THE HOBBIT: THE DESOLATION OF SMAUG (2013)

Summary:

The second installment in Peter Jackson's "The Hobbit" trilogy continues the epic journey of Bilbo Baggins, Gandalf, and the company of thirteen Dwarves, led by Thorin Oakenshield. As they venture further into the perilous East, they face increasingly dangerous encounters, including shapeshifters, giant spiders, and the formidable Wood-elves of Mirkwood, all while being relentlessly pursued by Orcs led by Azog.

Their ultimate quest remains to reach the Lonely Mountain and reclaim the Dwarf kingdom of Erebor, along with its vast treasure, from the fearsome dragon Smaug. Meanwhile, Gandalf investigates the growing darkness emanating from Dol Guldur, uncovering a terrifying threat that could engulf all of Middle-earth.

Keywords: The Hobbit, 2013, Martin Freeman, Ian McKellen, Benedict Cumberbatch, Fantasy, Adventure.

Plot:

After escaping the Orcs and traversing the treacherous Carrock, Bilbo, Gandalf, and the Dwarves seek refuge with the skin-changer Beorn. They then journey into the perilous Mirkwood Forest, where Gandalf leaves them to investigate the rising evil in Dol Guldur. Lost and disoriented in the enchanted forest, the Dwarves and Bilbo are attacked by giant spiders, only to be captured by the Wood-elves, led by Legolas and Tauriel. Bilbo, using the One Ring, orchestrates their escape in barrels down the Forest River.

The company eventually reaches Laketown, a human settlement on the Long Lake, where they gain the help of Bard the Bowman, a descendant of Dale's lords. Thorin reveals his true intentions to reclaim the Arkenstone, much to the concern of his companions. While the Dwarves enter the Lonely Mountain to find the secret entrance, Bilbo is sent ahead to retrieve the Arkenstone and confront Smaug. Bilbo engages in a tense cat-and-mouse game with the awakened dragon, who reveals knowledge of the One Ring and the growing power of Sauron. Meanwhile, Gandalf confronts the Necromancer in Dol Guldur, discovering his true identity as Sauron, and narrowly escapes a fierce battle.

Cast (Lead Roles):

• Martin Freeman as Bilbo Baggins
• Ian McKellen as Gandalf
• Richard Armitage as Thorin Oakenshield
• Orlando Bloom as Legolas Greenleaf
• Evangeline Lilly as Tauriel
• Luke Evans as Bard the Bowman
• Benedict Cumberbatch as Smaug / The Necromancer (voice)
• Lee Pace as Thranduil

Crew:

• Director: Peter Jackson
• Screenplay: Fran Walsh, Philippa Boyens, Peter Jackson, Guillermo del Toro
• Producers: Carolynne Cunningham, Zane Weiner, Peter Jackson, Fran Walsh
• Music by: Howard Shore
• Cinematography: Andrew Lesnie
• Editor: Jabez Olssen

Release Info:

• Original Release Date: December 13, 2013
• Language: English
• Genre: Fantasy, Adventure
• Running Time: 161 minutes
• Accolades: Nominated for 3 Academy Awards (Best Sound Editing, Best Sound Mixing, Best Visual Effects)