--- title: "The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug" year: 2013 kind: "film" canonical: "https://film.one/film/the-hobbit-the-desolation-of-smaug" fi1m_score: 65 critics_score: 69 critics_reviews: 23 published: "2026-09-19T12:49:52.108606+00:00" updated: "2026-09-19T12:50:01.916697+00:00" region: "US" licence: "© Fi1m Ltd. Written by AI under a human editor; checked against sources before publication. Quote with attribution and a link to the canonical URL." --- # The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (2013) Directed by Peter Jackson · 2h 41m · MPA PG-13 · Fantasy, Adventure, Action **Fi1m score: 65** · Critics 69 from 23 reviews *In a sentence:* Two hours of dwarves running, one excellent dragon, and then the film simply stops > Peter Jackson’s middle chapter is quicker, darker and better than the first, with one river chase and one dragon worth the evening. It is also 161 minutes of running that stops rather than ends, and the padding still shows. ## Synopsis Thorin Oakenshield (Richard Armitage) leads twelve dwarves and one hobbit, Bilbo Baggins (Martin Freeman), towards the Lonely Mountain, where the dragon Smaug (Benedict Cumberbatch) sleeps on the gold of the dwarf kingdom of Erebor. An orc pack is a day behind them. They shelter for a night with Beorn (Mikael Persbrandt), a skin-changer who dislikes dwarves slightly less than he dislikes orcs, and reach the edge of Mirkwood, a sick, tangled forest where the path wanders and the air makes travellers forget where they were going. Gandalf the Grey (Ian McKellen) leaves them there on business of his own, telling Bilbo to stay on the path. Bilbo has a gold ring in his pocket that he has told nobody about, and there are spiders in the trees. ## Review Peter Jackson’s second visit to Tolkien’s slim children’s book has the same problem as the first, which is that there is not enough book to go round. *An Unexpected Journey* (2012) took the best part of an hour to leave the house. *The Desolation of Smaug* has the sense to start running and to keep running for most of its 161 minutes, and it is a better film for it. It is still the middle third of something that did not need three parts, and you can see the joins. The company is where the last film left it, on the road to the Lonely Mountain with orcs behind. Thorin Oakenshield (Richard Armitage) wants his grandfather’s kingdom of Erebor back and the Arkenstone that goes with it. Bilbo Baggins (Martin Freeman) has a ring in his pocket he has told nobody about. Gandalf the Grey (Ian McKellen) leaves them at the edge of Mirkwood on business of his own. The screenplay, by Jackson, Fran Walsh, Philippa Boyens and Guillermo del Toro, then adds what Tolkien did not: an elf warrior named Tauriel (Evangeline Lilly), a returning Legolas (Orlando Bloom), a bargeman called Bard (Luke Evans) with a family and a grievance, and a great many more orcs. The places are the best of it. Dan Hennah builds Mirkwood as a forest that has been ill for a long time, trunks knotted into fists, cobweb in the light, and Andrew Lesnie drains the colour out until the whole thing is grey and the green of old copper. Lake-town, when the film gets there, is the opposite: rotting timber on stilts, frost on the canals, lanterns in every window, and Stephen Fry’s Master ruling it from a chair he never leaves. Richard Taylor, Bob Buck and Ann Maskrey dress Lee Pace’s Thranduil in robes so heavy he has to move slowly, which suits a king who has plainly never been refused anything. Two set pieces earn the ticket. The spiders come first, and Jackson has Bilbo put on the ring, so the sound drops away and we hear the creatures muttering to each other about supper. Freeman is good all the way through, fumbling and apologetic and braver than he lets on, and he is best in one short moment here, when he kills a spider for touching the ring and then looks frightened of himself. We were more unsettled by that than by anything with fangs. Then comes the river, a chase in barrels that Jabez Olssen cuts as a run of gags, and we laughed, properly, at a fat dwarf bouncing down the bank and flattening a dozen orcs. It is the one stretch where the film remembers this was written for children. And there is the dragon. Benedict Cumberbatch gives Smaug a voice that seems to come up from under the floor, and the creature itself is vast and slow and pleased with itself, a cat that has found something worth toying with. His conversation with Bilbo, hobbit flattering, dragon amused, is the best written scene in the film, and Freeman’s gift for talking to nothing and making it look like someone has never been put to better use. Then the talking finishes and the running starts again, and there is always more gold to run across. The rest is filler with a large budget. Gandalf’s excursion is cut back to at intervals and every time it is, the film slows to a walk. Tauriel is given a flirtation with one of the younger dwarves that neither the writing nor the film’s length can make matter. Legolas is a special effect with hair. Howard Shore’s score is mostly the old themes played again, a little slower; his Lake-town material is new and better. Armitage glowers handsomely, but Thorin’s story is on hold until next year. *The Fellowship of the Ring* (2001) found an ending in a book that had none. This one does not end; it stops, at the point of highest interest, with a title card. We have no objection to cliffhangers. We object to waiting twelve months for a third act that could have been the second half of this film. See it for the spiders, the river and the dragon, which between them account for perhaps forty minutes. At home you can pause the remainder, which is an odd thing to have to say about a film in which nobody stands still. *Fi1m score 65, published 19 September 2026.* ## What the critics say Most critics agree this is a clear improvement on the first Hobbit film: faster, darker and more purposeful. The praise clusters on two set pieces. The barrel escape down the river is named again and again as the action high point, and Bilbo’s confrontation with Smaug, voiced by Benedict Cumberbatch, is where most reviews say the film finally delivers awe. The new character Tauriel gets more approval than an invented elf might expect, and Lake-town and Erebor are widely admired. The reservations are about length and shape. Several reviews call it half an hour too long and complain of a split narrative in the final third and plot lines left dangling for the next film. The spread is wider than the average suggests: eighteen positive against three negative. The Telegraph and Slant see stalling and blockbuster pandering, while The Independent finds Smaug puffed-up and ridiculous, a view a few admirers of the film, the Evening Standard and Collider among them, quietly share. ### Reviews we read (23) - **Empire**, Nick de Semlyen (85/100, inferred): The critic praises the film as a huge improvement that is moody, urgent and Ringsier, with inventive barrel action, stunning new locations like Lake-town and Erebor, and a standout Smaug voiced by Benedict Cumberbatch. It remedies the inconsequential feel of the first film and puts Jackson back at the top of his game. [Read](https://www.empireonline.com/movies/reviews/hobbit-desolation-smaug-review/) - **Film Comment**, Max Nelson (80/100, inferred): The critic calls it a marvelous film, better paced, emotionally richer, and more tonally confident than the first Hobbit movie. He praises the melancholy tone rooted in characters' attachment to the past and Jackson's detailed, virtuosic filmmaking style reminiscent of earlier blockbusters. [Read](https://www.filmcomment.com/review-the-hobbit-the-desolation-of-smaug/) - **Screen Daily** (80/100, inferred): Rather than suffering middle-film syndrome, this is a freewheeling and exciting second film with breathless pace, entertainment and excitement in equal measure, ending on a dramatic high; technically superb and a romping adventure that connects well. [Read](https://www.screendaily.com/the-hobbit-the-desolation-of-smaug/5064454.article) - **The Guardian**, Peter Bradshaw (4/5): The critic finds the film tremendously enjoyable and a revelation in the Jackson-Tolkien fusion, praising its propulsive energy, genial adventure tale qualities and standout set pieces like the barrel chase. [Read](https://www.theguardian.com/film/2013/dec/12/hobbit-desolation-of-smaug-review) - **Time Out**, Keith Uhlich (4/5): The reviewer is a fan of the bombastic style; praises the improved pace, chaotic action sequences especially the barrel ride and the Smaug confrontation that delivers awe. [Read](https://www.timeout.com/movies/the-hobbit-the-desolation-of-smaug) - **Evening Standard**, Charlotte O'Sullivan (75/100, inferred): The critic calls the film a joy after a disappointing first installment, praising the spider attack, river battle, Bilbo's ring addiction, and the new character Tauriel. Some padding remains and Smaug is a windbag, but the middle section delivers thrilling bangs. [Read](https://www.standard.co.uk/culture/film/the-hobbit-the-desolation-of-smaug-film-review-8992470.html) - **The Hollywood Reporter**, Todd McCarthy (75/100, inferred): The critic finds it a clear improvement over the first film, with nonstop peril, action, and better storytelling energy for most of its length. He singles out the Smaug confrontation and added characters like Tauriel for praise while noting some bloat returns toward the end. [Read](https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-reviews/hobbit-desolation-smaug-film-review-663372/) - **Los Angeles Times**, Betsy Sharkey (70/100, inferred): The critic calls the film a relief after the first installment's disappointment, set afire by the dragon and infused with eccentricity and electricity that keeps its nearly three hours humming. She singles out the improved storytelling balancing emotions with action as getting closer to the alchemy of the Lord of the Rings films. [Read](https://www.latimes.com/entertainment/movies/moviesnow/la-et-mn-the-hobbit-desolation-of-smaug20131212-story.html) - **RogerEbert.com**, Sheila O'Malley (70/100, inferred): The critic finds the film achieves the potent fantasy Tolkien described, particularly in the dragon confrontation and thematic elements, while noting it is about a half-hour too long with a split narrative in the final third. She singles out the jubilant barrel escape sequence and a moment of natural beauty atop the trees for praise. [Read](https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/the-hobbit-the-desolation-of-smaug-2013) - **The New York Times**, Manohla Dargis (70/100, inferred): The critic notes the film feels like a sprint compared to the first installment and turns five chapters into a relentless adventure tale full of action and Elven gymnastics. She singles out the casting and additions like Legolas and Tauriel for providing energy, while critiquing some elements like the Elvenking as a bore. [Read](https://www.nytimes.com/2013/12/13/movies/the-hobbit-the-desolation-of-smaug-with-ian-mckellen.html) - **Total Film**, Matt Maytum (70/100, inferred): The critic notes it suffers from middle-act wobbles and lacks a satisfying arc or much character development but delivers rousing action, incredible visuals, and one stupendous dragon. It remains a cut above standard blockbuster fare with plenty to enjoy for committed fans. [Read](https://www.gamesradar.com/the-hobbit-the-desolation-of-smaug-review/) - **Variety**, Justin Chang (70/100, inferred): The critic says the film finds its footing as a much more exciting and purposeful second chapter with forward momentum and 3D thrills culminating in the dragon confrontation. He singles out the barrel escape sequence as the action high point with giddy exuberance, while noting it improves on the predecessor but remains overly protracted at times. [Read](https://variety.com/2013/film/reviews/the-hobbit-the-desolation-of-smaug-review-1200919206/) - **Vulture**, Bilge Ebiri (70/100, inferred): The critic sees it as still bloated but a massive improvement, filled with inventive action set pieces and dramatic face-offs that finally engage. He singles out the Bilbo-Smaug confrontation for its fun, tense, and menacing quality. [Read](https://www.vulture.com/2013/12/review-the-hobbit-the-desolation-of-smaug.html) - **Radio Times**, Stella Papamichael (3/5): The critic finds the film frustrating due to uneven dramatic tension and characters pushed to the background, but praises the visual realisation of Middle-earth and action scenes, plus the addition of Tauriel. [Read](https://www.radiotimes.com/movie-guide/b-pix9s6/the-hobbit-the-desolation-of-smaug/) - **Slant Magazine**, R. Kurt Osenlund (40/100, inferred): The critic calls it the weakest installment in the franchise, criticizing its over-reliance on busy, nuance-free set pieces and blockbuster pandering. He praises the Smaug sequence and certain Tolkien-esque moments for their spectacle and historical depth. [Read](https://www.slantmagazine.com/film/the-hobbit-the-desolation-of-smaug/) - **The Telegraph**, Robbie Collin (40/100, inferred): The critic views it as mostly stalling for time with a few great sequences buried in long stretches, criticizing the padding of the source material and Jackson's additions like the orc chase and new characters. [Read](https://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/film/filmreviews/10502508/The-Hobbit-The-Desolation-of-Smaug-review.html) - **The Independent** (35/100, inferred): The critic finds the film bloated and unsatisfying as a 161-minute middle chapter that ends on a cliffhanger without economies of scale in storytelling. Action sequences and Middle-earth visuals are engaging but Smaug is criticized as a puffed-up and ridiculous character. [Read](https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/films/reviews/film-review-the-hobbit-the-desolation-of-smaug-12a-a-puffedup-dragon-but-no-magic-9000929.html) - **Collider**, Matt Goldberg (B+): The critic finds it a fleet-footed, thrilling second chapter that expands the world effectively after a weaker first film. He singles out the wild action sequences and new character Tauriel for praise while noting flaws like an unremarkable Smaug. [Read](https://collider.com/the-hobbit-the-desolation-of-smaug-review/) - **Den of Geek**, Ryan Lambie (4/5): The review finds the film brisk and exciting, delivering on the promise of the first installment while providing a compelling bridge to the third. It singles out the menacing Smaug scenes and overall sense of danger for praise. [Read](https://www.denofgeek.com/movies/the-hobbit-the-desolation-of-smaug-review/) - **Digital Spy**, Emma Dibdin (4/5): The critic describes it as darker, zippier, and wittier than its predecessor, with breathless action and shrewd character building. The fully realised Smaug, voiced and performed by Benedict Cumberbatch, is highlighted as a standout triumph. [Read](https://www.digitalspy.com/movies/a536437/the-hobbit-the-desolation-of-smaug-review-digital-spy-verdict/) - **The Wrap** (80/100, inferred): The film is a clearer and more engaging sequel than its predecessor, creating a rousing immersive experience with strong emotional engagement. The critic singles out the new character Tauriel for providing an emotional core and praises the action set pieces, particularly the barrel chase sequence. [Read](https://www.thewrap.com/hobbit-review/) - **Eye for Film**, Max Crawford (70/100, inferred): A vast improvement on the first film and a fun adventure outing, with a spectacular Smaug-filled finale and kinetic action sequences like the barrel escape. [Read](https://www.eyeforfilm.co.uk/review/the-hobbit-the-desolation-of-smaug-2013-film-review-by-stuart-crawford) - **/Film**, Germain Lussier (6.5/10): A mixed bag that improves on the first film's action and scope but suffers from horribly uneven pacing and dangling plot lines; Smaug is a highlight. [Read](https://www.slashfilm.com/529242/the-hobbit-the-desolation-of-smaug-review-pacing-issues-dampen-a-rousing-return-to-middle-earth/) ## Details - **Director:** Peter Jackson - **Director:** Peter Jackson - **Screenplay:** Fran Walsh, Philippa Boyens, Peter Jackson, Guillermo del Toro - **Novel:** J. R. R. Tolkien - **Cinematography:** Andrew Lesnie - **Editor:** Jabez Olssen - **Music:** Howard Shore - **Production design:** Dan Hennah - **Costume design:** Richard Taylor, Ann Maskrey, Bob Buck - **Producer:** Fran Walsh, Carolynne Cunningham, Peter Jackson - **Cast:** Ian McKellen as Gandalf the Grey; Martin Freeman as Bilbo Baggins; Richard Armitage as Thorin Oakenshield; Benedict Cumberbatch as Smaug / Sauron; Orlando Bloom as Legolas; Evangeline Lilly as Tauriel; Lee Pace as King Thranduil; Luke Evans as Bard / Girion - **Runtime:** 2h 41m - **Certificate (MPA):** PG-13 - **Release (the US):** 13 December 2013 - **Genres:** Fantasy, Adventure, Action - **Budget:** $250 million - **Box office:** $958 million - **Trailer:** https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gAo95e7_XKA ## Where to watch in the US - HBO Max: streaming - Amazon Prime Video: add-on, uhd - The Roku Channel: add-on, hd - Hulu: add-on, hd - Apple TV: rent $4.99, hd - Amazon Prime Video: rent $4.99, uhd - Apple TV: buy $14.99, hd - Amazon Prime Video: buy $14.99, uhd *Checked 2026-09-19.* Also available in: AE, AR, AT, AU, BE, BG, BR, CA, CH, CL, CO, CZ, DE, DK, EE, ES, FI, FR, GB, GR, HK, HR, HU, ID, IE, IL, IN, IT, JP, KR, LT, MX, MY, NL, NO, NZ, PA, PH, PL, PT, RO, RS, SE, SG, SI, TH, TR, UA, US, VN, ZA. Add `?region=XX` to this URL for another country. ## Awards - Academy Awards 2014: Best Sound (nominated); Best Sound Editing (nominated); Best Visual Effects (nominated) - MTV Movie Award for Best Fight 2014: MTV Movie Award for Best Fight (won) ## If you liked this - *The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring* (2001), Fi1m 90: Jackson with a book big enough for the running time, and an ending. — [Fi1m page](https://film.one/film/the-lord-of-the-rings-the-fellowship-of-the-ring.md) - *Jason and the Argonauts* (1963): Harryhausen’s monsters, built by hand, still frightening after sixty years. - *Princess Mononoke* (1997), Fi1m 88: Miyazaki’s forest gods and iron works; a quest film that argues with itself. — [Fi1m page](https://film.one/film/princess-mononoke.md) - *Dragonslayer* (1981): The dragon film to measure Smaug against: grimy, patient, and properly dangerous. - *The Princess Bride* (1987), Fi1m 86: A fairy tale that knows exactly how long it should be, and is. — [Fi1m page](https://film.one/film/the-princess-bride.md) --- © Fi1m Ltd. Written by AI under a human editor; checked against sources before publication. Quote with attribution and a link to the canonical URL. Canonical: https://film.one/film/the-hobbit-the-desolation-of-smaug