We now know by heart the anecdotes concerning the trilogy of Gentleman of the Rings and some casting choices which were not carried forward but which would have definitely changed the final result, however there are also stories of this type Lo Hobbit. Certainly less successful and appreciated than the “original” trilogy, the prequel risked being very different and unfortunately for fans it would have been one of the best parts to change.
Let’s go back to the beginning of production of the three films based on the novel by JRR Tolkien. Initially, in fact, Peter Jackson he wasn’t sure if he would direct the films himself Lo Hobbit and in its place there should have been nothing less than Guillermo Del Toronot surprisingly credited among the screenwriters of the trilogy. Del Toro had already set to work and had some actors in mind for the main roles of the story, one particularly sensational.
Among the names that had been thought of by Oscar-winning directorin fact, there was also that of Ron Perlman. His longtime collaborator and face of Hellboy had been imagined for both the role of Bornthen went to Mikael Åke Persbrandtbut above all for that of… Smaug! The great dragon he usurped the ancient kingdom of Erebor was voiced by Benedict Cumberbatchauthor of one of the performances that fans of the de trilogy liked most Lo Hobbit. Cumberbatch did a huge job to modulate his voice, while Ron Perlman certainly would have had an easier time because he naturally has a deep, cavernous voice.
As already demonstrated in his career, Perlman would have been the right choice for a character who must be both calm and instill enormous fear, but would he have been better than Benedict Cumberbatch? The English actor gave everything for the part, including body movements in motion capture which however were not used by the special effects team. It is therefore difficult to decide: on paper Ron Perlman’s voice is more suitable, but it is undeniable that the star of Sherlock gave birth to a splendid Smaug.
Among the other names that Del Toro had thought of for his version of Lo Hobbitbefore Peter Jackson decided to direct it, they were there too Ian McShane for one of the dwarves of Thorin’s company and Doug Jones (another frequent collaborator of his) for that of Re Elfo Thranduil. Choices, these, which however would not have radically changed things as it would have been for Smaug’s voice.
What do you think? Would you have preferred Ron Perlman for the part of the dragon? Tell us your opinion, as always, in the comments.
Read also: There is only one actor who appeared in both The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit and The Rings of Power
© ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
