The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (2013) Review in 2025
The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug is a fantasy adventure film that follows Bilbo Baggins and the dwarves as they journey to reclaim their treasure from the dragon Smaug. The movie is full of action, excitement, and stunning visuals.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This movie is suitable for older children and teenagers, but parental discretion is advised due to some intense action scenes and mild violence.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is a must-watch for fans of fantasy and adventure. It's a thrilling ride that's full of action, excitement, and stunning visuals. If you enjoyed the first installment, you'll love this one even more.
Spoiler Alert!
Hover to reveal spoiler summary
The movie takes a darker turn as the dwarves and Bilbo face numerous challenges, including encountering the terrifying spiders of Mirkwood and the treacherous lake-town of Esgaroth. Meanwhile, Smaug's presence becomes increasingly ominous, setting the stage for the epic battle to come.
Review Details
story8.00/10
The story is engaging and full of exciting moments, but it feels a bit rushed at times, especially compared to the first installment. The pacing is well-balanced, but some plot threads feel a bit underdeveloped.
acting9.00/10
The acting is superb, with standout performances from Martin Freeman, Ian McKellen, and Richard Armitage. The chemistry between the actors is undeniable, and the emotional depth of the characters is palpable.
characters9.00/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, with each one bringing their own unique personality to the table. Bilbo's growth as a character is particularly impressive, and the chemistry between the dwarves is undeniable.
direction9.00/10
Peter Jackson's direction is, as always, top-notch. He brings the world of Middle-earth to life in a way that's both faithful to the source material and visually stunning.
cinematography9.50/10
The cinematography is breathtaking, with stunning visuals and a masterful use of lighting and composition. The action sequences are intense and well-choreographed, and the dragon Smaug is a visual feast.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The stunning visuals, engaging story, and superb acting make this movie a standout in the fantasy genre. The chemistry between the actors is undeniable, and the emotional depth of the characters is palpable.
Cons
The pacing feels a bit rushed at times, and some plot threads feel a bit underdeveloped. The movie also suffers from a lack of character development for some of the supporting characters.
Notable Quotes
"My precious... my precious..."
"You shall not pass!"
