"Misty Mountains Cold" is a hauntingly beautiful song featured in the soundtrack of "The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey," which is the first installment of Peter Jackson's film adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien's novel "The Hobbit." Here are some interesting facts about the song:
Original Tolkien Lyrics: The lyrics for "Misty Mountains Cold" were adapted from J.R.R. Tolkien's original poem in "The Hobbit." In the book, this song is sung by the dwarf Thorin Oakenshield and his company of dwarves as they prepare to journey through the Misty Mountains.
Composers: The music for "Misty Mountains Cold" was composed by Howard Shore, who also composed the music for "The Lord of the Rings" film trilogy. The lyrics were adapted and extended by Philippa Boyens, one of the screenwriters for "The Hobbit" films.
Performed by Richard Armitage: In the film, the song is performed by Richard Armitage, the actor who plays Thorin Oakenshield. Armitage's deep and powerful voice adds a sense of gravitas to the song.
Extended Version: While the version of "Misty Mountains Cold" featured in the film is relatively short, a longer, extended version was recorded for the soundtrack album. This extended version includes additional verses not heard in the movie.
Impactful Theme: The song serves as a recurring musical theme throughout "The Hobbit" film trilogy, often associated with the dwarves' quest to reclaim their homeland, Erebor, from the dragon Smaug. It helps create a sense of nostalgia, longing, and determination in the story.
Multiple Covers and Versions: "Misty Mountains Cold" became incredibly popular among fans, leading to numerous cover versions by different artists. These covers range from traditional interpretations to more experimental ones, showcasing the song's enduring appeal.
Awards and Recognition: The song received critical acclaim and was nominated for several awards, including the Academy Award for Best Original Song. It helped contribute to the film's overall success and the popularity of its soundtrack.
Connection to "The Lord of the Rings": Howard Shore incorporated elements of the "Misty Mountains Cold" theme into the score for "The Lord of the Rings" films, helping to establish a musical continuity between the two trilogies and tying the two Middle-earth stories together.
Influence on Popular Culture: "Misty Mountains Cold" has become an iconic piece of music associated with Tolkien's Middle-earth. It has been used in various parodies, covers, and references in popular culture, further solidifying its status as a memorable fantasy song.
"Misty Mountains Cold" is not just a song; it's a key element in the storytelling and world-building of "The Hobbit" films, capturing the essence of adventure and longing that defines the story of Thorin and his companions.