The film begins with a flashback to the battle between the wizard Gandalf the Grey and the Balrog on the Bridge of Khazad-dûm in theMines of Moria, in an attempt to allow the Fellowship of the Ring to escape, but this time from Gandalf's perspective. Gandalf is pulled down to the chasm by the demon; the Fellowship believes he is dead, but he continues to fight it while falling down into a lake in the depths of the Earth. Weeks later, the hobbit Frodo Baggins continues his journey with his loyal friend Sam, as they attempt to reach Mordor by passing through the hills of Emyn Muil. One night, they are attacked by the creature Gollum wishing to retrieve "his precious". The hobbits capture him, but Frodo understands the burden of the ring and takes pity on the creature. Realizing they are in need of a guide, Frodo persuades Gollum to lead them to the Black Gate of Mordor.