The latest addition to the fabulous video blogs for The Hobbit was released this morning. Once again we’re presented a charming and insightful look into the making of this truly epic production. In this installment we are whisked over to San Diego for Comic-Con, where Peter Jackson unveils new footage to the feverous masses in Hall H. Then it’s back (in time) to Wellington for the emotional last days on set.

The Comic-Con section of the blog is packed with great stuff – and we get to see some of the incredible new footage. I really like how Jackson takes us along for the ride (literally) so we can get a feel of what Comic-Con is really like. Although Peter talks about his pre-show nerves, it must be such a rush standing up there in front of adoring fans – who are overjoyed with what they see. And I love the look of awe and excitement on the faces of the cast, as they watch the footage from the side of the stage – it’s probably the first time they’ve seen it too.

The final days on set section is equally as good – made up from footage also shown at Comic Con. We see some incredible sets here: including the City of Dale and Goblin Town. We also catch a few moments with Sylvester McCoy (Dr. Who from 1987-1989) and Australian icon Barry Humphries – the wizard Radagast the Brown and The Goblin King, respectively. But it’s the camaraderie on the film that shines through, and it’s great to see that despite incredibly long, exhausting days on set the cast and crew still find time to have a laugh and enjoy each other’s company.

Next up we have the wonderful world of post production to look forward to – digital effects, sound design etc. Can’t wait.

How awesome is this latest installment? Ever been to Comic-Con?

“The Hobbit” follows the journey of title character Bilbo Baggins, who is swept into an epic quest to reclaim the lost Dwarf Kingdom of Erebor, which was long ago conquered by the dragon Smaug. Approached out of the blue by the wizard Gandalf the Grey, Bilbo finds himself joining a company of thirteen dwarves led by the legendary warrior, Thorin Oakensheild. Their journey will take them into the Wild; through treacherous lands swarming with Goblins and Orcs, deadly Wargs and Giant Spiders, Shapeshifters and Sorcerers.

Although their goal lies to the East and the wastelands of the Lonely Mountain first they must escape the goblin tunnels, where Bilbo meets the creature that will change his life forever … Gollum.

Here, alone with Gollum, on the shores of an underground lake, the unassuming Bilbo Baggins not only discovers depths of guile and courage that surprise even him, he also gains possession of Gollum’s “precious” ring that holds unexpected and useful qualities … A simple, gold ring that is tied to the fate of all Middle-earth in ways Bilbo cannot begin to know.

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey hits New Zealand theatres on December 14, 2012. The Hobbit: There and Back Again arrives Decemeber 13, 2013.