Nuggets of storytelling wisdom can be learned from Peter Jackson and Phillipa Boyens by listening to their interviews about the process of creating the LORD OF THE RINGS screenplays. These interviews can be found in the appendices of the Special Extended DVD Edition sets for each film.
Peter Jackson has provided invaluable information to fiction writers and screenwriters by having these long appendices created, which document in loving detail the making of each film from idea to film release. There are also short documentaries on J. R. R. Tolkien and his experiences as a writer. You’ll get the most out of watching these interviews and documentaries if you have seen all three LORD OF THE RINGS films and read J. R. R. Tolkien’s LORD OF THE RINGS.
Just to give you an idea of what there is, here’s a list of parts that pertain directly to fiction writers:
FELLOWSHIP OF THE RING Special Extended DVD Edition, The Appendices, Part One
* J. R. R. Tolkien: Creator of Middle-earth
* From Book to Script
THE TWO TOWERS Special Extended DVD Edition, The Appendices, Part Three
* J. R. R. Tolkien: Origins of Middle-earth
* From Book to Script: Finding the Story
THE RETURN OF THE KING Special Extended DVD Edition, The Appendices, Part Five
* J. R. R. Tolkien: The Legacy of Middle-earth
* From Book to Script: Forging the Final Chapter
If you want to write screenplays or direct, watch all of these appendices from start to finish (there are six discs in all). You’ll get a crash course on the realities of filmmaking from some of the best people in the business.
