Dome Karukoski to Direct J.R.R. Tolkien Biopic

Biographical film "Tolkien" based on J.R.R. Tolkien's life is in the works, and has just secured Dome Karukoski ("The Home of Dark Butterflies") to direct. Tolkien is the famous author and linguist best known for his books "Lord of the Rings" and its prequel "The Hobbit." While Tolkien has maintained his popularity in the literary world for decades, his works became even more beloved after their critically acclaimed film adaptations "Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit." While Peter Jackson directed both film series, it seems that producers Fox Searchlight and Chernin Entertainment went in a different direction.

"Tolkien's" screenplay is written by David Gleeson ("Cowboys & Angels") and Stephen Beresford ("Pride"), according to Deadline. The film begins with Tolkien in grade school, where the young writer found himself in a group of misfits and freaks who became dear friends. The "fellowship" of friends is soon threatened with destruction by World War I, which killed so many young men in their prime. Tolkien served in the British armed forces from 1916 to 1920. This "fellowship" and their experiences together was Tolkien's inspiration for his famous fantasy novels, which he wrote from 1937-1949, according to Variety. "The Lord of the Rings" is one of the best-selling novels in recorded history, with over 150 million copies sold since its first publication.

Karukoski is a European director of Finnish and Swedish descent, who moved to Cyprus at a young age. He has directed "The Home of Dark Butterflies," "Lapland Odyssey," "Beauty and the Bastard," and "The Grump," among others.

No premiere date has been announced for "Tolkien."

Who do you think should play Tolkien in the biopic? Let us know in the comments below!

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