LA: This being his fifth film in the Lord of The Rings franchise makes it an understatement to say that he is well versed in this world. This sequel is an improvement over the first in many ways. The film picks up much faster and has more entertaining action sequences. Not everything has improved however. As a viewer, you do begin to feel the 2 hour and 41 minute run time about halfway through the film. Peter Jackson films tend to run long & just like every other there is much that could have been cut out. For instance following an exciting river battle, our heroes unnecessarily spend half an hour in a town doing nothing which slows down the movie.
NK: The first Hobbit movie left us hanging with the cast being saved by the Eagles and we finally see the lonely mountain. This one starts off with the dwarves and Bilbo getting closer and closer to their destiny. The film is a great sequel and keeps you entertained throughout. Although it does run long, every scene is necessary. It shows different perspectives from each village, the elves, the wizards, the hobbits, the dwarves, the lake town citizens, and the orcs. The reason for the length is to give you a different view on a great script.
LA: I disagree about every scene being necessary. I felt as though most of the lake town scenes could have been cut out and the film wouldn't have suffered from it. The multiple perspectives do make the film feel more interesting. I have no complaints about the acting. Martin Freeman stars as Bilbo Baggins, a Hobbit whose role in the group is to be a thief and seemingly save them at every turn. The character has grown since the first film and Freeman has more to do with the role as Bilbo is being affected by the ring. Ian McKellen is great as Gandalf the grey but unfortunately isn't in the film much.
NK: I agree with the lake town scenes taking a while to reveal their meaning. I also have no complaints about the acting or actors. But I have to say the voice of Smaug, Benedict Cummberbatch, steals the show with his deep, dark, and hating tone. Smaug leaves you clutching your seat and wishing the third movie was already out.
LA: Smaug the dragon absolutely stole the movie. This dragon has such an huge presence in the series. You hear so much about him and he completely delivers. Benedict Cummberbatch was perfect casting for the role. Richard Armitage is also great as Thorin, leader of the dwarves. Another great aspect of the film is the special effects. I believe they blended well with the work of cinematographer Andrew Lesnie. His work along with the effects give you a great sense of scope in the film.
Overall, I enjoyed The Desolation Of Smaug much more than its' predecessor. It seems to be another great chapter in what will hopefully be Peter Jackson's second great trilogy.
NK: To recap, this film is a great movie and if you have not seen the first one it is easy to catch onto. It runs a bit slow at times but what movie doesn't?
LA: 4.7/5
NK: 4.8/5
LA: Really? You're going to Price Is Right me?
NK: Yup.
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