Hobbits are central to Lord of the Rings – their stature, friendship with each other and unstoppable appetite make them endearing characters to follow along.

Most people are familiar with the live-action Hobbits from the early-2000s and 2010s. However, there is an earlier on-screen adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien's work. Advertisement

In 1978, an animated version of The Lord of the Rings was released. Battling long lines and expensive tickets, fans made an epic journey to the movie theater to see the film.

Celebrate International Hobbit Day by watching how excited fans were to see an animated Lord of the Rings in 1978.

If you liked this retro find, check out the archival playlist below.

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