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New Line Cinema Presents
The Return Of The King
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Storyboard 'The Return of the King' 25 March celebrates the Tolkien Society's 'Tolkien Reading Day' (day of the fall of Sauron).
The Lord Of The Rings
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The Return Of The King
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Boat on the Anduin: cousins, Déagol and Sméagol, are fishing.
Déagol: "Sméagol! I've got one! I've got a fish, Sméag!"
Sméagol: "Go on! Go on, pull it up!"
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The fish pulls Déagol out of the boat and into the water. Déagol loses grip on the pole as the fish escapes. He sees a ring in the river bed
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and scoops it out of the riverbed.
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Déagol returns to land, Sméagol sees the ring: "Give us that, Déagol, my love. Its my birthday.’ Déagol refuses. They fight, and the ring drops to the grass.
Ring: "Ash nazg durbatulûk, ash nazg gimbatul, ash nazg thrakatulûk agh burzum-ishi krimpatul!"
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They struggle furiously to pick-up the ring.
Sméagol strangles Déagol, and takes the ring: "My Precious!"
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Sméagol: (voiceover): "They cursed us. Murderer, murderer they called us.”
The Ring progressively possess Sméagol.
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Sméagol: “They cursed us and drove us away!"
Sméagol finds and crawls into a cave in the Misty Mountains.
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Under the evil of the Ring, Sméagol transforms into Gollum.
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(Voiceover): "We even forgot our own name. My Precious."
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An age later: at the exit to the Osgiliath sewer
Sam (asleep), Frodo and Gollum.
Frodo dazed, is inspecting the Ring on its chain.
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Frodo hears Gollum coming, and hides the Ring again.
Gollum: "Wake up! Wake up! Wake up, sleepies! We must go, yes. We must go at once."
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Sam takes out and passes Frodo some Lembas bread, eating none himself: "There should be enough... for the journey home."
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Gollum urges Frodo and Sam to follow him quickly: “Very close to Mordor No safe places here. Hurry!
They walk into Mordor, as once they saw it in the distance in FOTR.
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End of Chapter 1: The Finding of The One Ring
Chapter 2: The Voice of Saruman
Watchwood, near Isengard
A group of riders move through the wood: Gandalf, Aragorn, Legolas, Gimli, Théoden and Éomer. At the end of the forest, a flooded, smouldering Isengard comes into view. Hobbit laughter is heard.
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It is from Merry and Pippin sitting on top of Isengard’s storeroom feasting, with Merry smoking
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and Pippin puffing on Longbottom leaf.
The two hobbits see the riders and welcome them, slightly inebriated:
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"We are sitting on the field of victory. The salted pork is particularly good. We're under orders from Treebeard, who's taken over management of Isengard."
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The riders approach the tower of Isengard, Orthanc
Treebeard: " Gandalf, I'm glad you've come, there's a Wizard to manage here, locked in his tower."
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Gandalf and company ride through the refuse of the flood to door of Isengard.
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Aragorn calls out to Saruman: "Show yourself."
Gimli suggests slaying Saruman and “be done with it".
Gandalf: "No, we need him alive. We need him to talk about Sauron’s plans."
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Saruman comes into view, standing on the top of the tower, asking: “Can we not have peace…?”
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Théoden: "When you hang from a gibbet for the sport of your own crows… we shall have peace."
Saruman from the pinnacle: "What do you want Gandalf Greyhame? The key of Barad-dûr itself…’
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Gandalf: "…Thousands are at risk, but you could save them. You were deep in the enemy's council."
Saruman: "So you have come here for information. I have some for you”, and he producing a palantir.
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Saruman: "Something festers in the heart of Middle-Earth. Something that you have failed to see. But the Great Eye has seen it. Even now he presses his advantage. His attack will come soon."
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Saruman: "You're all going to die. But you know this don't you, Gandalf. You cannot think that this Ranger will ever sit upon the throne of Gondor. This exile, crept from the shadows, will never be crowned king."
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Saruman: "Gandalf does not hesitate to sacrifice those closest to him, those he professes to love. Tell me what words of comfort did you give the halfling before you sent him to his doom?"
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Gandalf: "Come down Saruman, and your life will be spared."
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Saruman: "Save your pity and your mercy; I have no use for it!"
Saruman shoots a fireball from his staff.
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The flames shot from the pinnacle of Orthanc down
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to engulf Gandalf.
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To a shocked Saruman, Gandalf reappears unscathed.
Gandalf: "Saruman, your staff is broken."
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Saruman glares horrified as his staff shatters in his hand.
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From behind Saruman, a hunched figure approaches: Gríma Wormtongue.
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Théoden: "Gríma, you need not follow him. You were not always as you are now. You were once a man of Rohan! Come down. Be free of him."
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Saruman: "A man of Rohan. Victory at Helms Deep does not belong to you, Théoden, horsemaster! You are a lesser son of greater sires.” “Free? He will never be free."
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Grima: “No!”
Saruman to Gríma: "Get down, cur!" Saruman slaps Grima and he falls down.
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Gandalf: "Saruman, you were deep in the enemy's council. Tell us what you know.’
Saruman: "You withdraw your guard, and I will tell you where your doom will be decided."
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Gríma draws a dagger and lunges at Saruman, stabbing him in the back.
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Saruman grimaces, as blood gushes.
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Legolas fires an arrow which strikes Gríma.
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Gríma who falls down, dead.
Saruman falls off the tower and is impaled by the wheel spoke, his palantir falling into the water.
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Gandalf: "Send word to all our allies, and to every corner of Middle-Earth that still stands free. The enemy moves against us. We need to know where he will strike."
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Treebeard returns: "The filth of Saruman is washing away. Trees will come back to live here."
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Pippin sees a glowing orb in the water. He dismounts and picks it up, mesmerised by it.
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Gandalf: "Peregrin Took, I'll take that, my lad. Quickly now!"
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Pippin reluctantly hands Gandalf the orb. Gandalf covers it up, and the group start out for Edoras.
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End of Chapter 2: The Voice of Saruman
Chapter 3: Edoras
The group rides towards Edoras.
Éowyn is waiting outside the Golden Hall.
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Later inside the Golden Hall
Éowyn carries a celebration goblet
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and presents it to Théoden.
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Théoden: “Remember those who gave their blood... Hail the victorious dead!"
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Aragorn hesitates, thinking of those not present, then drinks from his tankard.
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The Rohirrim party in the Hall.
Éowyn approaches Aragorn, handing him a goblet: "Westu, Aragorn, hál" (‘Be-thou Aragorn well’).
Aragorn takes a goblet from Éowyn, and drinks from it.
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Éowyn smiles at Aragorn.
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Aragorn returns the cup and walks away.
Théoden joins Éowyn: "I am happy for you. He is an honourable man."
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Éowyn: "You are both honourable men."
Théoden: "It was not Théoden of Rohan who led our people to victory. Ah, don't listen to me…”
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The celebration continues
While Merry and Pippin are dancing and singing on a tabletop, Gimli challenges Legolas to a drinking contest.
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After the draining of many tankards, Gimli passes out.
Legolas smugly smiling: "I feel something. A slight tingling in my fingers. I think it's affecting me… Game over.”
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Aragorn and Gandalf are discussing that no news has been received about Frodo.
Aragorn: "We have time... What does your heart tell you?”
Gandalf: "That Frodo is alive. Yes, he is alive."
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End of Chapter 3: Edoras
Chapter 4: A villain revealed
Ephel Dúath: Frodo and Sam are asleep.
Gollum has woken and creeps down to and looks into a pool, and sees his (Sméagol’s) reflection.
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Gollum: "Shhh! Quiet! Mustn't wake them! Mustn't ruin it now!"
Sméagol: "But they knows! They knows! They suspects us!"
Gollum: "What's it saying, my precious, my love? Is Sméagol losing his nerve?"
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Sméagol: "No! Not! Never! Sméagol hates nasty hobbitses! Sméagol wants to see them… dead!"
Gollum: "And we will. Sméagol did it once. He can do it again."
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Gollum: "Patience, my love. First we must lead them to her."
Sméagol: "We lead them to the stairs and tunnel."
Gollum: "And when they go in, there's no coming out.”
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Gollum: "She hungers for sweeter meats. Hobbit meat. When she throws away the bones…we will find It!"
Sméagol: "And take it for me!"
Gollum: "For us."
Sméagol (afraid): "Yes, we meant, we meant for us."
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Sam awakes, overhears, and hitting Gollum: "You treacherous little thief!”
Sam, to a now woken Frodo: "He's a villain. I heard it from his own mouth! He means to murder us!"
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Gollum: "Never! Sméagol wouldn't hurt a fly! Fat hobbit who hates Sméagol makes up nasty lies!"
Frodo: "Sam! Leave him alone! We can't do this by ourselves. Not without a guide.”
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Frodo: “I need you on my side. Trust me Sam. Come Sméagol”
Gollum, hand in hand with Frodo, grins evily back at Sam.
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End of Chapter 4: A villain revealed
Chapter 5: The Palantír
Night comes to Edoras. In a communal sleeping room.
Aragorn leaves carrying his pipe. He pauses to stoke a fire near a sleeping Éowyn.
As Éowyn stirs, Aragorn covers her feet and shoulders with a blanket.
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Éowyn grasps his hand, he sits down.
Éowyn: "I dreamed I saw a great wave, climbing over green lands and above the hills. I stood upon the brink. It was utterly dark in the abyss before my feet. A light shone behind me but I could not turn. I could only stand there, waiting."
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Aragorn: "Night changes many thoughts. Sleep, Éowyn. Sleep… while you can."
Aragorn leaves the Golden Hall.
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Outside the Golden Hall
Legolas is standing alone, looking at the sky: "The stars are veiled. Something stirs in the East. A sleepless malice. The Eye of the enemy is moving."
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Aragorn joins him, looking towards Mordor.
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Within the Golden Hall
Pippin is unable to sleep; he is driven to look again into the Palantir. He takes the Palantír from a sleeping eye-wide-open Gandalf, telling Merry: "I just want to look at it! Just one more time."
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Outside the Hall
Legolas: "He is here!"
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Inside the Hall
Pippin becomes affixed to the glowing stone and could not release the palantir, as he heard Sauron say: "I see you!"
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Aragorn and Legolas rush in. Pippin, stuck to the burning orb, writhes in pain.
Aragorn grabs the Palantír, which sticks, then falls from his hands, rolls across the floor.
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Gandalf throws a cloth over it: "Fool of a Took!", then sees Pippin collapsed, terrified.
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Gandalf revives Pippin: “What did you see?"
Pippin: "A tree… there was a white tree in a courtyard of stone… it was dead. The city was burning."
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Pippin: “I saw… I saw Him! I could hear His voice in my head! He asked me my name. I didn't answer.”
Gandalf: "What did you tell Him about Frodo and the Ring?"
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End of Chapter 5: The Palantír
Chapter 6: To Minas Tirith
In the Golden Hall: Aragorn, Legolas, Gimli, Merry, and Pippin are present.
Gandalf talks to Théoden: "There was no lie in Pippin's eyes. A fool, but an honest fool. He told Sauron nothing of Frodo and the Ring. We've been fortunate. Pippin saw Sauron moves to strike Minas Tirith.”
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Gandalf: “Saruman's defeat at Helm's Deep showed men are not as weak as he supposed; there is courage still, strength perhaps to challenge him. Sauron fears the peoples of Middle-earth uniting and that the heir of Elendil has come forth.”
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Gandalf: "Sauron will raze Minas Tirith to the ground.”
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Gandalf: “If the Beacons of Gondor are lit, Rohan must be ready for war."
Théoden: "Tell me, why should we ride to the aid of those who did not come to ours?”
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Gandalf to Théoden: “Things are now in motion that cannot be undone. I ride for Minas Tirith."
Aragorn: "They must be warned, I will go."
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Gandalf to Aragorn: "No, they will be warned. You must come to Minas Tirith by another road. Follow the river and look to the black ships."
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Outside the Great Hall
Gandalf makes his way to the Edoras stables, followed by Merry explaining to Pippin: "The enemy thinks you have the Ring! He's going to be looking for you, Pip. They have to get you out of here."
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Inside the stables
Gandalf readies Shadowfax, lifts Pippin up: "Run, Shadowfax. Show us the meaning of haste."
Shadowfax gallops out of the stables.
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Merry runs after them. He climbs up to a watchtower; Aragorn following him: "He's always followed me. Everywhere I went, since before we were tweens. I would get him into the worst sort of trouble.”
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Merry: “But I was always there to get him out. And now he's gone just like Frodo, and Sam."
Aragorn puts his hand on Merry's shoulder: "One thing I've learned about hobbits: they are the most hardy folk."
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End of Chapter 6: To Minas Tirith
Chapter 7: Arwen's Choice
In the forest, on the trail to Mithlond
Arwen, along with a group of elves, rides her horse down a wooded path.
Elrond (voiceover): "Take her by the safest road. A ship waits to carry her across the Sea. The last journey of Arwen Undómiel."
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Arwen stops, glances over to the forest and sees a small boy running past the elves. A vision of a gray-haired Aragorn appears. He runs to the boy. Aragorn takes him in his arms and spins him around, laughing.
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The boy stares at Arwen, somberly. The boy is shown wearing Arwen's Evenstar pendant. Elrond (voiceover): "There is nothing for you here, only death."
Arwen realises that in fact there is her son.
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Arwen turns Asfaloth around. The other elves continue to reach the last ship to the West.
She gallops back to Rivendell.
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Arwen rushes to Elrond: “Tell me what you have seen. You have the gift of foresight, what did you see?”
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Elrond: "I looked into your future and I saw death."
Arwen: "But there was also life. You saw there was a child. You saw my son."
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Elrond: "But that future is almost gone."
Arwen: "But it is not lost!
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Arwen: “There is still hope.”
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Elrond: "Nothing is certain."
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Arwen: "Some things are certain! If I leave him now, I will regret it forever…
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...It is time.”
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At the shrine of the Shards of Narsil
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Flashback to the Last Alliance battle with Sauron
Arwen ‘sees’ Sauron and his Ring
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Elendil’s doom and Isildur taking up Elendil’s shattered sword, and severing Sauron’s finger and the Ring.
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Arwen (voiceover): "From the ashes a fire shall be woken, a light from the shadows shall spring, renewed shall be the blade that was broken. The crownless again shall be King."
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In the House of Elrond
Arwen speaks to Elrond: "Reforge this Sword… Ada." (father)
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Rivendell elven forge
Two elven swordsmiths at the forge are reforging the shards of Narsil.
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Elrond watches as the sword is reforged.
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Arwen’s chamber
Arwen is standing inspecting a book.
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She sits down to read it.
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As her energy wanes, it slowly slips from her hold.
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Elrond sits with Arwen: "Your hands are cold. The life of the Eldar is leaving you."
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Elrond takes her hands and comforts her.
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Arwen: "This was my choice. Adar, whether by your will or not, there is no ship now that can bear me hence."
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End of Chapter 7: Arwen's Choice
Chapter 8: The Steward of Gondor
Plains of Rohan to Gondor
Gandalf and Pippin ride Shadowfax out of a forest and across a plain.
Gandalf: "We have just passed into the realm of Gondor!"
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Shadowfax crests a hill and a large city appears, built into a mountain of white rock.
Gandalf: "Minas Tirith, City of Kings."
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They ride to the city gates. The tiers of the White City gleam in the sun.
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They ride through the city, up to the top, the seventh tier of the White City, where the Citadel and White Tower of Ecthelion are located (1000 feet above the plain); protected by Gondorian guards.
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Pippin sees a tree: "It's the tree, Gandalf.”
Gandalf: "Yes, the White Tree of Gondor, the tree of the King. Lord Denethor however is not the king.”
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Before the Throne Room
Gandalf hesitates to speak to Pippin: "Lord Denethor is Boromir's father. To give him news of his beloved son's death would be most unwise…Do not mention Frodo or the Ring, or Aragorn… In fact, it's better if you don't speak at all.”
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Within the Throne Room
Gandalf slowly approaches Denethor, who sits on the Stewards' Throne, his face lowered.
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Denethor holds the broken Horn of Gondor in his hands.
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Gandalf: "Hail, Denethor, Lord and Steward of Gondor. I come with tidings in this dark hour.”
Denethor: "Perhaps you've come to tell me why my son is dead."
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A flashback to the battle of Amon Hen
Boromir is killed by Lurtz
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In Minas Tirith
Pippin walks to face Denethor: "Boromir died to save us, my kinsmen and me. He fell defending us from many foes. "I offer you my service, such as it is, in payment of this debt."
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Denethor: "My first command. How did you escape and my son did not? So mighty a man as he was."
Pippin: "The mightiest man may be slain by one arrow, and Boromir was pierced by many."
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Gandalf pushes Pippin out of the way: "My lord, there will be a time to grieve for Boromir, but it is not now. War is coming. The enemy is on your doorstep! As Steward, you're charged with the defence of this city. Where are Gondor's armies?"
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Gandalf: "You have friends. You're not alone in this fight. Send word to Théoden. Light the beacons."
Denethor: "You think you are wise, Mithrandir, yet you have not wisdom. Do you think the eyes of the White Towers are blind?
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Denethor: ‘I have seen more than you know.”
It was rumoured that Denethor had used a palantir, as Gandalf said after Denethor’s passing: “When his wisdom failed; and I fear that as the peril of his realm grew he looked into the Stone and was deceived…”
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Denethor: "I know who rides with Théoden: Aragorn, son of Arathorn, and I tell you now: I will not bow to this Ranger from the north. Last of a ragged house long bereft of Lordship!"
Gandalf: "Authority is not given to you to deny the return of the King, Steward!"
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Denethor rises: "The whole rule of Gondor is mine! And no others'!"
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Gandalf (to Pippin): "Come!" “All has turned to vain ambition! He would even use his grief as a cloak.”
As they walk out, the door opens, revealing the courtyard, its tree, and in the distance, Mordor.
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Gandalf: "A thousand years this city has stood. Now, at the whim of a madman it will fall. The White Tree waits in the hope that a new king will come and a new line of kingship will rule again.”
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Gandalf and Pippin look over to Mordor as dark grey plumes rise and spread towards Gondor.
Gandalf: "This is the device of Sauron's making. A broil of fumes he sends ahead of his orcs.”
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Gandalf: “He covers the face of the sun to ease their passage along the road to war. When the shadow of Mordor reaches this city, it will begin… There's no leaving this city. Help must come to us.”
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End of Chapter 8: The Steward of Gondor
Chapter 9: The WitchKing of Angmar
Ithilien: Gollum leads Sam and Frodo through the wilderness
Frodo stops: "It's just a feeling. I don't think I'll be coming back."
Sam: "Yes you will, of course you will. We're goin there and back again, just like Mister Bilbo. You'll see.”
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They come across the head of a statue lying on the ground, where flowers have grown around as a crown.
Gollum: "Come on, Hobbits! Mustn't stop now. This way."
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Minas Tirith at night
Gandalf is standing out on a balcony looking out to Mordor .
Pippin joins him: "It's so quiet.”
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Gandalf: "It's the deep breath before the plunge."
Pippin: "I don't want to be in a battle, but waiting on the edge of one is even worse! Is there any hope?”
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Gandalf: "There never was much hope. Our enemy is ready, his full strength gathers. Not only orcs, but men as well, legions of Haradrim from the South, mercenaries from the coast,
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all answer Mordor's call, some with lumbering Mumakil (war Oliphants).
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Gandalf: "This will be the end of Gondor as we know it. Here the hammer stroke will fall the hardest. If the river is taken, if the garrison at Osgiliath falls, the last defence of this city will be gone."
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Gandalf: "Sauron has yet to reveal his deadliest servant. The one who would lead Mordor's armies in war. The one they say no living man can kill: the WitchKing of Angmar.”
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In Minas Morgul
The WitchKing of Angmar prepares for battle.
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Gandalf: "You've met him before. He stabbed Frodo on Weathertop. He is the lord of the Nazgûl, the greatest of the nine. Minas Morgul is his lair."
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A flashback to Weathertop
The Nazgûl approaching the hobbits.
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The WitchKing reaching for the Ring
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and stabs Frodo with the Morgul blade.
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Minas Morgul
Gollum leads Frodo and Sam to the other side of the road to the city.
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Gollum points out a long, steep staircase, set into the rock.
Frodo wanders towards the dead city, past a pair of gargoyles.
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Gollum: "Not that way! What's it doing?"
Frodo: "They're calling me."
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Frodo mesmerised, stares at Minas Morgul.
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As Sam and Gollum rush to pull Frodo away, the middle of the city erupts with a bright blue-green light, Frodo and Sam look up horrified.
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In Minas Tirith
The eruption is visible to Gandalf and Pippin on the balcony.
Gandalf: "The board is set. The pieces are moving. We come to it at last, the great battle of our time.”
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In Minas Morgul
The WitchKing emerges from Minas Morgul, mounted on a fell beast.
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He emits a deafening cry.
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Sam and Frodo flinch with the cry, and Frodo grabs his shoulder in pain: "I can feel his blade."
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An orc army leaves Minas Morgul and crosses the bridge, marching towards Minas Tirith.
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Gollum: "Hurry, hobbits! We climb! We must climb!"
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End of Chapter 9: The WitchKing of Angmar
Chapter 10: The Beacons of War
At the Cirith Ungol stair
Gollum leads the hobbits up the steep stairs.
Frodo and Sam look up at them.
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Sam warns/threatens Gollum. The hobbits continue climbing. Gollum grins up at Sam and follows.
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In the morning in Minas Tirith
Gandalf walks Pippin towards the top of Minas Tirith: "Peregrin Took, there is a task now to be done. Another opportunity for one of the Shire-folk to prove their great worth. You must not fail me."
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In Osgiliath
Madril to Faramir: “If the Orcs attack from the north, we'll have some warning."
Gothmog directs boats filled with armed orcs rowing towards Osgiliath: "Quiet!"
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Faramir realises the orcs are coming via the river. He rallies his men for the attack: "To the river! Quick!”
Faramir and his men gather behind pillars at the riverbank.
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As the Orcs arrive on shore, Faramir's men attack.
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But the orcs swarm into the city.
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In Minas Tirith
Gandalf takes Pippin to the signal beacon.
Pippin climbs to the top, evading the guards.
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He tosses the lit lamp onto the wood.
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To Pippin's shock it quickly catches fire. He scrambles down safely.
As Gandalf watches, the beacon burns: "Hope is rekindled."
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The guard on watch sees the next signal light-up: "The beacon of Amon Dîn is lit!"
Denethor looks out of a window and frowns.
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Signals successively light-up.
Amon Dîn alight in background; Eilenach in foreground; to Halifirien, where Aragorn sees it and runs to Théoden.
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Aragorn, bursting through doors: "The Beacons of Minas Tirith! The Beacons are lit! Gondor calls for aid!"
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Théoden, in council, pauses and then announces: "And Rohan will answer. Muster the Rohirrim!"
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Éowyn watches Théoden with pride at his decision.
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A soldier rings the alarm bell, calling men to arms.
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Théoden exits Meduseld, speaking with Éomer: "Assemble the army at Dunharrow, as many men as can be found. You have two days. On the third, we ride for Gondor. And war."
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At Edoras’ stables: Aragorn and Éowyn meet as they saddle up
Aragorn uncovers a sword, hidden in Éowyn's saddle.
Éowyn: "The men have found their captain, they will follow you even to death. You have given us hope."
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Merry presents his service to Théoden, who accepts him as "...Meriadoc, esquire of Rohan."
Legolas and Gimli prepare to depart. Théoden takes one last look at his kingdom's banner.
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Théoden (voiceover): "So it is before the walls of Minas Tirith, the doom of our time will be decided."
Éomer: "Now is the hour, Riders of Rohan, oaths you have taken! Now, fulfil them all! To Lord and Land!"
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End of Chapter 10: The Beacons of War
Chapter 11: Retreat from Osgiliath
In Osgiliath
The Gondorian soldiers are overwhelmed by orcs and Nazgûl. Faramir gives the order to retreat.
Madril lies injured. Gothmog takes a spear and kills him: "The age of Men is over. The time of the Orc has come."
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The Nazgûl attack the soldiers in desperate retreat, tossing horses and men through the air to their death.
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On Shadowfax, Gandalf races to the aid of the soldiers, his staff sets off a bright, white light, blinding the Nazgûl, which fly away. The soldiers and Gandalf ride on to Minas Tirith.
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Inside the gates of the White City: Faramir comes to Gandalf
Faramir: “The orcs have taken the bridge and the West bank." He stares at Pippin.
Gandalf: "Faramir? This is not the first halfling to have crossed your path?"
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Faramir: "No. In Ithilien, not two days ago. Frodo and Sam are taking the road to the Morgul Vale."
Gandalf: "And then the Pass of Cirith Ungol. Faramir, tell me everything. Tell me all you know."
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In the citadel, Faramir stands before his father.
Denethor: "You sent the Ring of Power into Mordor in the hands of a witless halfling. It should have been brought back to the Citadel to be kept safe. Hidden not to be used unless at the uttermost… end of need."
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Faramir: "I would not use the Ring. Not if Minas Tirith were falling in ruin and I alone could save her."
Denethor: "Ever you desire to appear gracious as a king of old. Boromir would have brought me this kingly gift."
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Faramir: "Boromir would not have brought the Ring. He would have taken it. He would've fallen."
Denethor angrily jumps up: "You know nothing of this! Boromir was loyal to me!” He cries and falls, demented.
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Faramir runs to his side, Denethor rises, and looks over Faramir's shoulder and smiles: “My son!”, hallucinating the image of Boromir, which fades.
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Denethor is left looking at Faramir. His mood shifts back to anger: yelling to Faramir: "Leave me!"
Faramir hesitates, and departs from the hall; his father staring at his departure.
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End of Chapter 11: Retreat from Osgiliath
Chapter 12: Faramir's loyalty
Stairs of Cirith Ungol: Gollum, Frodo, and Sam climb.
Gollum reaches a ledge and looks down at a struggling Frodo: "Careful, master! Very far to fall!”
Gollum sees the One Ring around Frodo's neck. He reaches for it.
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Sam sees Gollum’s ominous reach: "Get back, you! Don't touch him!"
Gollum pulls Frodo up onto the ledge: "Why does he hates poor Sméagol?”
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Gollum takes Frodo aside while Sam climbs onto the ledge: "He wants It. He needs It, Sméagol sees it in his eyes! Very soon he will ask you for It! You will see! The fat one will take it from you!"
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Osgiliath: The Witch-King of Angmar lauds over the orcs
WitchKing: "Send forth all legions. Do not stop the attack until the city is taken. Slay them all."
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Gothmog: "What of the wizard?"
Witch-King: "I will break him."
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On the walls of Minas Tirith, Gandalf and the soldiers look towards Osgiliath
The soldiers ask Gandalf about when Rohan’s army will come.
Gandalf: "Courage is the best defence that you have now."
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Outside the Hall of Kings: Pippin sits in his Gondorian armour
Faramir appears, and confirms Pippin’s armour belonged to him as a child: though “Boromir was always the soldier. They were so alike, he and my father. Proud. Stubborn even. But strong."
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Pippin: "I think you have strength of a different kind. And one day your father will see it."
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Inside Gondor's throne room: Pippin kneels before Denethor swearing allegiance. Faramir observes
Denethor (to Faramir) "Disloyalty with vengeance. I do not think we should so lightly abandon the outer defences. Defences that your brother long held intact. Osgiliath must be retaken.”
He sits to eat.
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Faramir: "My lord, Osgiliath is overrun."
Denethor: "Much must be risked in war. Is there a Captain here who has the courage to do his lord's will?"
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Faramir: "You wish now that our places had been exchanged. That I had died and Boromir had lived."
Denethor (eating): "Yes. I wish that."
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Faramir: "Since you are robbed of Boromir, I will do what I can in his stead. If I should return, think better of me, father."
Denethor: "That will depend on the manner of your return." Denethor takes up his goblet to drink.
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Faramir walks slowly away, to do as his father's will.
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End of Chapter 12: Faramir's loyalty
Chapter 13: Missing Lembas
On a ledge on the secret stair, Sam and Frodo are asleep, Gollum is awake
Gollum open’s Sam’s backpack. He takes out the Lembas, scatters crumbs on Sam's cloak. He then throws the remainder of the food over the ledge.
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Sam awoke, suspicious but has not seen what Gollum has done: "Where are you off to? Sneaking off are we?"
Gollum: "Sneaking? Sneaking! Fat hobbit is always so polite.” "Sneaking."
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Sam wakes Frodo and checks his pack: "It's gone! The elven bread!, Gollum took it! He must have!"
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Gollum: "No, Sméagol hates nasty Elf bread." “Look”, wiping crumbs off Sam’s jacket: “He took it.”
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Sam in a fit of fury, attacks Gollum: "That's a filthy lie! You stinking filth face!"
Frodo: "Sam! No!" Frodo collapses.
Sam halts his attack and tries to explain and tend to an exhausted Frodo.
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Sam: "You're exhausted….It's that thing around your neck. I… could help a bit. I could carry it for a while…"
Frodo remembers Gollum’s warning, horrified: "Get away! It is not Gollum Sam…it is you! Go home!”
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Distraught, Sam collapses, crying, as Frodo and Gollum continue up the stairs.
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End of Chapter 13: Missing Lembas
Chapter 14: The Muster of Rohan
Minas Tirith: Faramir leads a group of cavalry slowly out of Minas Tirith.
Citizens watch on, looking sad. Some throw flowers in the men's path.
Gandalf pushes through the crowd: “Faramir! Your father's will is turned to madness. Do not throw away your life so rashly."
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Faramir: "Where does my allegiance lie if not here? I will gladly give my life to defend the city…”
Gandalf: "Your father loves you, Faramir. He will remember it before the end."
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On Pelennor Fields
The cavalry forms a line and rides towards Osgiliath.
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At Osgiliath
The orcs are armed and ready, and waiting.
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Gothmog watches the advance, waiting to give the order for the massacre.
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Hall of Kings
Denethor sits at a banquet: Pippin is watching-on.
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Denethor eating (to Pippin): "Come, sing me a song."
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Pippin starts to sing his haunting melody: ‘The Edge of Night’: "Home is behind, the world ahead and there are many paths to tread."
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Pippin singing: "Through shadow to the edge of night until the stars are all alight."
Denethor continues to eat.
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Faramir leads his cavalry to their final charge…
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Pippin: "All shall fade..."
As Pippin's song ends, orc archers fire from within Osgiliath on Faramir's men, all but dying in a hail of arrows.
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Pippin senses the massacre outside, holds back tears
Gandalf sits in an empty courtyard. A bell tolls.
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Encampment at Dunharrow: Théoden and Aragorn survey the army
Théoden: "Six thousand spears - less than half of what I'd hoped for. Not enough, but more will come."
Aragorn: "Every hour lost hastens Gondor's defeat. We have till dawn. Then we must ride."
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Near the path (road to the Dimholt): A horse rears.
Legolas: "The horses are restless, and the men are quiet."
Éomer reveals: “They grow nervous in the shadow of the mountain.”
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Éomer: "None who venture there ever return. That mountain is evil."
Aragorn looks down the path and
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sees a ghostly green figure in the distance on the road.
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At night, inside a tent, Éowyn helps Merry dress for battle.
Éowyn sends Merry to smithy to sharpen his sword. He exits the tent, passing Éomer.
Éomer to Éowyn: "You should not encourage him… I do not doubt his heart, just the reach of his arm."
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Éowyn: "Why should Merry be left behind? He has as much cause to go to war as you!”
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Éowyn: "Why can he not fight for those he loves?"
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Éomer: "You know as little of war as that Hobbit. When the fear and horror of battle takes him, do you think he would stand and fight? He would flee, and he would be right to do so. War is the province of men, Éowyn."
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End of Chapter 14: The Muster of Rohan
Chapter 15: Andúril
Dunharrow (deep night): a cloaked rider approaches
Sleeping, Aragorn has a vision of Arwen saying: "I choose a mortal life. I wish I could have seen him, one last time."
The Evenstar pendant falls to the floor and shatters.
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Aragorn wakes with a shout. A soldier stands in the doorway: ‘King Théoden awaits you, my Lord.”
Aragorn enters Théoden's tent. There is a seated, cloaked figure. Théoden leaves.
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Elrond lifts his hood: "Arwen is dying. The light of the Evenstar is failing. As Sauron's power grows, her strength wanes. Her life is now tied to the fate of the Ring. The shadow is upon us, Aragorn. The end has come."
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Aragorn: "It will not be our end but His."
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Elrond: "You ride to war but not to victory. Sauron's armies march on Minas Tirith and Corsair ships will attack by sea. You need more men. Those who… dwell in the mountain."
A flash shows a leering ghost.
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Aragorn: "Murderers! Traitors! They believe in nothing! They answer to no one."
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Elrond: "They will answer to the King of Gondor.”
He reveals Andúril: “forged from the shards of Narsil.”
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Aragorn: "Sauron will not have forgotten the Sword of Elendil. The blade that was broken shall return to Minas Tirith.”
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Elrond: "The man who can wield the power of this sword can summon to him an army more deadly than any that walks this earth. Put aside the ranger. Become who you were born to be. Take the Dimholt road."
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Elrond: "Ónen i-Estel Edain." (I gave hope to the Dúnedain.)
Aragorn: "Ú-chebin Estel anim." (I have kept no hope for myself.)
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In the camp
Aragorn readies his horse to depart.
Éowyn rushes up to him: "Why are you doing this? The war lies to the East. You cannot leave on the eve of battle!"
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Éowyn (struggling for words): "You cannot abandon the men. We need you here."
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Aragorn: "Why have you come?"
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Éowyn: "Do you not know?"
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Aragorn: "It is but a shadow and a thought that you love. I cannot give you what you seek. I have wished you joy since first I saw you."
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Aragorn touches her face then turns and walks away.
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Éowyn is shocked and devastated.
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Aragorn looks after Éowyn as she rushes off, saddened…
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Aragorn leads Brego towards the Dimholt Road
Gimli approaches Aragorn: "Just where do you think you're off to?"
Aragorn: "Not this time. This time you must stay, Gimli."
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Legolas appears with his horse: "Have you learned nothing of the stubbornness of dwarves?"
Gimli: "Might as well accept it. We're going with you, laddie."
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The three start off on the Dimholt and disappear into the darkness.
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Soldiers, seeing them depart, ask where Aragorn is going, why is he leaving them.
Gamling: "He leaves because there is no hope. Too few have come. We cannot defeat the armies of Mordor."
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Théoden joins the soldiers: "He leaves because he must. We cannot defeat Mordor, but we will meet them in battle nonetheless."
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End of Chapter 15: Andúril
Chapter 16: Departure from Dunharrow
At dawn
Éowyn is deeply saddened watching the sunrise (as she once faced the towers).
Théoden joins her: "I have left instructions. The people are to follow your rule in my stead.”
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Théoden: “Take up my seat in the Golden Hall. Long may you defend Edoras if the battle goes ill."
Éowyn: "What other duty would you have me do, my lord?"
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Théoden: "Duty? No. I would have you smile again. Do not grieve for those whose time has come. You shall live to see these days renewed. No more despair."
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He lovingly caresses her.
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The barren mountain path: Aragorn, Gimli, and Legolas ride along
Gimli: "What kind of army would linger in such a place?"
Legolas: "One that is cursed."
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Legolas: "The Men of the Mountain swore an oath to the king of Gondor to come to his aid. But when the time came, they fled into the mountain. So Isildur cursed them, never to rest, until they had fulfilled their pledge."
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"Who shall call them from the grey twilight? The heir of him to whom the oath they swore. From the north shall he come. Need shall drive him. He shall pass the door to the Paths of the Dead."
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They approach the Dimholt door. It is adorned with skulls.
Legolas reads the hieroglyphs above the door: “The way is shut. It was made by those who were dead, and the dead keep it. The way is shut.'"
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Wind and noise come out of the door. The horses rear and flee.
Aragorn enters the mountain: "I do not fear death!"
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Legolas soon follows.
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Gimli hestitates: "Well this is something unheard of! An elf will go underground where a dwarf dare not! Ah, I'd never hear the end of it!" and he runs into the tunnel.
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Morning at Dunharrow. The Rohirrim prepare to depart.
Théoden to Eomer: "We must ride light and swift. The men and beast must reach the end with a strength to fight."
Théoden notices Merry in armour: “Little hobbits do not belong in war, Master Meriadoc."
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Merry: "All my friends have gone to battle. I will be ashamed to be left behind! I want to fight"
Théoden: "It is a three day gallop to Minas Tirith and none of my riders can bear you as a burden. I will say no more."
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Théoden rides away, leaving a despairing Merry.
One of the riders snatches Merry up onto his horse. Éowyn, disguised as a Rohirrim: "Ride with me."
Merry: "My lady!"
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Théoden: "Ride! Ride now for Gondor!"
A column of riders flows out of the encampment.
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End of Chapter 16: Departure from Dunharrow
Chapter 17: The Paths of the Dead
Pelennor Fields, Minas Tirith
A large army of orcs and battle trolls approaches Minas Tirith.
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Trolls beat drums and push large siege towers.
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Dwimorberg, the Mountain of the Dead
Aragorn's party moves inside, past piles of skulls on walls and beneath their feet, to the great hall.
A ghost appears, the King of the Dead (KOTD): "Who enters my domain?"
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Aragorn: "One who will have your allegiance."
KOTD: "The dead do not suffer the living to pass."
Aragorn: "You will suffer me!"
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KOTD laughs.
A dead city appears. Dead soldiers walk out of the city and encircle the living.
KOTD: "The way is shut. It was made by those who are dead. And the dead keep it. Now you must die."
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Aragorn: "I summon you to fulfil your oath."
KOTD: "None but the King of Gondor may command me!"
Aragorn draws the reforged sword of the King of Gondor.
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KOTD swings at Aragorn. Aragorn parries with the Sword of Elendil.
KOTD: "That sword was broken!"
Aragorn: "It has been remade. Fight for us, and regain your honour. What say you?
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Aragorn implores the dead soldiers: "What say you?!"
Gimli: "You waste your time, Aragorn! They had no honour in life, they have none now in death."
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Aragorn: "I am Isildur's heir. Fight for me and I will hold your oaths fulfilled! What say you!"
KOTD laughs as his army begins to fade.
Aragorn: "You have my word! Fight, and I will release you from this living death! What say you?"
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The ground shakes. Skulls roll on the floor. Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli turn to the breaking doorway to see thousands of skulls flowing out of it, they fight their way through the sculls and escape.
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Emerging from the doorway in the mountainside, Aragorn sees the black ships and the cities they have sacked.
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Aragorn falls to his knees in despair. Legolas comforts him.
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Aragorn, distraught, feels he has failed to convince the KOTD to fight for him.
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Aragorn hears a sound behind him and turns around.
KOTD appears before him: "We fight!"
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End of Chapter 17: The Paths of the Dead
Chapter 18: The Siege of Gondor
In Minas Tirith
As the orc army nears Minas Tirith, a horse drags a wounded Faramir to its gates. Faramir is taken, on a litter, to the citadel's courtyard.
Denethor runs to Faramir: "Faramir? Say not that he has fallen."
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On Pelennor Field in the orc army camp
Gothmog rides a snarling warg: "Fear. The city is rank with it. Let us ease their pain. Release the prisoners!"
An orc lieutenant with a skull impaled on top of his helmet relays the order: "Catapults! Ha!"
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On the wall of Minas Tirith
Soldiers duck behind their shields as the heads of their fellow soldiers fall, slain and beheaded in the attack on Osgiliath. The soldiers scream with revulsion…
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Citadel's courtyard
Denethor wails as he moves from Faramir: "My sons are spent. My line has ended.”
Pippin bends over Faramir: "He's alive! He needs medicine my Lord!"
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Meanwhile, the Morgul army pound the city with stone catapults, loaded by trolls, smashing the towers and killing soldiers.
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Denethor goes to the edge of the courtyard. He looks down to see the orc army: “The house of Stewards has failed. Rohan has deserted us. Théoden has betrayed me. Abandon your posts! Flee! Flee for your lives!”
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Horrified by Denethor’s command, Gandalf hits him with his staff, knocking him out.
He countermands Denethor: "Prepare for battle."
Gandalf rides to the parapet and looks out at the opposing army.
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Gandalf: "Send these foul beasts into the abyss!" Soldiers use trebuchets to launch rocks at the orc army.
The masonry squashes orcs. Gothmog: "Stay where you are." He spits on a rock which he just sidestepped.
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Suddenly the Nazgûl appear on fellbeasts.
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The fellbeasts dive at the city and tear down the trebuchets, diving and killing soldiers.
Gandalf: "Hold them back. Do not give in to fear! Stay at your posts!"
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Trolls push siege towers against the city walls, and orcs pour over. Gandalf fights them off with staff and sword.
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Pippin appears.
Gandalf: "Go back to the citadel. This is no place for a hobbit!" Gandalf turns to flay an orc.
Pippin sees another about to strike Gandalf. Pippin stabs the orc, killing it.
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Gandalf sees this courageous act: "Guard of the Citadel indeed! Now back up the hill! Quick!”
Pippin retreats.
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At the gate of Minas Tirith
Gothmog: "Grond will breach it. Bring up the wolf's head."
A great battering ram is pulled and pushed towards the city gates: orc army chant: ‘Grond, Grond!”
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End of Chapter 18: The Siege of Gondor
Chapter 19: Corsairs and Shelob's Lair
Pelargir: The corsairs sail upriver.
Aragorn, Gimli, and Legolas stand alone on the shore watching them.
Aragorn: "You may go no further. You will not enter Gondor."
Corsair: "Who are you to deny us passage?"
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Aragorn: "Legolas, fire a warning shot past the bosun's ear."
As he fires, Gimli nudges Legolas' bow, causing the arrow to hit a pirate (Jackson cameo) square in the chest.
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Gimli: "Oh! That's it. We warned you. Prepare to be boarded."
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Corsair: "Boarded, by you and whose army?"
Aragorn: "This army."
The KOTD runs through Aragorn, leading his men to charge the ships.
The sailors recoil in terror.
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Cirith Ungol: Gollum motions Frodo to enter a tunnel, Frodo hesitates.
Gollum (impatiently): "It's the only way! Go in or go back."
Frodo: "I cannot go back."
He enters the gloom, scared he calls out “Sméagol” no answer, “Sam!”
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At the bottom of the stairs
Sam slips down the final steps.
On the ground, he sees the Lembas. Realising Gollum’s trick, he quickly begins to reclimb the steps, intent on saving Frodo from Gollum.
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In Shelob’s cave
As Frodo falls into a clump of webs and bones, he remembers Galadriel’s gift (voiceover): "the Light of Eärendil, our most beloved star. May it be a light for you in dark places, when all other lights go out."
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He pulls out the phial of Galadriel from his jacket, and holds it up: "Aiya Eärendil Elenion Ancalima!" (Hail Eärendil brightest of the Stars!)
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Frodo turns to see something large moving behind him. It is a giant spider.
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Frodo runs into a maze of webs. He is chased, Shelob gaining ground, looming just behind him.
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Frodo gets caught in Shelob’s web. As she comes up behind. Frodo slashes the web with Sting.
Gollum emerges from behind a rock, watching Frodo with glee: “Caught in a web. Soon you'll be eaten.”
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Frodo frees himself, but drops Sting. He runs out of the lair and falls down, exhausted.
Gollum is waiting and attacks him: “Got away, did it, precious! Not this time!”
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Frodo, enraged, starts to choke Gollum. Gollum squeals: “It wasn't us! Sméagol wouldn't hurt Master! It was the precious!” Frodo releases Gollum: "I have to destroy It, Sméagol. I have to destroy It for both our sakes."
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Gollum is overcome with fury: "No!" flying at Frodo with rage.
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Frodo flips Gollum over and watches as he falls over a cliff.
Frodo stands, exhausted and alone: "I'm so sorry, Sam. So sorry."
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Frodo collapses, totally spent.
Galadriel ‘appears’ to Frodo: "This task was appointed to you, Frodo of the Shire. If you do not find a way, no one will."
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Galadriel pulls Frodo up to his feet.
Frodo sets back on the path to Cirith Ungol.
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End of Chapter 19: Corsairs and Shelob's Lair
Chapter 20: The Choices of Master Samwise
The Rohirrim have stopped by a lake.
Éomer reports to the king: “Minas Tirith is surrounded. The lower level is in flames. The enemy advances.”
Théoden: "Time is against us."
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Éowyn stands aside with Merry: "Take heart Merry. It will soon be over."
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Merry: "My lady, you are fair and brave and have much to live for, and many who love you.”
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Merry: "I know there is not much point now in hoping. If I were a knight of Rohan capable of great deeds, but I'm not. I'm a Hobbit and I know I can't save Middle-Earth..."
Éowyn listens...
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Merry continues: "I just want to help my friends and see them again.”
Éowyn feels an overwhelming respect for his simple wish and courage.
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Horns blow.
They hear Theoden: "Make haste! We ride through the night."
Éowyn and Merry don their helmets.
Éowyn, looking caringly at Merry: "To battle."
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Merry: "To battle."
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At Minas Tirith
Fighting continues.
The battering ram Grond is hauled up to the outer city gates. Trolls pull back the ram
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and let it slam into the gate.
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Orcs exchange volleys with archers.
Gandalf rallies the soldiers to the gate.
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On the citadel
Pippin looks down at the battle and sees Denethor followed by guards carrying Faramir’s litter.
Denethor: "I am steward of the House of Anárion. Thus have I walked and thus now will I sleep. Better to die sooner than late. For die we must.”
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Denethor: “Gondor is lost. There is no hope for Men. ”
As he passes, a flower on the White Tree blooms.
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At the gate of Minas Tirith: Grond breaks through.
Gandalf to the troops: "You are soldiers of Gondor! No matter what comes through that gate, you will stand your ground!"
Heavily armed trolls rush through the gates; some are brought down. The Gondorians are pushed back.
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At Cirith Ungol
Frodo comes within sight of the Tower of Cirith Ungol.
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Shelob silently crawls out of her lair and across the rocks overhead.
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As Frodo turns back towards the tower,
From above, Shelob stabs Frodo with her stinger.
Frodo groans, froths at the mouth, and passes out.
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Shelob grabs the limp hobbit and wraps him into a web cocoon.
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Sam has climbed the stairs and rushes towards the spider. "Let him go, you filth!"
Shelob attacks him. They fight over the rocky terrain. Sam swipes at the spider, but loses his sword. He retrieves Frodo's Sting and stabs Shelob with it.
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After Shelob retreats mortally wounded, Sam runs to Frodo and holds him, crying: "Oh, no! Mister Frodo! Wake up! Don't leave me here alone! Don't go where I can't follow. Wake up! You're not asleep… dead!"
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End of Chapter 20: The Choices of Master Samwise
Chapter 21: Sting, Sam & Frodo and Denethor's madness
Sting begins to glow as orcs approach. Sam urgently hides.
The orcs spot Frodo's body.
Shagrat: "What's this? Looks like ol' Shelob's been having a bit of fun."
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Gorbag: "Killed another one, has she?"
Shagrat: "No. This fellow ain't dead! She jabs them with her stinger… and he goes as limp as a boned fish!"
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Sam watching from his hiding place whispers to himself: "Not dead?! Samwise, you fool!”
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The orcs pick up Frodo and head back to the tower.
Gorbag: "This scum will be awake in a couple of hours."
Shagrat: "Then he'll wish he'd never been born!"
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Minas Tirith mausoleum
Faramir is on a pyre, Pippin runs to it shouting: "He's not dead!"
Denethor continues: "No tomb for Denethor and Faramir. No long, slow sleep of death embalmed. We shall burn like the heathen kings of old! Bring wood and oil.”
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Denethor throws him out: "Go now and die in what way seems best for you."
Pippin hears Denethor (to his men): "Pour oil on the wood!"
Pippin runs to find Gandalf: "Gandalf! Gandalf!"
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Minas Tirith lower level burns as it is overrun by orcs and trolls
Gandalf: "Retreat! The city is breached. Pull back to the second level! Fight to the last man! Fight for your lives!”
Gandalf hears Pippin and turns to see him running towards him.
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End of Chapter 21: Sting, Sam & Frodo and Denethor's madness
Chapter 22: Gandalf faces the WitchKing and the ride of the Rohirrim
Pippin: "Denethor has lost his mind! He's burning Faramir alive!"
Gandalf pulls Pippin onto Shadowfax. They race up the city tiers and they round a corner to face the WitchKing on a fellbeast.
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Gandalf to the WitchKing: "Go back to the abyss! Fall into the nothingness that awaits you and your master."
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WitchKing: "Do you not know death when you see it, old man?"
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The WitchKing screams and Pippin cries in terror.
The WitchKing draws his sword, which lights on fire.
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Gandalf's staff shatters and he falls from his horse.
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The WitchKing on the Fellbeast moves to threaten Gandalf and Pippin.
Shadowfax confronts them.
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WitchKing: "You have failed. The world of Men will fall."
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A chorus of horns is heard in the distance.
The WitchKing turns and flies towards the new threat to his victory.
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On Pelennor Fields
Gothmog and orc army turn towards the sound of the horns.
The Riders of Rohan appear across the horizon.
Éowyn looking at the battlefield, speaks to her fellow rider, Merry: "Courage, Merry. Courage for our friends."
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Gothmog (to the Orcs): "Form ranks, you maggots! Form ranks! Pikes in front, archers behind." The orc-army flags flying.
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Théoden rides striking his sword along the row of spears: “Riders of Théoden! Spears shall be shaken, shields shall be splintered! A sword-day! A red day, ere the sun rises!”
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Éowyn to Merry: "Whatever happens, stay with me. I will look after you."
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Théoden: "Ride for ruin and the world's ending! Forð Eorlingas! Death!”
Éowyn yells “Death” in unison with her King.
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Rohirrim horns sound the charge.
Théoden leads the Rohirrim to crashing into the orc army, slashing and slaying them.
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However, many soldiers pierced by orc arrows are slain.
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Éomer, charges with his men, into the sea of orcs.
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Éowyn and Merry ride together into the fray.
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The orcs face the Rohirrm charge and onslaught
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but horrified, they turn and start to flee.
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Chapter 22: Gandalf faces the WitchKing and the ride of the Rohirrim
Chapter 23: The Pyre of Denethor and Pelennor Fields
In the Minas Tirith mausoleum
Denethor pours oil over himself and a rousing Faramir.
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Denethor: “Set a fire in our flesh!"
Soldiers, with lit torches, approach Denethor.
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Gandalf riding Shadowfax bursts through the mausoleum door: "Stay this madness!"
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Denethor grabs a torch from a guard: "You may triumph in the field of battle for a day, but against the power that has risen in the east, there is no victory" and he tosses the torch on the pyre and it starts to burn.
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Gandalf knocks Denethor off the pyre. Pippin jumps on it and rolls Faramir off it. Denethor attacks Pippin: "You will not take my son from me!"
Shadowfax rears pushing him into the fire, and he sees Faramir open his eyes.
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Denethor screams: "Faramir… my son!" as he is engulfed in flames, and runs out of the mausoleum.
Gandalf: "So passes Denethor, son of Ecthelion."
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On Pelennor Fields
The Rohirrim are routing the orcs.
Théoden: "Make safe this city!"
Éomer, spearing the orcs: "Drive them back to the river!"
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As the Rohirrim drive away the orcs, to the horror of Théoden, giant war Mûmakil come into view; painted with the emblem of the black serpent, mounted Haradrim, blowing horns.
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Théoden commands: "Reform the line! Reform the line! Sound the charge!"
A terrifying line of Mûmakil – charge at the Roharrim.
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The Rohirrim run headlong into the Mûmakil, which dwarf them, their huge tasks flaying horse and rider.
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The Mûmakil fling aside and trample Rohirrim, steered by Southrons.
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Éomer turns to face a charging Mûmakil, lifting his spear. He takes aim and spears the Southron dead. The Mûmakil staggers and falls into another.
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At this time, Éowyn and Merry ride towards the beasts.
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With Merry taking the horse’s reins, she rides beneath a beast, slicing open its legs and felling it.
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Meanwhile, Éomer directs the Rohirrm: "Aim for their heads!"
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One of rearing Mûmakil is riddled with spears. Théoden: "Bring it down! Bring it down!”
Éowyn throws a spear. The Mûmakil falls and knocks Éowyn and Merry off their horse.
Éowyn: “Merry!”
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Théoden, Éowyn, Merry (separated from her), fight orcs.
Gothmog attacks Éowyn, they furiously exchange blows.
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End of Chapter 23: The Pyre of Denethor and Pelennor Fields
Chapter 24: The Battle continues
Inside Minas Tirith
A troll hammers at the gate to the second level of the city.
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Inside, Gandalf, Pippin, and a few remaining soldiers await the onslaught.
Pippin: "I didn't think it would end this way."
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Gandalf: "End? No, the journey doesn't end here. Death is just another path. The gray rain curtain of this world rolls back, and all turns to silver glass: white shores, and beyond, the far green country, under a swift sunrise."
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Pippin: "Well, that isn't so bad."
Gandalf: "No. No, it isn't."
Gandalf and Pippin smile at each other, and prepare to fight.
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On Pelennor Field
Théoden turns and sees a Nazgûl flying towards him.
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The beast grabs Théoden's horse in its teeth and throws Théoden across the ground.
Éowyn watches on in horror.
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The fellbeast approaches a wounded Théoden, who is pinned under his slain horse.
WitchKing (to the fellbeast): "Feast off his flesh."
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Éowyn moves between the fellbeast and Théoden: "I will kill you if you touch him."
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WitchKing: "Do not come between the Nazgûl and his prey."
The fellbeast approaches Éowyn.
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It threatens her, and she side-steps its attack.
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As it lunges at her, she raises her sword, and brings it down on its neck
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and decapitates the fellbeast.
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As the fellbeast’s headless body crashes to the ground, the WitchKing is dismounted.
He turns to face Éowyn. He towers over her, huge flail in his hand.
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The Witch- King's flail hits and shatters Éowyn's shield.
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Éowyn collapses.
The WitchKing comes after her.
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Harlond - Black ships arrive at the dock
The ships seem empty
Skully: "Late, as usual! Pirate scum! There's work that needs doing. Come on, ya sea rats!”
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Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli leap out of the ship.
Skully snickers at seeing the three.
As they advance, the dead army appears then overruns and destroys the orcs.
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On the Pelennor Field
The Witch-King grabs Éowyn by the throat: "You fool! No man can slay the Lord of the Nazgûl! Die now!"
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Merry, crawling from behind, stabs the WitchKing’s knee (with the Noldorin dagger given to him by Galadriel).
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Merry is thrown back, writhing in pain.
The WitchKing falls to his knees, and Éowyn recovering her strength, faces him.
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Éowyn responds defiantly to him, taking off her helmet: "I am no man!"
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Éowyn lunges at him with her sword
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…stabbing him through his ‘facemask’.
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As she does, the WitchKing starts to implode.
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Éowyn drops sword, and the WitchKing disintegrates.
Éowyn collapses, wounded.
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End of Chapter 24: The Battle continues
Chapter 25: The oath fulfilled
Pelennor Fields: The army of the dead over-run the orc army
Éowyn crawls away from a snarling Gothmog.
Unaware of Éowyn, Gimli attacks Gothmog
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and Aragorn finishes him off.
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A mûmakil bears down on Legolas. He jumps on it, kills the Southrons, draws his bow with three arrows
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and shoots them into the mûmakil’s brain.
It collapses and as it does, he rides it down, stepping off its trunk.
The army of the dead pour into the city, destroying the orcs.
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Elsewhere on the battlefield
Théoden lies dying under his dead horse.
Éowyn crawls to his side.
Théoden: "I know your face. Éowyn. My eyes darken."
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Éowyn: "No. No, I am going to save you."
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Théoden: "You already did. Éowyn, my body is broken. You have to let me go. I go to my fathers in whose mighty company I shall not now feel ashamed."
Théoden dies in Éowyn's arms.
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In front of the White City
The King of the Dead stands before Aragorn: “Release us. You gave us your word.”
Aragorn: "I hold your oath fulfilled. Go, be at peace."
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The dead army dissipates into the wind.
Gandalf bows to the new king.
Aragorn accepts his avowal.
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On the battlefield: survivors are looked for.
Pippin finds an Elvish cloak and brooch.
Éomer spots his wounded sister and runs towards her and kneels over her.
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He lifts up her lifeless body, crying: “No!”
Aragorn hears his cry.
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Minas Tirith: Houses of the Healing: at night
Éomer looks on in trepidation as Aragorn treats Éowyn's wound from the WitchKing's touch.
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Éowyn wakes in a twilight and the poisons dissipate and she slowly recovers.
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A melody plays as Éowyn regains her strength: "With a sigh you turn away With a deepening heart No more words to say You will find that the world has changed Forever."
She rises from her bed and looks out from her window.
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She sees Faramir, also wounded but healing.
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Faramir sees her.
