Heroic tale of anunlikely hero ends with a satisfying conclusion.
So we begin another Peter Jackson’s cinematic journey through Middle-earth. The last installment of The Hobbit trilogy brings us back one last time to the universe created by J.R.R Tolkien. The cliffhanger ending in the sequel promises us a thrilling final part, and as always, Peter Jackson delivers.
The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies is an epic fantasy film packed with action, revenge and broken promises. For Bilbo Baggins, the once reluctant hobbit in this unexpected journey, this is his final chance to come home. But alas, the road to peace is never easy.
Of all things standing on Bilbo’s way to end the war, it is greed that holds the most power. Greed has changed Thorin Oakenshield from fierce warrior to a mad king, it has lead the entire Middle-earth into battle against each other, while also breaking families and friendship apart. Not to mention the ultimate showdown between Five Armies. For once, the mission seems impossible. And yet, all hope is not lost.
This time, Martin Freeman makes way for Richard Armitage to shine. His performance is a highlight, from committing to Thorin’s self-destructive ways until he was a born again leader. Each character is given a fair amount of screen-time and background story. Luke Evans finds the right balance between the voice of the poor people and a loving, devoted father. Lee Pace and Evangeline Lily performances give us a different point of view on the elves characterization. The rest of The Ring’s veterans, Cate Blanchett, Orlando Bloom, Sir Ian McKellen, and Christopher Lee give solid contributions to the film. But the heart and soul of the trilogy remains in one Martin Freeman. It is incredible when we see a fictional character brought to life by an actor who seems to fit perfectly for the role. His off screen charm blends in nicely with Bilbo Baggins’ likable persona. One would think Tolkien wrote Bilbo especially for Martin to play him.
Perhaps you have seen this film a thousand times before. Heroic tale of an unlikely hero. The good versus evil. Men who desire power and the wounded warriors who loathe them. And yet, the audience are still longing for another classic tale well told by Peter Jackson. The captivating one-on-one battle choreography, along with satisfying character development and Peter’s magnificent visual delights, the last part of The Hobbit trilogy is a warm farewell for the fans.
For some, J.R.R Tolkien’s fictional universe feels like home. 11 years after the last Lord of the Rings film was released, we embrace The Hobbit film series like a long forgotten dream. Now, after 13 years of J.R R. Tolkien’s inspired films, the dreams have become memories. So we thank Peter Jackson, along with the entire cast and crew, for all the love and dedication they put into making both trilogies and the sweet memories they left behind.
