The moment The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies opens we’re whisked into a world of fire and flame as the dragon Smaug descends on Lake-town. There is no gentle introduction – no recap here. Instead the film starts just where The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug finishes.
While Lake-town runs for cover, Bard (Luke Evans) springs into action and it’s great to see his son Bain (John Bell) lending a shoulder. And so the story continues once more…
Thorin (Richard Armitage) and his obsession for gold, keeps the dwarves in Erebor; Bard, who may be up for being a hero but not a leader of men, finds his people turn to him; Thranduil (Lee Pace) is cold to anything but his own interests; the orcs are preparing for war; Galadriel (Cate Blanchett) commands awe and terror, and Bilbo (Martin Freeman) bravely does what’s right. It’s good to see the hobbit back in the centre of things. As the film spirals towards the battle, moments of light relief are provided by Alfrid (Ryan Gage).
If you’re inclined towards feeling a lump in your throat at times, then it will probably be there within the first few minutes. I found it was the little things that pulled my heart – an acorn, the strains of The Lord of the Rings themes, the mention of – well, I’ll leave that for you to discover.
The battle itself is gripping with plenty of close quarter combat for the main characters and some moments of shock.
When it’s over and the credits roll with some wonderful artwork from the film and ‘The Last Goodbye’ playing, there’s the feeling of a job well done. Peter Jackson has worked hard on the HFR 3D issue since The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey and this film delivers a viewing experience we can enjoy, even for those who, like me, much prefer our films in 2D.
Thank you Peter Jackson. This was all I hoped for and more.
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