Peter Jackson, the visionary director behind the iconic Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies, is stirring excitement among fans with a tantalizing update on his future projects. It has been nearly a decade since his last directorial endeavor, The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies, but Jackson’s recent remarks suggest he isn’t hanging up his director’s hat just yet.
In a recent interview with Screen Rant, Jackson revealed he is diligently working on three different scripts, which he tantalizingly keeps under wraps. Among those projects is The Hunt for Gollum, a continuation of Tolkien’s universe directed by Andy Serkis, showcasing Jackson’s undeniable commitment to explore Middle-earth once more.
Interestingly, Jackson was discussing his involvement in a groundbreaking venture with Colossal Biosciences, led by CEO Ben Lamm and Ngāi Tahu archaeologist Kyle Davis, focused on bringing the Giant Moa back from extinction. Jackson has invested significantly in this endeavor, advocating for a project that reflects his passion for both cinema and groundbreaking science.
Screen Rant: Peter, I’d be remiss if I didn’t ask you about your future in film. We haven’t seen you direct a feature since 2014. Is Colossal your prerogative now? Are you retired?
Peter Jackson: No, no. I’m certainly not retired. We are currently working on three different screenplays. I’m at the moment writing three different scripts.
We are producing and have been writing The Hunt for Gollum, which Andy Serkis is going to direct next year. I’ve enjoyed working on documentaries, whether they show I’ve grown old or not, and obviously the Get Back The Beatles project. I’ve enjoyed doing various things with The Beatles, which is great, and that’ll probably carry on.
But to me, de-extincting the Moa would be just as exciting, if not more exciting, than any film I could possibly make. I’ve made a lot of movies, but to see the Giant Moa brought back would be a level of excitement that I think would supersede anything at this point in time.
What This Means For Peter Jackson’s Future
Jackson Isn’t Retired, Which Can Only Be Good News
Though Jackson has not directed a feature film in several years, he has remained active within the industry. His recent documentary on The Beatles, using techniques reminiscent of his acclaimed WWI documentary They Shall Not Grow Old, shows his versatility and commitment to storytelling.
Jackson also contributed to the 2018 film Mortal Engines, but the prospect of him returning to direct is undeniably intriguing. After a long hiatus, the potential for a new Peter Jackson film is shrouded in anticipation. He now possesses the freedom to curate his projects, whether that means returning to Tolkien’s realms or exploring new creative pathways.
Our Take On Peter Jackson’s Career Update
Jackson Might Not Be Directing Again Any Time Soon
While fans are eager for news, Jackson’s commitment to scripting three different projects might mean a longer wait for a directorial return. There’s a possibility that these scripts could be entrusted to other directors, similar to how The Hunt for Gollum is now in Andy Serkis’ capable hands.
Moreover, Jackson’s involvement with Colossal Biosciences is engrossing and promises a unique fusion of science and cinema. The process of de-extinction draws intriguing parallels to cinematic narratives like Jurassic Park, yet Jackson views this scientific endeavor as even more compelling than film. The prospect of resurrecting the Giant Moa embodies a potential shift in cultural legacy, especially given its prominence in New Zealand folklore.
As fans remain hopeful for Jackson’s return to directing, many would wish to see him take on ambitious projects, perhaps reviving long-awaited endeavors like a sequel to Steven Spielberg’s The Adventures of Tintin, which has faced developmental hurdles. An original creation from him would also be captivating, as his illustrious career has largely revolved around adaptations and franchise films.