Del Toro To Direct Hobbit Adaptation

Pan's Labyrinth director Guillermo del Toro appears to have been confirmed as the director of the two forthcoming films of The Hobbit. His entry on IMDB certainly leaves little doubt as to the fact he will be at the helm.

Whilst an undoubtedly hugely talented director, he has a tough act to follow, and he'll have a hard job convincing the army of Peter Jackson-worshippers that he is equal to the task. Jackson showed such a detailed and passionate understanding of The Lord of the Rings trilogy that he is seen by many as Tolkien's representative on (middle) earth. But, as Avram Grant has proven, you don't have to please the masses in order to get good results! Personally I think del Toro is a great choice, and it will be interesting to see someone else's interpretation. With his eye for the fantastical and his ability to create such rich on-screen atmosphere, del Toro is the outstanding candidate for the job, and New Line have shown great boldness in their decision.