Convention - SDCC 2025 : Weta Workshop Booth #3613 Returns with Monumental Mastery and Middle-earth Magic

By Mulder, San Diego, Convention Center, 27 july 0002 to 27 july 2025

San Diego Comic-Con 2025 erupted in excitement as Weta Workshop made a spectacular and long-awaited comeback to the exhibition floor after a five-year absence, reclaiming its position as one of the most captivating attractions of the event. Their presence at Booth #3613 was impossible to overlook, thanks to a centerpiece that can only be described as a triumph of design, scale, and artistry. At the heart of the display stood what Sir Richard Taylor, co-founder of Weta Workshop, proudly called their “most significant collectible to date”—a colossal 43-inch sculpture that masterfully depicted the Fellowship of the Ring assembled on the stairs of Moria. This wasn’t just a frozen tableau; it radiated the tension and drama of the moment, with each character brimming with personality, from Gollum’s lurking menace to the steadfast determination of the nine companions. A notable decision elevated the experience even further: rather than being locked behind a glass case, the sculpture was displayed fully open, allowing visitors to step right up to the piece and examine every line, texture, and nuance without glare or barrier. It was an invitation not merely to look but to immerse oneself in Weta’s craftsmanship—a rare, intimate encounter with the artistry that has defined their legacy.

The booth itself felt like a living, breathing corner of Middle-earth transported into the halls of the San Diego Convention Center. The atmosphere was enriched by the presence of Jed Brophy, who fans know from multiple roles across The Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit, and The Rings of Power, including the crafty Nori the Dwarf. Throughout the weekend, Jed Brophy graciously signed autographs, posed for photos, and regaled fans with behind-the-scenes stories—some humorous, some heartfelt—that deepened the appreciation of Weta’s on-screen magic. With a glint in his eye, he joked about how the booth’s open display might have been dangerous for a character like Nori, whose fingers were never far from a shiny object. The fan energy swelled even further when Graham McTavish, beloved as Dwalin in The Hobbit trilogy, made an appearance to mingle and chat, adding yet another layer of star-powered warmth to the space. And of course, Sir Richard Taylor himself spent time at the booth, personally engaging with visitors, reflecting on Weta’s journey, and hinting at what the future might hold for their collectible and creative endeavors.

Part of what made Booth #3613 so dynamic this year was the creative partnership between Weta Workshop and Legend Story Studios, the New Zealand-based game developers behind the critically acclaimed Flesh and Blood trading card game. This collaboration brought with it a stunning life-size winged sculpture inspired by one of the card game’s fantastical characters, a perfect complement to Weta’s reputation for bringing fictional worlds to life in tangible, awe-inspiring form. The juxtaposition of Middle-earth grandeur and high-fantasy gaming artistry created an unexpected but harmonious blend, showing how Weta continues to expand its creative footprint beyond the boundaries of cinema.

Surrounding the monumental Fellowship display, the team at TheOneRing.net curated a charming marketplace of Middle-earth-themed treasures that drew in fans from across the convention floor. The offerings ranged from the shimmering, lore-rich coins of Shire Post Mint to the elegant, wearable fabrics of Oscha Slings, the whimsical stained-glass clings from Geek Orthodox Art, and the cheerful, handmade goods from Happy Hobbit. This wasn’t just a place to browse merchandise—it was a space buzzing with cosplay, conversation, and camaraderie. Fans in full costume mingled with collectors and newcomers, all united by their shared love for Tolkien’s universe. The booth transformed into a living community hub where friendships were forged and Middle-earth was kept alive in the hearts of its admirers.

Just across the aisle, Middle-earth Enterprises marked its first-ever presence at Comic-Con with an oversized, fully immersive recreation of the Inn of the Prancing Pony. Visitors were invited to step inside and experience the cozy, rustic charm of the legendary Bree tavern, complete with Hobbit-sized photo opportunities that made attendees appear delightfully small against the backdrop of barrels, benches, and stonework. The installation provided the perfect complement to Weta’s own showcase, offering fans a multi-sensory Middle-earth journey without ever leaving the convention center.

The Middle-earth theme continued beyond the show floor through compelling panel discussions that balanced official updates with playful speculation. On Friday, the session “The Lord of the Rings: What’s Next?” stirred conversations about the upcoming The Rings of Power Season 3 and the much-anticipated Hunt for Gollum adaptation. The enthusiasm carried into Sunday with “Middle-earth: The Adventure Ahead”, a joint effort by TheOneRing.net and Middle-earth Enterprises. This panel unveiled updates on Weta’s upcoming Tales of the Shire game, the immersive Brandywine Festival, the long-awaited Return to Moria, and tantalizing hints about projects yet to be announced. The excitement in the room was electric, reflecting the enduring passion for Tolkien’s creations and the artistry that brings them to life.

Ultimately, the Weta Workshop booth at SDCC 2025 was far more than a showcase of collectibles—it was a heartfelt celebration of craftsmanship, storytelling, and the shared cultural touchstone that Middle-earth has become. The breathtaking Moria tableau of the Fellowship served as a visual anchor, but the true magic lay in the connections formed between actors, artisans, and fans. It was a space where artistry met fandom, where iconic cinematic moments were not just remembered but re-experienced in vivid, tangible form. The booth was a reminder that in the hands of creators like Weta, these stories are not simply preserved—they are continually reborn for new generations to cherish.

You can discover our photos in our Flickr page

Photos and video : Boris Colletier / Mulderville