Kenji Kamiyama’s upcoming Tolkien anime movie, The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim, is creating quite a buzz among fans. What’s even more exciting is the news that the late Christopher Lee will be featured in the film through old recordings.
For those who may not know, Christopher Lee was a legendary British actor who portrayed the iconic role of Saruman in Peter Jackson’s live-action adaptations of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. Despite his passing in 2015, fans will still get to hear his voice in the upcoming anime movie.
Philippa Boyens, a key figure in the production of the live-action films, revealed that they delved into Lee’s recordings to bring his character back to life. They not only used his lines but also captured his interactions during the recording sessions. The dialogue was based on a line from The Hobbit, with Lee’s distinct voice adding an authentic touch to the character. Even Lee’s widow, Gitte Lee, expressed that Christopher would have approved of this decision.
It’s fascinating to note that Christopher Lee had previously been involved in Japanese projects, showcasing his versatility as an actor. From lending his voice to the Kingdom Hearts video game series to portraying multiple characters in the Sanrio film Nutcracker Fantasy, Lee had a connection to Japanese entertainment. Moreover, his role as King Haggard in The Last Unicorn, a film from the Japanese studio Topcraft linked to Studio Ghibli, further demonstrates his diverse contributions to the world of animation.
The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim is set 183 years before the events of the original film trilogy, focusing on the House of Helm Hammerhand, the revered King of Rohan. The plot revolves around a sudden attack by Wulf, a vengeful Dunlending lord, prompting Helm and his people to defend the ancient fortress of the Hornburg, later known as Helm’s Deep. Héra, Helm’s daughter, finds herself leading the resistance against a formidable enemy bent on their destruction.
As fans eagerly anticipate the release of this anime movie, the inclusion of Christopher Lee’s voice adds a nostalgic and heartfelt touch to the film. It’s a fitting tribute to a talented actor who left an indelible mark on the world of cinema. With his unique voice resonating once again on the big screen, audiences can look forward to experiencing the magic of Tolkien’s universe in a new and captivating way.
