The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring/Transcript

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 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:
 
 EXT. MORIA GATE -- NIGHT
 
 The Fellowship are walking along the far shore of dark
 lake...directly below great looming cliffs.
 
 GIMLI
 (in awe)
 The walls of Moria!
 
 Footing is treacherous on the narrow strip of green and
 greasy stones. Gandalf touches the smooth rock wall between
 the trees... slowly, faint lines appear like slender veins of
 luminous silver running through the stone.
 
 GANDALF
 Itidin...it mirrors only starlight and
 moonlight.
 
 A large moon rises over the mountains... The lines grow
 Broader and Clearer, forming a glowing arch of interlacing
 ancient letters and symbols.
 
 
 
 (CONTINUED)
 '
 ' 85.
 'CONTINUED:
 
 
 GANDALF (CONT'D)
 It reads, "The door of Durin, Lord of
 Moria. Speak, friend, and enter."
 
 MERRY
 What do you suppose that means?
 
 GANDALF
 (confident)
 It's quite simple. If you are a friend,
 speak the password and the doors will
 open.
 
 Gandalf raises his arms...
 
 GANDALF (CONT'D)
 (incanting)
 Annon edhellen, edro hi ammen!
 
 The cliff towers into the night, the wind blows cold, Frodo
 shivers... and the door stands fast!
 
 LATER:
 
 GANDALF CONTINUES...
 
 Mumbling spells in his efforts to open the door. Sam packs
 pots and pans at his feet...watching sadly as Aragorn un-
 saddles Bill the pony. CLOSE ON: ARAGORN whispering to Bill
 the Pony.
 
 ARAGORN
 (whispering)
 Mines are no place for a Pony, even one
 so brave as Bill.
 
 SAM
 Bye, Bill.
 
 ARAGORN
 Go on, Bill, go on..don't worry, Sam...he
 knows his way home. Aragorn slaps Bill on
 the rump...Bill goes trotting off. CLOSE
 ON: Sam watching Bill disappear into the
 darkness.
 
 SAM
 Goodbye, Bill.
 
 SPLASH! Merry and Pippin are tossing stones into the lake.
 Black Rippling rings slowly fan out. Pippin is about to
 throw another stone, but Aragorn grabs his arm.
 
 
 (CONTINUED)
 '
 ' 86.
 'CONTINUED:
 
 
 ARAGORN
 (ominous)
 Do not disturb the water.
 
 Aragorn watches anxiously as the Ripples appear to grow....he
 exchanges a look with Boromir.
 
 Aragorn's hand creeps towards his sword. Gandalf gives up in
 despair...he sits down beside Frodo. Close on: Frodo peers at
 the Elvish inscription...his face breaks into a smile of
 comprehension.
 
 FRODO
 (quietly)
 It's a riddle...
 
 Gandalf raises his eyebrows...
 
 FRODO (CONT'D)
 (explaining)
 Speak, friend, and enter. What's the
 Elvish for friend?
 
 GANDALF
 Oh...mellon.
 
 With that, the rock face silently divides in the middle and
 two great Doors swing outwards... revealing a blackness
 deeper than the night. As the Fellowship enter the Blackness,
 something in the water stirs....
 
 INT. MORIA GATE -- NIGHT
 
 The Fellowship step warily into the darkness of Moria...a
 Dank cavern, with winding steps leading deeper into the
 mountain.
 
 GIMLI
 So, master elf, you will enjoy the fabled
 hospitality of the dwarves; roaring
 fires, malt beer, red meat off the bone.
 This, my friend, is the home of my
 cousin, Balin...and they call this a
 Mine...
 (snorting)
 A mine!
 
 A Glow from Gandalf's Staff suddenly lights the chamber...
 The Fellowship recoil in Horror! Many dwarf Skeletons are
 strewn about, clearly the dead of some old battle...the
 rusting armor and shields are peppered with arrows and axes.
 
 
 
 (CONTINUED)
 '
 ' 87.
 'CONTINUED:
 
 
 BOROMIR
 (grimly)
 This is no mine...it's a tomb!
 
 GIMLI
 (in horror)
 Oh...no...no..no... ! Legolas pulls a
 crude arrow out of a skeleton.
 
 LEGOLAS
 Goblins!
 
 The Fellowship draw swords and back away, towards the
 Entrance.
 
 BOROMIR
 We make for the Gap of Rohan. We should
 never have come here.
 
 EXT. MORIA GATE -- NIGHT
 
 Frodo is suddenly PULLED TO THE GROUND. A long sinuous
 Tentacle is wrapped around Frodo's ankle and is dragging him
 towards the lake. FRODO CRIES OUT as Aragorn and Boromir rush
 forward! Aragorn severs the Tentacle holding Frodo, and pulls
 him to safety...Boromir hacks at the other Writhing Limbs. 20
 more tentacles ripple out of the Lake! The dark water Boils
 as the hideous beast lashes out at the FELLOWSHIP! Again the
 creature grabs Frodo and pulls him to the lake, Frodo is
 flung in the air as the Fellowship battle the creature.
 Aragorn hacks at a tentacle...Frodo is released, falling into
 Boromir's arms.
 
 GANDALF
 Into the mines!
 
 BOROMIR
 Legolas!
 
 Legolas shoots an Arrow into the creature's head, gaining a
 few vital seconds for Aragorn and Boromir as they race out of
 the water with Frodo. The FELLOWSHIP hurriedly back away from
 the Creature... retreating into the Moria Chamber as many
 Coiling arms seize the large doors.
 
 INT. MORIA GATE -- NIGHT
 
 With a shattering echo, the creature rips the doors away,
 creating a rock slide that crashes down the Cliff Face.
 Within seconds, tons of rock seal the doorway... throwing the
 Fellowship into Pitch Blackness.
 
 
 
 (CONTINUED)
 '
 ' 88.
 'CONTINUED:
 
 
 A faint light rises from Gandalf's staff, throwing a Creepy
 Glow across the old wizards face.
 
 GANDALF
 (ominous)
 We now have but one choice...we must face
 the long dark of Moria. Be on your
 guard...there are older and fouler things
 than the Orcs in the deep places of the
 world.
 
 CUT TO:
 
 INT. NEW CHAMBER, MORIA -- NIGHT
 
 WIDE ON: the Fellowship crossing a precarious bridge above
 deep mine workings.
 
 GANDALF
 Quietly, now. It's a four day journey to
 the other side. Let us hope that our
 presence will go unnoticed.
 
 INT. MORIA CEMETERY CAVERN -- NIGHT
 
 They continue up a steep stair, passing through a dwarf
 cemetery. The graves are despoiled...dwarf skeletons are
 strewn about and Goblin Graffiti is scrawled on monuments in
 dried Dwarf blood. The Atmosphere is very sinister.
 
 CUT TO:
 
 INT. MORIA TUNNEL FORK -- NIGHT
 
 The path splits into three passages...each disappearing into
 dark tunnels. Gandalf pauses, frowning.
 
 GANDALF
 I have no memory of this place.
 
 LATER... The Fellowship are nervously waiting...while Gandalf
 sits, staring intently at the 3 tunnel mouths in front of
 him. He appears to be in some kind of trance.
 
 CLOSE ON: FRODO
 
 He turns at the sound of a faint noise down the tunnel behind
 them.
 
 PIPPIN
 Are we lost?
 
 
 
 (CONTINUED)
 '
 ' 89.
 'CONTINUED:
 
 
 MERRY
 No. I don't think we are. Shhhh,
 Gandalf's thinking.
 
 PIPPIN
 Merry!
 
 MERRY
 What?
 
 PIPPIN
 I'm hungry.
 
 Frodo's POV: a sudden glimpse of a creature darting in the
 darkness. Frodo is nervous...he approaches Gandalf.
 
 FRO DO
 (whispers)
 There's something down there.
 
 GANDALF
 (quietly)
 It's Gollum.
 
 FRODO
 Gollum!
 
 GANDALF
 He's been following us for three days.
 
 TEASING SHOT: and emaciated, leering creature.
 
 FRODO
 (disbelieving)
 He escaped the dungeons of Barad- dur?
 
 GANDALF
 Escaped...or was set loose. And now the
 Ring has drawn him here...he will never
 be rid of his need for it. He hates and
 loves the ring, as he hates and loves
 himself. Smeagol's life is a sad story.
 Gandalf catches Frodo's look of surprise.
 
 GANDALF (CONT'D)
 Yes...Smeagol he was once called...Before
 the ring came to him, before it drove him
 mad.
 
 Gollum's withered fingers are gripping the cave wall...he is
 large, Luminous eyes blinking with malice.
 
 
 
 (CONTINUED)
 '
 ' 90.
 'CONTINUED: (2)
 
 
 FRODO
 (grim)
 It's a pity Bilbo didn't kill him when he
 had the chance.
 
 GANDALF
 Pity? It was pity that stayed Bilbo's
 hand. Many that live deserve death, and
 some that die deserve life. Can you give
 it to them, Frodo? Frodo frowns.
 
 GANDALF (CONT'D)
 Do not be too eager to deal out death in
 judgment...even the very wise cannot see
 all ends. My heart tells me that Gollum
 has some part to play yet, for good or
 ill, before this is over. The pity of
 Bilbo may rule the fate of many.
 
 FRODO
 I wish the ring had never come to me...I
 wish none of this had happened.
 
 GANDALF
 So do all who live to see such times, but
 that is not for them to decide. All we
 have to decide is what to do with the
 time that is given to us. There is a note
 of finality in Gandalf's voice.
 
 GANDALF (CONT'D)
 There are other forces at work in this
 world, Frodo, besides the will of evil.
 Bilbo was meant to find the ring. In
 which case, you also were meant to have
 it...and that is an encouraging thought,
 (sudden brightness)
 Ah! That it's that way! Gandalf points
 at the right hand tunnel...the Fellowship
 scramble to their feet.
 
 MERRY
 (relieved)
 He's remembered!
 
 GANDALF
 No, but the air doesn't smell so foul
 down there. If in doubt, Meriadoc,
 always follow your nose!
 (laughs)
 Ye s...
 
 ' 91.
 
 
 
 INT. DWAROWDELF CHAMBER, MORIA -- DAY
 
 The Fellowship pass under an arched doorway into a black and
 empty space. Gandalf pauses...
 
 GALADRIEL
 Let me risk a little more light. Gandalf
 taps his staff...for a brief moment a
 light
 
 blazes... like a silent Flash of Lightning. Great shadows
 spring up and flee...
 
 GANDALF
 Behold! The great realm and Dwarf city
 of Dwarrowdelf! Frodo gasps at the brief
 sight of a vast roof, far above
 
 their heads, upheld by many mighty pillars hewn of stone.
 Before them stretches a huge empty hall, with black walls,
 polished and smooth as glass.
 
 SAM
 Well, there's an eye opener and no
 mistake!
 
 Ahead of them, a wooden door has been smashed. Black arrows
 are embedded in the timbers. Two goblin skeletons lie in the
 doorway. Gimli rushes ahead...
 
 GANDALF
 Gimli!!
 
 CUT TO:
 
 INT. BALIN'S TOMB, MORIA -- DAY
 
 Gimli rushes into another vast empty chamber... lit with a
 narrow shaft of sunlight, beaming in from a small hole near
 the roof. Dwarf and Goblin skeletons are piled high. In the
 far corner sits a stone walled Well. A shaft of light falls
 directly onto a stone table in the middle of the room: a
 single oblong block, about 4 feet high, topped with a great
 slab of white stone. Gimli falls to his knees...
 
 GIMLI
 No...no...oh, no!
 
 Gimli sobs.
 
 Gandalf quietly reads an inscription of runes, carved onto
 the white stone slab.
 
 
 (CONTINUED)
 '
 ' 92.
 'CONTINUED:
 
 
 GANDALF
 "Here lies Balin, son of Fudin, Lord of
 Moria." He is dead, then. It's as I had
 feared.
 
 Gandalf carefully lifts the rotting remains of a book from
 the white stone slab. It has been slashed and stabbed...and
 appears to be covered in Dried Blood. The pages crack and
 break as he opens it...
 
 LEGOLAS
 (urgent whisper to Argorn)
 We must move on, we cannot linger.
 
 GANDALF
 (reading)
 "They have taken the Bridge and the
 second hall: we have barred the
 gates...but cannot hold them for
 long...the ground shakes...drums in the
 deep...we cannot get out. A shadow moves
 in the dark. Will no- one save us? They
 are coming."
 
 Unnerved, Pippin backs away nervously...He stumbles against
 the well, sending a precariously balanced Armored skeleton
 tumbling in! Merry reaches out, Grabbing hold of Pippin
 before he falls. The Fellowship freeze in stunned silence as
 the armored skeleton clatters down the deep well...echoing
 loudly!
 
 INT. MORIA CAVERNS -- DAY
 
 Gandalf turns angrily on Pippin.
 
 GANDALF
 (angry)
 Fool of a Took! Throw yourself in next
 time and rid us of your stupidity!
 
 ANGLE ON: PIPPIN, CHASTENED.
 
 They fall silent. A low rolling boom rises from the depths
 below...growing louder...BOOM...BOOM...as if the caverns of
 Moria were turned into a vast drum. A great horn blasts
 nearby...Answering horns ... running feet...harsh cries...
 Sam's eyes glance at Frodo's belt...
 
 SAM
 (worried)
 Mr. Frodo!
 
 
 
 (CONTINUED)
 '
 ' 93.
 'CONTINUED:
 
 
 Frodo looks down. A cold blue glow is emanating from Sting's
 Scabbard! Frodo draws the Sword...and stares at its glowing
 blade!
 
 LEGOLAS
 Orcs !
 
 ARAGORN
 (to the hobbits)
 Get back! Stay close to Gandalf.
 
 Aragorn and Boromir slam and wedge the doors. Boromir
 catches sight of something; he turns to Aragorn with shock in
 his eyes.
 
 BOROMIR
 They have a cave troll!
 
 Gimli snatches up two rusty dwarf axes and leaps onto the
 tomb.
 
 GIMLI
 (yelling)
 Let them come! There is one Dwarf yet in
 Moria who still draws breath!
 
 BOOM! The Door bursts open in a shower of wood fragments,
 and 20 Goblins charge into the tomb, followed by a huge cave
 troll! Gimli ducks a blow and immediately buries his Axes in
 2 Goblin helmets. Aragorn and Boromir wade into the mass of
 Goblins with their swords. Legolas fires deadly arrows into
 Goblin throats, desperately trying to Shield the Hobbits!
 Gandalf is clutching his sword and joins in the battle! The
 cave troll is sweeping his club at Aragorn...who stumbles
 backwards...the huge club descends for the killing
 blow...suddenly, in a flash of steel, Boromir's long sword
 slices into the Scaly arm of the troll; it rears back,
 spewing green blood! Sam is backing up against a wall...a
 sword in one hand, a saucepan in the other. In desperation
 he swings wildly at a Goblin with a saucepan! It keels
 over...Sam looks surprised. He wallops another Goblin and it
 too, drops.
 
 SAM
 I think I'm getting the hang of this.
 
 The Cave Troll lunges forward, thrusting at Frodo's chest
 with his spear.
 
 FRODO
 Aragorn! Aragorn!
 
 
 
 (CONTINUED)
 '
 ' 94.
 'CONTINUED: (2)
 
 
 Sam screams as Frodo is lifted off his feet by the spear tip
 and slammed against the wall.
 
 ARAGORN
 (shocked yell)
 Frodo!!
 
 The hobbits go crazy. Sam slashes at the cave troll's knee,
 bringing him down...Merry and Pippin jump on him...Legolas
 fires an arrow...and the cave troll topples, dead. Aragorn
 rushes to Frodo's side as he slumps to the floor...Frodo
 appears to be dead. Close on: Gandalf, Aragorn, Hobbits
 looking horrified... Suddenly Frodo coughs...takes a huge
 breath.
 
 SAM
 He's alive!
 
 FRODO
 I'm alright. I'm not hurt.
 
 ARAGORN
 You should be dead. That spear would've
 skewered a wild boar!
 
 GANDALF
 I think there's more to this hobbit than
 meets the eye.
 
 Frodo open his shirt to reveal the Mithril Vest. The Troll
 Spear did not pierce the mithril."
 
 GIMLI
 Mithril! You are full of surprises,
 Master Baggins.
 
 BOOM. BOOM. BOOM the sound of the drums rings out again!
 Gandalf turns to the others.
 
 GANDALF
 To the bridge of Khazad-dum!
 
 CUT TO:
 
 INT. DWAROWDELF CHAMBER, MORIA -- DAY
 
 Gandalf leads the fellowship into the huge Dwarrowdelf
 Chamber.
 
 GANDALF
 This way!
 
 
 
 (CONTINUED)
 '
 ' 95.
 'CONTINUED:
 
 
 They hurry towards a distant door...as Goblins start
 scuttling down the Pillars behind them, like cockroaches!
 Frodo looks with horror at the overwhelming Goblin army
 that's rushing toward them! SUDDENLY! A deafening roar fills
 the air! A fiery light dances down the hallway... the
 pillars casting eerie shadows. The Goblins freeze. They back
 Fearfully away from the approaching beast...melting into the
 darkness.
 
 BOROMIR
 What is this new devilry?
 
 A HUGE SHADOW, surrounded by flame, falls across the
 hall..the ground shakes...an unearthly sound rumbles...
 
 GANDALF
 (quietly)
 A Balrog..a demon of the ancient world!
 This foe is beyond any of you!
 (urgent yell)
 Run! Quickly!
 
 CUT TO:
 
 INT. STAIRWAY OF KHASAD-DUM, MORIA -- DAY
 
 The BALROG, a massive creature rises from a chasm, a great
 40 foot man-beast, with a mane of flames! In one hand is a
 blade...like a stabbing tongue of fire; in the other, a WHIP
 of many thongs. Aragorn leads the fellowship to the top of a
 dizzying stairway...Gandalf follows, leaning heavily on his
 staff. Close on: Aragorn looks at Gandalf, concerned.
 
 GANDALF
 Lead them on, Aragorn. The bridge is
 near.
 
 Aragorn hesitates...Gandalf looks at him.
 
 GANDALF (CONT'D)
 Do as I say; swords are no more use here.
 
 THE FELLOWSHIP race down the stairway, Aragorn picks up
 Frodo..leaping across a gaping chasm. A NARROW BRIDGE,
 spanning a bottomless pit...Gandalf yells to the others:
 Aragorn makes to throw Gimli across the Chasm.
 
 GIMLI
 Nobody tosses a dwarf! The BALROG smashes
 through the wall and spreads its vast
 wings.
 (MORE)
 
 
 (CONTINUED)
 '
 ' 96.
 'CONTINUED:
 ' GIMLI (CONT'D)
 It swoops down past the Fellowship,
 disappearing into a flaming pit!
 
 CUT TO:
 
 INT. BRIDGE OF KHAZAD-DUM, MORIA -- DAY
 
 The Fellowship run into a hall...the floor is split with
 fissures that spit flame.
 
 GANDALF
 (yelling)
 Over the bridge! Fly!
 
 They race towards the slender bridge of stone...without kerb
 or rail...at the far end of the hall. The Fellowship
 recklessly hurry over the dizzying bridge..but Gandalf... the
 last..pauses in the middle of the span...he faces the
 Balrog...staff in one hand...Sword in the other! Frodo looks
 back in horror:
 
 GANDALF (CONT'D)
 You cannot pass!
 
 FRODO
 (alarmed yell)
 Gandalf!
 
 GANDALF
 (yelling)
 I am a servant of the Secret Fire,
 wielder of the flame of Anor. The dark
 fire will not avail you, flame of Udun.
 
 Frodo watches as the Balrog puts one foot on the bridge and
 draws up to Full Height, wings spreading from wall-to-wall.
 Gandalf is a tiny figure, balanced precariously on the narrow
 bridge.
 
 GANDALF (CONT'D)
 Go back to the shadow! The BALROG slashes
 at Gandalf with its Sword of
 
 flame...Gandalf blocks with his sword...a ringing clash and
 the Balrog's sword shatters into molten fragments!
 
 GANDALF (CONT'D)
 (booming)
 You shall not pass!! The Balrog places
 one foot onto the bridge. Aragorn and
 Boromir race forward, swords drawn.
 
 GANDALF CRIES ALOUD as he summons up his LAST RESERVES OF
 STRENGTH!
 
 (CONTINUED)
 '
 ' 97.
 'CONTINUED:
 
 He thumps the bridge with his staff...a blinding sheet of
 white flame springs up... the staff shatters...the bridge
 breaks... right at Balrog's feet. The stone bridge drops away
 into the gulf...from under the Balrog. For a moment, the
 great Beast remains poised in the air...then it plunges down:
 in slow motion Relief floods Frodo's face..Gandalf remains
 trembling on the lip of the broken bridge. Slow motion: As
 the Balrog falls, he lashes out with his whip of fire... Slow
 motion: The thongs of the whip lash and curl around Gandalf's
 knees, dragging him over the brink! Gandalf just manages to
 hand on by his fingertips
 
 FRODO
 (screaming)
 Gandalf!
 
 GANDALF
 (fierce)
 Fly, you fools!
 
 CLOSE ON: Gandalf lets go his grip and falls away...
 following the Balrog into the bottomless Abyss! Frodo cries
 out! Boromir scoops him up and carries him away.
 
 FRODO
 No!
 
 ARAGORN
 Gandalf!
 
 They rush towards an archway.
 
 CUT TO:
 
 EXT. DIMROLL DALE DOOR -- DAY
 
 The Fellowship tumble out of the Great Eastern Gate on to a
 grassy sunlit hillside. Sam, Merry, and Pippin fall slowly to
 the ground, Sobbing...Aragorn turns to Legolas and Gimli.
 
 ARAGORN
 (urgent)
 Legolas, get them up!
 
 BOROMIR
 Give them a moment...for pity's sake!
 
 ARAGORN
 By nightfall these hills will be swarming
 with Orcs! We must reach the woods of
 Lothlorien. Come, Boromir, Legolas,
 Gimli, get them up. On your feet, Sam.
 (MORE)
 
 
 (CONTINUED)
 '
 ' 98.
 'CONTINUED:
 ' ARAGORN (CONT'D)
 Boromir glances towards Frodo, then back
 at Aragorn. Frodo is walking away, as if
 in a daze.
 
 ARAGORN (CONT'D)
 Frodo? Frodo!
 
 CLOSE ON: FRODO SLOWLY TURNS...a look of numb shock on his
 devastated face. The Fellowship marches on.
 
 CUT TO:
 
 EXT. DIMRILL DALE HILLSIDE--DUSK
 
 Aragorn scours ahead of the company, as they stumble on in
 the fading light...in the distance the shimmer of a large
 forest can be seen...Lothlorien!
 
 EXT. EDGE OF LOTHLORIEN--DUSK
 
 WIDE ON: The fellowship run across a forest floor strewn with
 yellow flowers..above is a roof of golden leaves, held up by
 silver pillars...the trunks of huge, grey trees. Gimli looks
 nervously around...
 
 GIMLI
 Stay close, young hobbits..they say a
 Sorceress lives in these woods. An elf-
 witch of terrible power. All who look
 upon her fall under her spell...
 
 Frodo hesitates...a STRANGE VOICE whispers in his head...
 
 GALADRIEL (V.O.)
 Frodo...
 
 GIMLI
 And are never seen again!
 
 GALADRIEL (V.O.)
 ...your coming to us is as the footsteps
 of doom. You bring great evil here,
 Ringbearer.
 
 SAM
 Mr. Frodo?
 
 GIMLI
 Well, here's one dwarf she won't ensnare
 so easily. I have the eyes of a hawk and
 the ears of a fox!
 
 
 
 
 (CONTINUED)
 '
 ' 99.
 'CONTINUED:
 
 
 The FELLOWSHIP are suddenly surrounded by ARMED ELVES.
 Deadly arrows aimed at their heads. HALDIR, the Elvish
 captain steps forward... he looks at Gimli with disdain.
 
 HALDIR
 The dwarf breathes so loud we could have
 shot him in the dark.
 
 ARAGORN
 (Elvish: with subtitles)
 Haldir of Lorien, we come here for your
 help. We need your protection.
 
 GIMLI
 Aragorn! These woods are perilous. We
 should go back.
 
 HALDIR
 You have entered the realm of the Lady of
 the Wood. You cannot go back.
 
 Haldir's eyes lock onto Frodo.
 
 HALDIR (CONT'D)
 Come, she is waiting.
 
 CUT TO:
 
 EXT. LOTHLORIEN HILLTOP -- DAY
 
 Haldir leads the Fellowship onto a Hill Top. They look with
 wonderment at the vista spread before them.
 
 Several miles towards the South, a Large Hill rises out of
 the woods. Upon the hill rise many mighty Mallorn Trees,
 taller than any others...Nestled high in the crown of the
 mallorns is a Beautiful City. It Gleams in the low rays of
 the late afternoon sun..green, gold, and silver. To the east
 of Caras Galadhon, the Woods of Lorien run down the pale
 gleam of Anduin, the great river. Beyond the River, the land
 appears flat and empty, formless and vague, until far away,
 it rises again like a dark and dreary wall. The Sun that lies
 on Lothlorien has not power to enlighten the shadows that lie
 beyond.
 
 CUT TO:
 
 INT. CELEBORN'S CHAMBER, CARAS GALADHON -- NIGHT
 '
 ' 100.
 
 
 
 ANGLE ON: THE FELLOWSHIP
 
 step onto a wide fleet filled with a soft light. The walls
 are green and silver, the roof gold and in its midst is the
 trunk of the might Mallorn tree, now tapering toward its
 crown. Celeborn steps forward to greet the guests. His hair
 is long and silver, his face grave and beautiful, with no
 sign of age upon it. Next to him stands Galadriel, the Lady
 of the Elves. She has hair of deep gold and timeless,
 unsurpassed beauty. Celeborn looks hard at Aragorn...
 
 CELEBORN
 Eight there are, yet nine there were set
 out from Rivendell. Tell me, where is
 Gandalf, for I much desire to speak with
 him.
 
 Frodo looks at Galadriel, standing silently beside Celeborn.
 
 GALADRIEL (V.O.)
 (softly aloud)
 ...he has fallen into shadow. Galadriel
 looks to Aragorn.
 
 GALADRIEL (CONT'D)
 The Quest stands upon the edge of a
 knife. Stray but a little and it will
 fail, to the ruin of all...Yet hope
 remains while the company is true.
 
 Galadriel's eyes settle on Sam.
 
 GALADRIEL (CONT'D)
 Do not let your hearts be troubled. Go
 now and rest for you are weary with
 sorrow and much toil. Galadriel's eyes
 turn to Frodo...her voice fades.
 
 GALADRIEL (CONT'D)
 Tonight you will sleep in peace.
 (whispered v/o)
 Welcome, Frodo of the Shire... CLOSE ON:
 FRODO looks at GALADRIEL. SUDDEN INSERT:
 GALADRIEL as she is on the other
 
 side... Powerful, divine...no longer of this world..a
 Piercing white light surrounds her.
 
 GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D)
 ...one who has seen the eye.
 
 CUT TO:
 '
 ' 101.
 
 
 
 EXT. CARAS GALADHON LAWN -- NIGHT
 
 Gimli, Legolas, Merry, Pippin, Frodo and Sam are in a
 pavilion set among the trees near the fountain. They lie on
 soft couches as Elves leave food and wine for them. MOURNFUL
 SINGING drifts down from the trees above.
 
 LEGOLAS
 (sadly)
 A lament for Gandalf...
 
 MERRY
 What do they say about him?
 
 LEGOLAS
 I have not the heart to tell you. For me,
 the grief is still too near. Boromir is
 sitting alone...Aragorn approaches him.
 
 ARAGORN
 Take some rest..these borders are well
 protected.
 
 Moonlight catches the trace of tears on Boromir's face.
 Aragorn kneels down beside him.
 
 BOROMIR
 I will find no rest here. I heard her
 voice inside my head...she spoke of my
 father and the fall of Gondor, and she
 said to me: "Even now, there
 
 BOROMIR (CONT'D)
 is hope left. But I cannot see it...it
 is long since we had any hope.
 
 CLOSE ON: BOROMIR looks at ARAGORN in despair.
 
 BOROMIR (CONT'D)
 My father is a noble man, but his rule is
 failing and our..our people lose faith.
 He looks to me to make things right...and
 I would do it, I would see the glory of
 Gondor restored. Have you ever seen it,
 Aragorn? The White Tower of Ecthelion,
 glimmering like a spike of pearl and
 silver, its banners caught high in the
 morning breeze...have you ever been
 called home by the clear ringing of
 silver trumpets?
 
 ARAGORN
 I have seen the white city..long ago.
 
 (CONTINUED)
 '
 ' 102.
 'CONTINUED:
 
 
 Boromir feels Aragorn's love for Minas Tirith and takes
 heart,
 
 BOROMIR
 One day our paths will lead us there, and
 the tower guards shall take up the call
 "the Lords of Gondor have returned."
 
 Aragorn returns Boromir's smile...betraying his disquiet
 sadness only when Boromir looks away.
 
 CUT TO:
 
 LATER....
 
 The Fellowship are asleep on their beds. Gimli is snoring
 loudly. CLOSE ON: BARE FEET tread soundlessly across the
 lawn. CLOSE ON: Frodo's eyes flicker open...as if by
 instinct. GALADRIEL, her White dress glowing in the
 moonlight, glances at him. Frodo follows her...as if drawn by
 an invisible force.
 
 CUT TO:
 
 EXT. GALADRIELS GLADE, LORTHLORIEN -- NIGHT
 
 Upon a low stone pedestal, carved like a branching tree, sits
 a shallow Silver Basin. Galadriel leads Frodo into the small
 Glade.
 
 GALADRIEL
 Will you look into the mirror? Frodo
 looks with apprehension at the silver
 basin.
 
 FRODO
 (warily)
 What will I see?
 
 Galadriel pours water into the basin from a silver jug...a
 glow rises from the water.
 
 GALADRIEL
 Even the wisest cannot tell for the
 mirror shows many things...things that
 were ..things that are...and some things
 that have not yet come to pass.
 
 Frodo slowly steps up to the pedestal...he peers into the
 glossy surface. The night sky is reflected into the water...
 suddenly a figure takes form...the bowed figure of an old
 man, clad in white robes. He walks down a long road. Frodo
 leans closer to the mirror's surface...
 
 ' 103.
 
 
 
 CLOSE ON: GANDALF LIFTS HIS HEAD AND LOOKS DIRECTLY AT FRODO!
 
 FRODO gasps, his face lighting up with hope.
 
 FRODO
 (joyous)
 Gandalf!
 
 Gandalf looks at Frodo with a fierce intensity. Frodo
 reaches out his hand toward the surface of the mirror.
 Suddenly the image flares, burning out to white. The vision
 shifts...Frodo gasps in horror! The Shire is in ruins! The
 image suddenly widens to fill the screen...buildings
 burning...bodies strewn about...Dark Shapes of ORCS looting
 and destroying...Bag End, billowing in flames! The Party
 tree is hacked down. Frodo reels back as the mirror seems to
 grow...the nightmarish image sweeps past his head, engulfing
 him entirely.
 
 IMAGE: Hobbiton...now an Industrial wasteland! The fields
 and trees destroyed...replaced with Brick factories belching
 smoke! IMAGE: ORCS brutally herd manacled Hobbits into the
 Factories! We see Sam...Merry... and Rosie Cotton. Soot-
 stained and sobbing, they disappear into the factory hell-
 hole! Suddenly, the mirror goes dark...and out of the black
 abyss a single eye grows. CLOSE ON: FRODO IS FROZEN. Unable
 to move or cry out. The ring dangles from his neck, inches
 above the water...not shimmering with curls of steam. Fire
 erupts around the eye... With a Yell, Frodo pushes himself
 away from the pedestal and collapses on the ground. Light
 instantly fades from the mirror. Frodo comes to his
 senses...he is shocked. Galadriel stands still as a statue,
 unmoved, untouched by the horror.
 
 GALADRIEL
 I know what it is you saw...for it is
 also in my mind. It is the future,
 Frodo. It is what will come to pass if
 you should fail.
 
 Galadriel looks at Frodo intensely...Frodo looks down...in
 his hand he is clutching the ring. Frodo looks up at
 Galadriel.
 
 GALADRIEL (CONT'D)
 The fellowship is breaking. It has
 already begun. He will try to take the
 ring. You know of whom I speak. One by
 one, it will destroy them all.
 
 FRODO (V.O.)
 If you ask it of me, I will give you the
 One Ring.
 
 (CONTINUED)
 '
 ' 104.
 'CONTINUED:
 
 
 GALADRIEL
 You offer it to me freely...I do not deny
 that my heart has greatly desired this.
 
 Galadriel suddenly seems to rise in stature before Frodo's
 eyes. Frodo is suddenly afraid of her.
 
 GALADRIEL (CONT'D)
 In place of the Dark Lord, you would have
 a Queen, not dark, but beautiful and
 terrible as the Dawn. Treacherous as the
 Sea! Stronger than the foundations of
 the earth...all shall love me and
 despair! Frodo takes a step away from
 Galadriel...
 
 Galadriel suddenly laughs...a slender Elf-woman once more,
 clad in simple white, her voice soft and sad.
 
 GALADRIEL (CONT'D)
 (gently)
 I pass the test.
 (laughs)
 I will diminish and go into the west and
 remain Galadriel. Frodo's confidence
 drains away.
 
 FRODO
 I cannot do this alone...
 
 GALADRIEL
 You are the ring-bearer, Frodo...to bear
 a ring of power is to be alone. This task
 was appointed to you, and if you do not
 find a way, no one will.
 
 Frodo realizes what her message is.
 
 FRODO
 Then I know what I must do. It's
 just...I'm afraid to do it. Galadriel
 kneels down to Frodo's height, staring at
 him intently.
 
 GALADRIEL
 Even the smallest person can change the
 course of the future.
 
 The Ring lies in the palm of Frodo's hand...his fingers close
 over it.
 
 CUT TO:
 '
 ' 105.
 
 
 
 INT. ORTHANC CHAMBER -- DAY
 
 Naked, Lurtz's eyes follow Saruman, alight with a mean
 intelligence.
 
 SARUMAN (V.O.)
 (smiles)
 They were Elves once. Taken by the Dark
 Powers ... tortured and mutilated...a
 ruined and terrible form of life. And
 now...perfected. My fighting Uruk-Hai.
 Whom do you serve?
 
 LURTZ
 (gutteral rasp)
 Saruman.
 
 INT. CAVERNS BELOW ISENGARD -- DAY
 
 QUICK CUTS: LURTZ is quickly armored...Breastplate...Leg
 guards, Helmet...a sword is thrust in Lurtz's hand. The URUK-
 HAI are smearing themselves in white paint...a creepy
 ritualistic ceremony...the white hand of Isengard is smeared
 on bodies, faces, and armor. SARUMAN address a crowd of 200
 fully armed URUK-HAI.
 
 SARUMAN
 Hunt them down. Do not stop until they
 are found. You do not know pain. You do
 not know fear. You will taste man-flesh.
 Saruman turns to Lurtz.
 
 SARUMAN (CONT'D)
 (coldly)
 One of the Halflings carries something of
 great value...bring him to me...alive and
 unspoiled...kill the others.
 
 EXT. ISENGARD -- DAY
 
 Lurtz is leading 200 URUK-HAI out of Isengard..they run fast,
 their powerful legs carrying them at speed.
 
 EXT. SILVERLODE RIVER BANK--DAWN
 
 The Fellowship are in small elven boats. They row away from
 the Lothlorien Shore into the Silverlode river. Elves
 quietly watch them depart. Galadriel gives Frodo a small
 Crystal Phial.
 
 GALADRIEL
 Farewell, Frodo Baggins. I give you the
 light of Earendil, our most beloved star.
 
 (CONTINUED)
 '
 ' 106.
 'CONTINUED:
 
 
 As the Fellowship's boats drift past, Galadriel stands alone,
 watching from the banks of the river. In his head, Frodo
 still hears her voice...
 
 GALADRIEL (V.O.) (CONT'D)
 May it be a light for you in dark places,
 when all other lights go out.
 
 EXT. RIVER ANDUIN -- DAY
 
 The boats pass into the great river Anduin. The Three Elven
 boats carry the Fellowship steadily southward. Green trees
 slowly give way to a brown and withered land.
 
 EXT. FOREST -- DAY
 
 The Uruk forces are running through the trees with deadly
 purpose.
 
 EXT. RIVER ANDUIN -- DAY
 
 A flock of birds circle high above, Black against the pale
 sky. Aragorn watches them with concern.
 
 EXT. PILLARS OF THE KINGS, RIVER ANDUIN--DAWN
 
 The Three Elven boats drift slowly through the steep rocky
 gorge in the Pre-dawn light. CLOSE ON: ARAGORN, slowly
 paddling in the stern.
 
 ARAGORN
 (quietly)
 Frodo.
 
 Frodo slowly looks up, his eyes widening with amazement. Wide
 on: Two enormous rock statues, towering like 300 foot
 pinnacles on either side of the river...carved images of
 Gondorian kings of old. They loom over the boats with power
 and majesty.
 
 ARAGORN (CONT'D)
 The Argonath...
 
 Close on: Aragorn...strangely moved by the beauty of the
 silent sentinels. He speaks, almost as if to himself.
 
 ARAGORN (CONT'D)
 (deeply moved)
 Long have I desired to look upon the
 kings of old...my kin.
 
 The fellowship stare in stunned silence as the current takes
 them through the narrow gap between the Statues' feet.
 
 (CONTINUED)
 '
 ' 107.
 'CONTINUED:
 
 
 Wide on: Craning up past the statues vast crumbling heads, to
 reveal a large lake only a mile down river...
 
 EXT. SHORE OF NEN HITHOEL -- DAY
 
 ANGLE ON: THE FELLOWSHIP
 
 As they leap out of the boats and clamber onto the wooded
 shore.
 
 ARAGORN
 We cross the lake at nightfall, hide the
 boats and continue on foot..we approach
 Mordor from the North.
 
 GIMLI
 (gloomy)
 Oh, yes, just a simple matter of finding
 our way through Emyn Muil, an impassable
 labyrinth of razor sharp rocks. And
 after that gets even better...a
 festering, stinking marshland, far as the
 eye can see.
 
 ARAGORN
 That is our Road...I suggest you take
 some rest and recover your strength,
 Master Dwarf.
 
 GIMLI
 (indignant)
 Recover my...
 
 Legolas turns to Aragorn with urgency.
 
 LEGOLAS
 We should leave now.
 
 ARAGORN
 No. Orcs patrol the Eastern shore. We
 must wait for cover of darkness.
 
 LEGOLAS
 It is not the Eastern shore that worries
 me.
 
 Legolas casts a glance around into the Parth Galen forest...
 
 LEGOLAS (CONT'D)
 A shadow and a threat has been growing in
 my mind. Something draws near, I can
 feel it.
 
 
 (CONTINUED)
 '
 ' 108.
 'CONTINUED:
 
 
 Aragorn looks at Legolas, knowing full well what he means.
 Sam has slumped asleep...Merry dumps a small pile of kindling
 at Gimli's feet...
 
 MERRY
 Where's Frodo?
 
 Sam sits up with a start...Aragorn's head snaps round..his
 eyes fly to Boromir's shield which lies abandoned by his camp
 bed. CLOSE ON: ARAGORN.... as he realizes Boromir has gone!
 
 EXT. SLOPES OF AMON HEN -- DAY
 
 Frodo is walking beneath the trees...lost in thought. His
 feet hit the rough edge of an ancient stone slab...his eyes
 follow an overgrown path towards stone stairs leading to the
 summit of Amon Hen...the seeing seat. A CRACKLING SOUND!
 Frodo freezes....
 
 BOROMIR
 (quietly)
 None of us should wander alone; you least
 of all. So much depends on you...Frodo?
 
 Frodo turns slowly...he stares at Boromir, tense, cautious.
 
 BOROMIR (CONT'D)
 I know why you seek solitude. You
 suffer, I see it day by day. Are you
 sure you do not suffer needlessly?
 
 Frodo stands silent for a moment..the murmur of the Wind in
 the trees and the distant roar of the falls of Rauros can be
 heard
 
 BOROMIR (CONT'D)
 Let me help you. There are other ways,
 Frodo..other paths that we might take.
 
 FRODO
 I know what you would say, and it would
 seem like wisdom but for the warning of
 my heart.
 
 BOROMIR
 Warning? Against what?
 
 Boromir has started forward towards Frodo, he pulls himself
 up.
 
 
 
 
 (CONTINUED)
 '
 ' 109.
 'CONTINUED:
 
 
 BOROMIR (CONT'D)
 We are all afraid, Frodo. But to let that
 fear drive us to destroy what hope we
 have...don't you see that is madness?
 
 FRODO
 There is no other way.
 
 BOROMIR
 I ask only for the strength to defend my
 people.
 (angrily drops the wood he has
 collected)
 If you would but lend me the ring...
 
 FRODO
 No. . .
 
 Frodo steps hurriedly away from Boromir.
 
 BOROMIR
 Why do you recoil? I am no thief.
 
 FRODO
 (wary)
 You are not yourself.
 
 BOROMIR
 What chance do you think you have? They
 will find you, they will take the ring
 and you will beg for death before the
 end.
 
 Frodo turns to leave.
 
 BOROMIR (CONT'D)
 You fool! It is not yours save by
 unhappy chance...it might have been mine.
 It should be mine. Give it to me! Give
 me the ring.
 
 Boromir leaps on top of Frodo, grasping for the ring! Frodo
 has only moments to act. Frodo rips the ring from around his
 neck..and rams it on his finger.
 
 FRODO DISAPPEARS
 Boromir spins wildly around, yelling into
 thin air!
 
 BOROMIR
 I see your mind...you will take the ring
 to Sauron. You will betray us! You go to
 your death and the death of us all.
 (MORE)
 ' (CONTINUED)
 '
 ' 110.
 'CONTINUED: (2)
 ' BOROMIR (CONT'D)
 Curse you! Curse you and your Halflings!
 Boromir stumbles and falls. His body
 shakes as if in the Throes of a
 fit...slowly he comes to.
 
 BOROMIR (CONT'D)
 (Disoriented)
 Frodo! Frodo! What have I done. Please,
 Frodo...
 
 EXT. SEEING SEAT -- DAY
 
 IN THE TWILIGHT WORLD:
 
 FRODO races through the misty twilight world, past the foggy
 shapes of twisted trees. Somewhere behind him, Boromir's
 distraught voice carries from another dimension:
 
 BOROMIR (O.S.)
 I'm sorry, Frodo...Frodo...
 
 Frodo suddenly finds himself on the stone steps...he clambers
 up the stairs, onto a high seat, perched on four stone
 pillars. Frodo cowers on the seat, like a lost child upon the
 throne of mountain kings. The world of mist swirls around
 him. Frodo peers out from the seat...the world seems to
 shrink. In all directions, Views of far off lands telescope
 towards him through the mist. IMAGES: ORCS spilling out of
 holes in the misty mountains... flames rising from
 Mirkwood...grim faced easterlings march to war...black ships
 sailing into the south. All the power of the Dark Lord is in
 motion. Frodo moves his gaze towards the east...fire explodes
 against the smoke, as a huge mass of black battlements fills
 Frodo's vision. A mountain of iron, immeasurably strong,
 tower of adamant: Barad-dur, FORTRESS OF SAURON!
 
 SUDDENLY! SAURON'S EYE LEAPS TOWARD FRODO LIKE A FINGER OF
 
 LIGHT.
 
 SAURON (V.O.)
 
 (IN BLACK SPEECH)
 
 They will fall! Frodo leaps off the seat, and tumbles down
 the stairs! The eye sweeps Amon Hen like a searchlight,
 seeking its ring! With a huge effort, Frodo wrenches the ring
 off his finger...
 
 EXT. SUMMIT OF AMON HEN -- DAY
 
 Frodo lies gasping on the summit of Amon Hen...below the
 ancient ruins of the seeing seat.
 
 ' 111.
 
 
 
 AT THAT MOMENT: A BLACK BOOT STEPS INTO SHOT!
 
 Frodo looks up as Aragorn towers over him.
 
 ARAGORN
 Frodo?
 
 FRODO
 (numb)
 It has taken Boromir. ARAGORN moves
 towards Frodo...
 
 ARAGORN
 (urgent)
 Where is the ring?
 
 Frodo backs away from Aragorn...Aragorn is shocked by the
 movement.
 
 FRODO
 Stay away!
 
 ARAGORN
 Frodo...I swore to protect you.
 
 FRODO
 Can you protect me from yourself?
 
 Frodo uncurls his fist...in is palm lies the ring! It
 glints, gold and beautiful in the afternoon sun...Aragorn's
 eyes are drawn to it.
 
 FRODO (CONT'D)
 Would you destroy it?
 
 ARAGORN
 (kneeling to Frodo)
 I would have gone with you to the end...
 into the very fires of Mordor.
 
 FRODO
 I know...Look after the others,
 especially Sam...he will not understand.
 
 Aragorn freezes! He draws his sword.
 
 ARAGORN
 (urgent)
 Go, Frodo!
 
 Frodo hesitates.
 
 
 
 (CONTINUED)
 '
 ' 112.
 'CONTINUED:
 
 
 ARAGORN (CONT'D)
 (yells)
 Run! Run!!
 
 Frodo backs away into the trees...as 200 URUK-HAI SWARM onto
 Amon Hen behind Aragorn!
 
 Aragorn attacks the leading URUK-HAI like a madman... he
 brings two down with his sword...leaping into the ruins as
 others close in on him. Frodo scrambles down the hillside,
 away from the fight. Aragorn battles the URUK-HAI, amongst
 the pillars and blocks of Amon Hen. Despite his bravery, he
 is quickly surrounded... SUDDENLY: ELVEN ARROWS smash into
 the URUK-HAI. Legolas races out of the woods, firing his bow.
 Gimli leaps into the battle, wielding his might axe.
 
 EXT. PARTH GALEN HILLSIDE -- DAY
 
 Frodo is darting down the steep hillside as heave feet
 thunder down behind him.
 
 SAM
 Mr. Frodo!
 
 Sam looks around for Frodo. CLOSE ON: LURTZ ordering his
 URUKS.
 
 LURTZ
 Find the Halflings ... find the
 halflings!
 
 Frodo stumbles and falls...quickly he crawls behind a
 tree...above him the sound of Uruk-Hai crashing through the
 forest rings out.
 
 MERRY (O.S.)
 (urgent whisper)
 Frodo!
 
 Frodo turns to see Merry and Pippin hidden in a hollow, a few
 feet away.
 
 MERRY (CONT'D)
 Hide here, quick!
 
 PIPPIN
 Come on...
 
 Frodo looks at his friends... slowly shakes his head, a great
 sadness in his eyes...
 
 PIPPIN (CONT'D)
 What's he doing?
 
 (CONTINUED)
 '
 ' 113.
 'CONTINUED:
 
 
 Merry's eyes meet Frodo's. Understanding.
 
 MERRY
 (softly)
 He's leaving.
 
 PIPPIN
 No!
 
 Pippin stands and makes a move toward Frodo...Merry grabs at
 his arm.
 
 MERRY
 Pippin!
 
 THE ECHO OF BOROMIR'S HORN reaches Aragorn, Legolas, and
 Gimli...they are battling their way down the Slopes towards
 the lake.
 
 LEGOLAS
 The horn of Gondor!
 
 ARAGORN
 Boromir!
 
 Aragorn desperately slashes his way towards Boromir, felling
 URUK-HAI in his path...while Legolas and Gimli fight a rear
 guard action. MANY URUK-HAI fall to Boromir's sword as he
 tries to protect Merry and Pippin...
 
 BOROMIR
 Run! Run!
 
 Lurtz takes aim. A black arrow suddenly thuds into Boromir's
 chest. Amazingly, Boromir continues fighting, but another
 arrow...and another, brings him to his knees. Merry and
 Pippin are scooped off their feet by URUK-HAI.
 
 MERRY & PIPPIN
 Aaaaagh! Boromir! Boromir!
 
 Lurtz aims his bow at Boromir's heart... suddenly Aragorn
 charges at him, smashing the Bow with his sword. They lock
 into a deadly battle. Aragorn cuts Lurtz down and races
 towards Boromir, who lies slumped against a tree...URUK-HAI
 arrows sticking out of his chest. At least 20 dead URUK-HAI
 lie heaped around Boromir. His horn lies at his feet...Cloven
 in two.
 
 BOROMIR
 (painful gasp)
 They took the little ones...
 (MORE)
 
 (CONTINUED)
 '
 ' 114.
 'CONTINUED: (2)
 ' BOROMIR (CONT'D)
 Aragorn quickly tries to staunch the flow
 of Blood from Boromir's shoulder.
 
 BOROMIR (CONT'D)
 (panicked)
 Frodo...where is Frodo?
 
 ARAGORN
 I let Frodo go.
 
 Boromir holds Aragorn's gaze.
 
 BOROMIR
 Then you did what I could not. I tried
 to take the ring from him.
 
 ARAGORN
 The ring is beyond our reach now.
 
 BOROMIR
 Forgive me, I did not see..I have failed
 you all.
 
 ARAGORN
 No, Boromir. You fought bravely. You
 have kept your honor. Aragorn tries to
 bind Boromir's wound.
 
 BOROMIR
 Leave it! It is over...the world of Men
 will fall and all will come to darkness
 and my city to ruin..Aragorn..
 
 ARAGORN
 I do not know what strength is in my
 blood, but I swear to you... I will not
 let the White City fall, nor your people
 fail...
 
 BOROMIR
 Our people...our people...
 
 Aragorn places Boromir's sword in his hand. Boromir's
 fingers tighten around the hilt.
 
 BOROMIR (CONT'D)
 I would have followed you, my
 brother...my captain, my King. Aragorn
 lays Boromir down. He is dead.
 
 ARAGORN
 Be at peace, son of Gondor. Aragorn bends
 and Kisses Boromir's forehead.
 (MORE)
 
 (CONTINUED)
 '
 ' 115.
 'CONTINUED: (3)
 ' ARAGORN (CONT'D)
 Legolas and Gimli appear behind
 him...Aragorn stands.
 
 ARAGORN (CONT'D)
 They will look for his coming from the
 white tower...but he will not return.
 
 EXT. SHORE OF NEN HITHOEL -- DAY
 
 On the lakeshore Frodo stands in front of one of the Elvish
 Boats, the ring in his palm. A distraught Sam...running as
 hard as he can through the forest...
 
 SAM
 Mr. Frodo!
 
 Close on: Frodo looks to the far side of the river...the
 camera moves in on the ring.
 
 FRODO (V.O.)
 I wish the ring had never come to me..I
 wish none of this had happened...
 
 Tears fall down Frodo's face...
 
 GANDALF (V.O.)
 So do all who lie to see such times...but
 that is not for them to decide. All we
 have to decide is what to do with the
 time that is given us.
 
 With renewed determination, Frodo tucks the ring inside his
 vest pocket. The small figure of Frodo pushing the Elvish
 boat into the water... Sam bursts through the trees and runs
 toward the lake...Frodo is already paddling away.
 
 SAM
 (anguished)
 Not alone, Frodo. Mr. Frodo! Frodo, in
 the boat, paddling steadfastly away from
 the
 
 shore..tears in his eyes..the voice of Sam carried on the
 wind. Frodo whispers to himself
 
 FRODO
 No, Sam.
 
 Sam looks at the water...then at the boat.
 
 SPLASH! FRODO turns to see Sam launching himself into the
 water.
 
 
 
 (CONTINUED)
 '
 ' 116.
 'CONTINUED:
 
 
 FRODO (CONT'D)
 Go back,Sam. I'm going to Mordor alone.
 
 Sam splashes hopelessly toward the boat.
 
 SAM
 Of course you are...and I'm coming with
 you!
 
 FRODO
 You can't swim.
 
 Sam starts to go under, spluttering and coughing...Frodo
 drops his paddle and scrambles backwards in the boat...
 
 FRODO (CONT'D)
 (frightened)
 Sam!
 
 Sam is underwater...hands flailing helplessly as he sinks.
 Close on: Frodo's hand grasping Sam's... Frodo pulls a
 bedraggled and half drowned Sam into the boat. Frodo and Sam
 look at each other, out of breath, tears and water streaming
 down both their faces.
 
 SAM
 I made a promise, Mr. Frodo...a promise.
 (fierce passion)
 "Don't you leave him, Samwise Gamgee."
 (sobs)
 And I don't mean to...I don't mean to.
 
 FRODO
 (crying)
 Oh, Sam!
 
 Frodo starts to laugh through his tears...the two friends
 hug.
 
 FRODO (CONT'D)
 Come on then..
 
 The two Hobbits row through the water...
 
 EXT. FALLS OF RAUROS AERIAL -- DAY
 
 Slow motion: Looking down on swiftly flowing
 water...Boromir's body slides under camera.
 
 He is lying in one of the boats, his arms across his
 chest..his broken horn at his side. Suddenly... the boat
 drops away from camera...as it plunges over the massive falls
 of Rauros, disappearing into the vapor below.
 
 (CONTINUED)
 '
 ' 117.
 'CONTINUED:
 
 
 LEGOLAS
 If we are quick, we will catch Frodo and
 Sam before nightfall.
 
 Aragorn looks towards the far shore; Frodo and Sam's small
 Boat can be seen lying on the distant Riverbank as Frodo and
 Sam make off into the forest beyond. He doesn't react.
 Legolas turns and looks at Aragorn.
 
 LEGOLAS (CONT'D)
 You mean not to follow them...
 
 ARAGORN
 Frodo's fate is no longer in our hands.
 
 GIMLI
 Then it has all been in vain...the
 fellowship has failed.
 
 ARAGORN
 Not if we hold true to each other. We
 will not abandon Merry and Pippin to
 torment and death, not while we have
 strength left.
 
 Aragorn pulls a HUNTING KNIFE out of his pack and straps it
 on.
 
 ARAGORN (CONT'D)
 Leave all that can be spared behind...
 CLOSE ON: ARAGORN..a steely light in his
 eye.
 
 ARAGORN (CONT'D)
 (grimly)
 We travel light. Let's hunt some Orc.
 
 GIMLI
 Yes! Ha!
 
 Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli disappear into the Woods,
 following the URUK-HAI trail.
 
 EXT. EMYN MUIL HILLTOP -- DAY
 
 Frodo and Sam scramble onto a high ridge.
 
 A distant line of Saw toothed mountains below a dark,
 oppressive sky. Black volcanic smoke rises behind the
 mountains....MORDOR!
 
 
 
 
 (CONTINUED)
 '
 ' 118.
 'CONTINUED:
 
 
 FRODO
 Mordor! I hope the others find a safer
 road.
 
 SAM
 (simply)
 Strider'll look after them.
 
 FRODO
 I don't suppose we'll ever see them
 again.
 
 SAM
 We may yet, Mr. Frodo. We may.
 
 FRODO
 Sam?
 
 Frodo looks at Sam with great affection..despite the grim
 outlook, Sam is undeterred...
 
 FRODO (CONT'D)
 I'm glad you're with me.
 
 WIDE ON: THE TWO HOBBITS SETTING OFF TOWARD MORDOR.
 
 THE END
 '
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Category:New Line Cinema Transcripts