Of the countless visual effects that wowed moviegoers in Peter Jackson’s “Lord of the Rings” trilogy (2001-03), none had the sheer impact of Gollum, a former hobbit transformed into a piteous creature by its lust for the magical ring. And while its fully articulated appearance was a miracle of digital effects, the character would have had none of its impact were it not for the astonishing performance of Andy Serkis, the English actor who lent his voice and physical movements to the role. Serkis’ turn, alternately tragic and treacherous, was hailed by critics worldwide; he would go on to give