Jackson and Del Toro took it upon themselves to write the scripts for the next two Hobbit films. The schedules of the two men were lighter and they certainly possess the necessary knowledge of Tolkien’s world to be able to write the screenplays.
Fran Walsh and Philippa Boyens, who participated in the screenplay of The Lord of the Rings trilogy, will join the two men to adapt the story of The Hobbit for cinema.
This time, the adventure is set before the time of The Lord of the Rings, when Bilbo Baggins hunts for a treasure and finds the ring.
As previously announced, Jackson will resume his producing role and Del Toro will be directing the two films.
Shooting is expected to begin in New Zealand in fall 2009. New Line and MGM hope to release the first installment on December 2011, and the second, one year later.