Latest news with #Hobbit
Daily Mirror
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
'I watched all extended versions of Lord of the Rings in the cinema and here's my verdict'
It'd been over a decade since reporter Alice Sjoberg had seen the Lord of the Rings films, so she decided to take the opportunity to watch the extended versions at the cinema for the first time Cineworld is celebrating their Unlimited feature, a membership programme which allows members to watch as many films as they want for a monthly fee, turning 25. So to celebrate, they brought back some of the top films from the last 25 years for fans to enjoy for a discounted rate for everyone. So when I saw on social media that the Cineworld near me was showing all three of the Lord of the Rings movies three days in a row, I immediately knew I wanted to go. If there's anything that'll make those films better, it's seeing them in the cinema. But when I later realised they were showing the extended versions, I got even more excited as I'd only ever watched the theatrical cuts of each movie. So, I quickly booked tickets for me and my boyfriend, who is a big Lord of the Rings fan, and together we went to experience the iconic films on the big screen. But will 12 hours in total prove to make this trilogy 'too much'? Only time would tell... The Fellowship of the Ring First up was of course the Fellowship of the Ring, which was showing on the Monday evening at 6.30pm. We made sure to get there early enough to use the bathroom and get ourselves some popcorn and drinks ahead of the three-and-a-half hour long film. The first extra scene came right at the beginning, which saw the introduction of the one ring and how it came to be so powerful and feared among people in Middle Earth. As a novice in the world of Lord of the Rings, I really appreciated this, as it added extra depth into the story - not that it needs it. Next up came the scenes in the Shire, which already were some of my favourite as I'd happily live there myself if I could. While I felt like it dragged a bit at some points, you just can't beat the feel-good moments such as during Gandalf's fireworks extravaganza. This truly made me excited for watching the rest of the movies, as the cinematic experiences made it even better. It also added extra backstory to all of the Hobbit characters. While this is nice in the moment, it really adds a nice build up and backstory for the later films. One of the extra scenes that truly blew me away in this film was when Frodo and Sam spotted the Wood Elves heading to the Undying Lands. While it didn't add much in terms of the plot, the scenery, music, and overall emotion of the moment made it a breathtakingly beautiful scene that ended with me covered in goosebumps. As I'd not watched the films from beginning to end in so long, there were also moments and scenes in this film that I'd completely forgotten about, which made it feel like I was watching them again for the first time. The extra scenes also made me sympathise with Aragorn right from the start. Don't get me wrong, he is and remains one of my favourite characters, but seeing him visit his mum's monument in Rivendell and sing and Elvish song that refers back to his feelings for Arwen really makes him more relatable. The Two Towers The following evening, it was time for my boyfriend's favourite film, The Two Towers. It follows the journeys of the members of the Fellowship, after it got divided into three groups and went on their separate adventures to do what they could to prepare for the upcoming fight against antagonist Saruman. While I was excited for this, our cinema experience started with a disappointment as we soon realised all the ads and trailers were the exact same as the previous night, and they were even in the same order! While this isn't the movies fault, I had hoped for a bit more variety. However, one of my favourite parts about this film was how much screen time Merry and Pippin got. Once again, I'd completely forgotten about their adventures with the Ents, especially Treebeard. A particular favourite moment of mine was when they drank the nourishment of the Ents and quickly starts competing to see who can grow taller than the other. Since the films are quite heavy and dark overall, these lighthearted moments become more enjoyable. Another example of this is when Legolas and Gimli start to compete with each other over how many orcs they've killed at the end battle, which not only helps show the competitive friendship between the two, but also makes the long fight scene a bit more fun and light-hearted. Speaking of the fight scenes, of which there are many - these scenes have always been incredible to watch. But watching them in the cinema really made it worth having to stay up until almost midnight every night to watch them, even for someone like me who normally has a strict 10pm bedtime. The Return of the King All of the sudden, it was Wednesday and it was time to return to Cineworld for the longest movie in the trilogy. It also had an added 51 minutes of footage added to it, making the film over four hours long. This film included several scenes I think I would miss if I rewatched the theatrical release now, as they truly made an already great film even better. The most notable scene in this extended version is Saruman's death. This takes place when Gandalf and the others come across a defeated Saruman who is still defiant, but is quickly stabbed by Wormtongue and falls off his tower to his death. Meanwhile, in the theatrical cut, Saruman's story just ends and he is simply not heard from again. The extended version also included answers to a previous plot hole on how Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli take over the Black Ships, which I'm sure fans were overjoyed to learn when they first saw it. Overall, I spent over 12 hours watching the extended versions of this trilogy in the cinema, but would I recommend it to others? Absolutely. These films became even more amazing when watching them on the big screen, and the extended versions never felt like they were as long as they actually were as there were constantly interesting things happening. I am so happy that Cineworld decided to bring these films back to the cinema, and I hope more cinemas will do the same in the future as I'm desperate to watch them again.
Time of India
5 days ago
- Lifestyle
- Time of India
10 Jade plant varieties that bring positive energy and style to your home
Looking to invite luck, harmony, and style into your living space? Jade plants are popular indoor plants believed to attract positive energy and prosperity. Known for their glossy leaves and easy care, these succulents hold a special place in Feng Shui, where they symbolise wealth, protection, and emotional balance. Each variety adds its own visual charm and calming presence, making them ideal for homes, offices, or personal corners. Whether your goal is to create a more peaceful environment or simply enhance your interiors, these 10 luck-attracting jade plant varieties offer a natural way to bring positivity into your home. 10 positivity-attracting jade plants for a peaceful, prosperous home Crassula ovata (Classic Jade Plant) The classic jade plant is one of the most loved indoor succulents, featuring plump, oval-shaped green leaves and a woody stem that gives it a bonsai-like appearance. Traditionally seen as a symbol of good luck and wealth, this plant is often placed near the front door or in a workspace to attract financial energy. It thrives in bright, indirect sunlight and is extremely low maintenance, ideal for those new to houseplants. Crassula ovata 'Hummel's Sunset' This stunning variety gets its name from its warm golden-yellow and red-tinged foliage, which glows even brighter under sunlight. 'Hummel's Sunset' adds not only a splash of colour to your space but also a calming presence. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like This Could Be the Best Time to Trade Gold in 5 Years IC Markets Learn More Undo In Feng Shui, it represents balance and inner harmony, making it perfect for rooms where you want to create a peaceful and soothing atmosphere. Crassula ovata 'Gollum' With its unusual, trumpet-shaped leaves that resemble small green fingers, the 'Gollum' jade plant stands out as a quirky addition to any home. It is believed to deflect negative energy and attract positive vibes. Because of its compact form, it fits well on desks, bookshelves, or windowsills. It's also drought-tolerant and easy to care for, great for busy households. Crassula ovata 'Hobbit' This variety is very similar to 'Gollum' but has leaves that curl inward at the tips, giving it a whimsical, almost magical look. The 'Hobbit' jade plant is thought to encourage happiness and joy, especially when placed near windows or entryways. Its small size and charming appearance make it a popular choice for adding character to living rooms, kitchens, and even children's bedrooms. Crassula ovata 'Tricolor' The 'Tricolor' jade plant features variegated leaves with shades of green, cream, and subtle pink, making it a visual delight. This plant symbolises emotional balance and peaceful relationships, and is ideal for areas where you want to encourage harmony and clear communication. Its colorful foliage brings a refreshing pop to both modern and rustic interiors. Crassula ovata 'Red Horn Tree' This bold variety features tubular green leaves tipped with deep red, giving it a sculptural and striking appearance. The 'Red Horn Tree' is believed to enhance protective energy and inspire strength and motivation. It works well in home offices, studios, or any space where you need a boost of confidence and creativity. Crassula ovata 'Minima' A miniature jade plant with small, bright green leaves, 'Minima' is fast-growing and perfect for windowsills, terrariums, or small decorative pots. It's often linked with personal growth and renewal, making it a thoughtful plant for transitional spaces like entryways or dorm rooms. Despite its small stature, it offers a powerful lift in energy and mood. Crassula arborescens (Silver Dollar Jade) Known for its round, silvery-blue leaves edged with red, the Silver Dollar Jade has a cooling, calming look. It's often associated with wisdom, clarity of thought, and emotional stability. Place it in a quiet corner, a home office, or a study to encourage focus and inner peace. Like other jade plants, it needs very little watering and adapts well to indoor conditions. Crassula ovata 'Crosby's Compact' A dwarf version of the classic jade, 'Crosby's Compact' has smaller, tightly packed leaves and a bushier appearance. It's an excellent choice for compact living spaces, bedside tables, or small work desks. Despite its size, it radiates peaceful and grounding energy. Its structured form also brings a neat and tidy look to any room. Crassula perforata (String of Buttons) Unlike the traditional upright jades, the String of Buttons has a trailing habit and features stacked, coin-like leaves with pink edges. It adds a touch of playfulness to any setting and is believed to promote happiness and creativity. This variety is best suited for hanging baskets, elevated planters, or shelves where its cascading form can be appreciated. Jade plants are more than just decorative succulents, they're living symbols of prosperity, protection, and peace. With so many unique varieties to choose from, you can easily find one that suits your style, space, and energy needs. Whether you're enhancing your home décor or cultivating a more positive atmosphere, these jade plants are a natural and nurturing addition to any room. Also Read: 10 Medicinal plants you can grow at home for natural healing
Daily Record
15-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Outlander stars dine out at Edinburgh restaurant and rave about 'amazing' meal
Outlander stars John Hunter Bell and Charles Vandervaart dined out at The Kitchin in Edinburgh and were very impressed with the food. Two Outlander stars have been snapped in one of Edinburgh's most popular restaurants after popping in for a bite to eat. John Hunter Bell and Charles Vandervaart dined at The Kitchin in the Capital this week. Bell plays 'Young Ian' Murray in Outlander as well as Bain in two of the Hobbit films and Charles Vandervaart is best known for his portrayal of William Ransom in season seven on the show. Staff members at the Michelin-starred restaurant in Leith were delighted to host the stars and shared an image to social media of owner Tom Kitchin with the pair. Sharing a post to social media, the restaurant wrote: "It's always special to welcome members of the Outlander family to the restaurants." Both actors replied to the Instagram snap as Charles commented, saying: "Amazing time! Thanks for having us!" Meanwhile, John added: "Out of this world!" The eatery is popular among famous faces with John and Charles not being the first of the Outlander cast to visit The Kitchin. Back in October 2023, the Michelin-star establishment welcomed Duncan Lacroix, who plays Murtagh Fraser in the series. Sam Heughan, who plays the iconic Jamie Fraser in the show, also dined out at the eatery in 2024. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. The Kitchin appears to be a favourite among the Outlander cast as Sam even returned once more earlier this year to mark his 45th birthday on April 30. Outlander fans are still awaiting the eighth and final season of the Starz show which is set to air in late 2025 or early 2026. The show recently announced its prequel series Outlander: Blood of My Blood which will air on August 8 2025. However, while fans await the grand finale, it's good to see the OG Outlander cast are still as tight as ever. Many of the cast members reunited at Richard Rankin's wedding to Sammie Russell in South Queensferry last week. John Bell was among the attendees, as well as Caitriona Balfe, Sam Heughan, Lauren Lyle, Joey Phillips, Izzy Meikle-Small, Caitlin O'Ryan, Paul Gorman and Jamie Roy. Another Outlander reunion could be on the cards at The Kitchin once the final season airs as many of the stars have already made their love for it clear. Tom Kitchin, owner and founder of The Kitchin, also runs The Scran & Scallie in Edinburgh and Bonnie Badger in Gullane. Another one of his businesses, Kora, previously on Bruntsfield Place, closed earlier this year. The Kitchin, located at 78 Commercial Quay in Leith, is open Tuesday through Saturday from 12pm-2.30pm and 6pm-10pm.
Edinburgh Live
14-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Edinburgh Live
Outlander stars rave about this Edinburgh restaurant after surprise visit
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info Get the latest Edinburgh Live breaking news on WhatsApp Stars of the hit television series Outlander were spotted at one of Edinburgh's most popular restaurants after popping in for a bite. Outlander, now running into its eighth and final season, has been a sensation from the outset. The historical drama series is set in Scotland and features a cast chock-full of Scottish talent. Staff at The Kitchin, a Michelin-starred restaurant in Leith, were delighted to host members of the Outlander cast, sharing an image to social media of owner Tom Kitchin with the actors. Among the stars was John Hunter Bell, who played "Young Ian" Murray in Outlander as well as Bain in two of the Hobbit films, and Charles Vandervaart, famous for his portrayal of William Ransom in season seven of Outlander Edinburgh celebrity chef Tom Kitchin is captured posing with the actors. The post's caption reads: "It's always special to welcome members of the Outlander family to the restaurants." Charles commented on the post, saying: "Amazing time! Thanks for having us!" John added: "Out of this world!" The eatery is no stranger to famous guests. John and Charles are not even the first of the Outlander cast to visit The Kitchin. In October 2023, the Michelin-star establishment welcomed Duncan Lacroix, who plays Murtagh Frasier in the series. It also hosted series lead Sam Heughan, who plays titular character Jamie Fraser, in 2024. Seemingly a favourite among Outlander stars, Sam returned to The Kitchin earlier this year to mark his 45th birthday on April 30. Tom Kitchin, owner and founder of The Kitchin, also runs The Scran & Scallie in Edinburgh and Bonnie Badger in Gullane. Another eatery, Kora, previously on Bruntsfield Place, closed earlier this year. The Kitchin, located at 78 Commercial Quay in Leith, is open Tuesday through Saturday from 12pm-2.30pm and 6pm-10pm. You can find more information about the restaurant here.
Yahoo
14-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Peter Jackson Is Working on Three Screenplays: ‘I'm Certainly Not Retired'
It's been 11 years since Oscar-winning filmmaker Peter Jackson completed his 'Hobbit' trilogy. He has not directed a narrative feature since, though he certainly has not been stagnant. He did, however, direct the Beatles' docuseries 'Get Back' and the 3D WWI doc 'They Shall Not Grow Old,' which colorized and restored wartime footage. He also wrote and produced 'Mortal Engines' in 2018, and he was listed as an executive producer on the anime 'The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim' in 2024. But since he completed his last ode to J. R. R. Tolkien, he has not led a film set. Jackson, though, insists that he is not out of the game. More from IndieWire Superman's Underwear Returns: A Brief History of the Man of Steel's Red Trunks Alamo Founder Tim League Launches Private Movie Theater Experience in New York 'No, no. I'm certainly not retired,' Jackson told ScreenRant in an interview. 'We are currently working on three different screenplays. I'm at the moment writing three different scripts.' The 'District 9' director teased that more will be coming from both his 'Lord of the Rings' universe and Beatles retrospectives. 'We are producing and have been writing 'The Hunt for Gollum,' which Andy Serkis is going to direct next year,' he said. '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.' What he might actually direct, he did not say. But what Jackson is most excited about, he revealed, involves pulling a real-life 'Jurassic Park' with a large prehistoric bird. '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,' he explained. Jackson is speaking of the biotech company Colossal Biosciences, of which he is a major investor. The company, according to its website, is 'the world's first and only de-extinction company,' and goes on to write that 'Colossal is closer to restoring the past, preserving the present and safeguarding the future than anyone before. To truly illustrate our success, we must not only redefine de-extinction, but establish standards for the science behind it, as well.' Last year, Colossal was able to use fossil DNA to bring two dire wolves back from extinction after 10,000 years. No, really: here's the Time cover story. Best of IndieWire Guillermo del Toro's Favorite Movies: 56 Films the Director Wants You to See 'Song of the South': 14 Things to Know About Disney's Most Controversial Movie Nicolas Winding Refn's Favorite Films: 37 Movies the Director Wants You to See
