Tolkien’s Epic Returns: Lord of the Rings Hits Cinemas Again
The Lord of the Rings celebrates 25 years with a special cinema re-release. Find out when and where to catch the extended editions, plus what’s in store for fans during this milestone event.
It’s been a quarter of a century since Peter Jackson’s adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien’s legendary fantasy first hit the big screen, and now, the much-loved trilogy is making a comeback in Aussie cinemas. Warner Bros. and Fathom Entertainment are marking the 25th anniversary by bringing the extended editions back to theatres, giving fans a rare chance to experience Middle-earth as it was meant to be seen.
How to Catch the Anniversary Screenings
The extended versions of the trilogy will be shown from 16 to 19 January 2026, followed by the standard cuts from 23 to 25 January. These sessions will be held in select cinemas across the United States, with D-Box Presentations for a more immersive experience. Participation depends on the venue, so it’s worth checking with your local cinema to see if they’re on board.
On top of the films themselves, there’ll be themed snacks and collectables up for grabs. Some AMC locations are even rolling out Lord of the Rings popcorn buckets, so die-hard fans can take home a bit of the magic. If you’re keen to relive the adventure or introduce mates to the saga, this is your shot.
Unexpected Impact: Reflections from the Cast
Looking back, it’s hard to believe the trilogy racked up a record 17 Oscars, especially considering not everyone was convinced by Jackson’s vision at the start. Even Viggo Mortensen, who played Aragorn, didn’t expect the films to become a global phenomenon.
In an interview, Mortensen shared his thoughts on the experience, saying:
I’m honoured to have been part of that process. We never knew it would be that way, that it would have such an impact globally. It was great, and it obviously gave me lots of opportunities. … A lot of good things came from it.
Mortensen’s portrayal of Aragorn helped turn the trilogy into something truly special, resonating with audiences around the world.
Tolkien’s Life and the Heart of Middle-earth
One reason the trilogy has stood the test of time is Jackson’s deep respect for the original material. When you look at Tolkien’s own story, it’s easy to see why his work connects with so many people. His background in Norse mythology, Anglo-Saxon tales, and Germanic legends, along with his knack for languages, gave him the tools to craft a world that feels both ancient and fresh.
Tolkien’s experiences in World War I left a mark on his writing. After losing close friends in the trenches, he poured themes of honour, duty, and loyalty into his characters. These real-life influences, mixed with timeless stories of heroism and a dash of creative flair, helped shape Middle-earth into the epic we know today.
Key Details for Fans
For those wanting a quick refresher, here’s a snapshot of the first film in the trilogy:
Film: Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring
Director: Peter Jackson
Main Cast: Elijah Wood, Ian McKellen, Viggo Mortensen, Sean Astin, Sean Bean
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 92% | 95%
Box Office: $890 Million
Plenty of fans have fond memories of their first journey through Middle-earth. If you’re feeling nostalgic, the trilogy is also streaming on HBO Max for those in the US.