The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (Dramatised)

By: J. R. R. Tolkien

Narrated by: Ian Holm, Michael Hordern, Robert Stephens, full cast

Length: 4 hrs and 35 mins

Publisher's summary

With its first broadcast on BBC Radio 4 on March 8th, 1981, this dramatised tale of Middle Earth became an instant global classic. It boasts a truly outstanding cast including Ian Holm (as Frodo), Sir Michael Hordern (as Gandalf), Robert Stephens (as Aragorn), Bill Nighy (as Sam Gamgee) and John Le Mesurier (as Bilbo). Brian Sibley's famous adaptation has been divided into three corresponding parts, with newly recorded beginning and end narration by Ian Holm, who now stars as Bilbo in the feature films based on The Lord of the Rings. Part One, The Fellowship of the Ring, introduces us to Frodo Baggins. With his uncle Bilbo having mysteriously disappeared, Frodo finds himself in possession of a simple gold ring that has great and evil power. It is the Ruling Ring, taken long ago from the Dark Lord, Sauron, who now seeks to possess it again. Frodo must do everything he can to prevent this, and with the help of Gandalf the wizard and a band of loyal companions he begins a perilous journey across Middle-earth. Sauron's Black Riders are on their trail as they travel to Rivendell, attempt to cross the snow-swept Misty Mountains and, in desperation, enter the terrifying Mines of Moria.

©2018 BBC Worldwide Ltd trading as BBC Studios (P)2018 BBC Worldwide Ltd trading as BBC Studios

Beyond words

I listened to this dramatization as a child, and loved it then. I still think the acting, the music and everything about it is beyond compare. The only objection I have, is in the way this was sold to us. I think I should liked the whole thing in one package, with the original episodes serving at chapters, and the original announcements retained. but the dramatization itself, as I said beyond compare. Brian Sibley, also dramatized the chronicles of Narnia and that was wonderful as well. there is a sense of wonder about both about both of these dramatizations, that I just cannot convey his words. Theyy convey the sense of wonder of the books, of the two series, better than any movie or any other dramatization.

Extremely well adapted

Really enjoyed this little gem. My library had a copy years ago. Glad to have my hands on a copy

Walking with Frodo

Tolkien is magnificent, so the story of course was wonderful. As a fan of the books and films, the performance was not as beloved as I wanted to hear the film actors read. It is a treasure to here Ian Holmes play read as Frodo.
I enjoyed listening while walking, as it made me imagine myself on the quest as well. Just an idea for you fellow adventurers.

Very Good

I felt like I was watching the movie. I listened to it at work and kept me interested.

over stylized

this is a classical story . story is good but it was a little over stylized for my liking.

Exceptional!

The story never gets old. Excellent version of this classic tale! I highly recommend this audio book!

Bravo!

A superb rendition and telling of The Lord of the Rings, Fellowship.
All the actors, actresses did such a great job. I look forward to listening to the Two Towers and Return of the King

Finally getting into LOTR

Great dramatization, but I didn't realize how much of a cliffhanger the ending was. :(

Good production, sadly not "unabridged"

I knew that downside going in, but I would love an unabridged version with this cast to.

Can't really complain however, some details and things were skipped bit the story as a whole felt like it was complete for this part at least. I'm expecting similar things for the next two parts and if they are then I'd say these are well worth buying.

best audioplay ever

if you do not own this you are missing out. it is the best thing you could ask for to listen to. I listen to this every night while falling asleep instead of watching TV because it is acted so well that you can visualize it in your head without any effort. buy the trilogy and then thank me later.