Thursday, October 8, 2020

J. R. R. Tolkien: The Franchise

Middle-Earth Envisioned: The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings on Screen, On Stage, and Beyond, by Paul Simpson and Brian J. Robb (2013).

Well. I forgot even that such a book existed. It just goes to show how useful such an Inventory can be. “Middle-earth Envisioned is the first book to explore the artistic legacy left by Tolkien’s world. Paintings, drawings, theatrical performances, radio serials, and films inspired by The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings are all discussed in a manner that further illuminates the brilliance of Tolkien’s creation. Readers will discover details surrounding an attempted Beatles live-action version (with Paul McCartney as Frodo Baggins), a nearly four-hour Canadian musical, the West End stage production of Lord of the Rings, and of course, the Peter Jackson films—including the Hobbit trilogy—and much more. In this beautifully illustrated gift book, discover the richness of Middle-earth anew, through the works of the artists inspired by it.” – Amazon.

Ranking: Essential.

File Code: Art. Literary History. Hardback.

The Essential J. R. R. Tolkien Sourcebook: A Fan’s Guide to Middle-Earth and Beyond, By George Beahm (2004)

“Provides information on books, audio and video adaptations, collectibles, Websites, art, and other products related to the works of J.R.R. Tolkien.” – Goodreads. A large section covering the artists who have illustrated Tolkien. Browsing and dreaming material. A good reality check if I start feeling boastful about my Tolkien collection. B&W illustrations.

Ranking: Oddly enough, not Essential. But a Keeper.

File Code: Book and Collectible Guide. Softcover.

Treasures from the Misty Mountains: A Collector’s Guide to Tolkien, by James H. Gillam. (2001)

Came out right at the start of the boom in Middle-Earth started by the Jackson movies, so a little outdated, but a beautiful full color guide to book editions, toys, calendars, recordings, and other merchandise up to that point. It’s like gazing upon Smaug’s trove, and enough to awaken the greediest of my desires.

Ranking: Essential.

File Code: Book and Collectible Guide. Softcover.

The Lord of the Rings: The Films, The Books, The Radio Series, by Jim Smith and J. Clive Matthews. (2004)

“A detailed look at the recent trilogy, it's various predecessors, both failed and successful - animated film, radio plays, parodies and imitations - and the multimillion dollar industry that has sprung up around the books in the wake of the massive critical and commercial success of Peter Jackson's trilogy. An essential reference for all fans of The Lord of the Rings in all its permutations.” – Amazon.

Ranking: Keeper.

File Code: Reference. Popular Culture. Softcover.

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