The numbers on Amazon’s upcoming The Lord of the Rings series keep going up.  Just a couple of weeks ago, internal documents obtained by Reuters revealed that Amazon could spend $250 million on the first two seasons, plus the $250 million it paid for the rights (see "Friday Geek TV Round-Up").  Now it’s revealed that the full five-season run could cost Amazon north of $1 billion, when all costs, including casting, producers, and effects, are included, according to Hollywood Reporter.

Amazon may use material from the six-film movie franchise directed by Peter Jackson, according to the report, but Jackson is still in early stages of discussions with Amazon about potential involvement as an executive producer.

Amazon is required to begin production within two years.