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Movie Review: The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (2013)

Written by Anthony Sargon

There’s a lot riding on “The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug.” A lot of people felt that “An Unexpected Journey” was bloated and overlong, and while I do somewhat agree with those sentiments, I still loved the flick. Either way, if you were disappointed with part one or went absolutely bonkers over it, “The Desolation of Smaug” is a superb sequel that treats us to another grand adventure in Middle Earth, courtesy of the amazing Peter Jackson.

After a neat little flashback, we’re quickly caught-up with our company of dwarves, a hobbit, and a wizard on their quest to reclaim Erebor, once the thriving homeland of dwarves, now claimed by the powerful and sinister dragon, Smaug.

“Desolation of Smaug” is a lot of fun; for a movie that’s almost three hours long, it zips by at a breathless pace. The film slows down here and there, but that’s necessary when so much of the movie consists of amazing action sequences.

Speaking of amazing action sequences, the film features them by the dozen. Seriously, there is a ridiculous amount of supremely cool stuff crammed in there, a lot of it courtesy of fan-favorite Legolas, although he’s not really in the book, but you know…three movies. More standouts include a great barrel/river sequence, and of course, Smaug; every scene he’s in is mesmerizing to watch, thanks in part to Benedict Cumberbatch’s compelling vocal work. That guy can literally voice anything, and it’ll sound great.

As we’ve come to expect, the film looks like a million bucks. That’s the thing about a Peter Jackson film; you don’t need to wonder where the budget went, it’s all on screen. The vistas are as gorgeous as ever, and while the novelty factor has certainly worn off, fans will feel right at home. I do think there is some CG overload, and I’m still not a fan of the all-computer generated orcs. Some of them look really unconvincing, and in some cases it’s a step back from what we had in “The Lord of the Rings.” It’s very reminiscent of George Lucas switching to CG clones in his Star Wars prequels instead of people in suits, like the original storm troopers. But Smaug looks absolutely magnificent, and he’s undoubtedly one of the best dragons ever seen on film. Also, I thought the 3D looked great, but I didn’t get a chance to watch it in HFR.

All returning cast-members are great; Martin Freeman is still the perfect Bilbo Baggins, and he once again strikes a great balance between curiosity and reservation, although he is beginning to change because of the ring. Ian Mckellen is brilliant as Gandalf, as always, and Richard Armitage is still pretty badass as Thorin. Evangeline Lilly brings a lot of energy to her elvish character, Tauriel, although her love triangle with Legolas and Kili feels pretty contrived. Luke Evans is also great as Bard, a man who lives in a town close to Erebor who isn’t keen on the idea of messing with Smaug.

The Verdict:

If you were never a fan of “The Lord of the Rings”, then there is absolutely nothing here that will change your mind. If, on the other hand, you’re a fan of what’s come before and have an appetite for some more, you will not be disappointed. You’ll be quite pleased, in fact.

Numerical Score: 9/10


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