"The Two Watchers"

[wallace_trust]

 I've always loved the Watchers, they are the creepiest things!  I was so disappointed when the movies didn't cover them!  I had assumed Peter Jackson would have a field day with them, but as it stands the best movie treatment of them remains the Rankin-Bass animation.  Anyway, this illustration is brand new-- it seemed the right subject matter for the mood that's taken me of late. 

I made the Watchers in Carrara out of a slightly modified gargoyle mesh.  The eyes were programmed with a glow shader.  I used my older 7th-gen hobbit models in this image, so there was quite a bit of hand painting involved to correct all the errors.  I also used some fog and light Photoshop brushes.  My favorite aspect of this scene is the look of sheer defiance Sam's giving those Watchers!   :)  

Comments

[febobe]

Love it! Deliciously creepy!

Yeah, PJ could've done w/a little less Helm's Deep (yawn) and a little more space for the Watchers....

*hugs snugs loves*

[wallace_trust]

Thank you so much! ^_^ *hugs you back*

PJ definitely could have spent less time on Helm's Deep, and really on all of his battle scenes. More does not make better. I do think his movies provide great insight into the various forces driving our culture.

[shirebound]

Niiice. The Professor's story is so rich and layered, especially how every bit of Middle-earth, animate or not, can be aware and watchful. Poor Sam, having to deal with these Watchers as well as everything else!

[wallace_trust]

Thank you very much! ^_^ Yes, I love the awareness of Tolkien's landscapes, especially the mountains and trees.

Good old Sam! He's got the same fighting spirit as his Gaffer. Another of my favorite scenes-- when the Gaffer tells that Black Rider in Hobbiton where to go! :D

[lbilover]

I was disappointed, too, that they didn't make it into the movies. They did seem right up PJ's alley. They haven't been featured in many illustrations either, so I'm glad you took this on. It's very powerful. I like how the light illuminates the awe on Frodo's face as well as Sam's determination. And the Watchers are very creepy and just as I imagined them. Great job!

[wallace_trust]

Thanks so much for the compliments! They are appreciated! :)

I could hardly believe it when PJ skipped the Watchers, but I have seen them featured in several illustrations. The Professor was quite precise in his description of them, which makes things fairly easy.

Yes, I also like the way the point light is illuminating Frodo's face and eyes. I would guess he is halfway between awe and sheer terror.

I am currently trying out some free screencast software by making a mini-documentary about how this image was made. I'll post it here whenever it gets finished :)

[peripety]

The Watchers would have been a fabulous addition to the film, they are so menacing and creepy, just as you capture here. I love the defiance and gritty strength you show in Sam, too. Lovely work!

[wallace_trust]

Thank you so very much for your kind words! :) Yes, the Watchers would have been excellent for the movie. I can't believe they were left out.