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The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey

2012, Fantasy/Adventure, 2h 49m

What to know

Critics Consensus

Peter Jackson's return to Middle-earth is an earnest, visually resplendent trip, but the film's deliberate pace robs the material of some of its majesty. Read critic reviews

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Bilbo Baggins (Martin Freeman) lives a simple life with his fellow hobbits in the shire, until the wizard Gandalf (Ian McKellen) arrives and convinces him to join a group of dwarves on a quest to reclaim the kingdom of Erebor. The journey takes Bilbo on a path through treacherous lands swarming with orcs, goblins and other dangers, not the least of which is an encounter with Gollum (Andy Serkis) and a simple gold ring that is tied to the fate of Middle Earth in ways Bilbo cannot even fathom.

Rating: PG-13 (Intense Action Violence|Frightening Images|Intense Fantasy Violence)

Genre: Fantasy, Adventure

Original Language: English

Director: Peter Jackson

Producer: Carolynne Cunningham , Zane Weiner , Fran Walsh , Peter Jackson

Writer: Fran Walsh , Philippa Boyens , Peter Jackson , Guillermo del Toro

Release Date (Theaters): Dec 14, 2012  wide

Release Date (Streaming): Dec 11, 2015

Box Office (Gross USA): $303.0M

Runtime: 2h 49m

Distributor: Warner Bros. Pictures

Production Co: WingNut Films

Sound Mix: Dolby Digital, SDDS, Datasat

View the collection: Lord of The Rings

Cast & Crew

Ian McKellen

Martin Freeman

Bilbo Baggins

Richard Armitage

Thorin Oakenshield

Graham McTavish

William Kircher

James Nesbitt

Stephen Hunter

Dean O'Gorman

Aidan Turner

John Callen

Peter Hambleton

Mark Hadlow

Elijah Wood

Hugo Weaving

Cate Blanchett

Christopher Lee

Peter Jackson

Screenwriter

Philippa Boyens

Guillermo del Toro

Carolynne Cunningham

Zane Weiner

Executive Producer

Toby Emmerich

Carolyn Blackwood

Andrew Lesnie

Cinematographer

Jabez Olssen

Film Editing

Howard Shore

Original Music

Production Design

Andy McLaren

Art Director

Brian Massey

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Critic Reviews for The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey

Audience reviews for the hobbit: an unexpected journey.

having read the books a long time ago in a galaxy far away (inc. the silmarilion or whatever the F) and having seen the LOTR's films when they came out too but not really paying any attention to it all since then, this was a reminder of the imagination and creativity of J.R.R. Tolkien expertly put to screen once again by peter jackson. now fervently waiting to devour the desolation of smaug whenever it plays on TV.

what is the hobbit unexpected journey about

Precious Gollumses!!

It's definitely no LOTR...But it's still a pretty cool movie. Sure, it took it's time to try to tell the story and dragged on for a little too long, but other than that, the special effects were great, and it was entertaining as hell. It's a good introduction to The Hobbit franchise.

The decision to split up The Hobbit, has in turn split audiences. Many decry it as a simple money making scheme (which in essence it is), others struggle to see how on book only a quarter the size of any LotR book is expected to stretch the same amount of cinema time as the whole Rings trilogy combined. I however, see it as a positive. I don't mind in the least paying an extra $15 out of my own pocket for an extra 6 hours of quality film like this. It's only when they expects people to pay actual money for shite like the Twilight franchise or the Death at a Funeral U.S. remake that I have a problem with Hollywood's greed. The Hobbit, on the other hand, is perfectly capable of backing up its ticket price. And then... Lots. And lots extra. Which is nice. It differs greatly from the book in many aspects, though it has been so damn long since I've read it that I'm not sure what's actually been changed, what's new, what's gone, and what I just don't have right in my head. Martin Freeman (Sherlock, Hot Fuzz, The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, Shaun of the Dead, Love, Actually, Ali G Indahouse) is a fantastic Bilbo, he manages to sort of create this halfway point between Frodo and the Bilbo of the LotR trilogy. Which is really kind of perfect when you think about it. Gandalf's the same as ever, really nothing to recap (which is a solid move in my mind). Frodo's also back for some flashback/forward scenes (depending on how you look at it). Which totally makes sense, flaunt 'em if you got 'em. This isn't a line by line adaptation of The Hobbit, it's the first film of the Peter Jackson prequel to the Peter Jackson trilogy of the Rings, both of which are somewhat based on the books. So in his version of the world (which is still very loveable, just different) it makes perfect sense to have these great cameos. The Dwarves are where it all gets a bit confusing. Remembering names and faces, all that jazz. Before I continue though, let me get myself decapitated by all of Tumblr. Why the fuck is everyone going so goddamn schizoid over Kili (Played by Aidan Turner [Being Human, The Tudors]) when he's the one Dwarf without a motherhuggin' beard!? I may not be as beard-savy as L'alice (whose Tumblr is MainliningBeards) but I do appreciate the shit out of them (on that, how amazing is Thror's beard? All armoured and junk, goddamn). He's this skinny fucker with no beard, and does archery all over the place. I mean, yes it does seem like they somehow managed to fuse together Legolas and Aragon to create this dude, which is a nice touch, but he's not that babin' and he sure as shit isn't a Dwarf. Now the other two "sexy" members of the party (is sexy not heterosexual enough, should that be "eye-candy"... Nah, fuck it. Sexy) I can totally get behind. Thorin Oakenshield (Played by Richard Armitage [Captain America, Robin Hood, Strike Back, Spooks]) and Fili (Played by Dean O'Gorman[Xena, Young Hercules, Toy Love]) are not only very, very attractive, but I also totally buy them as fantasy creatures from Middle Earth. The actors playing Balin, Bifur, Bofur, Bombur, Oin, Gloin, Nori, Dori and Ori weren't overly familiar to me. Though Graham McTavish (Green Street Hooligans 2, Rambo, The Bill, Rome, King Arthur, Erik the Viking, Dante's Inferno, Call of Duty franchise, The Avengers: Earth's Mightiest Heroes, Dawn of War II) as Dwalin is clearly a fuckin' badass. I do have some qualms with changes made, not from novel to screen, but from LotR to The Hobbit. Given that both are Peter Jackson's work, and they're meant to be in his world, why was it necessary to change the appearance of firmly grounded canonical things? The Goblins of The Hobbit (above) are great, but look nothing like the original ones. The Wargs seem to have actually taken a backwards step in my eyes, and are also unfamiliar in this screen world. It's difficult to back up my statements about "It's okay to not be the same as the book, it's Jackson's world" if Jackson keeps changing his mind about what his world even looks like. Azog not looking like any other orc was fine by me though. He was an incredible looking bad guy, with a back story, a great actor behind him (Australian Manau Bennett [Bikie Wars: Brothers in Arms, Spartacus series, Sinbad and the Minotaur, 30 Days of Night, The Condemned]). Ultimately, the only killer for me about The Hobbit, is knowing that despite the fact that it's completely finished, it's still only being released at a rate of one film a year, and that hurts, because honestly, The Hobbit's great. Watch it as an adaptation of the book, watch it as a fantasy epic, watch it as the LotR prequel, watch it as a heart-warming tale of adventure from mediocrity, watch it as a cinematic marvel, or just plain watch it as Beard-Porn, whatever, it's maybe not life changing, but it's enjoyable as Hell. 79% -Gimly

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The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey

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The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey is the first film of The Hobbit film trilogy , lasting 3 hours and 2 minutes. It was directed by Peter Jackson , who previously had directed The Lord of the Rings film trilogy . It was a major box office success, grossing over $1.017 billion worldwide. The film is the fourth Middle-earth film adaptation to be released, and the first chronologically.

Martin Freeman portrays a young Bilbo Baggins and Ian Holm reprises his role as an older Bilbo Baggins. Ian McKellen and Andy Serkis reprise their roles as Gandalf and Gollum , respectively, as do Hugo Weaving and Cate Blanchett , as Elrond and Galadriel .

The character of Radagast the Brown appears in the movie and is portrayed by Sylvester McCoy , who had been known mostly for his portrayal as the seventh incarnation of The Doctor on Doctor Who .

  • 2 Memorable quotes
  • 3 Development
  • 4.3 Extended Edition only
  • 4.4.1 Men of Dale
  • 4.4.2 Dwarves of the Lonely Mountains
  • 4.4.3 Mirkwood Elves
  • 4.4.4 Hobbits of the Shire
  • 4.4.5 Hunter Orcs
  • 4.4.6 Elves of Rivendell
  • 4.4.7 Goblins
  • 5 Appearances and mentions
  • 7 Extended Edition
  • 10 Translations
  • 11 References
  • 12 External links

A reluctant Hobbit , Bilbo Baggins, sets out to the Lonely Mountain with a spirited group of Dwarves to reclaim their mountain home, and the gold within it from the dragon Smaug . [1]

Memorable quotes [ ]

Gandalf: Agreed. "

Development [ ]

Credits [ ].

  • Ian McKellen as Gandalf
  • Martin Freeman as Bilbo Baggins
  • Richard Armitage as Thorin II Oakenshield
  • Ken Stott as Balin
  • Graham McTavish as Dwalin
  • William Kircher as Bifur
  • James Nesbitt as Bofur
  • Stephen Hunter as Bombur
  • Dean O'Gorman as Fíli
  • Aidan Turner as Kíli
  • John Callen as Óin
  • Peter Hambleton as Glóin
  • Jed Brophy as Nori
  • Mark Hadlow as Dori
  • Adam Brown as Ori
  • Ian Holm as Old Bilbo
  • Elijah Wood as Frodo Baggins
  • Hugo Weaving as Elrond
  • Cate Blanchett as Galadriel
  • Christopher Lee as Saruman
  • Andy Serkis as Gollum
  • Sylvester McCoy as Radagast
  • Barry Humphries as Great Goblin
  • Jeffrey Thomas as Thrór
  • Michael Mizrahi as Thráin
  • Lee Pace as Thranduil
  • John Rawls as Yazneg
  • Stephen Ure as Fimbul
  • Timothy Bartlett as Master Worrywort
  • William Kircher as Tom
  • Peter Hambleton as Bert
  • Mark Hadlow as William
  • Bret McKenzie as Lindir
  • Stephen Ure as Grinnah
  • Kiran Shah as Goblin Scribe
  • Manu Bennett as Azog
  • Conan Stevens as Gundabad Orc Chieftain
  • Benedict Cumberbatch as Smaug and Necromancer
  • Glenn Boswell as Dwarf Miner
  • Thomas Robins as Young Thráin

Extended Edition only [ ]

  • Luke Evans as Girion
  • Dan Hennah as The Old Took
  • Stephen Gledhill as Old Gammidge
  • Tim Gordon as Old Hob
  • Oscar Strik as Little Bilbo
  • Sonia Forbes-Adam as Belladonna (Took) Baggins
  • Erin Banks as Lobelia Sackville-Baggins
  • Brian Hotter as Otho Sackville-Baggins
  • Eric Vespe as Fredegar Chubb
  • Mervyn Smith as Tosser Grubb
  • Ruby Acevedo as "Cute Young Hobbit"
  • Katie Jackson
  • Honor McTavish
  • Louis Serkis
  • Ruby Serkis
  • Sonny Serkis

Uncredited [ ]

Men of dale [ ].

  • Mary Nesbitt
  • Peggy Nesbitt
  • Many unknowns

Dwarves of the Lonely Mountains [ ]

  • Peter Jackson
  • Jabez Olssen
  • James Wells
  • Richard Whiteside

Mirkwood Elves [ ]

  • Brendan Casey
  • Cameron Jones
  • Carl Van Room
  • Few unknowns

Hobbits of the Shire [ ]

  • Joan Z. Dawe
  • Melissa Kern
  • Aaron Morgan
  • Kaela Morgan
  • Ravi Narayan

Hunter Orcs [ ]

  • Frazer Anderson
  • George Harach
  • Christian Hipolito
  • Ane Kirkeng Jørgensen
  • Joseph Mika-Hunt
  • Elliot Travers

Elves of Rivendell [ ]

  • Jared Blakiston
  • Shane Boulton
  • Melanie Carrington
  • Andrew Fitzsimons
  • Luke Hawker
  • Dean Knowsley
  • Luke Wilson

Goblins [ ]

  • Renee Cataldo
  • Ben Fransham
  • Tim McLahlan
  • Nathan Meister
  • Terry Notary
  • Thomas Rimmer
  • James Trevena-Brown
  • Mark Trotter

Appearances and mentions [ ]

Species and creatures

Factions, groups and titles

Objects and artifacts

Miscellanea

Gandalfthehobbit

Sir Ian McKellen as Gandalf the Grey, in a photo from the set of The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey (2012)

Deviations from the book [ ]

  • [1] Elijah Wood appears briefly as Frodo Baggins , while this character does not appear in the book. However, his appearance is purely a cameo as the set-up for the movie, as the Red Book of Westmarch is being written and read by Bilbo, shortly before the start of The Fellowship of the Ring .
  • The Dwarves do not arrive in order (first Dwalin, then Balin, then Kíli and Fíli, then Óin, Glóin, Dori, Nori, Ori, Bifur, Bofur, and Bombur all at once, and then Thorin arrives significantly later) and they do not have their multi-colored hoods or beards as they did in the book.
  • Bilbo was shown to be allergic to Horses .
  • The Dwarves surrender when the Trolls threaten to rip Bilbo in two instead of being overpowered and popped into bags.
  • Bilbo goes to the Trolls because they steal the Dwarves' ponies.
  • In the book, it was Gandalf that stalled the trolls until they turned into stone. This was done by Bilbo in the film.
  • The trolls' cave is wide open, and there is no locked door blocking it.
  • In the book, Bilbo finds Sting and takes it. In the film, Gandalf comes upon it and gives it to Bilbo.
  • The group is attacked by Orcs on the way to Rivendell , just after the Trolls sequence in the movie. This did not happen in the book.
  • Radagast the Brown aids the Dwarves in escaping the Orc Warg-riders near Rivendell. In contrast, Radagast did not appear in the book at all, and there is only one mention of him.
  • Radagast investigates the darkness of Mirkwood, and at Dol Guldur encounters the Necromancer and the Witch-king of Angmar , with whom he briefly duels and from whom he takes a Morgul Blade. In contrast, Tolkien never wrote of any such incident.
  • Azog has survived the War of the Dwarves and Orcs in which he was wounded by Thorin, who cut off his arm, and hunts Thorin Oakenshield and his followers. In contrast, in the Tolkien literature Azog was beheaded by Thorin's cousin Dáin Ironfoot in the Battle of Azanulbizar , well before the events of The Hobbit . The events of leading to and included in the battle are also altered: Thrór leads an army to Moria to reclaim it as opposed to investigating it with a single companion, and he is beheaded during the battle while in the books this occurred several years beforehand. The origin of Thorin's name of Oakenshield is taken from the appendices of The Return of the King , but here takes place during battle with Azog and involves him picking up an oaken branch rather than cutting it off a tree.
  • While at Rivendell with Thorin's party, Gandalf meets with Elrond , Galadriel , and Saruman (the film's version of the White Council ) and relates Radagast's news about Mirkwood, but Saruman discounts Radagast's news about the Necromancer, who he says must be no more than a human pretending to be a wizard. This conflicts with Tolkien's version, in which the White Council already knew that the Necromancer was Sauron and was at Dol Guldur , since Gandalf had already confirmed this 89 years earlier, and Saruman had discovered two years earlier (although he did not inform the Council of this) that Sauron had learned of Isildur 's loss of the One Ring at the Gladden Fields by the river Anduin and his servants were searching the area. Accordingly, in Tolkien's original version, in the year of the events of The Hobbit , Saruman finally agreed to an attack on Dol Guldur because he wanted to prevent Sauron from finding the Ring. [2]
  • There is no mention of Galadriel in the book, although she is part of the White Council.
  • At the White Council meeting, Galadriel relates how the Witch-king of Angmar, after his defeat near Fornost , had been killed and sealed in a tomb in that could not be opened in the High Fells . This is a serious departure from canon (Tolkien's writings), in which the Witch-king had not died, but fled. In fact, Glorfindel had stopped pursuit of the Witch-king and prophesied, "Do not pursue him! He will not return to these lands. Far off yet is his doom, and not by the hand of man will he fall." [3] This prophecy, of course, was the basis for the later dramatic moment in The Lord of the Rings in which Éowyn was able to kill the Witch-king because she was not a man. This prophecy no longer makes sense if the Witch-king had already been killed and is now (as Saruman implies) just a spirit raised by a necromancer who could "summon the dead." Furthermore, per Tolkien the White Council knew the Witch-king had not been killed because he and the rest of the Nazgûl had previously been fighting with Gondor and had captured (and presumably killed) the last King of Gondor at Minas Morgul in TA 2050, long after he had fled Fornost [2] . It is possible, however, that the Ringwraiths could not die due to their Wraith nature and were imprisoned in the tombs, and only Sauron had the power to call them forth. As for how they presumably killed the last King of Gondor , Galadriel never specifically says if the other Ringwraiths were sealed in the High Fells along with the Witch-king when Angmar fell. So it is possible that the other Ringwraiths challenged and killed Eärnur , and were defeated and sealed with their leader centuries later.
  • When traveling along the mountain pass, Bilbo observes the stone-giants hurling rocks at a distance, "across the valley." Bilbo and his companions take refuge under a hanging rock during the thunderstorm (thunder-battle), but are never involved in the stone-giants' game.
  • In the book, it was Bilbo that alerted the party when the trapdoors in the Front Porch open. In the film, the Dwarves realize this just as they fall into the hole.
  • In the book, the Goblins only had tunnels, not rope bridges.
  • In the book, Bilbo is with the Dwarves when they are taken to the Great Goblin and later rescued by Gandalf. In the film, Bilbo is separated from the group and falls to Gollum's cave before the Dwarves are taken to the Great Goblin.
  • In the book The Hobbit , as in the prologue to The Fellowship of the Ring film , Bilbo Baggins finds the One Ring by chance when his hand happens to fall upon it as he is crawling through one of the dark Goblin-town tunnels, well before he comes across Gollum. In this film, Bilbo sees Gollum fighting with a Goblin and we see Gollum drop the Ring during the fight.
  • Gollum has six teeth in the book, not nine.
  • In the book, when Gollum and Bilbo were playing the game of riddles, the cave was pitch black and Bilbo could only see Gollum's glowing eyes and hear his voice echoing through the walls of the cave. In the film, the cave was partly lit up and Bilbo could see Gollum entirely.
  • In the book, Gandalf saves the Dwarves in the goblin cave with a storm of burning smoke and instantly slays the Goblin King with his blade. In the film, the Goblin King is merely knocked aside in this scene (though many of his minions die in the telekinetic blast), and slain later on.
  • In the film, Gandalf does not use multi-colored fire when lighting the pine cones.

Quizzing the Dwarves

Extended Edition [ ]

The extended edition of The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey was released on October 22 , 2013 for digital downloads and November 5 2013 for hard copies. It includes these scenes:

  • The introduction. The Elvenking Thranduil is given more screen time. He approaches the throne while Thráin gestures for a Dwarf to show Thranduil a chest of gems. As Thranduil looks entranced and reaches for it, the Dwarf closes the lid. Bard's ancestor Girion is given screen time. He is seen behind his Wind lance attempting to shoot down Smaug during the dragon's attack on Dale .
  • Bilbo's introduction to himself. A flashback wherein a young hobbit boy comes running up to Gandalf and plays with him. His mother Belladonna runs after him and acknowledges Gandalf as an old friend.
  • After Bilbo meets Gandalf on the front bench, he buys supper from Hobbiton while suspiciously looking around everywhere to make sure Gandalf is not around.
  • Kíli glances over to a female Elf in Rivendell and winks at her. Dwalin sees him and Kíli begins making excuses. In one of his excuses, he mistakenly calls another male Elf a female and Dwalin corrects him. The rest of the Dwarves laugh much to Kíli's embarrassment.
  • While eating, Nori and Óin complain about the song played by the Elf musicians. Bofur climbs up a platform and begins singing. The other Dwarves join in and start throwing food around. Elrond and Lindir look surprised and angry about Dwarves activities because they start throwing fruit to Elrond, Lindir and Bofur but they say nothing about it.
  • Bilbo is wandering around Rivendell during the daytime. He approaches the statue holding the shards of Narsil before a particular painting catches his eye. The painting depicts Isildur about to cut the One Ring from Sauron's hand. Bilbo is particularly interested in the One Ring on Sauron's hand.
  • A conversation between Bilbo and Elrond in Rivendell. Elrond also welcomes Bilbo to stay in Rivendell if he wishes.
  • Lindir complains to Elrond about the Dwarves' behavior. They find them swimming in a large fountain.
  • Gandalf and Elrond further discuss Thorin and Company's quest. Elrond voices his concern of Thorin himself, since both his grandfather and father succumbed to madness. Bilbo and Thorin overhear this conversation.
  • At the White Council, Gandalf brings up the fact that the Ring of Power once owned by Thorin's father mysteriously vanished. Saruman dismisses this as it would be of no use since all believe the One Ring was lost long ago.
  • A new song from the goblin king and longer interrogation.

Bilbo with Dwarves

Bilbo in Rivendell with the Dwarves

  • Guillermo del Toro was originally on board to direct, but bowed out due to "ongoing delays in the setting of a start date for filming."
  • When it appeared Martin Freeman would not be available to play Bilbo in The Hobbit films due to scheduling conflicts with the BBC television series Sherlock , other actors such as James McAvoy and Tobey Maguire were considered. A false rumour was spread online that David Tennant was considered, but both Tennant and Jackson denied this. Tennant was actually considered for (and offered) the role of Thranduil but had to turn it down when his girlfriend discovered she was pregnant.
  • Ryan Gage was originally cast to play Drogo Baggins , father of Frodo Baggins . According to Peter Jackson , "Ryan is a great young actor who we originally cast in a small role, but we liked him so much, we promoted him to the much larger Alfrid part."
  • This is the only film in both The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings trilogies in which Legolas makes no appearance.
  • The scene when Bilbo first puts on the Ring is very similar to the scene in The Fellowship of the Ring where Frodo puts on the Ring in The Prancing Pony .
  • The filmmakers titled the project Little Rivers to aid in hiding the film's identity.
  • When a Giant Eagle grabs Thorin's unconscious body, his oak-log shield falls off his arm and is permanently left behind.
  • This was both the last film not distributed by Disney, Universal or Paramount and the last film distributed by Warner Bros . to gross $1 billion until the release of Aquaman in 2018.

Gallery [ ]

DVD Combo set

Translations [ ]

References [ ].

  • ↑ https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0903624/
  • ↑ 2.0 2.1 The Lord of the Rings , Appendix B
  • ↑ J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings , Appendix A (I, iv).

External links [ ]

  • Official site of The Hobbit films
  • Trailer for the movie
  • Differences between the book and the film Art
  • Lord of the Rings
  • 3 Galadriel
  • International edition
  • Australia edition
  • Europe edition

Martin Freeman as Bilbo Baggins in The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey.

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey – review

I n last Sunday's Film of the Week , the protagonist, a Hollywood screenwriter played by Colin Farrell, had a title for his drama, "Seven Psychopaths", but no plot. This week's principal film, The Hobbit , began life in a not dissimilar fashion. Back in the early 1930s, when he was an Oxford don, JRR Tolkien was marking exam papers for the now defunct School Certificate when he came across a blank sheet. For some reason he wrote on it: "In a hole in the ground there lived a hobbit." The line isn't exactly "Call me Ishmael" or "Happy families are all alike", but this first line of what was published in 1937 as a children's book began what has proved to be a literary phenomenon, an alternative religion, an endless invitation to exegesis and a major industry that has led to an immensely successful trilogy of books and films about life in Middle-earth. Now the New Zealand screenwriter Peter Jackson, who followed up the Lord of the Rings trilogy with King Kong and The Lovely Bones , has returned to his old hobbits, and in collaboration with Fran Walsh, Philippa Boyens and Guillermo del Toro, has turned the initially modest The Hobbit into a full-scale trilogy of its own.

Given three films, each presumably close to three hours long, Jackson and co have plenty of time on their hands, and 20 minutes of the film has passed before the immortal "In a hole in the ground there lived a hobbit" is spoken. What we get at first is a back story from a posthumously published Tolkien work explaining how a blight fell on the underground city of Erebor when fire-breathing dragons, hungry for gold, attacked it, driving its dwarf inhabitants into exile. This extremely violent event, involving much death and destruction, warns the audience that it's a film for extremely hardy kids. It sets up an invitation to Bilbo Baggins to take part in an adventurous quest proposed by the wizard Gandalf (the splendidly authoritative Ian McKellen). It involves him in joining a party of dwarves as the team's "burglar" on a mission to regain their ancestral lands and wealth from Smaug, the dragon guarding them beneath the Lonely Mountain. A quiet, peace-loving hobbit, Bilbo is happily installed in his cosy subterranean home in the Shires, an idyllic corner of Merrie England inhabited by contented peasants who look like people in the background of paintings by Fragonard or Constable. Bilbo (Ian Holm, reprising his role from The Lord of the Rings ) is seemingly writing his memoirs, puffing on his churchwarden pipe and blowing out smoke rings as big as haloes and eating regular meals. As he contemplates the past he's replaced by his equally pacifist younger self, to which part Martin Freeman brings the same decent, commonsensical, very English qualities that informed his excellent Dr Watson on TV.

His first challenge is provided by the bald, bearded, beaky-nosed, unkempt dwarves, six pairs of them with rhyming names and all constantly brawling, eating and singing. They resemble tramps auditioning for the role of Magwitch in a musical of Great Expectations . The 13th dwarf is altogether more serious. He's their leader, the handsome, tragedy-tinged Thorin Oakenshield (Richard Armitage). These knockabout scenes go on far too long, but eventually the quest begins and the dwarves, Gandalf and an initially reluctant Bilbo embark on their epic journey to the Lonely Mountain, encountering orcs, trolls, elves and goblins along the way and facing endless perils. There are echoes of the Old and New Testament, of similar journeys from Homer's Odyssey through Morte d'Arthur to Gulliver's Travels , and there are all the essential mythic elements: all-conquering swords, magical rings, mysterious maps, giant eagles and dangerous riddling contests such as the one engaged in by Bilbo and Gollum (Andy Serkis).

It's an exciting story, easy to follow and lacking both the solemnity and the portentous symbolism of The Lord of the Rings . You don't need to be a Tolkien devotee who knows their orcs from their elvish to enjoy the movie, and it's generally less irritating than the book, with none of the archness Tolkien adopts when addressing children. Thankfully there's also an absence of knowing references to other movies and TV shows, and there isn't an American accent to be heard. The dwarves have various British regional brogues, mainly Celtic; the trolls speak comic cockney; the elves, largely played by Australian actors, stick to standard English.

The mountainous terrain, increasingly dark and menacing as the story progresses, at times resembles paintings by John Martin and Caspar David Friedrich , and is beautifully photographed by Jackson's regular cinematographer, Andrew Lesnie, who has that feeling for landscape that's such a feature of antipodean cinema. At the centre of the film, and sensitively handled by Jackson, are the relationships between Bilbo, his gruff mentor Gandalf and his antagonist Thorin, and it's something children will respond to. In his book Anatomy of Criticism , the Canadian literary theorist Herman Northrop Frye makes a distinction between "high mimetic" and "low mimetic" figures, ie heroes who are mythically and socially superior to ordinary people or at the same human level as the rest of us. Gandalf, who teaches Bilbo what heroism is, and Thorin, who exhibits the necessary qualities in his actions, are high mimetic figures, while Bilbo is low mimetic. Bilbo can become a hero and then return to his former world, as indeed is suggested at the beginning of The Hobbit . What we see in Martin Freeman's moving and endearing performance is Bilbo doing just that. I liked the film and its measured pace and, except when I found myself looking over the top of my glasses, was largely unaware of the 3D.

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'The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey' Is the Best 'Hobbit' Movie Because It's Actually About Bilbo

The first chapter of Peter Jackson's prequel trilogy is a strong introduction to a main character who is all but abandoned by the subsequent films.

It almost goes without saying that expanding The Hobbit into a trilogy was a mistake, and by all accounts the production was chaotic. Guillermo del Toro had developed the project for years before departing, and his exit put a time crunch on Peter Jackson to redesign the entire production shortly before filming began. Shooting without a completed script is generally not a good idea, particularly if it's one of the most expensive productions in history that also requires extensive visual effects work. To do so while also deciding at the last minute to make a two-part story into a trilogy is downright disastrous, and Jackson later admitted he was “winging it” most of the time.

It’s easy to list the issues these films have: shooting in a high frame rate was a gamble that didn’t pay off, the overreliance on CGI made the creatures look cartoony, and despite the excessive runtime, few characters had any depth. However, the film's success was limited from the beginning, as the simplicity of J.R.R. Tolkien ’s original novel doesn’t justify the same epic adventure of The Lord of the Rings . Certainly there are elements of the original novel that retroactively help foreshadow Jackson’s trilogy, including the first appearance of Gollum ( Andy Serkis ), and Gandalf’s ( Ian McKellen ) search for Sauron’s origins were included in Tolkien’s appendices. However, The Hobbit itself is a story about a mild-mannered homebody who gets caught up in a treasure hunt.

RELATED: 'The Lord of the Rings' Producers Reportedly Asked Peter Jackson to Kill Off a Hobbit

It’s almost unfair to call The Hobbit trilogy an adaptation of the 1937 novel, because in actuality it’s just a Lord of the Rings prequel that awkwardly foreshadows a more exciting adventure, undercutting its own story in the process. The dwarves’ quest to retake their homeland from Smaug has little stakes, because we know the infinitely greater threat of Sauron is just on the horizon. The second chapter The Desolation of Smaug is often cited as the trilogy’s high point because it comes the closest to capturing the tone of the Lord of the Rings trilogy, but it's a film where Bilbo ( Martin Freeman ) is basically a supporting character. Of the trilogy, only the first film An Unexpected Journey actually makes use of Bilbo’s unique perspective.

Bilbo is not his nephew Frodo ( Elijah Wood ). He doesn’t leap at the sense of adventure, nor does he seek out new companions; even within the isolated world of The Shire, he’s relatively secluded from the other Hobbits. An Unexpected Journey plays up this “fish out of water” element as Bilbo is recruited for a quest he has no stake in, and Freeman perfectly captures Bilbo’s uncomfortability and awkwardness. The framing device of the elder Bilbo ( Ian Holm ) recounting his adventures to Frodo highlights the differences between the two. Compared to Frodo’s wide-eyed enthusiasm, Bilbo is reserved and even contemptuous at points, only opening up once he sees what life outside his narrow worldview actually looks like.

Replicating a similar structure to The Fellowship of the Rings actually benefits An Unexpected Journey because The Shire is integral to both stories. Before going on their adventures, Frodo and Bilbo both need to be living in an environment of innocence where the most dramatic occurrence is a squabble between families over party invitations. An Unexpected Journey luxuriates in The Shire and takes its time exploring how the Dwarves disrupt Bilbo’s routine, establishing a naivete that will be weathered by his adventure.

The similar structure also helps highlight the differences between the two Hobbits’ relationship with Gandalf. The bond that Lord of the Rings establishes through Gandalf’s return to The Shire isn’t present here, and seeing the elder wizard playfully tease Bilbo by bringing the chaotic Dwarves is a fun way to get Bilbo out of his comfort zone. Gandalf the Grey is more mischievous than when he became the authoritative “The White” in The Two Towers . Freeman and McKellen have fun banter before they’re burdened by the responsibilities of the quest.

Although it was frequently criticized for the wackier comedic elements, An Unexpected Journey is a children’s story so it makes sense to have a lighter touch. Tolkien’s original novel was aimed at children and didn’t bear the same intensity that The Lord of the Rings did. There’s physical comedy from the Dwarves running rampant within Bilbo’s kitchen and toilet humor coming from goofy Trolls. The second two films took a more serious approach (the extended edition of The Battle of the Five Armies was even Rated-R for its graphic violence), but An Unexpected Journey retains its fairy tale-like quality. Jackson treats many of these creatures with playfulness: it makes sense for the Goblin King to be an eccentric first threat before the graver menace of Smaug is introduced.

The strongest tie between The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings is the scene in which Bilbo receives the ring from Gollum ( Andy Serkis ), something Tolkien himself revised in later editions of the novel in order to tie them closer together. While it has connotations for the fate of the One Ring, the scene in An Unexpected Journey helps highlight Bilbo’s character growth. The game of riddles with Gollum shows Bilbo’s inventiveness, and his aptitude for storytelling which Gandalf mocked early on saves him in a dire situation. Bilbo’s decision to spare Gollum’s life reminds the viewer that despite his newfound resourcefulness, the adventure hasn’t changed his soft heart. In a fleeting look, Bilbo recognizes a mistreated soul within Gollum without knowing he was once a creature not dissimilar from a Hobbit; it's a brilliantly acted moment between Freeman and Serkis.

The weakest parts of An Unexpected Journey are those that stray from Bilbo’s perspective. The conflict between Thorin and the Orc chief Azog ( Manu Bennett ) was an underdeveloped storyline throughout the trilogy. The Dwarves’ desire to return home is constantly undercut when the films divert and start introducing more Lord of the Rings characters, but the final conflict with the Orcs in An Unexpected Journey works because it shows Bilbo’s merit within the quest. Thorin’s ambition gets the better of him, and Bilbo’s willingness to take on Azog shows just how much he’s grown since his diminutive introduction. It’s a great moment of development for both characters: Thorin is humbled and recants his harsh early words about the Hobbit, and Bilbo realizes he’s become invested in helping the Dwarves find a home as comforting as the Shire is to him. It functions perfectly as the middle point in a two-part adventure, as it was originally intended to be.

The Hobbit films are largely underwhelming, but there’s merit in all three. Desolation of Smaug features some jaw dropping spectacle and incredible motion capture work from Benedict Cumberbatch , and The Battle of the Five Armies is genuinely weird thanks to grotesque creature feature elements reminiscent of Jackson’s early horror work like Bad Taste , Meet the Feebles , and Braindead . The two sequels are a collection of fun scenes and callbacks that never coalesce into a cohesive narrative, but An Unexpected Journey actually remembers who is telling the story. Ironically lost within his own trilogy, Bilbo’s individuality is only the focus of the opening chapter; a story that’s also referred to as There and Back Again at least gets the first half right.

KEEP READING: 'Lord of the Rings' Timeline Explained: Middle-earth from 'The Silmarillion' to 'The Hobbit' & Beyond

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39 facts about the movie the hobbit: an unexpected journey.

Bertha Tutt

Written by Bertha Tutt

Modified & Updated: 04 Mar 2024

Jessica Corbett

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

39-facts-about-the-movie-the-hobbit-an-unexpected-journey

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey is a fantasy adventure film that takes viewers on an incredible journey through the magical world of Middle-earth. Released in 2012, the movie serves as the prelude to the critically acclaimed Lord of the Rings trilogy and is based on J.R.R. Tolkien’s beloved novel, The Hobbit. Directed by the visionary filmmaker Peter Jackson, this epic cinematic experience transports audiences to a time of dwarves, wizards , elves, and, of course, hobbits. With stunning visuals, captivating storytelling, and a stellar cast, The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey mesmerizes viewers from start to finish. In this article, we will delve into 39 fascinating facts about this cinematic masterpiece, revealing behind-the-scenes secrets, interesting tidbits, and the incredible efforts that went into bringing Tolkien’s iconic world to life on the big screen.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey was a visually stunning film released in 2012, with a captivating story that introduces new characters and explores the rich mythology of Middle-earth.
  • The movie received mixed reviews but won an Academy Award for Best Achievement in Makeup and Hairstyling. It set the stage for an epic adventure and showcased the art of swordplay and memorable dialogue.

The film was released in 2012

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey, directed by Peter Jackson, was released in December 2012, captivating audiences worldwide.

It is the first installment of The Hobbit film trilogy

The movie serves as the beginning of an epic three-part film series based on J.R.R. Tolkien’s beloved novel, The Hobbit.

The movie was shot in 3D

To enhance the cinematic experience, The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey was filmed and released in 3D, immersing viewers in the magical world of Middle-earth.

Martin Freeman plays the lead role of Bilbo Baggins

British actor Martin Freeman delivers a captivating performance as the hobbit protagonist, Bilbo Baggins.

The movie features an ensemble cast

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey boasts an impressive ensemble cast including Ian McKellen , Richard Armitage, Cate Blanchett, and many more talented actors.

It grossed over $1 billion at the box office

The film’s success was undeniable, breaking records and earning over $1 billion worldwide during its theatrical run.

The movie received mixed reviews from critics

Critics had divided opinions about the film, with some praising its visuals and performances while others felt it dragged on unnecessarily.

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey won an Academy Award

The film won an Oscar for Best Achievement in Makeup and Hairstyling at the 85th Academy Awards.

It introduces new characters and brings back familiar faces

The movie introduces new characters such as Thorin Oakenshield and features familiar faces like Gandalf the Grey, played by Ian McKellen.

The film stays true to Tolkien’s vision

Peter Jackson’s adaptation of The Hobbit stays faithful to J.R.R. Tolkien’s original novel, delighting fans of the fantasy series.

The movie showcases stunning visual effects

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey boasts breathtaking visual effects, bringing the fantastical creatures and landscapes of Middle-earth to life.

It explores the origins of the One Ring

The film delves into the backstory of the iconic One Ring, offering insight into its significance in the Lord of the Rings trilogy.

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey highlights the power of camaraderie

The movie emphasizes the importance of teamwork and friendship as Bilbo and his companions embark on their perilous quest.

The film features thrilling action sequences

From intense battles to narrow escapes, The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey delivers adrenaline-pumping action throughout the film.

It explores the rich mythology of Middle-earth

The movie expands on the intricate mythology of Middle-earth, providing deeper context to the events of The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings.

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey showcases stunning locations

The film takes audiences on a visual journey through breathtaking landscapes, from lush forests to majestic mountains.

The movie features memorable musical compositions

Composer Howard Shore masterfully creates a captivating musical score that enhances the emotional impact of the film.

It pays homage to the original Lord of the Rings trilogy

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey references and connects to the events of The Lord of the Rings, creating a cohesive cinematic universe.

The film captures the essence of Tolkien’s storytelling

Peter Jackson successfully captures Tolkien’s enchanting storytelling style, transporting viewers into a world filled with wonder and adventure.

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey received numerous visual effects nominations

The film was recognized for its outstanding visual effects, receiving nominations at various award ceremonies including the BAFTAs and the Academy Awards.

It was shot in Jackson’s native New Zealand

Peter Jackson, a proud New Zealander, chose to film The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey in his homeland, showcasing its stunning natural beauty.

The movie has a runtime of 169 minutes

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey provides audiences with an immersive experience, spanning nearly three hours of thrilling storytelling.

It was a highly anticipated film

Fans eagerly awaited the release of The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey, excited to revisit the world of Middle-earth on the big screen.

The film showcases the art of swordplay

From elaborate fight choreography to skilled swordsmanship, The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey displays the artistry and skill involved in combat.

It features memorable and quotable dialogue

The movie is filled with memorable lines that have become iconic within the fantasy genre, further solidifying its place in cinematic history.

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey explores themes of greed and redemption

The film delves into the consequences of greed and the possibility of redemption, giving depth to its characters and their motivations.

It features a thrilling encounter with trolls

The movie introduces audiences to the perilous trolls encountered by Bilbo and his companions, resulting in a suspenseful and exciting sequence.

The film showcases intricate costume designs

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey dazzles with its elaborate and detailed costume designs, bringing the characters to life in a visually stunning way.

It was a box office success

The film’s commercial success is a testament to its widespread appeal, attracting both devoted fans and newcomers to the world of Middle-earth.

The movie received accolades for its sound design

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey was praised for its exceptional sound design, creating an immersive audio experience for audiences.

It introduces the iconic character Gollum

The movie showcases the memorable character Gollum, portrayed by Andy Serkis , known for his mesmerizing performance capture work.

The film features breathtaking aerial shots

Utilizing stunning aerial cinematography, The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey offers breathtaking views of the vast landscapes of Middle-earth.

It explores the nature of heroism

The film delves into what it means to be a hero and the transformative journey that Bilbo Baggins undergoes throughout his adventure.

The movie has impressive set designs

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey showcases intricate set designs that transport viewers into the fantastical realm of Middle-earth.

It features heartwarming moments of friendship

The film highlights the bonds of friendship and the loyalty that develops between the characters as they face various challenges and dangers.

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey had a massive budget

The movie had a reported budget of over $200 million, allowing for the creation of its visually stunning and elaborate world.

It was filmed using the latest technology

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey utilized cutting-edge technology, including high-speed cameras and advanced motion capture techniques.

The movie explores the concept of destiny

With themes of fate and destiny woven throughout its narrative, The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey invites viewers to contemplate the role of destiny in their own lives.

It sets the stage for an epic adventure

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey lays the foundation for an epic and thrilling journey that continues throughout the remaining films in the trilogy.

In conclusion, “The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey” is a remarkable movie that captivated audiences with its stunning visuals, epic storytelling, and memorable characters. From Bilbo Baggins’ unexpected adventure to the mesmerizing landscapes of Middle-earth, the film takes viewers on a thrilling journey of courage, friendship, and self-discovery.

With an impeccable cast led by Martin Freeman as Bilbo Baggins and directed by the talented Peter Jackson, “The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey” successfully captures the essence of J.R.R. Tolkien’s beloved novel. It serves as an excellent prequel to “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy, expanding the magical world of Middle-earth and providing fans with a true cinematic spectacle.

Whether you’re a dedicated fan of Tolkien’s works or simply enjoy epic fantasy films, “The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey” is a must-watch. Its combination of breathtaking visuals, compelling storytelling, and incredible performances will transport you to a world filled with adventure and wonder.

So grab your popcorn, immerse yourself in the world of Middle-earth, and prepare to be swept away by the magic of “The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey!”

1. Who directed “The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey”?

Peter Jackson directed “The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey.”

2. Is “The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey” a prequel to “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy?

Yes, “The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey” serves as a prequel to “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy.

3. What is the storyline of “The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey”?

The movie follows Bilbo Baggins, a hobbit who is enlisted by the wizard Gandalf to join a group of dwarves on a quest to reclaim their homeland from the dragon Smaug.

4. Who portrays the character of Bilbo Baggins in the film?

Martin Freeman portrays the character of Bilbo Baggins in “The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey.”

5. Are there any other movies in “The Hobbit” trilogy?

Yes, “The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey” is the first film in “The Hobbit” trilogy, followed by “The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug” and “The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies.”

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The hobbit: an unexpected journey, common sense media reviewers.

what is the hobbit unexpected journey about

Tolkien tale isn't as great as LOTR, but better for tweens.

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this movie.

As in The Lord of the Rings, the message of The Ho

No one except Gandalf thinks that Bilbo can be of

Less violent than The Lord of the Rings, but there

Slang use of "jaxie" (meaning "ass").

Although there are no product placements in Middle

The dwarves are a voracious lot -- even more than

Parents need to know that The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey, director Peter Jackson's adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien's stand-alone quest through Middle-earth, is less violent than the scarier Lord of the Rings trilogy. But there are definitely some frightening sequences, like the battle between the…

Positive Messages

As in The Lord of the Rings , the message of The Hobbit is that even the smallest person can make a huge difference. Gandalf even says "it's the small things that keep the darkness at bay" in reference to Bilbo's involvement in the dangerous mission. Gandalf advises Bilbo that it's not knowing how to take a life that takes courage but knowing when to spare one. The dwarves' quest reminds viewers of the importance of home, kinship, and belonging somewhere. Curiosity, perseverance, and teamwork are major themes.

Positive Role Models

No one except Gandalf thinks that Bilbo can be of much help, but Bilbo rises to the occasion by summoning his courage when the time calls for it -- except for the fact that he fulfills his destiny as a "burglar" by stealing Gollum's precious ring. Thorin is dedicated to his fellow dwarves, and they in return revere him as their faithful leader.

Violence & Scariness

Less violent than The Lord of the Rings , but there's still some carnage: a battle between the dwarves and the dragon leads to the dwarf king being decapitated, an orc leader's arm amputated, and a multitude of dwarves and their property destroyed. There are several close calls when Bilbo, Gandalf, and the dwarves are pursued or nearly die on their journey across Middle-earth, usually by orcs and their beasts. The orc leader is a frightening sight -- particularly with his claw-like prosthesis, and he's bloodthirsty. A group of goblins/orcs tries to kill the group as well.

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Violence & Scariness in your kid's entertainment guide.

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Language in your kid's entertainment guide.

Products & Purchases

Although there are no product placements in Middle-earth, the Tolkien books and Peter Jackson film adaptations have spawned a ton of merchandise: apparel, video games, LEGO toys and board games, role-playing games, special movie tie-in editions of the books, and more.

Drinking, Drugs & Smoking

The dwarves are a voracious lot -- even more than hobbits. They ransack Bilbo's pantry and consume large quantities of drink (and food). Gandalf and Bilbo smoke the mellowing pipeweed.

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Drinking, Drugs & Smoking in your kid's entertainment guide.

Parents Need to Know

Parents need to know that The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey, director Peter Jackson 's adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien's stand-alone quest through Middle-earth, is less violent than the scarier Lord of the Rings trilogy. But there are definitely some frightening sequences, like the battle between the dragon and the dwarves of Erebor, during which one character is decapitated, another has an arm amputated, and there's mass destruction. The group of Bilbo, Gandalf, and 13 dwarves is often tracked and pursued and nearly killed several times, but they manage to avoid death -- at least in this installment. Bilbo (like Frodo and his friends in the LOTR movies) again shows that size doesn't matter when it comes to making a difference. To stay in the loop on more movies like this, you can sign up for weekly Family Movie Night emails .

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Based on 52 parent reviews

Suitable for kids IMO.

Definitely not as good as the book..., what's the story.

Peter Jackson's first installment in his three-part adaptation of J. R. R. Tolkien 's THE HOBBIT: AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY starts off with an eleventy-one-year-old Bilbo Baggins (played once again by Ian Holm ) narrating the tale of how he, a mellow hobbit from the Shire, ended up enmeshed in a dangerous quest. Sixty years before The Fellowship of the Ring is formed, a considerably younger Bilbo ( Martin Freeman ) sets off an the titular Unexpected Journey with his friend Gandalf the Grey ( Ian McKellen ) to help 13 dwarves reclaim their homeland -- the kingdom of Erebor, which was taken over by a killer, gold-seeking dragon that forced the dwarves into exile. The motley crew, led by Gandalf and the smoldering heir to the Erebor throne, Thorin Oakenshield (Richard Armitage), encounter two-and-a-half hours of conflict (most notably with the bloodthirsty orcs) with a brief respite found in the elven homeland of Rivendell, where Galadriel ( Cate Blanchett ) offers Gandalf her unconditional support.

Is It Any Good?

Despite issues with length and pacing, there's no denying this is a production worth seeing, especially with kids new to Tolkien's detailed universe. As a novel, The Hobbit skews younger than The Lord of the Rings , so it's only natural that the film is also more accessible for tweens -- just have them look the other way for a few of the darker battle sequences. The story is simple enough, and the visuals are dazzling (the 48 frames per second rate is neither as spectacular or headache-inducing as rumors would have you believe). The acting is admirable, including the return of our favorite wizard, Gandalf, Lady of Lorien Galadriel, and head elf Elrond ( Hugo Weaving ). Unfortunately, the dwarves all sort of blend together in a tangle of hair and mischief, with the notable exception of the broody Thorin and his swashbuckling nephews, Fili and Kili (Dean O'Gorman and Aidan Turner).

The main issue with Jackson's adaptation is that the run time is brutal, even for hardcore fans of Jackson's epic LOTR trilogy. Whereas that trilogy made sense as three separate movies -- considering it was the adaptation of three books -- The Hobbit isn't a substantive enough work to demand three movies, even with Jackson pulling extra material from Tolkien's indices. The fabulous visuals and impressive action sequences reminiscent of the trilogy are bogged down by an overlong and overly thorough first quarter that could have used a considerable edit job.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

Families can talk about how The Hobbit compares to The Lord of the Rings . How are the stories similar (a hobbit joins a dangerous quest), and how are they different? Which adventure do you prefer?

For those familiar with the book , how does the movie adaptation differ? If you haven't read the book yet, does the movie make you want to delve into Tolkien's classic? Why do you think Tolkien's fantasy tale has withstood the test of time?

What does Bilbo learn about himself throughout the journey?

How do the characters in The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey demonstrate curiosity and courage ? What about perseverance and teamwork ? Why are these important character strengths ?

Movie Details

  • In theaters : December 14, 2012
  • On DVD or streaming : March 19, 2013
  • Cast : Ian McKellen , Martin Freeman , Richard Armitage
  • Director : Peter Jackson
  • Inclusion Information : Gay actors
  • Studio : New Line
  • Genre : Fantasy
  • Topics : Magic and Fantasy , Adventures , Book Characters
  • Character Strengths : Courage , Curiosity , Perseverance , Teamwork
  • Run time : 166 minutes
  • MPAA rating : PG-13
  • MPAA explanation : extended sequences of intense fantasy action violence, and frightening images
  • Last updated : October 26, 2023

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The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey (2012)

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The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey is 517 on the JustWatch Daily Streaming Charts today. The movie has moved up the charts by 230 places since yesterday. In the United States, it is currently more popular than Spotlight but less popular than The Naked Gun: From the Files of Police Squad!.

A reluctant hobbit, Bilbo Baggins, sets out to the Lonely Mountain with a spirited group of dwarves to reclaim their mountain home - and the gold within it - from the dragon Smaug.

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The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey

While Peter Jackson's prequel to "The Lord of the Rings" delivers more of what made his earlier trilogy so compelling -- it doesn't offer nearly enough novelty to justify the three-film, nine-hour treatment.

By Peter Debruge

Peter Debruge

Chief Film Critic

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the hobbit

Fulfilling just a fraction of J.R.R. Tolkien’s “ There and Back Again ” subtitle, “The Hobbit ” alternately rewards and abuses auds’ appetite for all things Middle-earth. While Peter Jackson’s prequel to “The Lord of the Rings ” delivers more of what made his earlier trilogy so compelling — colorful characters on an epic quest amid stunning New Zealand scenery — it doesn’t offer nearly enough novelty to justify the three-film, nine-hour treatment, at least on the basis of this overlong first installment, dubbed “An Unexpected Journey .” The primary advance here is technical, as Jackson shoots in high-frame-rate 3D, an innovation that improves motion at the expense of visual elegance.

Though international B.O. success seems all but assured for a franchise that has already commanded nearly $3 billion in worldwide grosses, splitting the source material into multiple pics here mimics a frustrating trend among lucrative fantasy adaptations, from the two final “Harry Potter” films to the bifurcated “Twilight Saga” finale, stringing fans along with incomplete narratives. Whereas “ The Lord of the Rings ” naturally divided into the three books, “ The Hobbit ” contains scarcely enough story to support a single feature, as those who recall Rankin/Bass’ 1977 animated made-for-TV version know all too well.

Tolkien’s delightful yet easier-going novel, written with young readers in mind, recounts the relatively simple tale of how Bilbo Baggins (“The Office’s” Martin Freeman, affable as ever) traveled with dwarves to face the dragon Smaug and, in so doing, came to acquire the fabled ring.

A mythologically dense, CG-heavy prologue details how Smaug raided the dwarf stronghold of Erebor, taking possession of the Arkenstone, a glowing gem of ambiguous power. Conjured by Jackson and returning co-writers Fran Walsh and Philippa Boyens (credited along with Guillermo del Toro, who at one point planned to direct) for the sake of spectacle, this unnecessary pre-title sequence recalls setpieces from the second and third “Lord of the Rings” movies, as if to assure fans they can expect more of the same — and sure enough, “The Hobbit” offers familiar run-ins with orcs, trolls , goblins and even Gollum before interrupting the adventure halfway to its destination, the Lonely Mountain, to make room for the next installment.

But Bilbo’s “unexpected journey” is awfully slow to start. The film first locates him in Bag End, the cozy home in the Shire where the eleventy-one-year-old halfling hero (played briefly by Ian Holm and accompanied by Elijah Wood’s Frodo) narrates the adventure that first brought Hobbits into the affairs of Middle-earth’s more bellicose species. That tale begins six decades earlier, when the wizard Gandalf (Ian McKellen) appears with a challenge for the younger Bilbo (Freeman), leaving a magic sign that brings a swarm of dwarves to the reluctant hero’s door.

With names like Balin and Dwalin (Ken Stott and Graham McTavish), Oin and Gloin (John Callen and Peter Hambleton) and Fili and Kili (Dean O’Gorman and Aidan Turner), the 13 dwarves are virtually indistinguishable apart from their facial hair — though one needn’t be Galadriel (Cate Blanchett’s future-seeing Elf queen) to recognize O’Gorman as a Kiwi heartthrob in the offing. In the absence of clearly defined characteristics, the unwieldy lot make Snow White’s companions seem downright three-dimensional.

Speaking of 3D, the technique adds a level of dynamism to Andrew Lesnie’s swooping camerawork, which once again cuts from the closest of closeups to the widest of wide shots, in addition to plunging down and around elaborate enemy encampments, such as the underground Goblin-town, where spindly rope bridges teeter over gaping chasms. But 3D also complicates the forced-perspective tricks Jackson used in the earlier films, making for odd, eye-boggling moments, especially in the crowded Bag End scene, where Gandalf somewhat unconvincingly towers among characters half his size.

More disconcerting is the introduction of the film’s 48-frames-per-second digital cinematography, which solves the inherent stuttering effect of celluloid that occurs whenever a camera pans or horizontal movement crosses the frame — but at too great a cost. Consequently, everything takes on an overblown, artificial quality in which the phoniness of the sets and costumes becomes obvious, while well-lit areas bleed into their surroundings, like watching a high-end homemovie. (A standard 24fps projection seems to correct this effect in the alternate version of the film being offered to some theaters, but sacrifices the smoother motion seen in action scenes and flyover landscape shots.)

After Bilbo finally accepts his calling 40 minutes into the picture, such technical distractions virtually disappear as Jackson draws auds into his familiar world, particularly a troll-infested forest and the film’s darker, more expressionistic realms. Recognizing the limitations of their source material, Jackson and his co-writers pilfer freely from Tolkien’s other writings, including appendices to “Lord of the Rings” that reveal such details as where Gandalf goes during his long disappearances.

With few exceptions, these insights bog down a tale already overtaxed by a surfeit of characters. The film introduces Radagast (Sylvester McCoy), a comical brown wizard with an ordure-streaked beard, and an unsatisfying subplot involving a Necromancer that’s clearly an early form of Sauron, out of place in this story. It also makes room for cumbersome reunions — or “preunions,” perhaps — with Galadriel, Elrond ( Hugo Weaving ) and Saruman ( Christopher Lee ) in the elf city of Rivendell, hinting at the greater roles they will play in “The Lord of the Rings.”

The pic stands on firmer footing when embellishing the book’s more cinematic sequences into full-blown setpieces, such as a perilous cliffside passage complicated by the fact the mountains themselves appear to be doing battle, like giant stone Transformers. An expanded subplot pitting dwarf captain Thorin (Richard Armitage, nobly trying to match Viggo Mortensen ‘s smolder) against a battle-scarred and vengeance-bent orc helps disguise the fact that this particular road trip has no immediate villain.

Still, Jackson and his team seem compelled to flesh out the world of their earlier trilogy in scenes that would be better left to extended-edition DVDs (or omitted entirely), all but failing to set up a compelling reason for fans to return for the second installment. The film hints at a looming run-in with Smaug, but makes clear that this mission serves more to win back the dwarves’ lost kingdom than to protect the fate of Middle-earth. Bilbo’s arc, therefore, consists of proving his value to a mission that doesn’t concern him personally.

In keeping with the child-friendly tone of the source book, “The Hobbit” is more comical, features a couple of amusing songs, and doesn’t dally on funerals the way “The Lord of the Rings” did. But it’s no kinder on small bladders or impressionable eyes, running every bit as long and violent as Jackson’s initial trilogy.

While it would have been fascinating to see del Toro’s take on “The Hobbit,” there’s something to be said for continuity. Few film series have achieved the consistency of look and feel maintained across these Middle-earth-set stories, and once the adventure gets going, Jackson reminds auds of his expertise at managing action on a scale that would have made David Lean wish he’d had CGI in his toolbox.

That connection is clearest in the character of Gollum, once again performed by Andy Serkis , who loses not only an unmistakably schizophrenic game of riddles to Bilbo, but also his precious ring. Below-the-line contributions, including those of composer Howard Shore and the entire production and costume design teams, support the illusion that we never left Middle-earth.

  • Production: A Warner Bros. release of a New Line Cinema, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures presentation of a Wingnut Films production. Produced by Carolynne Cunningham, Zane Weiner, Fran Walsh, Peter Jackson. Executive producers, Alan Horn, Toby Emmerich, Ken Kamins, Carolyn Blackwood. Co-producers, Philippa Boyens, Eileen Moran. Directed by Peter Jackson. Screenplay, Fran Walsh, Philippa Boyens, Jackson, Guillermo del Toro, based on the novel by J.R.R. Tolkien.
  • Crew: Camera (color, widescreen, HD, 48fps, 3D), Andrew Lesnie; editor, Jabez Olssen; music, Howard Shore; production designer, Dan Hennah; supervising art director, Simon Bright; art directors, Andy McLaren, Brad Mill, Brian Massey; set decorators, RA Vincent, Bright; costume designers, Ann Maskrey, Richard Taylor, Bob Buck; sound (Dolby Digital/Datasat/SDDS/PRP), Tony Johnson; sound designers, David Farmer, Dave Whitehead; supervising sound editors, Brent Burge, Chris Ward; re-recording mixers, Christopher Boyes, Michael Hedges; stunt coordinator, Glenn Boswell; armor, weapons, creatures and special makeup, Taylor/Weta Workshop; senior visual effects supervisor, Joe Letteri; visual effects supervisor, Eric Saindon; visual effects and animation, Weta Digital; animation supervisor, David Clayton; special effects supervisor, Steve Ingram; assistant director, Carolynne Cunningham; second unit director, Andy Serkis; second unit camera, Richard Bluck; casting, Amy Hubbard, John Hubbard, Victoria Burrows, Scot Boland, Liz Mullane, Ann Robinson. Reviewed at Warner Bros. Studios, Burbank, Calif., Nov. 30, 2012. MPAA Rating: PG-13. Running time: 169 MIN.
  • With: Gandalf Ian McKellen Bilbo Martin Freeman Thorin Richard Armitage Balin Ken Stott Dwalin Graham McTavish Bifur William Kircher Bofur James Nesbitt Bombur Stephen Hunter Fili Dean O'Gorman Kili Aidan Turner Oin John Callen Gloin Peter Hambleton Nori Jed Brophy Dori Mark Hadlow Ori Adam Brown Old Bilbo Ian Holm Frodo Elijah Wood Elrond Hugo Weaving Galadriel Cate Blanchett Saruman Christopher Lee Gollum Andy Serkis Radagast Sylvester McCoy Great Goblin Barry Humphries Thror Jeffrey Thomas Thrain Mike Mizrahi Tom Troll William Kircher Bert Troll Mark Hadlow William Troll Peter Hambleton Necromancer Benedict Cumberbatch (English, Elvish, Orcish dialogue)

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The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey

Fantasy & Sci-Fi

The hobbit: an unexpected journey.

: Bilbo Baggins is swept into an epic quest to reclaim Erebor with the help of Gandalf the Grey and 13 Dwarves led by Thorin Oakenshield.

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Fantasy & Sci-Fi, Action, Epic Battles, Adventure, Epic Quests

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The adventure follows Bilbo Baggins, who is swept into an epic quest to reclaim Erebor with the help of Gandalf the Grey and 13 Dwarves led by the legendary warrior Thorin Oakenshield.

Cast and Crew

Starring: Ian Mckellen , Martin Freeman , Richard Armitage

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The Hobbit Timeline Explained

Bilbo Baggins listening

J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Hobbit" is a timeless fantasy classic. The book follows a simple adventure story, is only a few hundred pages long, and can be read in a handful of hours by parents and children alike. So, when it was announced way back when that New Line Cinema and Warner Brothers had a "Hobbit" adaptation in the works — and that it would be three movies long — it started to turn some heads.

After all, with an extended run time that goes over the eight-hour mark, one can make the case that you can read the entire book and still have time for a nice nap before the films have ended. Not surprisingly, the extraordinary length of the films comes from a massive amount of extra material. Some of this is pulled from other parts of Tolkien's legendarium while others (read: random elf/dwarf romances and the like) are tossed in just to keep everyone nice and confused.

The truth is, the "Hobbit" trilogy takes a fairly linear story and turns into a convoluted, CGI-filled hot mess. So, we've decided to wade into the madness and try to make some rhyme and reason out of it all. Here's a comprehensive timeline of Peter Jackson's "The Hobbit" trilogy (complete with some desperately needed additional notes from the original book to help make head or tail out of it all).

An unexpected ... trip forward in time?

The first film in the trilogy is "The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey." The movie starts out with a nice blast from the future as we see Bilbo Baggins (played by the late Ian Holm) penning an account of the past. We get a rapid exposition of the history of the Lonely Mountain and the destruction created by Smaug.

After this quick connection to "The Lord of the Rings" movies, the story jumps 60 years into the past, where we see the iconic meet-up between Gandalf and Bilbo (now Martin Freeman) that takes place in the first pages of "The Hobbit." In the aftermath of the meeting, Bilbo's peaceful life is turned on its head as he finds himself hosting an unexpected party of dwarves who are setting out on a quest to reclaim their homeland from a fiery dragon. Gandalf orchestrates everything, and before long — and in spite of doubts harbored by the chief dwarf, Thorin — Bilbo finds himself stepping into the role of "burglar" for the group.

From there, the halfling is uncomfortably swept off on the adventure. Before they get too far along their journey, the group runs into their first major roadblock — a pack of three slapstick trolls. These bumbling brutes catch the party and argue over how to eat them, that is until they're turned to stone by the early morning sunshine. After this harrowing episode, the group plunders the trolls' lair, and Bilbo officially receives the short elven dagger that will eventually be known as Sting.

A short, information-filled rest

After their escape from the trolls, the dwarves, Gandalf, and Bilbo attempt to reach the hidden fortress of Rivendell. And it's here that the story really starts to deviate from the book. On their way, they run into Radagast the Brown, one of the Five Wizards , who informs them that a dark presence has appeared over the Misty Mountains in the fortress of Dol Guldur in the forest of Mirkwood. From there, the group is attacked by goblins, which are destroyed by a group of elvish warriors from nearby Rivendell.

Once in Rivendell, the facts just keep on piling up. The elvish leader Elrond finds moon-letters on the group's magical map — runes that informs them of a secret way into the mountain. Gandalf and Elrond also attend a meeting of the White Council where the evil in Mirkwood is discussed, and we start to get a glimpse into the fact that it's Sauron retaking shape as the Necromancer . Finally, we see the ambushing goblin captain report back to his leader, Azog, a huge, white orc who has a long-standing beef with Thorin.

As a quick aside, this is where the story starts to go in a bunch of different directions. However, in the original book, both the Necromancer and Azog are only peripheral characters. In fact, Tolkien kills Azog more than a century before "The Hobbit," and his son, Bolg, takes his place for the later events. While Bolg is in the movies, Jackson and company apparently opted to keep his fearsome orc father/general alive to beef up the drama.

'Far over the Misty Mountains cold'

After their stay in Rivendell, the dwarven party heads over the Misty Mountains. Along the way, they dodge some giants in a thunder battle, and then the group shelters in a cave. Here, Bilbo decides to abandon his friends (definitely something that didn't happen in the book), but the whole group is ambushed by goblins before he can leave. They're brought to the Great Goblin in Goblin-town, a subterranean dwelling hidden deep under the mountains.

Here, Gandalf comes to the rescue, killing the Great Goblin and helping his friends escape in a truly ridiculous manner. In the chaos, Bilbo is separated from his companions. It's at this point that he finds the One Ring and encounters the infamous Gollum . The two halflings engage in the famed riddle-game, which ends with Bilbo stumping Gollum with a not-quite-riddle and then running for his life when the wretched creature realizes that Bilbo has his precious.

During the ruckus, Bilbo realizes that the ring that he found makes him invisible — although he still has no idea how terrifyingly powerful it is beyond mere wraith-like imperceptibility. The merry chase leads Bilbo back out of the Misty Mountains, where he links back up with the dwarves. Everything seems to be okay. But Gandalf, the dwarves, and Bilbo are safely out on the other side of the mountains for a matter of seconds before the trouble kicks up again.

Azog comes a-knockin'

After escaping the Misty Mountains, Bilbo and company are attacked by a talking race of wolves called wargs and are forced to scramble up a tree for safety. Then the situation goes from bad to worse when Azog and his goblins also arrive on the scene. Things take a turn for the extra-dramatic once again when the tree holding our heroes is partially uprooted and left hanging off a cliff. We then get multiple rounds of halfway-heroics as Thorin charges Azog and is hurt, Bilbo gets between the villain and his prey, and then some of the other dwarves rush in to help.

The entire situation is completely hopeless ... until Tolkien's favorite eucatastrophe tool , the eagles, swoop down and save the day. They nab the dwarves, Gandalf, and Bilbo, snatching victory from the jaws of defeat and flying them to safety — and also taking them a good step closer to the distant Lonely Mountain. It's at this point that Thorin finally accepts Bilbo as part of their party, acknowledging his bravery and welcoming him as their expert burglar.

This is where the first movie ends. Already bloated and overly complicated, it speaks volumes that "The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey" is arguably the easiest part of the trilogy to follow. Even though it introduces non-book storylines, such as the White Council and Azog's shenanigans, it primarily fills in the back story, launches Bilbo's adventure, gets him to Rivendell, and then over the Misty Mountains. Oh, yeah, and he finds the One Ring as well.

Seeking shelter from a skin-changer

The second film, "The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug," once again starts with a brief bit of exposition. It shows Gandalf and Thorin linking up for the first time at the Prancing Pony in Bree. This is another bit that's pulled in from Tolkien's extra material, specifically his posthumously published book "Unfinished Tales."

After we see how the Quest of Erebor begins, the primary timeline picks up again, and we find Azog and his soldiery chasing our short-statured heroes. They take shelter in the home of Beorn the skin-changer — that is, after he nearly catches them in his bear shape. Once back in human form, their odd host gives shelter to his guests and then sends them on their way with provisions to help them get through the long journey through Mirkwood.

It's at this point that the movie gets really weird (and upsetting) for many diehard Tolkien fans. In the book, Gandalf leaves the party on the edge of Mirkwood so that he can attend to some unspoken business. However, in the films, things get much more detailed — and not in a good way. The wizard communicates, apparently telepathically, with the Lady Galadriel and then splits off from the group to investigate ...the tombs of the Nazgûl?

Gandalf goes way off script

Alright, since the goal here is to make sense of the larger "Hobbit" trilogy timeline, we're going to stick with Gandalf's sideshow for a minute. When the wizard reaches the tombs of the Nazgûl (which are made-up for the film), the wizard discovers that their ghostly inhabitants have been revived, which, wait, what?

This is a complete retconning of the actual origins of the Ringwraiths from Tolkien's books. But the event does quickly establish that the Necromancer is, indeed, Sauron — the only person who can command the Black Riders. The decision to make up a new origin story for the Nazgûl may have been fueled by little more than making things easily digestible for the audience. Which, hey, if it helps the narrative flow, who cares if it's canon, right? Cough . All right. Moving on.

After the random discovery of the Ringwraiths' awakening, Gandalf keeps doing very un-Tolkienian things by sending Radagast to warn Galadriel of the danger while he pays a visit to Dol Guldur in secret. Here, he's attacked and made captive after witnessing the growing power of the stronghold.

In "The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies," Gandalf's Dol Guldur adventures wrap up when Elrond, Saruman, Galadriel, and Radagast arrive. They're confronted by Sauron and the nine Nazgûl, but the good guys, led by Galadriel, manage to get Sauron to retreat. After that, the whole Necromancer subplot mercifully wraps up.

Back in Mirkwood

The entire side adventure with Gandalf and the Necromancer is only referenced in the original book, and the truth is, it tends to add to the confusion of the movies. However, now that we've gotten it out of the way, we can focus back on the main story. 

Last we left him, Bilbo was about to join the dwarves on a trip through Mirkwood. This deadly jaunt through the dark, arboreal menace ends up going very, very poorly. Before long, the group begins to run out of food. They also have a tough time crossing a magical river. Finally, they're captured by the giant spiders — who are likely descendants of Shelob  — that dwell in Mirkwood. It's only thanks to Bilbo's heroics that the group survives their brush with the oversized arachnids.

Going from one danger to the next, the companions are quickly captured by a group of Wood-elves led by the one and only Legolas . At this point, we also meet Tauriel, a captain of the guard and a character invented for the film adaptations.

The dwarves are brought back to the Wood-elves' underground realm, where they're imprisoned. During this time, a random B-plot romance springs up between the dwarf Kíli and Tauriel. Thorin also makes it clear that he won't play ball with Legolas' dad, the elven king Thranduil. Eventually, Bilbo uses his magic ring to bust his friends from prison and they escape down a nearby river in empty barrels.

Lake-town and the Lonely Mountain

Once they escape from the perils of Mirkwood, Bilbo and the dwarves reach Lake-town with the help of Bard. Bard is a man and the heir to the throne of nearby Dale, a Smaug-stomped city of men located next to the Lonely Mountain. After a brief stop in Lake-town and a dubious blessing from its corrupt Master, the intrepid crew heads for the Lonely Mountain where Bilbo spearheads the discovery of the secret door.

It should be mentioned that, during this time, yet another B-plot gets going. In the escape from the elven palace, Kíli is shot and poisoned. He and a few others end up staying behind in Lake-town. There, they're ambushed by a hunting party sent by Bolg, but Legolas and Tauriel arrive in the nick of time and save the day. Then Tauriel heals Kíli, and their mutual interest is more openly expressed. Eventually, after events with Smaug are wrapped up, these dwarves follow their kin to the nearby mountain. Throughout this time, Bard is also captured and put in prison for resisting the Master of Lake-town.

All of this is confusing, hard to follow, and once again doesn't take place in the book. In the original manuscript, the dwarves remain together. All of the drama that takes place with Bard is also completely made up for the movie. If it added genuine value, it might be excused. But the truth is, it makes the story much harder to follow. 

Dealing with Smaug

Bunny trails aside, after the hobbit and the dwarves find the secret door on the side of the Lonely Mountain, Bilbo pops on his ring and pays Smaug a visit. This is followed by a heart-in-your-throat kind of encounter with the Golden Dragon himself. Eventually, Thorin and his companions muster the courage to join their friend. Quickly taking in the situation, the group hatches a plot on the fly to kill Smaug.

They trick the dragon into rekindling the old forges of the mountain. They then literally melt a lake of gold, pour it into a statue, and then try to drown Smaug in it (a convoluted concept that's not in the books). When the gold dust settles, Smaug flies off to get his revenge on the men of Lake-town who clearly enabled his attackers. As he watches the beast fly off, Bilbo exclaims, "What have we done?" 

At this point, we've officially entered "The Hobbit: The Battle of The Five Armies" territory. When Smaug reaches Lake-town, he meets his match in the form of Bard. The hero breaks out of prison, gets his famed Black Arrow, and uses it to kill the dragon.

The clouds gather

After Smaug's death, the story takes a bit of a breather. Lake-town is destroyed, and its people head for the nearby ruins of Dale looking for new — or technically old — shelter. In the Lonely Mountain, Thorin falls victim to the Dragon Sickness and orders his tiny group of companions to prepare to defend his reclaimed realm from what he perceives as the greedy men of the Lake and an approaching army of Wood-elves.

Legolas and Tauriel also travel all the way to Gundabad (a trip that is, once again, not in the book) and discover that Bolg is leading an army and hoping to link up with his dad's forces, which are already near the Lonely Mountain. On top of all this, an army of dwarves commanded by Thorin's distant cousin, Dáin Ironfoot, comes speeding to the help of their trapped relatives.

It's a bit confusing, but suffice it to say that, once the dragon is killed, a lot of different armies, groups, and individuals begin to gather at the mountain — most of whom are naturally attracted by the luxurious, virtually unguarded treasure horde.

A thief in the night

The gathering of so many enemies clearly spells trouble in the future. But before any fighting breaks out, Bilbo exercises his burglarious muscles one more time. When he first found the Lonely Mountain treasure, the hobbit discovered and hid the Arkenstone, the greatest prize of the entire horde and a jewel that Thorin desired above everything else. Now, with the dwarves' enemies gathering outside, Bilbo sneaks out of the mountain and offers the jewel to the men and elves to use as a bargaining chip. The hope is that they'll be able to get some of the treasure without any fighting taking place.

Bilbo's heroics are admirable, but they fail. Thorin's Dragon Sickness is too strong. Also, Dáin and his tough-as-nails soldiers arrive just in time to help him defend his treasure. Everything looks like it's about to go seriously south, but before the groups can come to blows, Azog's and Bolg's united armies attack, forcing elves, men, and dwarves to turn and face their common enemy.

A battle and an ending ... and a beginning

At this point, the Battle of the Five Armies is in full swing. The official " five armies " being referenced here include the Wood-elves, dwarves, men, goblins, and wolves. However, a horde of bats — as well as Gandalf, Beorn, Bilbo, and the eagles — are also involved.

Thorin also overcomes his Dragon Sickness and joins in the fray. It's a gutsy move that leads to the death of Thorin, Fíli, and Kíli. Legolas also kills Bolg, and Thorin kills Azog. So, yeah, after a long stretch of survival, we lose a lot of characters as the story wraps up. Before the dwarven king dies, Thorin also bids a fond farewell to Bilbo.

Disenchanted by the whole affair, Legolas decides to leave the Woodland realm, and his father encourages him to seek out a young man named Strider. (Except, yeah, Aragorn's like 10 years old at the time — plot hole, anyone?)

Finally, as the story winds down, Bilbo bids a fond farewell to his surviving dwarven companions. He then heads home, accompanied by Gandalf until he reaches the borders of his homeland. When he arrives back at Bag End, he finds that he's been presumed dead, and his possessions are being auctioned off.

As Bilbo begins to pick up the pieces of his old life, the story shifts back to the older Bilbo just before his 111th birthday party. The scene shows Bilbo's perspective in the opening moments of "The Fellowship of the Ring" just as Gandalf first arrives at his house. This allows the story to feed right into the beginning moments of "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy that follows.

what is the hobbit unexpected journey about

10 Best Martin Freeman Movies, Ranked

T he transition between starring in television programs to having a career on the big screen is by no means an easy task, as the two mediums require very different sets of skills. While not every actor is able to pull off the difficult switch, Martin Freeman managed to follow his television roles with a series of successful film roles .

Although he is best known for his roles as Tim Canterbury on the hit BBC comedy program The Office and his version of Dr. John Watson in the acclaimed mystery series Sherlock , Freeman has joined some of the biggest franchises of all-time . While these box office smash hits have certainly endeared Freeman’s popularity among a widespread audience, he’s also managed to star in many underrated projects that may have slipped under the radar. Here are the ten best Martin Freeman movies, ranked.

‘Cargo’ (2018)

Directed by ben howling and yolanda ramke.

While the notion of a zombie pandemic outbreak is certainly not a new one, the 2018 Netflix thriller Cargo managed to invert expectations of a post-apocalyptic horror film . Freeman shines in his role as Andy Rose, a loving father who is forced to take care of his infant child when the spread of a deadly virus threatens their livelihoods. It’s an emotional performance that grounds an otherwise superficial concept in dramatic realism.

Cargo succeeds as a horror film because of its legitimate depiction of the challenges of parenting. Rather than focusing on the origins of the outbreak itself, Cargo shows how survivors are forced to change their habits as they try to escape the threat of being infected. While largely underseen due to its release on Netflix, Cargo features a characteristically nuanced performance from Freeman that elevates the already touching material.

Release Date May 18, 2018

Director Ben Howling, Yolanda Ramke

Cast Kris McQuade, Susie Porter, Martin Freeman, Anthony Hayes, Natasha Wanganeen, Caren Pistorius

Rating TV-MA

Runtime 105 minutes

Main Genre Horror

Tagline The future is fragile.

Watch on Netflix

‘The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies’ (2014)

Directed by peter jackson.

Peter Jackson ’s decision to split J.R.R. Tolkien ’s novel The Hobbit into three separate films was a controversial one given the relative brevity of the original source material. However, The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies served as an emotional and epic send off for the trilogy that culminated in one of the most visually spectacular sequences in the history of Middle-Earth. An R-Rated extended cut fleshed out the titular battle in even more gruesome detail.

While it's arguably Richard Armitage ’s role as Thorin Oakenshield that dominates the film, Freeman’s emotional performance as Bilbo Baggins keeps the stakes of The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies feeling real . It’s not forgotten that, prior to his adventure, Bilbo was a rather humble hobbit with no ambitions of glory and conquest. Freeman does a great job at showing how Bilbo’s traumatic experiences color his decisions.

The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies

Release Date December 17, 2014

Director Peter Jackson

Cast Hugo Weaving, Ian McKellen, Evangeline Lilly, Lee Pace, Richard Armitage, Martin Freeman, Luke Evans, Benedict Cumberbatch, Cate Blanchett, Orlando Bloom

Rating PG-13

Runtime 144 minutes

Main Genre Adventure

Writers Philippa Boyens, Fran Walsh, Peter Jackson, Guillermo del Toro

Tagline The Defining Chapter.

Watch on Max

‘The Hitchhiker's Guide To The Galaxy’ (2005)

Directed by garth jennings.

Douglas Adams ’ groundbreaking comedy novel The Hitchhiker’s Guide To The Galaxy is a fan favorite among science fiction readers for its satirical inversion of the genre’s themes. While the eventual film adaptation spent many years in development , the 2005 adaptation of The Hitchhiker's Guide To The Galaxy succeeds in capturing the unique comic tone of its source material. The space opera adventure stars Freeman as the put upon human Arthur Dent, who discovers that his planet is about to be destroyed in order to make way for an intergalactic space route.

Freeman’s measured performance turned Arthur into an instantly relatable character , as he is forced into an uncomfortable position in which he must represent all of humanity. It’s unfortunate that the film did not inspire any sequels, as it would have been interesting to see what Freeman could have done with Arthur in adaptations of Adams’ other books.

The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy

Release Date April 29, 2005

Director Garth Jennings

Cast Bill Nighy, Sam Rockwell, Martin Freeman, Bill Bailey, Zooey Deschanel, Yasiin Bey

Runtime 109 minutes

Main Genre Sci-Fi

Writers Douglas Adams, Karey Kirkpatrick

Tagline Don't leave Earth without it.

Rent on Amazon

‘Black Panther’ (2018)

Directed by ryan coogler.

While it was certainly Chadwick Boseman ’s performance as T’Challa that turned the film into a groundbreaking popular culture moment that superseded the superhero genre, Black Panther also has one of the strongest casts of any film in the entire Marvel Cinematic Universe . Freeman appears as Everett K. Ross, an American CIA agent who aids Shuri ( Letita Wright ) and the Wakandan loyalists when Killmonger ( Michael B. Jordan ) attempts to take over the throne. While his perspective is not the film’s most important, Freeman does a great job at fleshing out Ross’ reaction to Wakandan politics.

Although it shares commonalities with other films in the franchise, Black Panther addresses real political issues regarding the dispersion of natural resources and infrastructural oppression of minority groups . The film became the first Marvel film in history to receive an Academy Award nomination for Best Picture.

Black Panther

Release Date February 16, 2018

Director Ryan Coogler

Cast Lupita Nyong'o, Michael B. Jordan, Martin Freeman, Danai Gurira, Daniel Kaluuya, Chadwick Boseman

Runtime 134 minutes

Writers Ryan Coogler, Joe Robert Cole, Stan Lee, Jack Kirby

Tagline Long live the king

Watch on Disney+

‘The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug’ (2013)

While the first installment in the trilogy was heavy on the exposition needed to set up the journey to the Misty Mountains, The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug delivered the Middle Earth action fans wanted and took a considerably darker approach to the material. Freeman truly elevates his performance as Bilbo, showing how the corrupting effects of the One Ring have begun to change his personality. It served as great connective tissue that laid the groundwork for Ian Holm ’s performance as Bilbo in the original The Lord of the Rings trilogy.

Although the film is packed with memorable set pieces, The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug is best remembered for the appearance by the titular dragon in its final act. Freeman does a great job at conveying Bilbo’s dread throughout his dangerous encounter with Smaug ( Benedict Cumberbatch), a surprisingly intelligent creature who toys with his enemies before defeating them.

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug

Release Date December 13, 2013

Cast Ian McKellen, Evangeline Lilly, Lee Pace, Richard Armitage, Martin Freeman, Luke Evans, Benedict Cumberbatch, Orlando Bloom, Ken Stott, James Nesbitt

Runtime 170 minutes

Tagline Beyond darkness... beyond desolation... lies the greatest danger of all.

‘Captain America: Civil War’ (2016)

Directed by anthony and joe russo.

While he would go on to play a more prominent role within the Black Panther franchise, Freeman had his MCU debut as Ross in Captain America: Civil War . Initially an antagonist who supports the policy to reign in superheroes favored by Tony Stark ( Robert Downey Jr. ), Ross serves as a major thorn within Steve Rogers’ ( Chris Evans ) side. Freeman shows how Ross’ inability to treat the superpowered characters as equals colors his decision to directly impede their authority.

While much of the film serves as a setup for the showdown with Thanos ( Josh Brolin ) in Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame , Captain America: Civil War is one of the most emotionally satisfying MCU films . The film is able to flesh out both Rogers and Starks’ perspectives, showing how a dispute over collateral damage inspires a splinter within the Avengers’ ranks.

Captain America: Civil War

Release Date May 6, 2016

Director Anthony Russo, Joe Russo

Cast Paul Rudd, Jeremy Renner, Don Cheadle, Elizabeth Olsen, Sebastian Stan, Anthony Mackie, Paul Bettany, Scarlett Johansson, Chadwick Boseman, Robert Downey Jr., Tom Holland, Chris Evans

Runtime 147 minutes

Main Genre Superhero

‘Love Actually’ (2003)

Directed by richard curtis.

While the film originally included even more love stories that were cut from the finished cut , Freeman has one of the funniest storylines in Love Actually . He appears as an adult film star who begins to harbor legitimate romantic feelings for his co-star Judy ( Joanna Page ). Although the two have spent intimate moments with each other on set, John discovers that expressing his genuine emotions to Judy is more challenging than he expected.

Freeman’s signature awkward mannerisms make this subplot both incredibly heartfelt and uproariously funny. Love Actually is a modern holiday classic that features a stellar ensemble cast, making it all the more impressive that Freeman’s performance felt like such a standout. While there are moments when the film risks being too saccharine, the comic mayhem of John and Judys’ relationship helps balance out the more overtly sentimental moments.

Love Actually

Release Date September 7, 2003

Director Richard Curtis

Cast Rory MacGregor, Sienna Guillory, Bill Nighy, Colin Firth, Liam Neeson, Gregor Fisher

Runtime 135 minutes

Main Genre Comedy

Writers Richard Curtis

Tagline The ultimate romantic comedy.

‘Hot Fuzz’ (2007)

Directed by edgar wright.

It’s easy to forget that Freeman got his start in comedy, as he curated a successful creative collaboration with the British filmmaker Edgar Wright. After having a true “blink, and you’ll miss it” cameo in Wright’s breakthrough feature Shaun of the Dead , Freeman gives one of his funniest performances to date in Hot Fuzz . He appears as a Sergeant from the Metropolitan Police Department who is tasked with reprimanding the hotshot police constable Nicholas Angel ( Simon Pegg ).

Arguably one of the funniest R-Rated comedies ever made , Hot Fuzz is a love letter to buddy cop films that features uncompromising action sequences of its own. While Wright’s hyperkinetic style emphasizes popular culture references, the film does succeed in building an authentically emotional bond between Angel and his comically aloof partner Danny Butterman ( Nick Frost ), who goes to surprisingly dark places during the film’s conclusion.

Release Date February 20, 2007

Director Edgar Wright

Cast Chris Waitt, Joe Cornish, Bill Nighy, Martin Freeman, Simon Pegg, Robert Popper

Runtime 121 minutes

Main Genre Action

Writers Edgar Wright, Simon Pegg

Tagline Big cops. Small town. Moderate violence.

Watch on Prime Video

‘The World’s End’ (2013)

While his films are certainly renowned for their sharp sense-of-humor and comic allusions to pop culture history, The World’s End is Wright’s most mature and well-written film to date . The film serves as a parody of classic science fiction movies like Invasion of the Body Snatchers and The Day The Earth Stood Still , but focuses on former high school buddies Andy Knightley (Nick Frost), Steven Prince ( Paddy Considine ), Oliver Chamberlain (Freeman), and Peter Page ( Eddie Marsden ) as they return to their hometown to complete a pub crawl.

While Pegg certainly gives his most emotionally nuanced performance to date, Freeman’s character has one of the most compelling character arcs in The World’s End . Despite the success he has earned in the years since reuniting with his friends, Oliver is nonetheless seduced by the freedoms that he had during his youth.

The World's End

Release Date July 18, 2013

Cast Sophie Evans, Luke Bromley, James Tarpey, Jasper Levine, Zachary Bailess, Thomas Law

Runtime 109

Tagline Good food. Fine ales. Total annihilation.

‘The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey’ (2012)

Although its sequels certainly featured more action set pieces and overt ties to The Lord of the Rings trilogy, The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey remains the best film in Jackson’s trilogy because it keeps the story squarely focused on Bilbo. The film beautifully shows how Bilbo decides to leave the safety of the Shire behind him in order to join Gandalf the Gray ( Ian McKellen ) on a dangerous journey throughout Middle Earth in the company of dwarves.

Freeman embodies the kindness and personal strength that makes Bilbo a great protagonist . While he is often doubted because of his small stature and ornate behavior, Bilbo conjures personal strength that allows him to help his friends complete their mission. The trilogy would certainly not work as well as it did if it wasn’t for the brilliance of Freeman’s casting in the titular role.

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey

Release Date December 14, 2012

Cast Hugo Weaving, Elijah Wood, Ian McKellen, Andy Serkis, Richard Armitage, Martin Freeman, Cate Blanchett, Ken Stott, James Nesbitt, Ian Holm, Christopher Lee

Runtime 169 minutes

Tagline From the director of the Lord of the Rings Trilogy.

KEEP READING: The 10 Best Casey Affleck Movies, Ranked

10 Best Martin Freeman Movies, Ranked

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    Bilbo Baggins is swept into a quest to reclaim the lost Dwarf Kingdom of Erebor from the fearsome dragon Smaug. Approached out of the blue by the wizard Gandalf the Grey, Bilbo finds himself joining a company of thirteen dwarves led by the legendary warrior, Thorin Oakenshield. Their journey will take them into the Wild; through treacherous ...

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    The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey is the first part of Peter Jackson 's The Hobbit film trilogy and it is based on J.R.R. Tolkien 's 1937 novel The Hobbit, although some elements are taken from the story and The Appendices of The Lord of the Rings. It was released on 14 December 2012 in North America.

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  7. The Hobbit (film series)

    The Hobbit is a series of three epic high fantasy adventure films directed by Peter Jackson.The films are subtitled An Unexpected Journey (2012), The Desolation of Smaug (2013), and The Battle of the Five Armies (2014). The films are based on the 1937 novel The Hobbit by J. R. R. Tolkien, with large portions of the trilogy inspired by the appendices to The Return of the King, which expand on ...

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