Review of The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (2013) by Evan L — 02 Jul 2016

Sir Peter Jackson's blockbuster second entry in his epic cinematic prequel trilogy adaptation of J.R.R Tolkien's classic novel "The Hobbit," is a big, bold, beautiful triumph that exceeded my expectations.

Jackson's new sequel continues the cinematic success of the first film with a thrilling, fun extravagance that moves faster, and provides a great deal more story progression, it begins where the last film left off with our diminutive hairy-footed heroic Hobbit, Bilbo Baggins, played wonderfully and with great charm by Martin Freeman, still tagging along with and the not-so-merry band of dwarves led by Thorin Oakensheid, intensely played by Richard Armitage who are all on a quest to free their mountain kingdom from the monstrous, fire-breathing dragon Smaug.

Bilbo is beginning to struggle with evil effects from the ring of power, and it's greed. The wizard Gandalf the Grey, brilliantly played by Sir Ian McKellen, and a kindly boatman, nicely played by Luke Evans will help them get to their destination.

But their journey will not get any easier in this film for they will have to face a series of deadly challenges, like giant man-eating spiders, murderous Orcs, nasty and suspicious elves, and of course, the film's show-stopping scene-stealer, the gargantuan and deadly dragon Smaug, superbly voiced by Benedict Cumberbatch.

Indeed Smaug is a fearsomely realistic CGI masterwork of visual effects artistry that is truly dazzling. Sir Peter Jackson's masterful direction keeps this film engaging and entertaining, there is also nice bits of humor and some fine supporting performances from Orlando Bloom, who makes a welcome return as the elf archer warrior Legolas, and Evangeline Lilly as young female elf warrior named Tauriel.

The meticulous craftsmanship and technological achievements of this epic are spellbinding, as are the other amazing visual effects. The extraordinary cinematography by Andrew Lesnie. and Howard Shore's score which is beautifully evocative.

If you enjoyed the first film, you will love this film even more, which is filled with great drama, fine acting, intense action, and stunning visual effects. The exciting cliffhanger ending will leave you salivating for more.

Highly Recommended.