The Hobbit – The Desolation of Smaug Keeps Franchise Fresh and Intact

When I was in school…The Hobbit was required reading.  Two confessions.  First, when I got the assignment and saw how long the book was – I opted for the cliff notes.  Second, I have to admit I have not seen one Hobbit film before now.  I know….right??!!

So, when one of my girlfriends offered to treat me to a movie at iPic, I was thrilled!!!  Going to an iPic flick is like watching  a film in a private screening with first class restaurant service.  It is not cheap!  When she divulged it was the Hobbit…excitement, quickly turned into…what the hell??!!  So, I decided to not be soooo selfish, be grateful and enjoy the surprise and the flick as much as I could.  And yet another confession…I loved it!!!

The Hobbit – The Desolation Of Smaug takes us on a journey with the dwarves, along with Bilbo Baggins (Martin Freeman) and Gandalf the Grey (Ian McClellan) as they continue their quest to reclaim Erebor, their homeland, from Smaug (Benedict Cumberbatch). BTW…Bilbo possesses the mysterious and magical ring, which in times of needs renders him the ability to be invisible.

It suffices to say that Peter Jackson has mastered the art of the trilogy and special effects for this genre of film.  They are simply spectacular!!!  I was pleasantly surprised at the element of comedy, the intense action sequences and the kick-ass fighting of Evangeline Lilly (Tauriel).

Clocking in at 161 minutes, The Hobbit is the #1 film and has grossed $615M worldwide!!! There are a few slow moments, but before you have a chance to get bored the action picks up, gets and keeps your attention for the duration.

It’s a great holiday film that the entire family can enjoy…especially if they have seen the previous Hobbit films or read any of the J.R. Tolkien novels.  On a personal note…Happy New Year and I wish each and everyone one of you a prosperous and positive 2014 !!!