The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey has released a shiny new poster ahead of the film's panel at Comic-Con next week, with Gandalf wending his way through the lush and verdant climes of the Shire.

There's nothing revolutionary about this new one-sheet, but there's something about seeing the venerable old wizard surrounded by that comfortingly familiar backdrop that really gets the gooesbumps going. Perhaps it's that Helm's Deep-esque sunlight that does it…

Principal filming was recently finished on both films, with director Peter Jackson taking to his Facebook page to commemorate the occasion. "We made it!," said Jackson. "Shoot day 266 and the end of principal photography on The Hobbit."

"Thanks to our fantastic cast and crew for getting us this far, and to all of you for your support! Next stop, the cutting room. Oh, and Comic Con! Cheers, Peter J." We'd ask whether Jackson ever finds such marathon shoots draining, but from what we've seen in his video blogs, it looks like he's had a ball throughout.

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey opens in the UK on 14 December 2012, with Jackson and co. set to discuss the film at Comic-Con next Saturday. Tune in then for the latest updates from Middle-earth...

Source: totalfilm.com