Guillermo Del Toro Could Direct "Hobbit" Movies

IGN UK said Guillermo Del Toro seems to be getting closer to becoming the director for two films that would take place before "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy directed by Peter Jackson. The first movie would tell the story of "The Hobbit," which concerns a young Bilbo Baggins as the title character, Gandalf the wizard, and a band of dwarves going on a quest to steal a dragon's treasure. The events in "The Hobbit" occur many years before "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy, but the second film would take place immediately preceding the beginning of "The Fellowship of the Ring."

"The Hollywood Reporter" said Del Toro was in talks with New Line and MGM about the project, and "IGN UK" also reported that his name has been much discussed in relation to the "Hobbit" movies for a while now. Peter Jackson is attached to "The Hobbit" as an executive producer, but after settling legal differences with New Line, he has announced that he will not be directing the movie.

Given Del Toro's previous work in fantasy films, however, with "Hellboy" and "Pan's Labyrinth," he seems to be a good choice to succeed Jackson.