Film Review- "The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug"

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug
Directed By Peter Jackson
Starring Martin Freeman as Bilbo Baggins, Sir Ian McKellen as Gandalf, Richard Armitage as Thorin, and Benedict Cumberbatch as Smaug

I went back and forth over wether to write a review of the first Hobbit film (I never did). I knew that, unlike the original Lord of The Rings trilogy, which was three films based on three books, The Hobbit trilogy was three films based on one book. I never read any of the Tolkien books, so I didn't think it fair to review An Unexpected Journey, not knowing what came from the books and what was added to the script.

I will say this, An Unexpected Journey is a fun film, but at times it does drag. The Desolation of Smaug I found to be a huge improvement on its predecessor. I have no problem writing a review for this one, because I consider it one of the best films of the year.

The film continues the journey of Bilbo (Freeman) with the company of dwarves, as they fight to reclaim their homeland from the dragon Smaug (Cumberbatch). Along the way, they face the wrath of the orcs from the first film, forces from the Elf Kingdom (featuring the return of Orlando Bloom's Legolas), and the troubles of the town of Rivendale. Meanwhile, Gandalf (McKellen) investigates a dark power's return to Middle Earth.

Smaug greatly improves on the pacing issues seen in An Unexpected Journey. The film doesn't seem to drag at all, though perhaps we spend too much time in Rivendale. That's probably just my opinion, or what Jackson wanted us to feel, as all the build to Smaug's appearance finally comes to a boil between the second and third act. Let me tell you, all that build up is worth it. Three words: Kneel. Before. Smaug.

I saw this film in IMAX 3D, and I am so glad I did. The only way to get the full effect of Benedict Cumberbatch's performance as the mighty dragon is in IMAX 3D. Easily one of the most intimidating things I've seen on screen in years. Cumberbatch's performance, matched with the amazing CGI effects, makes Smaug a true sight to be seen. The rest of the ensemble cast is on mark, but Cumberbatch steals the show as Smaug, along with Orlando Bloom as Legolas. Seriously, Legolas is as amazing as ever.

There's plenty of action and drama to keep you entertained throughout the film, including that battle in the river sequence shown in the posters and trailers. But in truth, the real meat of the film is when the company enters The Lonely Mountain, and Bilbo comes face to face with Smaug.

The subplot with Gandalf is harmless, and certainly helps to build up to the conclusion in There And Back Again, but in my mind was just a way to connect us back to The Lord of The Rings trilogy. This is again where I have a tough time reviewing these films because I never read the books, but I suppose as a moviegoer I should just focus on what's given to me as a film.

It's a pity we'll have to wait a whole other year for the conclusion of this trilogy, because The Desolation of Smaug is so incredible, and practically leaves you begging for There And Back Again. Again, a big improvement on the first film of the trilogy, and easily one of my favorite films of the year.

Kneel. Before. Smaug. Ohhhh mighty Smaug...