Hello! Today I will be reviewing the latest installment in the 'The Hobbit' movie series; 'The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug'. I understand this is late, as the movie came to most North American public viewing theaters on December 13. However, whether you're still debating to go see it or you're wondering about the critical reception, read on.
To me, the second movie was a huge improvement on the first movie, and no, not just because we saw the dragon. I felt this one had a much better pace. While it took a dragging near-hour to get out of Bilbo's hobbit hole in 'The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey', I felt I was pulled in the moment the film started. There were some amazing performance by all actors. One of the most talked about performances came from Orlando Bloom, who no one expected to actually be in the movie. Bloom's character Legolas was not in J.R.R Tolkien's book, so we were all surprised to see him.
Of course, I have to say the best part of this film was the end. Namely, Smaug. Our dragon is played by Benedict Cumberbatch, who did an amazing voice for our villian. Cumberbatch's performance also installs a fear in the audience for Bilbo and his companions. Martin Freeman, who plays hero Bilbo Baggins, did an amazing job here as well, mainly in his in interaction with the dragon, and relatable fear and desperation.
Of course, I have to say the best part of this film was the end. Namely, Smaug. Our dragon is played by Benedict Cumberbatch, who did an amazing voice for our villian. Cumberbatch's performance also installs a fear in the audience for Bilbo and his companions. Martin Freeman, who plays hero Bilbo Baggins, did an amazing job here as well, mainly in his in interaction with the dragon, and relatable fear and desperation.
Smaug (Benedict Cumberbatch) and Bilbo (Martin Freeman) in Erebor.
The film also left us with a dramatic ending, which I won't put here, in case you haven't seen the film already, or read the book. Still, the ending is a major cliffhanger, and promises an amazing third and final instalment in the trilogy. (The Hobbit: There and Back Again, is set to release December 2014).
The only negative for younger viewers would be the amount of blood and gore. Smaug can also terrify younger viewers, with his appearance, voice and evil plans. The violence comes in with the Orcs. The battle scenes, (which I will not go into detail, because spoilers) are frequent and fairly long. You see orcs being stabbed, beheaded, shot and killed. Orcs also attempt to kill young children in their home. However, the orcs are very clearly the 'bad guys' (besides Smaug), and the children will not be as affected as if it were the friendly dwarves being beheaded. However, one dwarf is shot in the leg.
Anyway, this movie is an amazing film, and is a great enjoyment for many fans of Tolkien. Some fans may not like the book-to-movie adaption flaws, but that is the choice of the viewer. If you are not an avid fan of Tolkien, however, it is highly recommended to watch the first film before seeing this one, or this one will make little to no sense. (Or even better, just read the book!)
Leave a comment about your thoughts on the movie!
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