Directed by Peter Jackson, this first installment of J.R.R. Tolkien's work returns in an extended version on HBO Max on December 1, 2025, and in a theatrical version on Prime Video on December 15, 2025. Starring Elijah Wood, Sean Astin, and Ian McKellen, this 2001 adventure film opens the trilogy and lays the groundwork for the quest for the One Ring in a universe that has become a must-see for fantasy fans.
The story follows Frodo Baggins, who is tasked with preventing the Ring from falling into the hands of Sauron. Accompanied by a fellowship of several peoples from Middle-earth, he embarks on a long journey marked by diverging paths and alliances weakened by the influence of the Ring. The film sets up the narrative stakes and territories that will shape the characters' development until the end of the trilogy.
The group's progress reveals dramatic tensions and a growing threat from the armies of Mordor. This extended version offers an expanded development of key relationships and locations, reinforcing the understanding of the initiatory journey that structures the saga.
The film was shot in New Zealand alongside the other two installments. The screenplay by Peter Jackson, Fran Walsh, and Philippa Boyens adapts the first part of the novel, establishing the main elements of Tolkien's mythology. The extended version enriches several scenes from the theatrical cut. The production relies on visual effects developed by Weta Workshop and Weta Digital.
This installment is for fans of epic sagas, fantasy stories structured around a quest, and viewers who enjoy following the emotional journey of a group facing multiple dangers.
The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring
Film | 2001
On HBO Max(extended version) December 1, 2025
On Prime Video (theatrical version) December 15, 2025
Adventure | Running time: 3h48
By Peter Jackson | Starring Elijah Wood, Sean Astin, Ian McKellen
Original title: The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring
Nationality: New Zealand / United States
The extended version allows you to dive back into the first stage of the quest for the Ring with expanded development of several narrative arcs.
To go further, check out HBO Max's new releases for December, Prime Video's new releases for December, this month's streaming releases, and What to watch today on streaming.
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