Thanks to special effects, any film can look like a huge production on the big screen. But in the case of Peter Jackson's highly-anticipated "Lord of the Rings" prequel, "The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey," even the sets were of epic proportions.

Martin Freeman, who plays the part of Hobbit hero Bilbo Baggins, visited TODAY Tuesday morning and shared just how impressive it was to experience the film firsthand.

"It's pretty awe-inspiring," he said. "It's huge on a scale … well, it's bigger than anything else you're likely to do in this lifetime or the next. It's full of talent. It's full of commitment. And it's full of Peter Jackson, who is a very committed, wonderful man."

Jackson was particularly committed to having Freeman take on the starring role in "The Hobbit" -- so committed, he delayed production to suit the actor's schedule.

"What a fool!" Freeman joked of the director's decision. "No, it was very gratifying. It was a real compliment. It was great."

"The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey" opens in theaters Dec. 14, but that's not the only chance for fans to see more from Freeman. In March, filming kicks off for the next series of the BBC-production-turned-PBS-hit, "Sherlock," which features Freeman in the role of John Watson alongside Benedict Cumberbatch's Holmes.

Related content:

• Bilbo Baggins goes on a drunken 'Unexpected Journey' in parody viral video
• Ian McKellen: I never worked with Elijah Wood on 'Lord of the Rings'
• Hobbits, monsters, Navy SEALs highlight December movies
• 'Hobbit' premiere in New Zealand draws estimated 100K fans
• VIDEO: Watch the trailer for 'The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey'