15 Things That Almost Completely Changed The Hobbit Trilogy

7. It Was Almost Filmed In Eastern Europe

Despite the fact that Peter Jackson was effusive of the New Zealand authorities and locals for their support in getting the film made, for a while it looked like he might have to find an alternative setting. In 2010, the International Federation of Actors issued a Do Not Work order to actors as the production had refused to accept demands to adhere to union negotiated contracts. That prompted some speculation that Jackson would look elsewhere, with Eastern Europe strongly suggested. New Zealand though realised what missing out on the gig meant, and thousands of protesters rallied to try and convince Jackson to stay, saying moving would cost the country a massive $1.5 billion. When Jackson agreed, he did it only on the proviso that rights of workers to organise trade unions in film were removed and that the government would give money to big budget movies filmed there. That was some harsh negotiating - and costly conditions - but the result was the film getting some seriously stunning backdrops.