Tolkien stars Lily Collins and Nicholas Hoult defend biopic after backlash from family

The film traces the author’s friendship with a group of fellow artists and writers at his school, alongside his experiences during World War I

The stars and director of a new biopic about JRR Tolkien have defended the film after criticism from his family.

Ahead of the release of Tolkien, the author’s estate released a statement in which they said that “they did not approve of, authorise or participate in the making of this film”.

However, at the film’s London premiere, those behind the film said that their work respects and honours the man behind The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings.

Nicholas Hoult, who plays Tolkien, told the Press Association: “I think it’s been done very respectfully, as a fan. It’s story that stands alone. Such a remarkable life – his relationships, what he endured in World War One. What inspired him, hopefully it will inspire new audiences now.”

Lily Collins, who plays the author’s wife, Edith Bratt, said the author’s fans should know the man behind the stories.

She said: “I believe that it’s an amazing story to tell. Everyone who sees the film agrees that we have to do honour to the man himself. To just know the stories would be a shame, to know the man himself is the right honour.”

Director Dome Karukoski reiterated that the film was made with love and respect, believing that Tolkien would approve of the dramatic interpretation.

Tolkien traces the author’s friendship with a group of fellow artists and writers at his school, alongside his relationship with Bratt and his experiences during World War I.

Karukoski added: ”Well, they haven’t seen the film. It is a labour of love. It is done with respect and admiration for the professor. It’s a dramatic, beautiful, cinematic tale. It feels odd that a storyteller wouldn’t want that on the screen”

“I have offered to sit with the estate and talk, and explain why some artistic choices have been made. It’s a tricky one, but I would just love to watch the film with them.”