and the fields... little rivers. Bilbo stands gazing out of the kitchen window. BILBO (CONT'D) I am old, Gandalf... Bilbo looks at Gandalf sadly... BILBO (CONT'D) I know I don't look it, but I'm beginning to feel it in my heart. CLOSE ON: Bilbo's fingers close around his waistcoat pocket...gripping a small, unseen object. BILBO (CONT'D) 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. CUT TO: 14. INT. BAG END -- EVENING Gandalf and Bilbo are sitting on the Bag End porch. Below them, final preparations are being made on the Party field. Bilbo strikes a match and lights his pipe. BILBO Old Toby, the finest weed in Southfarthing! Bilbo blows a perfect smoke ring and watches it rise into the air. A tiny sailing ship with masts and sails glides through the Center of Bilbo's smoke ring. BILBO (CONT'D) Ohhhh, (smiles) Gandalf my old friend...this will be a night to remember! CUT TO: EXT. PARTY FIELD, HOBBITON -- NIGHT BOOM! A FIREWORK explodes into the night sky high above Hobbiton...in the shape of a great green tree with unfolding branches. TILT DOWN: with glowing flowers as they rain down from the branches...evaporating just above the up turned faces of the delighted party-goers 144 Hobbits, feasting and drinking Carts of beer and wine are scattered about, and the tables are piled high with steaming scones and savories. Gandalf hurries about, lighting fireworks with a blue spark that dances magically from his staff... Bilbo is greeting visitors. Frodo and SAM sit at a table drinking ale...Frodo notices Sam's eyes keep flicking to another pretty Hobbit, Rosie Cotton, sitting some distance away. FRODO Go on, Sam, ask Rosie for a dance. SAM (horrified) I think I'll just have myself another ale. FRODO Oh, no you don't. Go on. Sam goes to drain his glass... suddenly it is snatched out of his hands as Frodo thrusts him into the middle of a passing throng of dancers. 15. ANGLE ON: SAM'S HORRIFIED FACE as he is Swept away. Frodo laughs and finishes Sam's beer. ANGLE ON: Gandalf as he sets alight a particularly spectacular firework that draws gasps of admiration from the party guests. Close on: Bilbo is relating stories of his adventure to a group of young hobbit children. BILBO (melodramatic) So, there I was...at the mercy of three monstrous trolls...Have you ever heard of a troll? Do you know what a Troll is? Great big nasty twenty foot high smelly things..and they're arguing...arguing about how they were going to cook us! ANGLE ON: A LITTLE HOBBIT GIRL'S upturned face...her eyes growing larger and larger. BILBO Whether it be turned on a spit or minced in a pie or whether they were going to sit on us one by one and squash us into jelly! But they spent so long arguing the whether-to's and why-for's that the sun's first light crept over the top of the trees...and turned them all to stone! STUNNED GASPS from his young Audience greet his astonishing feat! Close on: MERRY AND PIPPIN, two mischievous Young Hobbits in their late teens. Pippin scrambles on to the back of Gandalf's wagon, snatching up a small firework MERRY (urgent whisper) No, no..the big one...the big one! Pippin grabs a huge rocket. CLOSE ON: FIREWORK FUSE crackles with flame! Merry is holding out the big rocket...he looks aghast at the fizzing fuse that Pippin has just lit. MERRY (CONT'D) (worried whisper) You're supposed to stick it in the ground! (CONTINUED) 16. CONTINUED: PIPPIN It is in the ground. Merry fearfully tosses the Rocket to Pippin! The fuse sizzles angrily. MERRY Outside! PIPPIN It was your idea. Pippin attempts to throw the fizzing rocket back to Merry. WHOOSH! The two hobbits are suddenly blown off their feet in a shower of sparks as the rocket blasts off with frightening power. The ROCKET ZOOMS over the Party..It suddenly bursts apart, forming the shape of a great red golden Dragon! Fire gushes from its nostrils as it turns back and Flies low towards the startled crowd. Close on: Frodo watches the Fireworks Dragon with alarm...but Bilbo is oblivious to the Panicking crowd and impending danger! FRODO Bilbo! Watch out for the dragon!! BILBO Dragon? Nonsense...hasn1t been a dragon in these parts for a thousand years! ANGLE ON: FRODO As he hurriedly pulls Bilbo to the ground, just as the dragon roars a few feet above their heads like a flaming express train! Hobbits dive to the ground, tables overturn, tents collapse, food flies everywhere. The fireworks dragon turns a somersault and explodes over the hills with a deafening bang! This gets the biggest Cheer of the night. ANGLE ON: MERRY AND PIPPIN, clothes and hair smoking. MERRY That was good! PIPPIN Let's get another one! LARGE HANDS suddenly clamp down on Merry and Pippin's ears. Low angle: Gandalf looking DOWN STERNLY! (CONTINUED) 17. CONTINUED: GANDALF Meridoc Brandybuck and Peregrin Took...I might have known! CUT TO: MERRY AND PIPPIN Are leaning over a barrel, washing dishes in soapy water...with Gandalf sitting nearby, smoking his pipe and sipping an ale. Cries of "SPEECH! SPEECH" erupt from the party. ANGLE ON: Bilbo stepping on a stool...he bows in gratitude at the applause. FRODO Speech! BILBO (clearing throat) My dear Bagginses, and Boffins, tooks and Brandybucks...Grubbs, Chubbs, Hornblowers, Bolgers, Bracegirdles and Proudfoots... ANGLE ON: A HOBBIT WITH PARTICULARLY BIG FEET ODO PROUDFOOT Proudfeet! BILBO Today is my one hundred and eleventh birthday. Yes, and alas...Eleventy- one years is far too short a time to live among such excellent and admirable Hobbits! Tremendous outburst of approval! BILBO (CONT'D) I don't know half of you half as well as I should like; and I like less than half of you as well as well as you deserve. SCATTERED CLAPPING as the guests try to work out if that was a compliment or not. CLOSE ON: FRODO AND GANDALF smiling to themselves. CLOSE ON: Bilbo...a strange hum seems to fill his head. A bead of sweat rolls down his brow. Bilbo's hand pulls something out of his waistcoat pocket and holds it behind his back. (CONTINUED) 18. CONTINUED: BILBO (CONT'D) I have..things to do and I have put this off for far too long... CLOSE ON: BILBO'S knuckles turn white as he tightens his grip on the small object behind his back. BILBO (CONT'D) I regret to announce, this is the end. I am going now. I bid you all a very fond farewell!! Bilbo looks across at Frodo, hesitates... then... BILBO (CONT'D) (whisper) Goodbye. Bilbo instantly vanishes. The party explodes into an uproar... the crowd leaps to its feet. ANGLE ON: FRODO staring at the empty stool in disbelief. CUT TO: EXT. BAG END -- NIGHT The party is still in an excited uproar... some 50 yards away as we pan across a moonlit lane to the front door of Bag End. Door opens, pulled by an invisible hand. INT. BAG END -- NIGHT The door quietly closes...Bilbo materializes as he pulls a plain gold ring off his finger. Bilbo laughs as he tosses the ring in the air, then places it in his pocket. ANGLE ON: Bilbo emerges from the passage, carrying a walking stick. He finds Gandalf looming over him. GANDALF I suppose you think that was terribly clever? BILBO Come on, Gandalf! Did you see their faces? (CONTINUED) 19. CONTINUED: GANDALF There are many magic rings in the 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. GANDALF You will keep an eye on Frodo, won't you? BILBO I'm leaving everything to him. GANDALF What about this ring of yours? Is that staying too? Close on: Bilbo...he gives Gandalf a look and nods toward the mantelpiece. BILBO Yes, yes, it's in an envelope...over there on the mantelpiece. Gandalf frowns at the empty mantelpiece...Bilbo suddenly feels his waistcoat with a look of guilty surprise. BILBO (CONT'D) No, wait. It's here in my pocket. Isn't that...isn't' that odd now? Yet, after all, why not? 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! ANGLE ON: GANDALF LOOKS DOWN AT BILBO WITH RISING CONCERN. 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. (CONTINUED) 20. CONTINUED: GANDALF Precious? It's been called that before, but not by you. BILBO So? What business is it of yours what I do with my own things? Bilbo's voice, shape and manner have suddenly changed. GANDALF I think you've had that ring quite long enough. BILBO You want it for yourself! Gandalf rises to his full height, his eyes flash, his shadow suddenly seems to fill the room GANDALF Bilbo Baggins do not take me for some conjurer of cheap tricks! Bilbo cowers from Gandalf, disarmed by his power...a frightened Hobbit. Gandalf's expression softens. GANDALF (CONT'D) I am not trying to rob you. I am trying to help you. Sobbing, Bilbo runs to Gandalf and hugs him. GANDALF (CONT'D) All you long years we've been friends...trust me as you once did. Let it go! BILBO You're right, Gandalf...the ring must go to Frodo. Bilbo lifts his knapsack and heads for the front door. BILBO (CONT'D) It's late, the road is long... yes, it is time. GANDALF Bilbo? BILBO Hmmm? (CONTINUED) 21. CONTINUED: (2) GANDALF The ring is still in your pocket. Bilbo hesitates...reaches into his pocket. BILBO Oh, yes. CLOSE ON: Bilbo pulls out the ring...he stares at it in his palm. With all his will power, Bilbo allows the ring to slowly slide off his palm and drop to the floor. CLOSE ON: The tiny ring lands with a heavy thud on the wooden floor. EXT. BAG END -- NIGHT ANGLE ON: Bilbo staggering out of Bag end...he braces himself in the night air, Pale and Trembling, as if his loss of the ring has weakened him. Gandalf steps up behind. BILBO I've thought up and ending for my book..."And he lived happily ever after to the end of his days." GANDALF I'm sure you will, my dear friend. BILBO Goodbye, Gandalf. GANDALF Goodbye Bilbo. Bilbo walks away from Bag End, disappearing into the night, softly singing: "The Road goes on and on." GANDALF (CONT'D) (softly) Until our next meeting. CUT TO: INT. BAG END LIVING ROOM -- NIGHT CLOSE ON: THE RING...Glinting on the floor...Gandalf circles around it, a Puzzled look on his face. Gandalf slowly reaches for the ring. His fingers barely touch the ring...the creepy Hum rises on the soundtrack. Gandalf is sitting in front of the fire, with his pipe...staring into the flickering flames. (CONTINUED) 22. CONTINUED: BILBO (V.O.) It's mine, my own, my precious. GANDALF (to himself) Riddles in the dark. FRODO (O.S.) Bilbo! Bilbo! Frodo rushes into Bag End...he stops and picks up the ring at his feet. Gandalf continues staring into the fire, as if locked in thought. GANDALF (to himself) My precious...precious.. FRODO (quietly) He's gone, hasn't he? Frodo steps into the living room. FRODO (CONT'D) He talked for so long about leaving...I didn't think he'd really do it. GANDALF (mutters to himself) ...my own. FRODO Gandalf? Gandalf turns...his eyes locking onto the ring in Frodo's fingers. GANDALF Bilbo's ring. Gandalf sorts hurriedly through Bilbo's papers... GANDALF (CONT'D) He's gone to stay with the Elves. He's left you Bag End... Gandalf holds out the envelope...Frodo drops the ring into it. GANDALF (CONT'D) ...along with all his possessions. Gandolf seals the envelope with wax. He hands it to Frodo. (CONTINUED) 23. CONTINUED: (2) GANDALF (CONT'D) The ring is yours now. But it somewhere out of sight. Gandalf rises hurriedly and starts to gather his things. FRODO Where are you going? GANDALF I have some things I must see to. FRODO What things? GANDALF Questions. Questions that need answering. FRODO You've only just arrived! I don't understand... Gandalf is already at the door, he turns to Frodo. GANDALF Neither do I. Keep it secret, keep it safe. Gandalf hurries out the door...leaving FRODO standing alone in the Bag End. ANGLE ON: THE ENVELOPE The camera pushes in...the hum of the ring comes up on the soundtrack. The camera pushes through the white paper to the ring...beneath the hum the whispered murmur of BLACK SPEECH can be heard. CUT TO: EXT. BARAD-DUR -- NIGHT The jagged ruins of" BARAD-DUR. THE DARK TOWER! TEASING IMAGES: THE HUGE DARK TOWER OF BARAD-DUR is being rebuilt! Thousands of ORCS crawl over the surface, hauling stone and iron up the towering heights. WIDE ON: MOUNT DOOM...A HUGE, BILLOWING CLOUD OF BLACK FILTH grows and spreads across the red streaked sky...casting a shadowy pall over the nightmarish landscape. (CONTINUED) 24. CONTINUED: GOLLUM (O.S.) Baggins! Shire!! CUT TO: EXT. MINAS MORGUL -- NIGHT NINE BLACK RIDERS burst out of Minas Morgul and charge toward Camera. EXT. THE WEST ROAD, GONDOR -- DAY WIDE ON: A LONE HORSEMAN gallops to the crest of a hill on the west road. The main highway south to Minas Tirith...he looks toward the saw toothed mountains of Mordor... ...seeping out across the blood red sky, his face grave. He spurs his horse on. CUT TO: INT. CITADEL, MINAS TIRITH -- NIGHT ANGLE ON: GANDALF making is way down into the lower depths of the Citidel. CUT TO: INT. CITADEL CHAMBER, MINAS TIRITH -- NIGHT CLOSE ON: Pages flipping as Gandalf searches ancient scrolls and books placed high on a wooden table. His eyes settle on one old parchment. He murmurs hurriedly to himself, reading. GANDALF (reading) 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. DISSOLVE TO: CLOSE ON: ISILDUR, TRIUMPHANT, REACHES FOR THE ONE RING, HIS EYES FIXATED ON IT. GANDALF (reading) It has come to me...the ring of power! (MORE) (CONTINUED) 25. CONTINUED: GANDALF (CONT'D) It 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 GANDALF (CONT'D) ring...it is precious to me, though I buy it with great pain... CLOSE ON: ELVISH LETTERING MARKS ON THE FADED OLD DOCUMENT IN GANDALF'S HAND. GANDALF (reading) The marking upon the band begin to fade...the writing which at first was as clear as red flame, has all but disappeared...a secret now that only fire can tell... CUT TO: EXT. HOBBIT FARMHOUSE -- EVENING FARMER MAGGOT is chopping wood in his garden CLOSE ON: SNORTING HORSE NOSTRILS...as the shadow of a black rider looms over a Hobbit House. Terrified, FARMER MAGGOT cowers in his doorway...FANG, his dog, Whimpers and backs away. BLACK RIDER (hissing) Shire? Baggins? FARMER MAGGOT (terrified) There's no Bagginses around here! They are all up in Hobbiton...that way. The BLACK RIDER GALLOPS AWAY AT SPEED CUT TO: INT. GREEN DRAGON INN -- NIGHT ANGLE ON: ROSIE COTTON bids the last of the Patron's "Goodnight"...Sam meets her eyes for a moment as he and Frodo leave the inn. 26. EXT. BAG END -- NIGHT WIDE ON: FRODO FAREWELLS SAM outside Bag End, and heads towards the front door. Creepy POV from inside Bag end: Frodo coming up the path. CUT TO: INT. BAG END HALLWAY -- NIGHT ANGLE ON: FRODO enters Bag End...he immediately Pauses, sensing that something is amiss. All is quiet...Frodo peers uneasily into the darkened living room. SUDDENLY! A large figure looms out of the shadows, reaching for Frodo. Frodo lets out a startled cry, pulls himself free and spins around to face his Assailant. Gandalf steps into a shaft of moonlight. Paranoia blazes in his eyes. His clothes are dirty and ragged from much traveling. Hair and beard much longer an unkempt. GANDALF (urgent whisper) Is it secret? Is it safe? CUT TO: INT. BAG END LIVING ROOM -- NIGHT Frodo pulls the envelope out of an old chest. Gandalf, suspicious, Alert. Without a word, Gandalf takes the envelope and tosses it into the fireplace! FRODO (bewildered) What are you doing? Flames instantly consume the envelope...revealing the ring, as it sinks into the red hot embers. Gandalf reaches into the fire with a pair of tongs...he lifts the ring out. GANDALF Hold out your hand, Frodo...it is quite cool. Gandalf drops the ring into Frodo's hand...he reacts to its weight. GANDALF (CONT'D) What can you see? Can you see anything? FRODO Nothing...there's nothing. Wait... (CONTINUED) 27. CONTINUED: CLOSE ON: The Gold Band of the ring as fiery letters begin to appear...a tiny inscription glows red...as if burning from within. GANDALF ...these are markings. CLOSE ON: GANDALF...STILL...TENSE FRO DO It's some form of Elvish...I can't read it. GANDALF (ominous) There are few who can...the language is that of Mordor, which I will not utter here. Mordor? FRODO 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." CUT TO: INT. BAG END KITCHEN -- NIGHT CLOSE ON: The ring lies on Frodo's simple kitchen table. GANDALF This is the one ring forged by the dark lord, Sauron, in the fires of Mt Doom...taken by Isildur from the hand of Sauron himself. CLOSE ON: FRODO...STUNNED FRODO (quiet realization) Bilbo found it...in Gollom's cave. GANDALF For sixty 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 has heard its master's call. (MORE) (CONTINUED) 28. CONTINUED: GANDALF (CONT'D) AT THAT MOMENT: A FLEETING, LOW WHISPER of BLACK SPEECH emanates from the Ring. Frodo looks at Gandalf, each knowing the other has heard it. FRODO But he was destroyed...Sauron was destroyed. ANGLE ON: THE RING lies between them on the table. GANDALF No, Frodo. The spirit of Sauron has endured. His life force is bound to the ring and the ring survived. Sauron has returned. His Orcs have multiplied...his fortress of Barad- dur is rebuilt in the land of Mordor. Sauron needs only this ring to cover all the lands in the second darkness. He is seeking it, seeking it, all his thought is bent on it. For the ring yearns, above all else, to return to the hand of its master: they are one, the ring and the dark lord. Frodo, he must never find out. SUDDENLY Frodo scoops up the Ring. FRODO Alright! CUT TO: INT. BAG END LIVING ROOM -- NIGHT ANGLE ON: FRODO hurriedly entering the living room. FRODO (thinking fast) We put it away, we keep it hidden! We never speak of it again. No one know it's here, do they? Gandalf shifts uncomfortably. FRODO (CONT'D) Do they, Gandalf? Gandalf looks at Frodo, sadly... (CONTINUED) 29. CONTINUED: GANDALF There is one other who knew that Bilbo had the Ring. I looked everywhere for the creature Gollum, but the enemy found him first. CUT TO: INT. BARAD-DUR -- NIGHT CLOSE ON: A teasing Glimpse of Gollum being tortured by the Orcs. The wretched creature screams in pain. GANDALF (V.O.) I don't know how long they tortured him...but amidst the endless screams and inane babble, they discerned two words. GOLLUM (screaming) S...Shire! Baggins! CUT TO: INT. BAG END LIVING ROOM -- NIGHT CLOSE ON: FRODO'S HORRIFIED FACE! FRODO Shire! Baggins! That will lead them here! CUT TO: EXT. SHIRE LANE, SOUTH FARTHING -- NIGHT IMAGE: On a dark country lane, a Hobbit bounder lifts his watch lantern in alarm. HOBBIT BOUNDER Halt! Who goes there? Out of the darkness thunder two BLACK RIDERS...A LETHAL SWORD swings down at the small Hobbit bounder. CUT TO: INT. BAG END LIVING ROOM -- NIGHT FRODO thrusts the ring at Gandalf. FRODO Take it! Take it! (CONTINUED) 30. CONTINUED: GANDALF No, Frodo... FRODO You must take it. GANDALF You cannot offer me this ring. FRODO I'm giving it to you! GANDALF Don't tempt me, Frodo. I dare not take it, not even to keep it safe. CLOSE ON: THE RING IN FRODO'S HAND... GANDALF 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. CLOSE ON: THE RING IN FRODO'S CLENCHED HAND. FRODO What must I do? CUT TO: INT. FRODO'S BEDROOM -- NIGHT ANGLE ON: FRODO throwing clothes into a knapsack...Gandalf watches him, making plans... GANDALF You must leave, and leave quickly. Get out of the Shire. FRODO Where? Where shall I go? GANDALF Make for the village of Bree. (CONTINUED) 31. CONTINUED: FRODO Bree? What about you? GANDALF I will, be waiting for you at the Inn of the Prancing Pony. Frodo packs his food into his knapsack. 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 go. CUT TO: INT. BAG END LIVING ROOM -- NIGHT Frodo is preparing to leave. GANDALF You'll have to leave the name of Baggins behind you...for that name is not safe outside the Shire. GANDALF helps FRODO into his coat. GANDALF (CONT'D) Travel only by day and stay off the road. FRODO (thinking) I can cut across country easily enough. Gandalf looks at the young Hobbit, moved by his courage. 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. SUDDENLY! A SOUND from outside. GANDALF (CONT'D) Get down! GANDALF FREEZES... he moves quietly towards the window, eyes wide with tension. He raises his staff above the window, and slams it down on the intruder. THERE IS A YELP OF PAIN! (CONTINUED) 32. CONTINUED: Gandalf hauls a small figure into the room...SAM GAMGEE sprawls across the floor! He looks up in terror as Gandalf looms over him. GANDALF (CONT'D) (angry) Confound it all! Samwise Gamgee, have you been eavesdropping? SAM I ain't been dropping no eaves, sir! Honest. I was just cutting the grass under the window there, if you follow me... GANDALF It's a little late for trimming the hedges, don't you think? SAM I heard raised voices... GANDALF What did you hear? Speak! SAM (panicked) Nothing important...that is, I heard a good deal about a ring...and a Dark Lord. And something about the end of the world, but...Please, Mr. Gandalf, sir, don't hurt me! Don't turn me into anything unnatural! GANDALF No? FRODO SMILES GANDALF Perhaps not. I've thought of a better use for you. CUT TO: EXT. HOBBITON FIELDS -- PRE DAWN Wide on: HOBBITON...shrouded in a white veil of MIST. WIDER: To reveal Gandalf, Frodo and Sam hurrying across a ploughed field, away from Hobbiton! Gandalf leads his Horse...Frodo and Sam are carrying knapsacks. (CONTINUED) 33. CONTINUED: GANDALF (V.O.) Come along, Samwise...keep up... CUT TO: EXT. HOBBITON WOODS -- DAY Gandalf leads Frodo and Sam under the cover of Woods. GANDALF (V.O.) Be careful, both of you. The Enemy has many spies in his service, many ways of hearing...birds, beasts... Gandalf takes Frodo to one side... GANDALF (CONT'D) (low voice) Is it safe? FRODO NODS...he pats his pocket. GANDALF (CONT'D) Never put it on, for then the agents 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 wheels his horse and gallops away. CUT TO: EXT. GREEN HILL COUNTRY -- DAY MONTAGE: FRODO AND SAM hiking over the gentle Shire Countryside...wading through a shallow stream...heating a kettle over a small fire...clambering over stone walls. CUT TO: EXT. GREEN HILL COUNTRY -- AFTERNOON Sam stops short...taking stock of his surroundings. Sam looks back from where they came. SAM This is it. FRODO This is what? (CONTINUED) 34. CONTINUED: SAM If I take one more step it'll be the farthest away from home I've ever been. FRODO gives Sam a pat on the shoulder. FRODO Come on, Sam. Sam takes a deep breath and steps forward. CLOSE ON: SAM'S brown, furry foot hits the ground. FRODO IS SMILING. FRODO Remember what Bilbo used to say...it's a dangerous business... Frodo and Sam continue their journey. BILBO (V.O.) ... it's a dangerous business, Frodo, going out your door...you step onto the road, and if you don't keep your feet, there's not knowing where you might be swept off to. CUT TO: EXT. ISENGARD VALLEY -- DAY Gandalf is galloping along the outskirts of the ancient forest of Fangorn. Nestled in a basin at the foot of the distant Misty Mountains, the tall black tower of Orthanc is clearly visible EXT. ISENGARD VALLEY -- DAY Gandalf gallops through the gate, into the fortress of ISENGARD...a great ring-wall of stone, a mile from rim to rim, encloses beautiful trees and gardens, watered by streams that flow down from the mountains. SARUMAN (V.O.) Smoke rises once more from the mountain of doom...the shadow takes shape in the darkness of Mordor; the hour grows late...and Gandalf the Grey rides to Isengard seeking my counsel... The strange tower of Orthanc...hewn from a solid pillar of black obsidian...rises up in the center of the Isengard Circle. Gandalf arrives at the foot of the Orthanc Stairs. 35. ANGLE ON: SARUMAN, THE WHITE WIZARD he sweeps down the Orthanc stairs. SARUMAN For that is why you have come, is it not, my old friend? Gandalf moves quickly towards him, grimy and weary from his long ride. GANDALF Saruman! CUT TO: EXT. ISENGARD GARDENS -- DAY Gandalf and Saruman walk slowly between the beautiful trees of Isengard, Saruman's clean, white robe contrasts with Gandalf's dusty grey robes. SARUMAN Are you sure of this? GANDALF Beyond any doubt. SARUMAN So the ring of power has been found? GANDALF All these long years it was in the Shire, under my very nose. SARUMAN And yet you did not have the wit to see it! Your love of the Halfling's leaf has clearly slowed your mind. GANDALF We still have time...time enough to counter Sauron...if we act quickly. SARUMAN Time? What time do you think we have? CUT TO: INT. ORTHANC ANTE-CHAMBER -- DAY Saruman and Gandalf are seated in a small, cluttered room to the side of the cavernous central chamber. (CONTINUED) 36. CONTINUED: 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. You know of what I speak, Gandalf...a great Eye, lidless, wreathed in flame. GANDALF (softly) The eye of Sauron. SARUMAN He is gathering all evil to him. SARUMAN (CONT'D) Very soon he will have summoned an army great enough to launch an assault upon Middle earth. GANDALF You know this? How? SARUMAN I have seen it. Gandalf and Saruman stride through Orthanc toward a stone plinth on which a sphere like shape is draped with a cloth... GANDALF A palantir is a dangerous tool, Saruman. Saruman lifts the cloth to reveal the Palantir. SARUMAN Why? Why should we fear to use it? GANDALF They are not all accounted for, the lost seeing-stones...we do not know who else may be watching. Gandalf throws the cloth back over the Palantir. FLASH IMAGE: A FIERY EYE! Saruman sits upon his throne. (CONTINUED) 37. CONTINUED: SARUMAN The hour is later than you think. Sauron's forces are already moving...the Nine have left Minas Morgul. GANDALF (shocked) The nine! SARUMAN They crossed the river Isen in Midsummer's eve, disguised as riders in black. GANDALF (alarmed) They have reached the Shire? Saruman shrugs... SARUMAN They will find the ring...and kill the one who carries it. Gandalf backs away and turns to run to the door...horrified as the doors suddenly slam shut. SARUMAN (CONT'D) You did not seriously think a Hobbit could contend with the will of Sauron? There are none who can. Gandalf slowly turns to Saruman...a look of dawning horror. SARUMAN (CONT'D) 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 (deadly) Tell me, friend, when did Saruman the wise abandon reason for madness? At that moment: Gandalf is suddenly blasted across the room! He slams against the wall...pinned there by some unseen force. With sudden effort, Gandalf wrenches himself off the wall and swings his staff on Saruman...blasting him off his feet! Gandalf and Saruman battle, powerful blasts throwing them across the room. SARUMAN SCREAMS, EYES BLAZING! Gandalf's staff is suddenly wrenched from his grasp...it flies across the chamber into Saruman's hand! Gandalf is flung to the floor. (CONTINUED) 38. CONTINUED: (2) SARUMAN I gave you the chance of aiding me willingly, but you have elected the way of pain. Gandalf is breathing hard on the floor, his eyes look into the madness of Saruman... Commanding two staffs, Saruman sends Gandalf into a sickening spin. Gandalf tumbles towards the top of the chamber...as if falling in reverse. Rushing POV: the roof of Orthanc rockets toward camera. CUT TO: EXT. FARMER'S FIELDS -- DAY Wide on: Frodo and Sam walking along a country lane which borders Farmer Maggot's Fields. Sam is looking up...Frodo has disappeared around a corner in the lane. SAM (panicked) Mr. Frodo. Mr. Frodo! Frodo turns, surprised as Sam comes running towards him. SAM (CONT'D) (worried) I thought I lost you. Frodo looks at Sam suspiciously. Sam glances down, embarrassed. FRODO (teasing) What are you talking about? SAM (mumbling) It's just something Gandalf said... FRODO What did he say? SAM He said..."Don't you leave him, Samwise Gamgee." (looks at Frodo intently) And I don't mean to. FRODO (laughing) Sam...we're still in the Shire...what could possibly happen? (CONTINUED) 39. CONTINUED: SUDDENLY! A figure comes crashing out of a hedgerow sending Frodo flying. Frodo picks himself up, only to be knocked back down again by Pippin. PIPPIN Frodo! Merry, it's Frodo Baggins. MERRY Hello Frodo Merry, Pippin, and Frodo picking themselves up... a variety of vegetables have scattered everywhere. SAM What's the meaning of this! MERRY Sam, hold this... Merry gives Sam a large cabbage. SAM (accusing) You've been into Farmer Maggot's crop! A large pitchfork can be seen racing towards them along the Hedgerow...angry shouts from Farmer Maggot. FARMER MAGGOT (O.S.) Who's that in my field! Get out of it! Get out of my field, you young varmits! I'll show you...get out of my corn. Merry and Pippin hurriedly gather their booty and race away...with Frodo and Sam on their heels. MERRY (looking behind him) I don't know why he's so upset, it's only a couple of carrots. PIPPIN And some cabbages...and those three bags of potatoes that we lifted last week. And then the mushrooms the week before. MERRY Yes, Pippin, my point is, he's clearly over reacting. The BAYING OF LARGE DOGS sounds! (CONTINUED) 40. CONTINUED: (2) PIPPIN Run! CUT TO: EXT. WOODED ROAD -- DAY Frodo, Sam, and Merry and Pippin tumble head over heels down a bank, onto a dark, wooded road. CLOSE ON: A winded Pippin, his face inches away from a large pile of Horse droppings... PIPPIN That was close. Frodo picks himself up and looks around quickly. MERRY (groaning) Ow...I think I've broken something. Pulls a LARGE CARROT, almost broken through in the middle, out from his back pocket. MERRY (CONT'D) Oh. SAM (turning on Merry and Pippin) Trust a Brandybuck and a Took. MERRY What? That was just a detour...a shortcut. SAM A shortcut to what? Pippin has spied something under the trees on the far side of the road. PIPPIN (excited) Mushrooms! CLOSE ON: SMALL, brown mushrooms growing amongst the Loamy undergrowth. Sam, Merry, and Pippin race toward the mushrooms! Frodo is tense and watchful. He realizes they are on a wooded road. Scattered leaves rise into the air Whirling down the road as if blown by an invisible wind... 41. SUDDENLY... THE SOUND OF HORSES HOOVES... FRODO I think we should get off the road. A long drawn WAIL comes down the wind, like the cry of some evil and lonely creature. FRODO (CONT'D) (more urgency) Get off the road! Sam grabs Merry and Pippin as the Hobbits quickly scramble down the bank, hiding under a mossy log. THE SOUND OF HOOVES is close... A sinister MOUNTED RINGWRATH steps into view...hooded and faceless, mounted on a huge snarling black horse with insane eyes ! Frodo freezes in terror. The RINGWRAITH pauses right beside their hiding place...he sits very still with his head bowed, listening. From inside the hood comes a sniffing noise as if he is trying to catch an elusive scent; his head turning from side to side. CLOSE ON: FRODO Beads of sweat gather on his brow. The ringwraith suddenly slides off his horse, leaning over the mossy log, peering suspiciously into the woods. CLOSE ON: FRODO He is drawing the ring out of his pocket, with trembling hands...his face fevered and sweating as if in the grip of some terrible INTERNAL STRUGGLE. The SOUND OF SNIFFING intensifies as the ringwraith darts his head from side to side like a bird of party. CLOSE ON: FRODO SQUEEZING HIS EYES SHUT... QUICK PSYCHIC BLASTS! AND EVIL DARK TOWER...A GREAT EYE...A BURST OF FLAME. ANGLE ON: SAM LOOKING AT FRODO WITH CONCERN SAM Frodo? Merry desperately hurls the mushrooms across the road...the ringwraith spins around at the sound, and darts to the far side of the road with frightening speed. Frodo instantly slumps...as if a PSYCHIC LINK had been broken (CONTINUED) 42. CONTINUED: MERRY What was that? Frodo is staring, a look of shock on his face at the ring lying in the palm of his hand. EXT. FERRY LANE -- NIGHT Frodo, Sam, Merry, and Pippin hurry through the trees...slipping and sliding on the muddy ground. SAM Anything? FRODO Nothing. PIPPIN What is going on? Merry moves past pippin, toward Frodo, watching intently...Sam keeps looking around nervously. MERRY The Black rider was looking for something...or someone...Frodo? SAM Get down! The SILHOUETTE OF A BLACK RIDER looms against the skyline. The Four Hobbits... sprawled on the ground, holding their breath. The BLACK RIDER turns and departs. FRODO I have to leave the Shire...Sam and I must get to Bree. Merry looks at his friend...realizing Frodo is in deep trouble. MERRY Right...Buckleberry Ferry...follow me ! The Hobbits break cover. SUDDENLY, A RINGWRAITH bursts out of the forest TOWARD THEM! MERRY (CONT'D) There's another one!! Frodo, this way! ! The Hobbits run THE RINGWRAITH SHRIEKS! QUICK CUTS: (CONTINUED) 43. CONTINUED: Black horse hooves... snarling horse mouths...a fleeting black cowl. MERRY (CONT'D) Frodo, follow me! CUT TO: EXT. BUCKLEBERRY FERRY -- NIGHT FRODO, SAM, MERRY AND PIPPIN, are running towards the wide, placid Brandywine river...and the FERRY. MERRY Get the ropes, Sam. QUICK ANGLES: STOMPING HOOVES...SNARLING HORSES... Four RINGWRAITHS are speeding through the Fog...converging on the FERRY CROSSING. The HOBBITS stampede across the Wharf and Tumble onto the Ferry. SAM (screaming) Frodo! Frodo races across the Wooden Wharf, followed by the ringwraiths. He leaps into the Ferry. CLOSE ON: HOOVES THUNDER DOWN THE WOODEN WHARF! Sam and Merry shove off with the poles...the ferry slides out into the river, just as the ringwraiths arrive. They pull up on the end of the wharf... shrieking with rage! The Hobbits cover their ears. The Ringwraiths wheel their horses towards the north and Gallop away along the river bank, quickly disappearing into the fog. FRODO How far to the nearest crossing? MERRY The brandwine bridge...twenty miles. CUT TO: EXT. BREE GATE -- NIGHT ANGLE ON: Lights of Bree...a small village of stone and half timbered houses nestled against a low wooded hill. (CONTINUED) 44. CONTINUED: A thick hedge surrounds the village...a great gate bars the western entrance. CLOSE ON: FRODO, SAM, MERRY AND PIPPIN approaching the gatehouse...wild eyes, ragged, and out of breath. FRODO Come on. A SURLY GATEKEEPER glances down at them. GATEKEEPER What do you want? FRODO We're headed for the prancing pony. The gatekeeper swings his lantern onto the hobbits, bathing them in an uncomfortable yellow spotlight. GATEKEEPER Hobbits! Four Hobbits, and what's more, out of the Shire by your talk. What business brings you to Bree? FRODO We wish to stay at the inn...our business is our own. To Frodo's relief, the Gatekeeper unlocks the gate. GATEKEEPER All right, young sir, I meant no offense. The Hobbits gratefully enter Bree...the gatekeeper eyeing them curiously in the lantern light. GATEKEEPER (CONT'D) It's my job to ask questions after nightfall. There's talk of strange fold abroad...can't be too careful. CUT TO: EXT. BREE STREETS -- NIGHT The tall BREE FOLK loom over the nervous little hobbits as Frodo, Sam, Merry and Pippin make their way through the Narrow Streets. Tall buildings tower above them...lights glow dimly from behind thick curtains. (CONTINUED) 45. CONTINUED: Close on: The sign of the "PRANCING PONY INN"...Frodo, Sam, Merry, and Pippin hurry toward it. CUT TO: INT. "PRANCING PONY" RECEPTION -- NIGHT Frodo, Sam, Merry and Pippin come rushing in. Frodo attracts the INN KEEPERS'S attention. FRODO Excuse me. BUTTERBUR Good evening, little masters. If you're seeking accommodation, we've got some nice, cozy Hobbit sized rooms available, Mr...ah... FRODO Underhill...my name's Underbill. BUTTERBUR Underhill? Hmmmm. FRODO We're friends of Gandalf the Grey...can you tell him we've arrived? BUTTERBUR frowns... BUTTERBUR (Puzzled) Gandalf...Gandalf...Oh... (recognition) Oh yes! I remember...elderly chap...big grey beard...pointy hat? Frodo nods with relief...Butterbur shakes his head. BUTTERBUR (CONT'D) Not seen him for six months. Frodo is shocked. SAM (worried whisper) What do we do now? INT. PRANCING PONY INN -- NIGHT Wide on: the noise, smokey Inn. It is dimly lit, cheifly from a blazing log fire...and crowded with a mixture of BIG FOLK, LOCAL HOBBITS, and a couple of dwarfs. Frodo, Sam, Merry and Pippin are sitting at a table against the wall... clearly trying to remain Quiet and inconspicuous... Sam can't help himself...he keeps casting nervous glances around. (CONTINUED) 46. CONTINUED: FRODO Sam, he'll be here. He'll come. Merry ploinks himself down at a table, carrying a very large mug of beer. PIPPIN What's that? MERRY This, my friend, is a pint. PIPPIN It comes in pints? I'm getting one! Sam watches Pippin rise unsteadily to his feet and head to the bar. SAM You've had a whole half already. Merry watches Pippin go. A COUPLE OF SWARTHY MEN leaning against the bar glance at Frodo, then quickly look away. SAM (CONT'D) (tense) That fellow's done nothing but stare at you since we've arrived. Sam indicates a BROODING STRANGER who sits alone at a table in the far corner, smoking a curiously carved long stemmed pipe, peering from beneath a travel stained cowl with gleaming eyes. Frodo gestures to Butterbur... FRODO Excuse me, that man in the corner, who is he? BUTTERBUR He's one of them Rangers; they're dangerous folk they are, wandering the wilds. What his right name is, I never heard, but round here he's known as Strider. FRODO (to himself) Strider. BENEATH TABLE: FRODO'S fingers are nervously TOYING WITH THE RING. 47. CLOSE ON: FRODO Sweat runs down his brow. The Strange hum of the Ring spills into the Soundtrack. "Baggins...Baggins..." a creepy whisper seems to fill Frodo's head...sound that dissolves into Pippin's loud voice: PIPPIN Baggins? Sure, I know a Baggins...he's over there... ANGLE ON: PIPPIN sitting at the bar, chatting with Locals. Frodo leaps to his feet and pushes his way towards the bar. PIPPIN (loudly) Frodo Baggins. He's my second cousin once removed, on his mother's side and my third cousin twice removed on his father's side...if you follow me. Frodo grabs Pippin's sleeve, spilling his beer. FRODO Pippin! PIPPIN Steady on, Frodo! Pippin pushes Frodo away...he stumbles backwards, and falls to the floor. At that instant, the Inn goes silent and all the attention turns to Frodo... CLOSE ON: The ring...in agonizing Slow motion we watch as it seems to hang in the air for a split second...then crashes down onto his out stretched finger. FRODO VANISHES! There is a sharp intake of breath...followed by total silence. CUT TO: EXT. BREE COUNTRYSIDE -- NIGHT The RINGWRAITHS turn sharply in their saddles...Instantly aware that the ring is being worn. They spur their horses towards the distant lights of Bree. 48. INT. "PRANCING PONY" INN -- NIGHT Sam looks sick; Pippin instantly sobers, realizing his folly; the brooding stranger frowns...and the inn erupts into excited babble. IN THE TWILIGHT WORLD: ANGLE ON: FRODO: as he finds himself in the TWILIGHT WORLD of the ring: THE EXCITED CROWD ARE suddenly moving in slow motion...distorted voices...a weird photographic negative quality. FRODO is moving in real time; against the slow motion background. He suddenly clutches his head as he is hit with quick images...of a GREAT EYE! AN EVIL CAT-LIKE EYE, wreathed in flames. VOICE OF SAURON There is no life here in the void...only cold...only death... FRODO is terrified! He rolls under a table, desperately pulling the ring from his finger. FRODO MATERIALIZES into the real world. AT THAT MOMENT: A LARGE HAND reaches under the table and Grabs Frodo by the collar, and DRAGS HIM AWAY! CUT TO: INT. PRANCING PONY--CORRIDOR -- NIGHT Frodo is roughly pushed against the wall. The Brooding stranger looms over him. STRIDER You draw far too much attention to yourself...Mr. Underhill CUT TO: INT. HOBBIT'S ROOM, PRANCING PONY -- NIGHT Frodo is pushed into the Hobbit's room by Strider. FRODO What do you want? STRIDER A little more caution from you...that is no trinket you carry. FRODO I carry nothing. (CONTINUED) 49. CONTINUED: STRIDER Indeed? I can usually avoid being seen if I wish, but to disappear entirely... that is a rare gift. FRODO Who are you? STRIDER Are you frightened? FRODO Yes. STRIDER Not nearly frightened enough. I know what hunts you. Frodo jumps at the sound of a noise in the corridor. Strider deftly draws his sword. The door bursts open and Sam, Merry and Pippin appear on the doorway. Sam is Squaring off with is fists, Merry brandishes a candlestick, and Pippin a chair. SAM (angry) Let him go or I'll have you, Longshanks! STRIDER SHEATHS his sword, a slight smile playing on his lips. STRIDER You have a stout heart, little Hobbit, but that alone won't save you...You can no longer wait for the Wizard, Frodo. They're coming. CUT TO: EXT. GATEHOUSE, BREE -- NIGHT The gate keeper comes out of his Lodgings with a lantern...a look of fear on his face. He approaches the closed gate with great apprehension. CLOSE ON: The Gatekeeper peers out of his Peephole. CRASH!! The gate crashed down on the gatekeeper...as four RINGWRAITHS ride into Bree! 50. EXT. BREE STREETS -- NIGHT The four RINGWRAITHS fly done the empty streets, like horsemen of the apocalypse. INT. PRANCING PONY INN -- NIGHT LOW ANGLE: the front door FLIES OPEN. The FOUR RINGWRAITHS rush into the PRANCING PONY with WICKED SWORDS DRAWN. CLOSE ON: BUTTERBUR hiding behind his bar... trembling and sweating in TERROR. INT. HOBBIT'S ROOM, PRANCING PONY -- NIGHT INSERT: MERRY SNORING SOFTLY ON HIS PILLOW. INSERT: PIPPIN stirs slightly, then settles back to sleep. WIDE ON: the door creaks open...THE FOUR RINGWRAITHS silently slide into the Hobbit's room. The LOOM above each bed, raising their SHINING SWORDS ABOVE THE SLEEPING HOBBITS. QUICK INSERT: Sam's eyes open wide. In unison, the RINGWRAITS STAB THE HOBBITS, in a Slashing, hacking frenzy. INT. STRIDER'S ROOM -- NIGHT Strider is grimly listening to the sounds from his room. INT. HOBBIT'S ROOM, PRANCING PONY -- NIGHT Wide on: the RINGWRAITHS step back from the slashed beds in triumph. CLOSE ON: a hacked blanket is pulled back to reveal nothing but a shredded pillow. The RINGWRAITHS SHRIEK WITH RAGE!! INSERTS: Sam sits up with a start! Close on: Another shredded pillow is revealed! More Shrieks of rage. INSERT: PIPPIN AND MERRY wake with a start. CUT TO: INT. STRIDER'S ROOM -- NIGHT WIDE ON: Sam, Merry, and Pippin have been sleeping on Strider's bed. Frodo stands next to Strider by the window, peering out nervously as furious Ringwraith screeches echo across the courtyard from the Hobbits room. FRODO Where are they? STRIDER They were once men. Strider glances quickly at Frodo, then looks away... (CONTINUED) 51. CONTINUED: STRIDER (V.O.) (CONT'D) (quietly) 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 into darkness and now they are slaves to his will. Strider looks from the window as the Ringwraiths gallop down the Bree Streets. CLOSE ON: Strider turns back to the Hobbits, his face lit faintly by the Glowing Embers of the Fire. STRIDER (CONT'D) They are the Nazgul, Ringwraiths, neither living or dead. At all times they feel the presence of the ring...drawn to the power of the one..they will never stop hunting you. CUT TO: EXT. CHETWOOD FOREST -- DAY ANGLE ON: STRIDER, MERRY, PIPPIN, AND FRODO march through a gloomy, overgrown forest. Sam follows at the read leading "Bill", a scrawny pony, who is laden with supplies. FRODO Where are you taking us? STRIDER Into the wild. Frodo watches uneasily as Strider moves off into the cover of the trees... MERRY (whispered aside) How do, we know this Strider is a friend of Gandalf? FRODO We have no choice but to trust him. STRIDER But where is he leading us? ANGLE ON: (CONTINUED) 52. CONTINUED: Strider stops, casts a glance back at Sam. STRIDER (CONT'D) To Rivendell, Master Gamgee...to the house of Elrond. SAM looks excited. SAM Did you hear that, Bill? Rivendell! We're going to see the Elves! Strider leads the Hobbits through the gloom of the forest. CUT TO: EXT. MIDGEWATER MOORS -- DAY Aerial on: Strider leading Frodo, Sam, Merry, and Pippin across the windswept moors. The hobbits suddenly stop and unstrap their knapsacks. STRIDER Gentlemen, we do not stop until nightfall. PIPPIN What about breakfast? STRIDER You've already had it. PIPPIN We've had one, yes...but what about Second Breakfast? Strider stares at Pippin blankly, then turns away, shaking his head. MERRY I don't think he knows about second breakfast, Pip. PIPPIN What about Elvenses, Luncheon, Afternoon Tea, dinner...he knows about them, doesn't he? MERRY I wouldn't count on it. An apple is thrown to Merry, who deftly catches it. Another, aimed at Pippin, catches him on the forehead. (CONTINUED) 53. CONTINUED: MERRY (CONT'D) (exasperated) Pippin! The hobbits trudge through rain, looking tired, hungry, and miserable. CUT TO: INT. ORTHANC ANTE-CHAMBER -- NIGHT Saruman stands over the Palantir, his hands cupping the massive eye. SARUMAN (whisper) The power of Isengard is at your command, Sauron, Lord of the Earth. ON THE SOUNDTRACK: BLACK SPEECH FILLS THE ROOM...ADMIST THE HARSH, GUTTURAL WORDS THE VOICE OF SARUMAN EMERGES. SARUMAN Build me an army worth of Mordor. INT. ORTHANC ANTE-CHAMBER -- NIGHT Saruman is seated as his ORC OVERSEER approaches. ORC OVERSEER What orders from Mordor, my Lord. What does the eye command? SARUMAN We have work to do. CUT TO: INT. ISENGARD -- NIGHT CLOSE ON: GANDALF...lying unconscious on a cold obsidian floor. He wakes to the sound of ripping and tearing...rising onto his knees...lifting his head... Gandalf stands as the camera pulls back to reveal him stranded on the summit of Orthanc. He is marooned on the tiny, flat peak, surrounded on all sides by a sheer 500 FOOT DROP. Another whispering wail rends the air. Gandalf crosses quickly to the edge and peers down: POV: One of the beautiful Isengard trees is being ripped from the ground by the ORCS. Gandalf looks on in Horror as ORCS hack into the trunk with axes. ANGLE ON: (CONTINUED) 54. CONTINUED: SARUMAN stands in Rain looking out into the dark night...the ORC overseer sidles up to him, axe in hand, sweating with exertion. ORC OVERSEER The trees are strong, my Lord. Their roots go deep. SARUMAN Rip them all down. CAMERA CIRCLES SUMMIT: MORE AND MORE TREES are hauled down and killed...as Gandalf looks on in helpless despair. DISSOLVE TO: EXT. WEATHERHILLS -- DAY Wide on: The rugged countryside as the hobbits journey on, lead by Strider. Strider stops before a distant hill, topped by an Ancient Ruin. SARUMAN This was once the great Watchtower of Amon Sul. We shall rest here tonight. CUT TO: EXT. WEATHERTOP HOLLOW -- DUSK ANGLE ON: FRODO, MERRY, AND PIPPIN collapse into a small hollow, halfway up Weathertop...they are muddy and exhausted. Stider drops 4 small swords at the Hobbits feet. SARUMAN There are for you. Keep them close. I'm going to have a look around. Stay here. CUT TO: EXT. WEATHERTOP HOLLOW -- NIGHT Close on: Frodo...eyes flickering open. He suddenly sits up, sniffing the air. Sam, Merry, and Pippin huddled over a small fire... Sausages and bacon sizzle in a hot frying pan. FRODO What are you doing? MERRY Tomatoes, sausages, and crispy bacon. (CONTINUED) 55. CONTINUED: SAM We saved some for you, Mr. Frodo. FRODO Put it out, you fools! Put it out! Frodo desperately kicks dirt on the fire! PIPPIN Oh, that's nice...ash on my tomatoes! A SUDDEN SHREIK! ANGLE ON: FIVE RINGWRAITHS ON FOOT, running up the steep slope unnaturally fast. FRODO Go! ! Frodo, Sam, Merry and Pippin clamber desperately towards the summit, clutching their swords. CUT TO: EXT. WEATHERTOP SUMMIT -- NIGHT Frodo, Sam, Merry, and Pippin race into a RING OF BROKEN STONES on the summit or Weathertop...the ruined base of an ancient tower. The hobbits stand back-to-back in the centre of the Ring, waiting for the first assault... One by one, the 5 Ringwraiths appear...brandishing Gleaming swords, they move slowly towards the hobbits. In the center is their leader...the WITCH KING! SAM Back, you devils! Sam rushes forward with a cry. He swings his sword at the Witch King, who blocks the blow with his own sword. Sam's blade shatters...the WITCH KING lashes out with his fist, sending Sam flying. Merry and Pippin, overcome with terror, throw themselves flat on the ground. THE RINGWRAITHS close in on Frodo...a Venomous whisper dances in his head... Frodo shuts his eyes and staggers back, desperately resisting the WRAITH'S WHISPERINGS... slow motion as his hand goes into his pocket and pulls out the ring. The 5 Ringwraiths utter a chilling SCREECH OF EXCITEMENT. Frodo is unable to resist any longer, falls to his knees and slips on the ring. He disappears. (CONTINUED) 56. CONTINUED: SAM (CONT'D) No! IN THE TWILIGHT WORLD: ANGLE ON: Frodo finds himself in the weird twilight world...he looks upon the Ringwraiths, now visible in their TRUE APPEARANCE: Five Ghouls dressed in long Grey robes, with white hair, and Pallid, ruthless faces. THE WITCH KING extends a haggard hand towards Frodo, reaching for the ring on his finger. Frodo's trembling hand extends forward as if by the pull of the ring...he slides to the ground, unable to pull his hand away. The witch king snarls and springs forward. He stabs at Frodo with a wicked dagger! Frodo winces as the tip of the dagger sinks into his shoulder. Suddenly, Strider charges at the RINGWRAITHS, wielding his sword in one hand, a flaming torch in the other. He moves in slow motion, visible through a sea of mist. Frodo sinks to the ground. Behind him is a faint image of a Ringwraith fleeing, his head engulfed in flames. With draining strength, Frodo manages to pull the ring off his finger... IN THE REAL WORLD: ...Appearing back in the real world, Sam rushes over to him. SAM (CONT'D) (horrified) Frodo! Another Ringwraith is burning and screaming...others screech fearfully at the flames, turn and flee form the Weathertop summit. SAM (CONT'D) (panicked) Mr. Frodo!! Strider kneels before Frodo. He snatches up the Witch King's Dagger from the ground, staring gravely at the long, thin, blade. SAM (CONT'D) Help him, Strider! STRIDER (grim) He's been stabbed by a Morgul blade. The Morgul Blade suddenly melts...vanishing into the air like smoke. Strider throws the hilt down in disgust... (CONTINUED) 57. CONTINUED: (2) SAM Do something. STRIDER This is beyond my skill to heal. (urgently) He needs Elvish medicine. Strider lifts Frodo onto his shoulders. EXT. WEATHERHILLS -- NIGHT Strider is jogging grimly, carrying an ailing Frodo on his back. Sam, Merry, and Pippin are running to keep up. The hobbits are carrying Flaming torches for protection. STRIDER Hurry! SAM We are six days from Rivendell. Frodo groans. STRIDER Hold on, Frodo. SAM He'll never make it! Close on: Frodo...head lolling about, barely conscious. FRODO (fevered calling) Gandalf...Gandalf? EXT. ISENGARD -- NIGHT Low angle...looking up at ORTHANC...the tower of Isengard, gleaming in the moonlight. The camera rises to reveal the once beautiful gardens are not a pitted wasteland...with smoke and fire billowing out of numerous tunnels and vent holes that litter the forecourt of ORTHANC. Strange guttural chants echo up from deep underground. The camera is rising...a small moth flutters into shot...and leads the camera towards the summit or Orthanc. Gandalf lies slumped against the wall at the very top of Orthanc, surrounded by a sheer 500 foot drop. He looks Weak and Frail...and is seemingly asleep. The MOTH flutters close to Gandalf. His hand suddenly moves at lighting speed and SNATCHES THE MOTH. Gandalf brings his hand close to his face and opens it. The moth sits on the palm of his hand as Gandalf mutter strange words in a foreign tongue. Close on: THE MOTH'S face... seemingly listening. (CONTINUED) 58. CONTINUED: It suddenly flutters away. CAMERA FOLLOWS the moth off the Orthanc summit, but drops past the moth...falling down, down, towards the pitted wasteland, straight into a fiery red tunnel! INT. CAVERNS BELOW ISENGARD -- NIGHT The dead trees of Isengard are fed into roaring furnaces...molten metal pours into casts...red hot metal, beaten my sweating orc blacksmiths...armor and weapons are forged from the great furnaces. Saruman strides among the ORCS and stands looking on a new born uruk-hai as it escapes its birthing membrane...this is LURTZ, who rises up to stand before his master. CUT TO: EXT. TROLLSHAW FOREST CLEARING -- NIGHT Close on: Frodo...his eyes flicker open...clouded, red- rimmed...his brow, beaded with sweat. PIPPIN Is he going to die? Frodo's breathing is getting shallow. Strider looks out into the darkness. STRIDER No. He is passing into the shadow world, he will soon become a wraith like them. A DISTANT CRY of a RINGWRAITH carries through the air. MERRY (nervous) They're close. Frodo gasps in sudden pain. STRIDER (thinking hard) Sam, do you know the Athelas plant? Sam looks blank. SAM Athelas? STRIDER Kingsfoil. SAM Kingsfoil. Aye. It's a weed. (CONTINUED) 59. CONTINUED: STRIDER It may help to slow the poison. Hurry! CUT TO: EXT. TROLLSHAW FOREST -- NIGHT Sam and Strider desperately search the dark forest floor for the Athelas plant. Close on: A small, white flowered plant! Strider drops to one knee, carefully pulling it from the ground. SUDDENLY! STRIDER FREEZES AS A SWORD BLADE TOUCHES HIS NECK. ARWEN (O.S.) What is this? A Ranger caught off his guard? Strider slowly looks up. CUT TO: EXT. TROLLSHAW FOREST CLEARING -- NIGHT Frodo is breathing hard, desperately ill. Frodo's half- conscious POV: Surreal impression...a SHIMMERING FIGURE IN WHITE leaps off a horse. FLASH INSERT: An ethereal vision of ARWEN, as she appears on the other side... ARWEN (ELVISH: with sub titles) Frodo, Im Arwen...telin let thaed. I am Arwen, I have come here to help you. (urgent) Lasto Beth nin, tolo Dan na ngalad. Hear my voice, come back to the light. Frodo's eyes close. PIPPIN Who is she? ARWEN (worried) Frodo? SAM She's an elf. 60. ANGLE ON: ARWEN Who now appears in her earth bound form, a young Elven woman with tousled hair, dressed in mud-splattered riding clothes. ARWEN He's fading...he's not gong to last. We must get him to my father. Strider quickly lifts Frodo...placing him on the horse. ARWEN (CONT'D) I have been looking for you for two days. PIPPIN Where are you taking him? ARWEN There are five Wraiths behind you, where the other four are, I do not know. STRIDER (ELVISH: with subtitles) Dartho guin Berian...rych le ad tolthathon. Stay with the hobbits...I'11 send horses for you. Close on: Arwen grabbing the Reins of the horse. ARWEN (ELVISH: w/subtitles) Hon mabathon. Rochoh ellint im. I'll take him. I'm the faster rider. Strider clamps his hand over Arwen's. STRIDER (elvish:subtitles) Andelu I ven. The road is too dangerous. ARWEN (Elvish: subtitles) Frodo Fir. Ae anthradon I hir, tur gwaith nin beriatha hon. If I can cross the river, the power of my people can protect him. PIPPIN What are they saying? CLOSE ON: Arwen reaches for Strider's hand...looking deep into his eyes. ARWEN I do not fear them. (CONTINUED) 61. CONTINUED: CLOSE ON: Strider...we see that it is hard for him to let her go. ANGLE ON: Arwen mounts her horse, ALSFORTH... STRIDER Arwen...ride hard, don't look back. ANGLE ON: Arwen looks down at Strider as she supports Frodo with one hand. ARWEN (elvish) Noro Lim, Asfaloth, Noro Lim! SAM What are you doing! Those Wraiths are still out there! ANGLE ON: Asfaloth springs away, bearing Arwen and Frodo into the night. CUT TO: EXT. TROLLSHAW FOREST -- NIGHT SPEEDING POV: through the forest from the back of the White Horse. ANGLE ON: FRODO, BOUNCING IN THE SADDLE, he lifts his head weakly. SURREAL SLOW MOTION POV: THE HORSES HEAD BOBBING...trees sliding by...moonlight flickers through the trees. CUT TO: EXT. AERIAL OF ETTENMOORS ~ MORNING AERIAL: of Arwen's white horse emerging from the trees...and galloping across the open land as the sun rises. CUT TO: 62. EXT. PINE FOREST -- DAY The white horse charges through a Pine Forest. Suddenly 2 Galloping Ringwraiths emerge from the trees behind! 2 more Ringwraiths slide in from different directions to join the chase. Arwen grits her teeth...urges the white horse to greater speed. CUT TO: EXT. THE EAST ROAD -- DAY The white horse speeds out of the pine trees...the 4 ringwraiths close behind PAN ONTO: 2 more ringwraiths galloping down the hillside! AERIAL SHOT: 3 MORE RINGWRAITHS enter frame from different directions...a total of 9 RINGWRAITHS now pursuing Frodo and Arwen! CLOSE ON: Panting head of the WHITE ELVEN HORSE. ARWEN Noro lim, Asfaloth! CUT TO: EXT. FORD OF BRUINEN -- DAY CRANE DOWN: As the White Horse races towards Camera, to Reveal the wide river Bruinen in the foreground. Without hesitation, the white horse leaps into the shallow water and thunders across the Ford. The 9 Ringwraiths pull up short of the Ford, clearly nervous of the water. The white horse reaches the other side...Arwen pulls up and turns to defiantly face the Ringwraiths from across the Ford. WITCH KING Give up the Halfling, she-elf! She draws her sword and yells at the Witch King. ARWEN (yelling) If you want him, come and claim him. THE WITCH KING SCREECHES ANGRILY, draws his sword, and leads the Ringwraiths across the Ford. The water starts flowing faster...a distant rumble can be heard. Arwen waits until they are halfway across: she suddenly stands in the saddle arms raised! ARWEN (CONT'D) (Elvish) Non o Chithaeglir, lasto Beth daer: Rimmo nin Briunen Dan in Ulaer! (MORE) (CONTINUED) 63. CONTINUED: ARWEN (CONT'D) Nin o Chitaeglir, lasto Beth daer: Rimmo nin Bruinen Dan in Ulaer! THE GROUND SUDDENLY TREMBLES...A MIGHTY ROAR FILLS THE AIR! Frodo looks up weakly...to see a vast torrent of Water flooding down the river towards the ford...as if a dam had burst! The Foaming water seems to form the shape of Dancing white horses with frothing manes! The Ringwraiths scream in terror as they are swallowed up in the deluge. Their Piercing cries are drowned in the roaring of the river as it carries them away! CLOSE ON: FRODO as he loses consciousness... ARWEN (upset) No, no...Frodo, no! Frodo, don't give in...not now! Arwen gathers the small Hobbit in her arms, feeling his life slip away. INT. FRODO'S DELIRIUM -- DAY DELIRIOUS IMAGES AND SOUNDS.... ARWEN (V.O.) What grace is given me, let it pass to him. Let him be spared. Save him. IMAGE: A BRIGHT LIGHT suddenly flares...Frodo squeezes his eyes shut, gasping. FRODO (frightened) Where am I? A FAMILIAR VOICE cuts through the swirl of sound. GANDALF (O.S.) You are in the House of Elrond, and it is ten o'clock in the morning on October the twenty-fourth, if you want to know. INT. FRODO'S BEDROOM -- DAY Frodo's eyes flicker Open He is lying in bed next to an Open Window...Dappled sunlight plays on richly carved timbers...the sound of a nearby waterfall drifts through the Vista of Fir Trees. FRODO (weak relief) Gandalf! 64. ANGLE ON: GANDALF IS SITTING NEXT TO FRODO'S BED... softly puffing on his pipe. He smiles at Frodo. 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. You have some strength in you, my dear Hobbit. Frodo sits up, looking at Gandalf questioningly... FRODO What happened, Gandalf? Why didn't you meet us? GANDALF I'm sorry Frodo. Close on: Gandalf... troubled. His eyes drift away. GANDALF (CONT'D) I was delayed. CUT TO: EXT. ORTHANC SUMMIT -- NIGHT SARUMAN stands over Gandalf, gloating... SARUMAN Get up! So much for the power of the Ring or embrace your own destruction! With the power of his staff, Saruman raises Gandalf from the ground, then sends him crashing to the floor. GANDALF There is only one Lord of the Ring. Only one who can bend it to his will...and he does not share power. SUDDENLY! GANDALF lurches to his feet and Throws himself off the Tower! Saruman watches Gandalf fly away from Isengard...on the Back of a GIANT EAGLE. SARUMAN (chilling) So you have chosen death! CUT TO: 65. EXT. SKIES OVER MOUNTAINS--DAWN Gwaihir the Eagle soars majestically over the mountains, carrying Gandalf towards the dawn. CUT TO: INT. FRODO'S BEDROOM--RIVENDELL Frodo raises himself up and looks at Gandalf. FRODO Gandalf! What is it? Gandalf returns his attention to Frodo. GANDALF Nothing, Frodo... Sam runs to Frodo's bedside. He is overjoyed to find Frodo awake. SAM Frodo! Frodo! Bless you, you're awake!! GANDALF Sam has hardly left your side. SAM We were worried about you--weren't we, Mr. Gandalf? GANDALF By the skills of Lord Elrond, you're beginning to mend. ELROND, LORD OF THE HIGH ELVES, steps up to Frodo's bedside...his face is neither old nor young, though in it is written the memory of many things both glad and sorrowful. ELROND Welcome to Rivendell, Frodo Baggins. Frodo sits up, looking at Elrond with awe. CUT TO: EXT. RIVENDELL VALLEY -- DAY WIDE ON: RIVENDELL... a small cluster of elegant Elven Buildings sitting in a Shangri-la like Valley below towering cliffs and snow capped mountains. (CONTINUED) 66. CONTINUED: ELROND (V.O.) You have found your way to the last homely house east of the sea. The elves of Imladris have dwelt within this valley for three thousand years through few of my kin now remain. Frodo looks out from his balcony. CUT TO: EXT. RIVENDELL GARDENS -- DAY Frodo and Sam walk together. Suddenly, the voices of Merry and Pippin can be heard as they bound up to Frodo and throw their arms around him. MERRY Frodo! Frodo! Sam looks past Frodo smiling... a bent figure sits alone on a bench, in the Sun. Close on: Frodo turning, following Sam's gaze... FRODO Bilbo! CUT TO: EXT. RIVENDELL TERRACE -- DAY Close on: BILBO BAGGINS! He breaks in to a broad grin as Frodo rushes forward to embrace him. Bilbo has aged significantly since we last saw him. BILBO Hello, Frodo, my lad! FRODO Bilbo! LATER... Frodo is turning the neatly inscribed title page of a red leather bound journal: FRODO (CONT'D) (reading) "There and back again: A Hobbit's tale" by Bilbo Baggins. Bilbo smiles Proudly. He is sitting with Frodo on a terrace overlooking a Waterfall. Frodo looks at Page after page of beautiful Handwriting, with intricate Maps and Drawings. (CONTINUED) 67. CONTINUED: FRODO (CONT'D) This is wonderful. BILBO I meant to go back...wander the paths of Mirkwood, visit Laketown, see the Lonely Mountain again...but age, it seems, has finally caught up with me. Frodo turns a page...there before him, is a map of the Shire. FRODO (quietly) I miss the Shire...I spent all my childhood pretending I was off somewhere else...off with you, on one of your adventures... (Looks at Bilbo) But my own adventure, turned out to be quite different...I'm not like you, Bilbo. BILBO My dear boy... CUT TO: EXT. RIVENDELL TERRACE -- EVENING Sam busily tries to stuff more and more things into his already full pack...pots and pans, blankets, cooking utensils, provisions, clothes. SAM No, what have I forgotten? Pull back to reveal Frodo, hands in his pocket, watching Sam. FRODO Packed already? Sam looks up, startled. SAM (slightly embarrassed) No harm in being prepared. Frodo strolls to the edge of the Balcony. FRODO I thought you wanted to see the Elves, Sam? (CONTINUED) 68. CONTINUED: 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. Frodo looks at Sam... FRODO (CONT'D) ...we did what we set out to do. Frodo opens his hand, the Ring sits in his Palm. FRODO (CONT'D) The ring will be safe in Rivendell. I am ready to go home. CUT TO: EXT. ELROND'S CHAMBER, RIVENDELL -- DAY Gandalf and Elrond watch Frodo and Sam from Elrond's balcony, 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 shown extraordinary resilience to its evil. GANDALF It is a burden he should never have to 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. (CONTINUED) 69. CONTINUED: GANDALF His treachery runs deeper than you know. By foul craft, Saruman has crossed Orc with Goblin Men...he is breeding an army in the caverns of Isengard. An army that can move in Sunlight and cover great distance at speed. Saruman is coming for the Ring. Elrond turns and walks away... 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...the ring cannot stay here. Gandalf turns and looks out the window. Sounds of arrivals...Gandalf watches as Boromir rides through Rivendell gate, followed by Legolas and Gimli. ELROND (V.O.) (CONT'D) This peril belongs to all Middle earth. They must decide how to end it. Not just for themselves but for those who come after. Elrond approaches Gandalf. ELROND (CONT'D) The time of the Elves is over. My people are leaving these shores. Who will you look to when we have 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. FLASH INSERT: With the broken sword, Isildur slices off Sauron's finger. Elrond reacts. ELROND (V.O.) (CONT'D) I was there, Gandalf...I was there three thousand years ago when Isildur took the ring. 70. FLASH INSERT: ISILDUR PICKS UP THE RING AND STARES AT IT, ENTRANCED. ELROND I was there the day the strength of Men failed. CUT TO: INT. CRACK OF DOOM -- DAY ELROND Isildur...hurry...follow me! IMAGES: ELROND leads Isildur into the steaming volcano. ELROND (V.O.) (CONT'D) I let Isildur into the heart of Mount Doom, where the ring was forged: the one place it could be destroyed. FLASH INSERT: ELROND AND ISILDUR STAND BEFORE THE FIRES OF MT. DOOM. ELROND Cast it into the fire...destroy it! CLOSE ON: ISILDUR...CAPTIVATED BY THE RING. ISILDUR No. Isildur turns and walks away ELROND Isildur!! INT. ENROND'S CHAMBER, RIVERDELL -- DAY Elrond turns to Gandalf. ELROND It should have ended that day, but evil was allowed to endure. Isildur kept the Ring...and the line of Kings was broken. There's no strength left in the world of Men. They're scattered, divided, leaderless. (CONTINUED) 71. CONTINUED: GANDALF There is one who could unite them, one who could re claim the thrown of Gondor. ELROND He turned from that path a long time ago. He has chosen exile. CUT TO: INT. ELROND'S CHAMBER, RIVENDELL -- NIGHT Strider watches from the shadows...as Boromir strolls through the darkened gallery. Boromir's eyes are drawn to an old Fresco on the wall...depicting Isildur defeating Sauron. Boromir looks with Wonderment at Narsil, the Broken Blade of Elendil, which lies on a cloth-covered plinth. BOROMIR (quiet awe) The shards of Narsil...the blade that cut the Ring from Sauron's hand. Boromir picks up the sword and gently touches the Blade. Close on: a small bloom of blood appears on Boromir's finger... BOROMIR (CONT'D) Still sharp. Boromir senses Strider's presence...he looks from the blade to Strider, as if sensing a connection. BOROMIR (CONT'D) But no more than a broken heirloom. BOROMIR (CONT'D) replaces the Broken blade, but it clatters to the floor. Boromir walks away, leaving Strider sitting alone. Close on: Strider picks up the broken hilt, as Arwen appears behind him. ARWEN Why do you fear the past? You are Isildur's heir...not Isildur himself. You are not bound to his fate. STRIDER The same blood flows in my veins...the same weakness... (CONTINUED) 72. CONTINUED: ARWEN Your time will come. You will face the same evil...and you will defeat it. (Elvish: w/subtitles) A si i-duath u-orthor, Aragorn...u or le a u or nin. The shadow does not hold sway yet...not over you and not over me. CUT TO: EXT. RIVENDELL VALLEY -- NIGHT Night falls upon the beautiful valley of Rivendell... still and quiet. EXT. RIVENDELL WATERFALL -- NIGHT Strider and Arwen stand upon a stone bridge...the Evenstar at Arwen's breast shines in the moonlight. ARWEN (Elvish: with subtitles) Renech I lu I erui govannem? Do you remember when we first met? STRIDER (Elvish: with subtitles) Nauthannim I ned ol reniannen. I thought I had strayed into a dream. Arwen reaches up and gently touches the Grey at Strider's temples. ARWEN (Elvish: with subtitles) Gwenin in enniath...u-arnech in naeth I se celich. Long years have passed...you did not have the care you carry now. Arwen looks into Strider's eyes. ARWEN (CONT'D) (Elvish: with subtitles) Renech I Beth I pennen? Do you remember what I told you? Arwen reaches for Strider's hand... STRIDER (quietly) You said you'd bind yourself to me, forsaking the immortal life of your people. (CONTINUED) 73. CONTINUED: ARWEN (whisper) And to that I hold. I would rather share one lifetime with you than face all the ages of this world alone. Strider looks down. In his hand lies the Evenstar. ARWEN (CONT'D) I choose a mortal live. STRIDER You cannot give me this. ARWEN It is mine to give to whom I will, like my heart. Arwen closes Strider's fingers around the jewel. Arwen leans towards Strider, gently kissing him. CUT TO: INT. COUNCIL CHAMBER, RIVENDELL -- DAY Elrond addresses the council... ELROND Strangers from distant lands ... friends of old. You have been summoned here 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 to this fate...this one doom... Frodo sits amongst a council of free-peoples of Middle earth, Elrond stands before them, addressing Gandalf, Strider, Legolas, and 20 other elves, Dwarves, and men. ELROND (CONT'D) Bring forth the ring, Frodo. Frodo steps forward and moves towards a stone Plinth. He places the ring on the plinth and returns to his seat. BOROMIR (shocked) So it is true! LEGOLAS (disbelief) Sauron's Ring! The ring of power! (CONTINUED) 74. CONTINUED: GIMLI (grim) The doom of man! BOROMIR It is a gift...a gift to the foes of Mordor! Why not use this Ring? Long has my father, the Steward of Gondor, held 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! STRIDER You cannot wield it. None of us can. The one ring answers to Sauron alone...it has no other master. Boromir turns and looks at Strider, coolly. BOROMIR And what would a ranger know of this matter? Strider says nothing and Boromir turns away dismissively. LEGOLAS stands... LEGOLAS This is no mere Ranger. He is Aragorn, son of Arathorn. You owe him your allegiance. Frodo looks at Strider questioningly...Boromir turns sharply. BOROMIR (quiet disbelief) Aragorn? This is Isildur's heir? LEGOLAS And heir to the throne of Gondor. ARAGORN (Elvish: with subtitles) Havo dad, Legolas...Sit down, Legolas.. BOROMIR Gondor needs no king. GANDALF Aragorn is right...we cannot use it. ELROND You have only one choice..the ring must be destroyed. (CONTINUED) 75. CONTINUED: (2) The HUM OF THE RING seems to grow louder in Frodo's ears. Gimli suddenly stands, excited. GIMLI Then...what are we waiting for? Gimli suddenly rushes forward! He swings his axe down on the ring. The axe shatters with a deafening crack! Gimli falls backwards, staring in disbelief at the ring...unharmed! Frodo winces as an angry image of the fiery eye hits him! He slumps in this chair, clutching his forehead. Gandalf looks at him with concern. ELROND The ring cannot be destroyed, Gimli, son of Gloin, by any craft that we ELROND (CONT'D) 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. One of you must do this. Stunned silence...the council sits with downcast eyes, as if a great dread has descended on them. Boromir addresses the council in a quiet voice 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 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 leaps to his feet! (CONTINUED) 76. CONTINUED: (3) GIMLI I will be dead before I see the Ring in the hands of an Elf! A STORM OF ARGUMENT erupts around the room. CLOSE ON: FRODO...sound disappears as he watches in slow motion...the angry faces, the shaking fists, the accusatory fingers, his eyes move across to the ring...the hum grows louder in his head. GIMLI (CONT'D) (shouting) Never trust an Elf! CLOSE ON: THE RING fills the screen...streams of blood flow across the surface... flames flicker within the Gold Band. GANDALF Do you not understand? While we bicker among ourselves, Sauron's power grows! No one will escape it. You will all be destroyed, your homes burnt and your families put to the sword! CLOSE ON: FRODO...breathing rapidly, Caught in the grip of his hideous vision. With a huge effort or will, Frodo tears his gaze upon the ring. Frodo suddenly stands...he speaks in a strong, clear voice. FRODO I will take it...I will take it...I will take the Ring to Mordor. Sudden silence...Frodo looks around the room at the astounded faces. FRODO (CONT'D) (quietly) Though...I do not know the way. Gandalf rises to his feet. GANDALF I will help you bear this burden, Frodo Baggins, as long as it is yours to bear. ARAGORN If, by my life or death, I can protect you, I will. (kneels before Frodo) ...you have my sword. Aragorn steps forward...followed by Legolas and Gimli. (CONTINUED) 77. CONTINUED: (4) LEGOLAS And you have my bow. GIMLI And my axe. Boromir looks at them all then walks towards Frodo. BOROMIR You carry the fate of us all, little one. Boromir looks towards Elrond and Gandalf. BOROMIR (CONT'D) If this is indeed the will of the Council, then Gondor will see it done. Frodo stares in wonder as the Greatest Fighters in all Middle earth stand at his side. SAM (unseen) Here! A Sudden Noise...Sam pops up from behind a Bush! SAM (CONT'D) Mr. Frodo's not gong anywhere without me. ELROND No, Indeed...it is hardly possible to separate you...even when he is summoned to a secret council and you are not. Merry and Pippin jump up from behind another bush! MERRY Oi! We're coming too! 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. 78. ELROND SURVEYS THE GROUP ELROND (thoughtfully) Nine companions ... so be it. (announcing) You shall be the "Fellowship of the ring" PIPPIN Great. Where are we going? CUT TO: INT. FRODO'S BEDROOM, RIVERDELL---DAWN Close on: An old sword sliding out of a shabby leather Scabbard...its polished, well tendered Blade glitters cold and bright. BILBO My old sword "Sting"...here, take it! Bilbo offers Sting to Frodo. 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. Bilbo unwraps a small shirt of close woven Mail. BILBO (CONT'D) Here's a pretty thing. Mithril, as light as a feather, and as hard as dragon scales. Let me see you put it on. Come on. CLOSE ON: Frodo peels off his shirt... revealing The Ring on the Chain around his neck. BILBO (CONT'D) (entranced) Oh! My old Ring... Frodo frowns as Bilbo moves toward him. BILBO (CONT'D) I should very much like to hold it again, one last time. Bilbo reaches forward, eyes locked on the ring. (CONTINUED) 79. CONTINUED: Suddenly! A shadow passes across Bilbo...for a split second he becomes a wrinkled creature with a hungry face and Bony, groping hands. Frodo pulls away, shocked...the shadow passes. Bilbo slumps into a chair, his head in his hands. Bilbo falters...his eyes filling with tears. BILBO (CONT'D) Oh! BILBO (CONT'D) (sad) I'm sorry, that I brought this upon you, my boy...I'm sorry that you must carry this burden. I'm sorry for everything. Bilbo sobs and Frodo moves to comfort him. CUT TO: EXT. RIVENDELL VALLEY -- MORNING ANGLE ON: The Fellowship climb the long steep path out of the cloven vale of Rivendell. CUT TO: EXT. ROUGH COUNTRY, SOUTH OF RIVENDELL -- DAY ANGLE ON: The fellowship trekking through a land of Deep Valleys and turbulent waters...the misty mountains rise sharply to their left. GANDALF (V.O.) We must hold to his course west of the misty Mountains for forty days. If our luck holds, the Gap of Rohan will still be open to us. From there, our road turns east, to Mordor. CUT TO: EXT. EREGION HILLS--DAWN CLOSE ON: Sam at the campfire. The sound of clashing swords! Wider: Aragorn and Boromir are giving Pippin Sword tuition... (CONTINUED) 80. CONTINUED: BOROMIR Get away from the blade, Pippin...on your toes...good, very good...I want you to react, not think. SAM Should not be too hard... BOROMIR Move your feet. MERRY Quite good, Pippin. PIPPIN Thanks. CLOSE ON: GIMLI has managed to corner Gandalf.... GIMLI If anyone were to ask for my opinion, which I note they have not, I would say we are taking the long way round. Gandalf, we can pass through the Mines of Moria. My cousin, Balin, would give us a royal welcome. Gandalf clearly thinks that is a bad idea. GANDALF No, Gimli. I would not take the road through Moria unless I had no other choice. Boromir thrusts, catching Pippin on the hand. Pippin throws down his sword, kicks and lunges at Boromir, tackling him to the ground. Much laughter. Legolas' eyes are fixed on a distant Dark Patch which darts about the sky, like flying smoke in the wind. SAM What is that? GIMLI Nothing...it's just a wisp of a cloud. BOROMIR (worried) It's moving fast...against the wind. LEGOLAS Crebain from Dunland! (CONTINUED) 81. CONTINUED: (2) ARAGORN (urgently) Hide! BOROMIR Merry..Pippin...Sam...take cover! WIDE ON: THE FELLOWSHIP scramble under what little cover there is...as a regiment of Large crows fly low overhead at Great speed, wheeling and circling above. As their dark shadow passes over the fellowship, a single harsh croak is heard...and the crows suddenly wheel away, back towards the south. Gandalf staggers to his feet. GANDALF (worried) Spies of Saruman. The passage South is being watched. Gandalf looks at Aragorn, turns to the others...gesturing towards a high mountain pass. GANDALF (CONT'D) We must take the pass of Caradhras! CUT TO: EXT. SNOWY MOUNTAINSIDE -- DAY ANGLE ON: The Fellowship clamber through Rock and Snow. CLOSE ON: Frodo slips on some shale...as he scrambles to his feet, the Ring falls on the ground... CLOSE ON: the ring gleaming in the snow! Boromir's Hand picks it up by the chain...he stands, the ring dangling before his eyes. He seems to grow in stature, as if absorbing its power. Aragorn warily approaches Boromir...Boromir is motionless...he stares at the ring, as if transfixed. 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. ARAGORN (quietly) Boromir...give the ring to Frodo. ARAGORN'S HAND moves to his sword hilt. (CONTINUED) 82. CONTINUED: Ring's POV...looking up at Boromir's face. The strange hum vibrates on the soundtrack. CLOSE ON: a Weird beatific smile lights up Boromir's face...The HUM grows to a Deafening roar! Boromir suddenly snaps out of his trance and hands the ring back to Frodo. BOROMIR (lightly) As you wish. I care not. Boromir smiles at Frodo, ruffling his hair. CLOSE ON: ARAGON unhands his sword. CUT TO: EXT. ISENGARD -- DAY Following the crows as they race deeper and deeper, passing a vista of Industry, Hundreds of Orcs and writhing Birthsacks...flying past Saruman, who stands upon a wooden Gantry. CLOSE ON: Saruman, listening to the Cries of the crows. SARUMAN So, Gandalf...you try to lead them over Caradhras. And if that fails...where then will you go? THE FELLOWSHIP struggles through the snow. SARUMAN (V.O.) (CONT'D) If the mountain defeats you, will you risk a more dangerous road? CUT TO: EXT. PASS OF CARADHRAS -- DAY THE FELLOWSHIP are struggling through a blinding blizzard, up towards the PASS OF CARADHRAS. Legolas the Elf moves lightly across the top of the snow...he suddenly pauses. Saruman's voice sweeps by in the wind. LEGOLAS (urgent) There is a fell voice in the air. GANDALF It's Saruman. THUNDER RUMBLES...ROCK and Shale fall from above. (CONTINUED) 83. CONTINUED: ARAGORN (urgently) He's trying to bring down the mountain. Gandalf! We must turn back! GANDALF No! GANDALF RAISES HIS STAFF...HE CHANTS INTO THE WIND. GANDALF (YELLING) Losto Caradhras, sedho, hodo, nuitho I ruith. Sleep Caradhras, be still, lie still, hold your wrath. CUT TO: EXT. ISENGARD -- DAY CAMERA SWEEPS PAST SARUMAN...he stands on the summit of Orthanc, Chanting. CLOUDS ARE FLOWING FROM ALL DIRECTIONS... converging on the distant mountains in a stormy Malestrom. EXT. PASS OF CARADHRAS -- DAY Saruman's voice strengthens...rolling past the fellowship like thunder. A LIGHTNING CRACK explodes on the mountainside above them. Frodo looks up in horror as a huge snow avalanche thunders down towards them! The Fellowship throw themselves against the cliff face as snow crashes onto the narrow ledge. LEGOLAS pulls Gandalf to safety. Aragorn shields Frodo and Sam as snow piles around them. Within moments, the pass is blocked and the fellowship are enveloped in snow. Boromir and Aragorn frantically dig for the hobbits...who are pulled out Shivering and Fearful. BOROMIR (urgent) We must get off the mountain! Make for the gap of Rohan and take the West road to my city. ARAGORN The Gap of Rohan takes us too close to Isengard. GIMLI We cannot pass over the mountain. Let us go under it. Let us go through the mines of Moria. Gandalf has a concerned look on his face. (CONTINUED) 84. CONTINUED: SARUMAN (V.O.) Moria. You fear to go into those mines, don't you? The dwarves delved too greedily and too deep. SARUMAN (V.O.) (CONT'D) You know what they awoke in, the darkness of Khazad-dum. Shadow and flame. GANDALF Let the ringbearer decide. CLOSE ON: FRODO, the weight of the decision weighing heavily upon him. CLOSE ON: MERRY and PIPPIN shivering in Boromir's arms. GANDALF (CONT'D) Frodo? Frodo meets Gandalf's eye. FRODO We will go through the mines. Gandalf slowly nods. GANDALF So be it. CUT TO: