New Line Cinema and Warner Bros. have released an iOS app optimized for the iPhone, iPod touch and iPad.
“Explore Middle-Earth and experience the epic adventure of The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey,” reads the app’s official description.
”Learn about Bilbo Baggins’ quest to reclaim the lost Dwarf Kingdom of Erebor and the band of thirteen dwarves that join him and Gandalf the Grey as they embark across the wastelands of the Lonely Mountain through exclusive artwork and interactive character galleries.”
Key app features include an interactive map of Middle-Earth, 360º views of scenic locations and settings, a narrative art piece dubbed “The Scroll” and an animated lenticular character portraits. The iOS app also offers access to Peter Jackson’s official production journals, character image galleries and bios, as well as easy (app) social integration with Facebook and Twitter.
In other Hobbit related news, veteran Hollywood filmmaker Peter Jackson reportedly refused to answer any questions about The Hobbit during a press conference in Toronto for the upcoming film West of Memphis on Saturday.
Of course, Jackson’s decision to remaim mum is hardly surprising. Indeed, diehard LOTR fans have loudly criticized his recent decision to split J.R.R. Tolkien’s 300-page fantasy novel into three feature length films – claiming he is simply seeking to cash in on the franchise.
“An Unexpected Journey,” “The Desolation of Smaug” and “There and Back Again,” will hit theaters between December 2012 and July 2014.
