We're arriving into the holiday season, which usually means two things; christmas shopping and blockbuster movie releases. For film and book fans, it marks the release of something else. The holiday season is also when Peter Jackson usually releases the latest instalment of his famous Tolkien film adaptations. December 11 marks this year's release, The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug. The film is expected to premiere in Los Angeles on December 2. Its predecessor, The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey, was released last year to a mixture of acclaim and criticism. It also marked the first time Jackson made a film, using faster film speed. The novel was originally going to be split into two films. Jackson announced there was too much material, so a third film was created, thus creating a trilogy.
Fine, dandy, why not? There's one small problem - this treasure is guarded by the formidable dragon Smaug. Bilbo is hesitant, but eventually joins Gandalf and the group of dwarves, as the burglar. Through the journey, the group must deal with Orcs, Stone Giants and other creatures. Yes, Gollum does appear. We mustn't forget Gollum.
No movie is complete without its cast. Some new faces are introduced, with familiar faces . Sir Ian McKellan returns as Gandalf, along with Andy Serkis, Cate Blanchett, Christopher Lee, Ian Holm, Elijah Wood and Hugo Weaving. New cast members include Martin Freeman as Bilbo, Richard Armitage, Benedict Cumberbatch, and Graham McTavish. Stephen Colbert is also making a cameo in one of the films. The cast is one of the strongest points of the film, each cast member bringing something unique to the film.
The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey is a definite watch. The special effects, acting talent, faithfulness to the book all add up to a wondrous film experience. Despite the fast film rate (which is sometimes headache inducing), The Hobbit is definitely worth a watch.
Follow our incredible journey to The Hobbit: Desolation of Smaug with us!