MNN - Mother Nature Network

Like most of those that fell in love with Peter Jackson's "Lord of the Rings" trilogy early last decade, I'm genuinely excited to see a return to Middle Earth with this year's "The Hobbit: There and Back Again." I have to admit, however, that the earlier trailers lacked a certain hook for me - too many character introductions, and not enough story. This new look finally encompasses much more of the expansive world that Tolkien laid out, as well as the danger in store for Baggins and Co. 

 

Best of all, there's some nice interaction between Bilbo and Gollum, with the latter clearly benefiting from the nearly 10 years of CGI advancement since "Return of the King." 

 

We don't have long to wait before purchasing return tickets to Middle Earth. "The Hobbit: There and Back Again", the first of three films, will be released on Dec. 14.