Smeagol and Gollum, two personalities within the same being, plot to betray Frodo and Sam. Gollum manipulates Smeagol into leading the hobbits to Shelob, hoping to reclaim the One Ring once the hobbits are gone.
SMEAGOL: They knows, they knows, they suspects us.
GOLLUM: What is it saying, my Precious, my love? Is Smeagol losing his nerve??
SMEAGOL: No! Not! Never!! Smeagol hates nasty Hobbitses! Smeagol wants to see: them - dead!
GOLLUM: And we will . . ,- Smeagol did it once. . . He can do it again.
Format: Duologue · Genre: Fantasy · Source: The Lord of the Rings: the Return of the King · Author: Fran Walsh · Characters: SMEAGOL, GOLLUM
This compelling duologue from The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King film captures a pivotal moment of internal conflict and dark planning. The scene features Smeagol and Gollum, two distinct personalities inhabiting a single being, as they conspire to betray Frodo and Sam. It's a masterful portrayal of manipulation and the battle between remnants of Smeagol's former self and Gollum's relentless desire for the One Ring.
Smeagol represents a weaker, more conflicted aspect, easily swayed and prone to fear, yet still harboring some flicker of an independent will. Gollum, conversely, is the dominant, sinister personality, driven purely by obsession and a keen, insidious cunning. He acts as the manipulative force, preying on Smeagol's weaknesses and guiding him towards their dark objective. Both characters are deeply scarred and tormented, making them complex and fascinating studies in villainy and addiction.
This scene is a fantastic choice for auditions because it showcases an actor's ability to portray profound internal conflict and embody two distinct characters within the same physical presence. The rapid shifts in tone from paranoid fear to sly manipulation, and then to excited, almost childlike maliciousness, offer a broad spectrum of emotions to explore. It also demonstrates strong character acting skills and the capacity to handle intense, dark material with nuance.
This scene is particularly well-suited for character actors, especially those comfortable with villainous or intense roles, or actors who excel at bringing a quirky physicality to their performances. Given the age range of 35-45 and its dark, fantasy tone, it would be ideal for male actors looking to demonstrate a unique range. It works perfectly for self-tapes and general practice, allowing for detailed exploration of these iconic personalities.
When tackling this scene, focus on clearly delineating Smeagol and Gollum through vocal shifts, posture, and even subtle facial expressions. Gollum should feel more grounded but sinister, while Smeagol might be more physically agitated or high-pitched. Pay close attention to the rhythm and musicality of the dialogue, as the writers have imbued it with a distinct cadence. Emphasize the manipulative quality of Gollum's lines and the moments of internal struggle within Smeagol to bring depth to this complex split personality.