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‘The Hobbit’ to Begin Filming March 21

Director Peter Jackson, who was released from the hospital last week, says: "Despite some delays we are fully back on track and very excited to get started."

February 7, 2011 7:42am

'The Hobbit' Begin Filming March 21 — WELLINGTON, NEW ZEALAND - OCTOBER 25: Hobbit supporters hold up posters during the protest at Civic Square on October 25, 2010 in Wellington, New Zealand. Stakeholders of the film have marched through Wellington a few times to protest over the future of the Hobbit films. The New Zealand Actors Equity has been in negotiation with Warner Brothers, as stakeholders fear the future films could be shot away from New Zealand.
Marty Melville/Getty Images

The Hobbit will begin filming March 21, production company 3Foot7 Ltd announced Monday.

“Despite some delays we are fully back on track and very excited to get started,” said Peter Jackson, who was released from the hospital last week after undergoing surgery Jan. 26 for a perforated ulcer.

Shooting was originally slated to begin on Feb. 14.

It will be filmed at Stone Street Studios in Miramar and on location in New Zealand.

Elijah Wood, Cate Blanchett and Ian McKellen, who was nominated for an Oscar for his portrayal of Gandalf, are among the actors who will reprise their roles.