'The Hobbit' to be expanded into a trilogy...

'Ian Mckellen will be among the list of  stars that will reprise roles from The Lord of the Rings '

From what was originally announced as a two-parter, Peter Jackson has recently confirmed that a third film will complete the story of middle earth, set 60 years prior to the events of The Lord of the Rings. The first film in the trilogy 'The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey', is set to be released later this year on December 14th, whilst the second film will follow December of next year. The third part is expected to be released summer 2014. Returning cast members from The Lord of the Rings include: Elijah Wood as Frodo Baggins, Christopher Lee as Saruman, Hugo Weaving as Elrond,  and Andy Serkis as “Gollum”. All three movies are being shot in digital 3D,and will show-off the latest breakthroughs in camera and stereo technology. Will it be regarded as epic as The Lord of the Rings? Well, we'll just have to wait and see...