Fox Searchlight is developing a biopic about J.R.R. Tolkien, author of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit.
Tentatively called Tolkien, the film will focus on the fantasy writer's earlier life, and how he came to pen his acclaimed fantasy trilogy, according to the Los Angeles Times. In particular, it will chronicle his time at Oxford University and as a solider in World War I.
Born in South Africa in 1892, Tolkien was raised in England, and served on the front lines during WWI, according to the Tolkien Society.

Tolkienites can rest assured that a fellow fanatic is handling the screenplay, as writer and director David Gleeson — a self-professed Tolkien superfan — has been tasked with the job.
However, the biopic may face problems before it even has a chance to leave the Shire, as the Tolkien estate is known for being especially protective over the author's rights. It is currently in a legal battle with Warner Bros. to prevent LOTRslot machines from being manufactured.
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Image: Fox Searchlight