[Voronwe]

In my view there are only two stories in the Silmarillion (meaning first-age) that might possibly make good films on their own, and those would be 'Beren and Luthien' and the 'Narn i Hin Hurin'. None of the other stories go into enough depth or detail, although perhaps a case could be made for the original Fall of Gondolin from Lost Tales. But I don't think either of these would be at all attractive to movie-makers, set as they are in a huge and complex historical background. Also, the Narn especially has a rather tragic and bitter ending which is, of course, absolutely crucial to the story.<P>I personally wouldn't want to see either of these made into movies. No matter how good the translation from paper to screen, it just wouldn't be the same.<P>As to the entire Silmarillion, I just don't think it's suitable for a movie. There are too many characters, too many places, too many events. Very few of the characters make it through to the end. The plot would have to be drastically cut and altered, dropping a whole legion of characters and concentrating instead on the ones with the more important parts. But then it wouldn't really be the Silmarillion at all.<P>On the other hand, I think The Hobbit, done properly, would make an excellent movie - although there might be rather too many Dwarves for Hollywood's taste.<p>[ December 20, 2002: Message edited by: Voronwe ]