Evangeline Lilly is no stranger to most of us who lusted over her character for several season’s on ABC’s “Lost”. What may seem strange is the Peter Jackson and Fran Walsh actually added a character to the narrative of the Hobbit for her to portray and she’s a bit concerned about the backlash of purists.
Source: SFX
Tauriel is a new character in the mythology so as a book purist yourself that must be frightening to ponder how fans will react to your part?
“Yeah! I am very concerned to this day that people will watch the film and I’ll be the black mark on the film. I know how adamant the purists are and I’m one of them! That said, upon reading The Hobbit again, as an adult, I can see why additional characters were needed to round out the story as an adaptation – especially female characters! The Hobbit didn’t include female characters at all and was a very linear story, a book for children, really. What Peter, Fran (Walsh) and Philippa (Boyens) have done is all in perfect keeping with Tolkien’s world, while adding a third dimension to an otherwise very two-dimensional story.”
I like that she’s concerned. Do I think it’s completely genuine? No. I think she’s aware of the audience and is mindful of the forthcoming criticisms that will undoubtedly be hurled in her direction. I like that she’s aware, somewhat a fan, and prepared for the feedback. I’m looking forward to seeing her in the Hobbit and hopefully she can make a meaningful impression with fans alike.
I think one reason purists will probably be mad is because there’s a chance that new characters are going to be added while ones that are actually in the book are left out. I’m sure its a matter the characters that are left out are left out because it would take too much sceen time to develop them in accordance to the lore but I think a lot of purists will strongly disagree with that reasoning.
Personally I’m a bit worried that her addition will come off more as throwing in a “hot chick” (nice eye candy but an ultimately boring and almost patronizing reason) than trying to add more female characters (a very noble reason that could run the risk of backfiring).
Its interesting that they wanted her in the movie that badly. I dont know why purist would be upset however, I am sure there will be a lot of filler characters running around. Now I would be upset if they injected a few extra dwarves during the quest so that Tom Cruise or some crap could be in the movie.
“I dont know why purist would be upset ” find something you like and have someone ruin your memory of it….you will understand.