What I've read so far on the 'net (and it is impossible to sort what is the stated intent of the producers from what is rumor) is that the main characters (and I pray that includes Gandalf) will all be 'no names', with some cameos from 'big stars' (producer Peter Jackson says he himself will have a cameo, probably as an orc). I'd say that's how it should be. The tentative release schedule for the 3 movies is Christmas '00, Summer '01, Christmas '01.

Even if Jackson really screws the story up I'm sure I'll watch the movies at some point. It doesn't matter how bad he does (and isn't that how he will be judged by the great body of Tolkien fans?... as how far from perfect he was in every detail? I'm glad it's not ME producing these movies: I couldn't take the criticism that will definitely come even if the non-Tolkien world loves the results!): it's just a guy creating art based on the art he loves. It could never diminish the original. I'm just gonna be sure I encourage my kids to read the books when they are old enough, prior to watching the movies!

-Steve S