An Unexpected Podcast: Talkin' Tolkien

Stephen Colbert Is Making a Lord of the Rings Movie?! A brand new Lord of the Rings movie has been announced… and it might be the most unexpected project in Middle-earth history. Shadow of the Past brings together Peter Jackson, members of the original film crew, and—somehow—Stephen Colbert and his son.

In this episode, we break down our initial reactions, what we know so far, and what this could mean for the future of Tolkien adaptations. Is this a passion project? A bold new direction? Or something fans should be cautious about?

We also dive into the legacy of the original Lord of the Rings trilogy, Peter Jackson’s return to Middle-earth, and whether this new film can capture the magic that made the originals so iconic.

If you’re a fan of Tolkien, Middle-earth, and everything Lord of the Rings, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

⚔️ Topics Covered:

• Shadow of the Past announcement details
• Stephen Colbert’s surprising involvement
• Peter Jackson and the original crew returning
• First reactions and concerns
• What this means for the future of LOTR

Subscribe for more deep dives into Lord of the Rings, fantasy lore, and storytelling breakdowns.

Another Silly Silmarillion Solo venture- but this time, it's Lane battling the dimming light of his very own eyesight and the unrest of his mind (undiagnosed ADHD), as we all wait to see- can he actually navigate us through a chapter without the guidance of the Flannel Wizard? Only you will decide!

Creation. Contrivance. Corruption. Chapter Seven has it all, as Fëanor, son of Finwë, greatest Elven Smith of all time creates the Silmarils to honour the height of elvendom only to proceed in falling victim to the machinations of Melkor. At least he's not alone, right? For unrest and discord now indeed sours all Valinor.

As mentioned in this episode, check out Wyrd Leather and Mead and support Travis' incredible business and their move to a PNW Castle! https://www.spotfund.com/story/3921642c-2a84-4579-9541-dd76d57cbeff

We have another major addition to the conspiracy! Nienna and possibly Gandalf are involved this time ~ Join us as we dive into the story of Fëanor and the unbelievably short trial to unchain the Darkest Lord of all time lol ... We are also joined by our special guests, The Lords and Ladies of Gondolin: The House of Flour

Before the wars, before the Silmarils, before the exile… there was Eldamar.

In this episode, we step into the Blessed Realm itself — the shining lands of the Elves beneath the light of the Two Trees. But beneath the beauty, Tolkien quietly plants the seeds of one of the greatest tragedies in all of Middle-earth.

In this episode, we journey into one of the most quietly powerful chapters of The Silmarillion: Of Thingol and Melian.

This is the story where myth slows down and something rare happens — an Elf and a Maia meet beneath the stars, and Middle-earth is changed forever. But obviously we caught a whiff of some conspiracy stuff ...

In this episode, we celebrate 8 years in a very unique way- giving you our "TOP 5" in everything from films and tv shows to local restaurants and dive bars!

8 years is far too short a time to spend amongst such excellent and admirable UPers... so let's just never stop then. What say you?

Thank you for all of your support, for listening for near a decade, but most of all for becoming our dear friends along the way. Through life's unforeseen ebbs and flows, ups and downs- it's you UPers that have been the constant. And it's something we don't take for granted.

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Concerning Hobbits is NOW OUT! Please go take a listen and support your fellow Uppers! Follow the updates here: https://www.instagram.com/theredbookofwestmarch/

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In this episode, we finally witness the arrival of the Children of Eru Illuvatar- but right from the start, Melkor sows deception and discord. Not only that, many elves go missing, only to be taken by Melkor- tortured and mutilated, they are transformed into an utter mockery and perversion (Orcs). With the Children in mortal danger, what are the Valar to do?

After a quick council, it's decided that the Children should be defended and protected (and Tulkas smiles) and Melkor's butt kicked, destined to be held prisoner in the Halls of Mandos for a sentence of no less than 3 ages.

Meanwhile, after Ingwe (Vanyar), Finwe (Noldor) and Elwe (Teleri) visit Valinor and witness the light of the Trees, they return to Cuivienen (the birthplace of the elves) as ambassadors with an invitation from the Valar to come venture westward and make a home in Valinor. What follows is truly the genesis of all drama (and doom) in Arda. Join us as we journey chapter by chapter through The Silmarillion—unraveling Tolkien’s myths, symbols, and hidden connections to The Lord of the Rings.

In this episode, we return to the heart of Arda and explore one of the most beautiful contrasts in all of Tolkien’s legendarium: the brilliant craftsmanship of Aulë and the life-giving grace of Yavanna.

Aulë, the Smith of the Valar, is restless with creativity — shaping mountains, forging the deep places of the earth, and longing for minds to teach. Yavanna, the Giver of Fruits, watches over every green thing that grows, from towering forests to the smallest blades of grass. Their desires clash, intertwine, and ultimately give birth to some of the most important beings in Middle-earth’s history. Join us as we journey chapter by chapter through The Silmarillion—unraveling Tolkien’s myths, symbols, and hidden connections to The Lord of the Rings.

PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/c/uptalkintolkien

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Order your CANDLES: Firelight Fables Candles

Concerning Hobbits is NOW OUT! Please go take a listen and support your fellow Uppers! Follow the updates here: https://www.instagram.com/theredbookofwestmarch/

Lane's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lanethevillager/

Ezra Linktree: https://linktr.ee/theflannelwizard

If you'd like to send us something please address it to:

The Shire P.O. Box 96 Amanda, OH 43102

In this episode, we witness the beginning of days as the Valar and Maiar strive to bring the vision and music of Eru Illuvatar to life, while fending off the discord of Melkor relentlessly being woven into the alreay young world, as all await the arrival of the Children of the One. Join us as we journey chapter by chapter through The Silmarillion—unraveling Tolkien’s myths, symbols, and hidden connections to The Lord of the Rings.

PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/c/uptalkintolkien

JOIN OUR FREE DISCORD: https://discord.gg/JgkhVdw

Order your CANDLES: Firelight Fables Candles

Concerning Hobbits is NOW OUT! Please go take a listen and support your fellow Uppers! Follow the updates here: https://www.instagram.com/theredbookofwestmarch/

Lane's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lanethevillager/

Ezra Linktree: https://linktr.ee/theflannelwizard

If you'd like to send us something please address it to:

The Shire P.O. Box 96 Amanda, OH 43102

In this episode, we explore the Valaquenta, and get to the know the Valar and Maiar a little better! But it's October 31st, so we've dressed for the occasion ... and Mor-goth has made an unexpected apperance to play a GAME with Blue Suit Andy Serkis ... Join us as we journey chapter by chapter through The Silmarillion—unraveling Tolkien’s myths, symbols, and hidden connections to The Lord of the Rings.

PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/c/uptalkintolkien

JOIN OUR FREE DISCORD: https://discord.gg/JgkhVdw

Order your CANDLES: Firelight Fables Candles

Concerning Hobbits is NOW OUT! Please go take a listen and support your fellow Uppers! Follow the updates here: https://www.instagram.com/theredbookofwestmarch/

Lane's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lanethevillager/

Ezra Linktree: https://linktr.ee/theflannelwizard

If you'd like to send us something please address it to:

The Shire P.O. Box 96 Amanda, OH 43102