Movie Buzz: 'Hobbit'-forming 3-D sequels

THE MOVIE "The Hobbit"

THE DEAL The titles and release dates of Peter Jackson's long-awaited 3-D sequels to his "Lord of the Rings" trilogy were announced this week by Warner Bros., New Line Cinema and the beleaguered MGM, which recently emerged from bankruptcy. "The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey" will be released Dec. 14, 2012, followed by "The Hobbit: There and Back Again," to be released Dec. 13, 2013. The two chronological prequels to "Rings" have been delayed by funding problems, a potential actors' boycott and Jackson's ulcer surgery but are set to begin filming in March in New Zealand. Martin Freeman will play the lead role of Bilbo Baggins alongside "Rings" veterans Elijah Wood, Ian McKellen, Cate Blanchett and Orlando Bloom.

WHO George Ennis

THE EVENT The George Ennis Film Festival

THE DEAL It began as a tongue-in-cheek showcase of small films featuring this sometime actor, who also works as an account executive at FedEx in Hicksville. Four years later, it's become an annual event featuring short films from all over the country -- even ones without Ennis. This year's event, which also includes music, awards and fake celebrity arrivals, is a benefit for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation; the actor's son has the disease.

INFO Sunday at 3 p.m. at the Cabana Bar & Restaurant, 1034 W. Beech St., Long Beach. Admission is $15. 516-889-1345; georgeennisfilmfestival.com.

WHO James Lipton

THE MOVIE "Buck"

THE DEAL The host of Bravo's "Inside the Actors Studio" will launch the Hamptons International Film Festival's third annual SummerDocs series by presenting the first film, "Buck," a documentary about real-life horse whisperer and people counselor Buck Brannaman. The film is set for release June 17 through Magnolia Pictures.

INFO Saturday at Guild Hall, 158 Main St., East Hampton. Tickets are $22. 631-324-4050; theatermania.com.