Movies

Movie Commentary

A Cast of Characters

By Missy Schwartz

Who's got a stake in The Hobbit? Here's a look at a few of the key players.

Bob Shaye
New Line's co-chair dissed Jackson, accusing him of ''arrogance'' and of being ''myopic'' about royalties. His mood has improved.

Saul Zaentz
The Oscar-winning producer bought the rights to the Tolkien books. He sued New Line in 2004 and settled out of court before trial.

Fran Walsh
Jackson's partner in life, as well as filmmaking, Walsh would likely co-write and produce The Hobbit if the project ever took off.

Harry Sloan
The chairman and CEO of MGM, which owns Hobbit distribution rights, supports Jackson: ''We believe...he'll be making the movie.''

Posted Oct 05, 2007 | Published in issue #958 Oct 12, 2007 | Order Article Reprints