The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies
Warner Bros. Pictures | Release Date: December 17, 2014
6.9
USER SCORE
Generally favorable reviews based on 1367 Ratings
USER RATING DISTRIBUTION
Positive:
884
Mixed:
319
Negative:
164
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User scoreBy dateMost helpful
10
ExtremeTroll54Feb 12, 2015
How do some of you rate this so poorly. its fantasy so yeah its supposed to be fake. frhfdsjfhkjdshfkj dshfkjhdskjfhdskjfhdsfkjdshkjfhdskjhdsjkfndskjfdsk
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
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10
SpongeBobfan13Feb 14, 2015
I LOVE the Hobbit and Lord Of The Rings! They are my favorite movies. The Battle of the Five Armies is a really good movie. It has a lot of fighting throughout the movie! Peter Jackson did a good job of making the Battle of The Five ArmiesI LOVE the Hobbit and Lord Of The Rings! They are my favorite movies. The Battle of the Five Armies is a really good movie. It has a lot of fighting throughout the movie! Peter Jackson did a good job of making the Battle of The Five Armies long since it is only about 4 or five chapters long in the book!… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
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5
homer4presidentMar 11, 2015
First off, I will say that the LOTR films are my favorite films of all time and the first two Hobbit films, while far from perfect, were still very enjoyable and entertaining. However, the final installment in Peter Jackson's 'Hobbit' trilogyFirst off, I will say that the LOTR films are my favorite films of all time and the first two Hobbit films, while far from perfect, were still very enjoyable and entertaining. However, the final installment in Peter Jackson's 'Hobbit' trilogy left me underwhelmed and disappointed. It's battle sequences, while thrilling in moments, felt small in scale, and the strong emotional impact that I felt reading Tolkien's novel is no where to be found here. These were not the impressions I wanted to be left with witnessing what is most likely to be the last cinematic journey to Middle-Earth.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
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0
NikopooOct 15, 2020
Nobody cares about the dwarves. I understand the premise of choosing a gruff species as the main characters is inherently going to be difficult, but there is so little balance with how they are portrayed, extremely little saving grace. TheNobody cares about the dwarves. I understand the premise of choosing a gruff species as the main characters is inherently going to be difficult, but there is so little balance with how they are portrayed, extremely little saving grace. The only character that was done well at all and to my surprise done extraordinarily well was Bilbo Baggins. The main story however, childish, patronizing, and with very little integrity and genuiness. This is in stark contrast to its' predecessors who took an opposite approach. At the end of the day you can tell the motive from Lord of the rings was to create a story in which people can deeply relate and the Hobbit was clearly to make money alone. For this I am deeply insulted, remove from the fact that Martin Freeman put in some incredible work into these films.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
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7
evtsoaresDec 17, 2014
Does not exceed the " Desolation of Smaug " . Still, a true work of art, because in a year like 2014 where we had several films that generated expectations and frustrated , Hobbit is a show that the public needed . It closes with a flourishDoes not exceed the " Desolation of Smaug " . Still, a true work of art, because in a year like 2014 where we had several films that generated expectations and frustrated , Hobbit is a show that the public needed . It closes with a flourish this epic franchise movie .… Expand
9 of 19 users found this helpful910
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4
ozymandias79Jan 10, 2015
This movie is awful. It's so bad, I was rooting for the bad guys. I couldn't have cared less about any of the characters and couldn't remember anything from the previous two films. The fact that these movies get extended cuts is a joke. IThis movie is awful. It's so bad, I was rooting for the bad guys. I couldn't have cared less about any of the characters and couldn't remember anything from the previous two films. The fact that these movies get extended cuts is a joke. I want to see less not more.

The beginning should have been the ending to the last movie. Should film goers feel ripped off - YES! A theme of this film is greed which is interesting because greed got these movies made. All I can say is - DO NOT PAY MONEY TO SEE THE HOBBIT MOVIES!!!!!… Expand
7 of 15 users found this helpful78
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10
AnarionDec 17, 2014
An awesome ending to an already brilliant saga. While I will admit the battle was somewhat lacking, the scene with the dwarf wall, and then the elves jumping over was just too epic. Also, small references back to the original trilogy add someAn awesome ending to an already brilliant saga. While I will admit the battle was somewhat lacking, the scene with the dwarf wall, and then the elves jumping over was just too epic. Also, small references back to the original trilogy add some interesting points. And lastly, that song at the end adds such a depressing note, as you finally realize that a great saga is coming to an end.… Expand
6 of 13 users found this helpful67
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10
Beowulf4862Dec 17, 2014
Terrific final episode of the Hobbit adventures. Despite the naysayers, Jackson's film is very character dependent and showcases the acting of a number of fine actors from across the globe. A fitting ending to an epic journey of discovery,Terrific final episode of the Hobbit adventures. Despite the naysayers, Jackson's film is very character dependent and showcases the acting of a number of fine actors from across the globe. A fitting ending to an epic journey of discovery, loss, and growth. Visually arresting and emotionally satisfying.… Expand
10 of 22 users found this helpful1012
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10
benoskiDec 18, 2014
I'd say critic reviews of this film were largely exaggerated. A brilliant end to a great trilogy and the perfect farewell to one of the biggest sagas in film history.
8 of 18 users found this helpful810
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7
akino1Dec 21, 2014
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Minus one for the quick and easy death of Smaug at the start of the film. I agree with people saying he should have died at the end of DOS. It would have been much more meaningful. Or he should have been given more minutes at the start of the film. Such a fun character.

Minus one for the terrible acting of Martin Freeman and Luke Evans. At times I asked myself what is wrong with these guys?

Minus one for everything happing in fast-motion. It's like a 4-hour movie cut to a 2.5-hour highlights. The clever slow and fast pacing found in the LOTR films and even the DOS can not be found here. Also the ability of everyone (including children) to take down full-grown armored orcs so easily is very very disappointing. This is not a movie for the kids if I am right.

On the bright side Ian McKellen, Richard Armitage and Lee Pace show their awesome acting skills. The scene including Sauron and The White Council is unprecedented. I must also mention the final battle between Thorin and Azog was incredible, like the last battle between Obi-wan and Anakin at the end of ROTS, close and personal.… Expand
4 of 9 users found this helpful45
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7
silverdragonautDec 17, 2014
Whats good?
well played by the actors, nice visual effects and a incredible Battle of the Armies...
Whats bad? The Legolas Scenes are so ridiculous! Sometimes the Picture is so clear that it cannot be unseen, that its made with Computer...Whats good?
well played by the actors, nice visual effects and a incredible Battle of the Armies...
Whats bad?
The Legolas Scenes are so ridiculous! Sometimes the Picture is so clear that it cannot be unseen, that its made with Computer... Especially the Armies of the Elves and the Dwarves.

Well its a nice ending for the middleearth saga... But some should not expect a new Lord of the rings...… Expand
6 of 14 users found this helpful68
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3
bartzfact0rDec 19, 2014
I've been a fan of this series for decades, and the conclusion of "The Hobbit" trilogy is a disappointment in nearly every way possible. Peter Jackson has left his audiences hanging with a film without any of the superb acting, plot,I've been a fan of this series for decades, and the conclusion of "The Hobbit" trilogy is a disappointment in nearly every way possible. Peter Jackson has left his audiences hanging with a film without any of the superb acting, plot, character development, action, and significance of any of the previous films; it's truly a collapse of "Episode I" magnitude. Fans of LotR will see it anyways (as they should), but don't go in expecting a masterpiece.… Expand
3 of 7 users found this helpful34
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5
RamonGuerreroDec 18, 2014
Well... this wasn't awful, it was a Okay film, but I expected more of a future classic, than a boring plot.. This was supposed to be the king of visual effects of the year, instead it looks like a half finished video game in some sequences.
3 of 7 users found this helpful34
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0
seventhbeaconMar 7, 2015
A **** end to a **** trilogy made in the grand mindless tradition of the Transformers movies. I can't express how much I didn't want to go and see this, but I wanted to get it over with, much like my experience of watching the third andA **** end to a **** trilogy made in the grand mindless tradition of the Transformers movies. I can't express how much I didn't want to go and see this, but I wanted to get it over with, much like my experience of watching the third and final Matrix movie.

But The Matrix Trilogy was far superior to this garbage, which I'm sure, buried beneath all of the extra crap, there's still a movie to be salvaged.

I look forward to viewing a proper edit, where all three Hobbit movies are condensed into one 2-3 hr sitting, and all of the ridiculous **** is gone.… Expand
3 of 7 users found this helpful34
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0
SH1Dec 21, 2014
The battles where predictable, and I cannot say that I cared about them. This movie contained too much deus ex machina for my taste. I saw no new interesting art work in the film apart from the other films. I can only conclude that theyThe battles where predictable, and I cannot say that I cared about them. This movie contained too much deus ex machina for my taste. I saw no new interesting art work in the film apart from the other films. I can only conclude that they re-used assets (ie. 3D models, sounds etc.) from previous films to cut cost as much as possible.… Expand
8 of 19 users found this helpful811
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3
foxgroveDec 17, 2014
The third and final instalment of this overblown adaptation of the rather slight book arrives with a whimper rather than a bang. Following on from the delight that was ‘The Desolation of Smaug’ this film is an exercise in tedium. Picking upThe third and final instalment of this overblown adaptation of the rather slight book arrives with a whimper rather than a bang. Following on from the delight that was ‘The Desolation of Smaug’ this film is an exercise in tedium. Picking up the story as Smaug wreaks havoc on Lake Town village, things start promisingly enough but with the dragon’s dramatic departure we are plunged into scenes of excessive chatter which all but stalls the interest. It doesn’t help that the extras milling around seem amateurish and under rehearsed and a lot of the ensuing dialogue provides unintentional mirth. The battle scenes are badly staged and unexcitingly edited and the film has a messy, untidy feel to it. One actually begins to forget what it’s all about.
Apart from Richard Armitage, who is excellent, the actors add little and Ryan Gage is particularly annoying as Alfrid. The score by Howard Shore is by turns soft and melodic and then overly emphatic as it tries to add drama to scenes that are singularly lacking any. Visually the film is still a success, although the CGI occasionally lets it down, but what the film fatally lacks is the fantastical magic and mystery that made the rings trilogy so wondrously brilliant.
The last 20 minutes or so improve somewhat as the dwarves fight the dark lord Sauron on the snow and ice. These sequences, along with the opening, sport the best of the visuals and provide the most excitement. Here we are treated to, amongst other things, collapsing bridges, giant birds and cohesive individual combat. Overall, though, one is just thankful when the song ‘The Last Goodbye’ warbles onto the soundtrack. This mercifully offers pleasing confirmation that the uneven trilogy has finally concluded. Amen to that.… Expand
13 of 31 users found this helpful1318
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10
suncokretDec 17, 2014
Fantastic ending to this trilogy. People that criticize this film often forget how Return of the King was made when it reached the theaters. Full of holes, I will tell you. Unnecessary scene with Frodo doing ninja u-turn on the cliff withoutFantastic ending to this trilogy. People that criticize this film often forget how Return of the King was made when it reached the theaters. Full of holes, I will tell you. Unnecessary scene with Frodo doing ninja u-turn on the cliff without one finger in Mount Doom, anti-climatic Eowyn "I'm no man" scene, absence of Saruman, swift ghost battles, rushed ending with many many stuff missing, etc. Extended edition fixed most of these gaps and made the film much more enjoyable, but theatrical cut was flawed and much worse than Two towers and Fellowship.
So be more realistic. I enjoyed it much more than watching ROTK in cinema back in 2003. The story of Hobbit is small and represent Tolkien's early writing, but PJ did a marvelous job in making this journey amazing. Thums up! Can't wait for the Extended edition!… Expand
10 of 24 users found this helpful1014
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9
ProteusDec 17, 2014
Beautiful to watch among other virtues. Compare this to say, Exodus and see pure excellence vs. shoddy CGI laden cinematography. Bravo to Peter Jackson for immersing us in a lovely world.
4 of 10 users found this helpful46
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10
ThegodfathersonDec 29, 2014
Five Armies tops the previous films in every sense, providing us with a great amount of depth into its characters and giving us spectacular battle sequences. But is it a good movie? Well, the answer is yes. This final film in the long runningFive Armies tops the previous films in every sense, providing us with a great amount of depth into its characters and giving us spectacular battle sequences. But is it a good movie? Well, the answer is yes. This final film in the long running and awesome trilogy is really a large spectacle I call it. The situations are FAR more emotional, the acting is still the same as An Unexpected Journey and Desolation Of Smaug, but what this chapter improves is that it has a better, satisfying ending because the last two ended horribly. This is total fan service and Peter Jackson steps up his game. Middle Earth just got better.… Expand
2 of 5 users found this helpful23
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3
ahnehnoisDec 17, 2014
There were moments in the Lord of the Rings movies where things got a bit cheesy, production values failed, writers went the wrong direction, or for some other reason things just didn't work. But this final movie of The Hobbit trilogy isThere were moments in the Lord of the Rings movies where things got a bit cheesy, production values failed, writers went the wrong direction, or for some other reason things just didn't work. But this final movie of The Hobbit trilogy is pretty much just that, and nothing else.

There just isn't that much substance to this movie. The locations are few, and mostly CGI; barely a hint of the spectacular New Zealand landscapes that fans flock to. The five armies are boring, and given that we already know where this is headed, there isn't much of a sense of stakes. Of course, before that, you get to kill some time watching Smaug destroy CGI Laketown and the wizard and elf crew fight some CGI wraiths. And frankly, for whatever reason; the frame rate, the 3D conversion, or whatever else, all that CGI looks terrible for a big budget movie in 2014. But wait until you see the five armies in all their CGI glory, and the absurd combat stunts of the dwarves and their allies. That looks worse.

The book's merits are mangled or buried. There are only hints of Bilbo's emotional journey and moral ambiguity. Thorin's obsession with (CGI) treasure is elevated to comic levels; his insanity is so over the top and his overcoming it is so gratuitous and forced that it's hard to watch. There's plenty of time, though, for talking about the feelings of elves and dwarves, and watching Legolas, the ageless elf who looks older than he did a century in the future, and wasn't in the book. And never mind the gratuitously sleezy laketowner, who decides he isn't in to fighting battles for no reason, but is branded a coward, who runs off and hides with the women and hides his treasure in the front of his dress, making him look like one. Ha ha funny. Way to offend everyone at once.

I think what tells the story is the title. The original title for the second, and then when they split them, the third Hobbit movie was "There and Back Again". And that's what I wanted to see. The Hobbit is a tough book to film, but it's really about the subjective experience of the title character, and him experiencing the epic and the supernatural and the horrors of war and returning home to reality. A movie that focused on that and ignored all the subplots could have been good. But they changed the title to "The Battle of the Five Armies" and that's apt. Because now the movie is about the part of the book that Bilbo slept through after getting hit on the head, and nothing else.

As much a fan as I am of the LotR movie trilogy, I'd suggest that people should pull a Bilbo and miss this battle completely.… Expand
8 of 21 users found this helpful813
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0
kingabbenDec 28, 2014
Nothing like the book at all.

Looks like it was shot in a studio with overloads of CGI and green-screen. Weak characters and plot development. Battle is way too over-the-top and THREATLESS. Tauriel didn't die, so where did she goNothing like the book at all.

Looks like it was shot in a studio with overloads of CGI and green-screen.

Weak characters and plot development.

Battle is way too over-the-top and THREATLESS.

Tauriel didn't die, so where did she go after the Hobbit? Continuity mistake.

The idiotic and greedy steward of Dale ruins the whole movie with childish humor (seriously, golden cleavage? STUPID).

Overall, the last 2 movies of the trilogy were just abominations of Tolkien's beautiful work (Unexpected Journey was alright!). Half the reviewers I read have never read the book... SMH… Expand
6 of 16 users found this helpful610
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10
sundaymovieDec 17, 2014
This movie is basically just a huge battle. It is everything that is promised. 5 armies fight, and they battles are amazing. you can either enjoy an amazing battle or you can nitpicking it for having the things you wanted from lord of theThis movie is basically just a huge battle. It is everything that is promised. 5 armies fight, and they battles are amazing. you can either enjoy an amazing battle or you can nitpicking it for having the things you wanted from lord of the rings. more action and no walking around. stop being so hypocritical.… Expand
6 of 16 users found this helpful610
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2
LvceDec 20, 2014
An half-ass job. Lame dialogues, 15 y old cgi, annoying characters. It's just like a typical Transformers movie, except you weren't expecting it.
Still hoping he doesn't know about the Silmarillion
3 of 8 users found this helpful35
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0
Larry1Dec 22, 2014
This movie is an example of how to destroy a classic piece of fantasy writing and turn it to the mindless mentality of a video game. The director/writers decided to make one book into a trilogy, and therefore had to fill the time with cheapThis movie is an example of how to destroy a classic piece of fantasy writing and turn it to the mindless mentality of a video game. The director/writers decided to make one book into a trilogy, and therefore had to fill the time with cheap commercial tricks.… Expand
8 of 22 users found this helpful814
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7
adpirtleDec 17, 2014
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies closes out Peter Jackson's re-imagining of JRR Tolkien's novel in a manner consistent with its two predecessors. Like the first two Hobbit films, it's overlong, bulked up by more of Jackson's fan fiction, and so over-reliant on CGI that at times it feels like watching a video game. But, as was also the case with the previous films, it succeeds more often than it fails.

The film opens very strongly, rendering the destruction of Lake-town by the dragon Smaug and his battle with Bard (finally the Bowman) in breathtaking fashion. Luke Evans makes for a compelling hero throughout the film, though he's apt to be overlooked with so much else going on. Then it's off to Dul Guldur, where Gandalf the Grey is being held prisoner by Sauron. This side-plot is polished off surprisingly quickly, with Elron, Galadriel, and an unexpectedly agile Saruman showing off the Dark Lord and his undead minions while Radagast spirits Gandalf to safety.

The middle of the film is, unfortunately, less consistently engaging. Back at Lonely Mountain, Thorin Oakenshield's transformation from noble leader to gold-crazed lunatic is too abrupt and over-the-top, though Richard Armitage is able to lend pathos to Jackson's unsubtle writing. The elf-king Thranduril is similarly cartoonish, and Lee Pace isn't a talented enough actor to rise above the material. The strongest character in this portion of the film is, rather surprisingly, given how much he's been pushed into the margins, Martin Freeman's titular hobbit, Bilbo Baggins, as he struggles to find a way to bring Thorin to his senses and prevent the inevitable war.

Finally we get to the battle itself, and it's a bit of a mixed bag. The scale of Jackson's computer-generated conflict seems less impressive than excessive, though he is a good as ever at managing massive conflicts while highlighting individual moments. However, the film only manages to become truly compelling again after Thorin snaps out of his madness and leads his company of dwarves in pursuit of the head of the orc army. Azog the Defiler looks better rendered than ever, and his duel with Thorin makes for a rousing climax, only slightly diminished by having to share screen time with another, slightly less successful, physics-defying fight between Legolas and Bolg (who is as awkwardly rendered as ever).

In the end, the sixth (!) and almost certainly final Jackson-directed Middle-earth epic manages to deliver, if not quite the weight of The Lord of the Rings pictures, at least the same level of spectacle, and returning the focus of the film somewhat to Bilbo's relationship with Thorin is one of Jackson's better decisions.… Expand
4 of 12 users found this helpful48
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3
jesse_diehlDec 18, 2014
The senseless accumulation of wealth and the pursuit of "more" (AKA Dragon Fever) is the supposed theme to this final instalment of the Hobbit films. The irony of these films is that this movie itself is cursed with this sickness.

TooThe senseless accumulation of wealth and the pursuit of "more" (AKA Dragon Fever) is the supposed theme to this final instalment of the Hobbit films. The irony of these films is that this movie itself is cursed with this sickness.

Too many characters and a unending amount of needless scenes, plague this movie and causing it to drag on and on. Less is more Peter Jackson. The sophisticated special effects and concept art that went into this movie seems to be what He was really passionate about. Not story.… Expand
3 of 9 users found this helpful36
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9
michael1208Dec 21, 2014
Being the final installment of The Hobbit's franchise, the film itself does leave some nostalgic impression to the audiences; and having to split it into a long trilogy to build up everything seems to be fine even though the last part is aBeing the final installment of The Hobbit's franchise, the film itself does leave some nostalgic impression to the audiences; and having to split it into a long trilogy to build up everything seems to be fine even though the last part is a bit lacking of sub-plots to support the main story. It is the shortest chapter of 144 minutes, starting off straightforward from the happening at the end of Desolation of Smaug, moving immediately to treasure conflicts at Erebor, the not quite strong love triangle between the Elf and Dwarf, and then the unstoppable wars with thrilling action scenes of Legolas and Thorin that last for almost half of the running time. The performance of Martin Freeman as Bilbo Baggins is still promising as his fear, courageous and emotions are strongly inspiring across the trilogy while Richard Armitage also portrays well with his change of behavior as Thorin, the visual effects are undeniable dazzling and stunning, but there is a few part that seems to be just semi-real, not to miss out Howard Shore's scores are awesome as always for all the six entries. While the story line moves in an extreme fast pace with short conversations and it may seems somewhat diverts from the usual tradition of the middle earth saga, The Hobbit trilogy is pleasing at it is, serves a decent connection bridge to Lord of the Ring and the ending with theme song "The Last Goodbye" drives audience's emotion to feel reluctant for farewell. Overall, The Hobbit franchise is worth for one last time although it loses some of the magic compared to Lord of the Ring Trilogy.… Expand
2 of 6 users found this helpful24
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8
JohnMasterLJan 4, 2015
Un final épico, cargado de acción, divertida y entretenida en todo momento, 140 minutos que los fans y no tan fans disfrutaran, El Hobbit se auto nombra como otro clásico fantástico, Bien Hecho Peter Jackson, ojala dentro de los próximos añosUn final épico, cargado de acción, divertida y entretenida en todo momento, 140 minutos que los fans y no tan fans disfrutaran, El Hobbit se auto nombra como otro clásico fantástico, Bien Hecho Peter Jackson, ojala dentro de los próximos años se animen a hacer el silmarillion y los hijos de hurin.… Expand
1 of 3 users found this helpful12
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6
NPCDec 20, 2014
A pretty fun movie. It's pretty much one big, long fight scene, with lots of things that I think were supposed to be serious, but just ended up being silly, such as the scene where all the wizards and Galadriel go to beat up the Nazgul andA pretty fun movie. It's pretty much one big, long fight scene, with lots of things that I think were supposed to be serious, but just ended up being silly, such as the scene where all the wizards and Galadriel go to beat up the Nazgul and Sauron. Lots of predictable endings to pointless plotlines, more Legolas for no reason, that dwarf/elf romance that makes NO SENSE seeing as they talked to each other for a whole 5 minutes, and pretty much everything that was wrong with the first two films is still here. But for all it's worth, it's still a pretty fun movie, though I like to think it as separate from Lord of the Rings.… Expand
1 of 3 users found this helpful12
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6
DudeUnknownJan 1, 2015
Lacking storyline. More dull than usual. Sort of worth it. Either way, it wasn't terrible so I suppose I give it a 6. The first 2 movies were better. For the length of the movie, I'm very disappointed.
1 of 3 users found this helpful12
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6
andrebarrosoDec 19, 2014
Peter, what happened?
The director took one of Professor Tolkien's best novel, and turned it apart in three movies.
Even that, he could've archived something great with this movie, but it didn't happened. Still, it's a Middle-Earth movie,Peter, what happened?
The director took one of Professor Tolkien's best novel, and turned it apart in three movies.
Even that, he could've archived something great with this movie, but it didn't happened.
Still, it's a Middle-Earth movie, and should not be ignored. You might be unsatisfied with the final result, as I was, but you should go to the movie theater and judge it by yourself.… Expand
1 of 3 users found this helpful12
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8
RealPeopleDec 21, 2014
I LOVE the LOTR trilogy. I cried when it ended. I thoroughly enjoyed Unexpected Journey. The Desolation of Smaug turned me off( I rated DOS 6/10.) I was not looking forward to the final installment of the Hobbit. I, of course, was going toI LOVE the LOTR trilogy. I cried when it ended. I thoroughly enjoyed Unexpected Journey. The Desolation of Smaug turned me off( I rated DOS 6/10.) I was not looking forward to the final installment of the Hobbit. I, of course, was going to see the movie no matter what. This was a blessing. The reverse of expectation. Instead of expecting something special I went in without high demands. If you start to compare this movie to the beloved book your experience is doomed. If you want a three hour roller-coaster ride thinly based on the book your in for a treat. I saw the movie on Imax. Of all three movies you would expect this movie to be the best for Imax, it was not. A good sound system, a comfy seat, go for that, not 3D. I am a fan of the higher frame rate. The fact that it makes the scenes with practical effects look like a BBC documentary do not bother me. The fact that we get added scenes of high fantasy(elf on dwarf love) while leaving out touching fantasy like talking birds and wargs from the book do not bother me. This is not the Hobbit, this is the battle of the Five Armies from the director of King Kong 4.0. I had a blast, well worth the price of admission, the series will be missed. I also feel that practical effects will make a huge comeback due in part to this movie and others, and that is not a bad thing either. I shall look back on these Hobbit films fondly, for what the are, for what they lack. I did not get the sense of awe as I did with the LOTR films. I had no vested interest in Bilbo or the Dwarves this time around, and maybe that's for the best. I will re-read the book. I will watch Fellowship on blue-ray. The trilogy ended with a big smile on my face, no tears, but no regrets. A solid 8/10 for movie experience.… Expand
1 of 3 users found this helpful12
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7
zanithanJan 15, 2015
Reasonably engrossing and entertaining. No, it is not as good as the LOTR trilogy. But it is suspenseful and fun.

For those looking for a good action movie with fantasy elements then this is worth renting or going to the theaters to see ifReasonably engrossing and entertaining. No, it is not as good as the LOTR trilogy. But it is suspenseful and fun.

For those looking for a good action movie with fantasy elements then this is worth renting or going to the theaters to see if you have some cash and nothing better to do.… Expand
1 of 3 users found this helpful12
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7
FrogfisherFeb 25, 2015
The final chapter in the Hobbit-trilogy and Jackson's last Middle Earth film (for now), is a full out war brawl film in the vein of The Two Towers and Return of the King, and although not very faithful to it's own predecessors or the book itThe final chapter in the Hobbit-trilogy and Jackson's last Middle Earth film (for now), is a full out war brawl film in the vein of The Two Towers and Return of the King, and although not very faithful to it's own predecessors or the book it is based on, it is one hell of an action ride, far more to the point than the two prior films. While focus is misplaced on Bard and Thorin again, Bilbo gets some saying in the film and sets up the next trilogy a lot more subtle than one would expect from this trilogy. Issues come down to too many loose ends of which some are big obvious ones, actor performances, some confusion over various story elements and a truly cheesy "revelation scene" for Thorin. But the action and emotional impact makes the film stronger than Desolation of Smaug.… Expand
1 of 3 users found this helpful12
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7
WJSDec 17, 2014
This movie is very long...well it seems very long as it seems to be coming to end about 3 or 4 times and then on it goes, just like the third installment of "The Lord of the Rings" as it never wants to end. Mind you it looks and soundsThis movie is very long...well it seems very long as it seems to be coming to end about 3 or 4 times and then on it goes, just like the third installment of "The Lord of the Rings" as it never wants to end. Mind you it looks and sounds amazing and it's quite romantic. It's epic in its scope and it's visually stimulating but if you haven't seen "The Lord of the Rings", it might be confusing. The whole time I was watching I was thinking that Peter Jackson must be really tired of directing the same movie again, just like I was getting tired of watching the same movie over again. Unfortunately, I just didn't get into this movie as much as I hoped I would as I've been looking forward to seeing it for quite awhile...and although I was impressed with HFR 3D visual aspect it just seemed overwrought and heavy handed to me. Once you've seen one Orck get his head lopped off it all becomes quite redundant.… Expand
2 of 7 users found this helpful25
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6
olli1992Jan 4, 2015
All you self opinionated people stop giving games/movies scores of zero. It is so stupid and irresponsible. You are corrupting the user score so much. Do u even realise this? Yeah, you probably do but just dont care....................
2 of 7 users found this helpful25
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10
ZarkanaDec 18, 2014
Among my friends no one takes the Middle Earth films more seriously than I do. Growing up with LOTR, and following the Hobbit through all of it's production, my anticipations were set very high. I genuinely loved the first movie, but did notAmong my friends no one takes the Middle Earth films more seriously than I do. Growing up with LOTR, and following the Hobbit through all of it's production, my anticipations were set very high. I genuinely loved the first movie, but did not like the pacing of the second. Honestly, I did not think the series would end on a good note. I was however proven wrong. The Battle of the Five Armies was a strong finish for the controversial hobbit films, and certainly made me excited to include them along side the Lord of the Rings series. Let's just wait for the extended editions!… Expand
3 of 11 users found this helpful38
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0
kinoralphJan 21, 2015
FAKE. Fake story about fake characters that go to save a fake kingdom being conducted by a fake director who lost creativity bringing the most fake of fights.So long middle earth. you start so wonderful but had a shallow end.
4 of 16 users found this helpful412
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0
boubadiopFeb 19, 2015
Just really really bad

I honestly believe half the film is spent fighting two big orcs on ice that scene seems to last forever. The amount of times characters are almost near death and get saved at the last minute reaches a stupidJust really really bad

I honestly believe half the film is spent fighting two big orcs on ice that scene seems to last forever.

The amount of times characters are almost near death and get saved at the last minute reaches a stupid number and starts to become so boring and repetitive one of the worst films I've watched in a long long time… Expand
3 of 12 users found this helpful39
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5
oDjentoDec 17, 2014
The last film announced – for the moment – set in middle earth has had a colossal amount of hype building up over it. The Hobbit may not have started off as strong as LOTR, but with The Desolation of Smaug in 2013 we saw the epic-ness andThe last film announced – for the moment – set in middle earth has had a colossal amount of hype building up over it. The Hobbit may not have started off as strong as LOTR, but with The Desolation of Smaug in 2013 we saw the epic-ness and brutality of middle earth was brewing. So with all the Hype towering above the trilogy and with the fan boys ready to write nit-pick all the little details of the film, does The Battle Of The Five Armies disappoint? No. Not completely.
The film takes flight from where we left off; the people of Esgaroth (Lake Town) are attempting to evacuate the city after they see Smaug has left the Lonely Mountain in search of vengeance upon Middle Earth. He begins burning the city in a beautiful splendour of CGI fire that eradicates large parts of the Town. With the brutality going on you can’t help but admire Peter Jackson’s knowledge of making good CGI. This scene continues for a good 10 minutes but ends rather disappointingly, as due to the ending of the second film you would be expecting a little more from a certain character.
Back upon the mountain we are reunited with Bilbo and the Dwarves. They enter they’re old home and Thorin begins to become mad, making his role the more dynamic one of the film. There is a lot of tension from these scenes due to Throin’s obsessive craving of the Archenstone, and his voice brilliantly – albeit obviously – foreshadowing Smaug’s craving for the mystical gem. These scenes play out well and offer a nice change in pacing from our fast paced introduction.
Back down at the base of the Mountain, Bard is travelling up with the people of Lake town to take refuge in Erebor. Thorin’s madness has driven him also to greed, and so forth he will not part with any gold from his dismally eerie, yet golden home. From here on, Bard meets elfs, dwarfs arrive on the battle field, orcs, Uruk Hai and goblins filter in, and the title of the film comes into full view.
The rest of the film is mainly just a battle which lasts for at least 50 minutes and for its length, it is masterfully paced. This is the main spectacle we came to see. Changing from scene to scene, with the environments being dynamic enough to make each fight feel unique, the length of it isn’t even noticeable and only once you reflect back on it you will be in disbelief you sat through a battle of that length without wanting it to come to its conclusion sooner.
The Film also provides plenty of nods to the following trilogy which are also a nice thing to revel in but along with this and all the other positives of the film, some factors do take away from our last experience of middle earth. The acting wasn’t anything that would amaze you with most characters being average or just pleasantly enjoyable, but the most stand out performances came from Richard Armitage (Thorin) and Evangeline Lilly (Tauriel). For those who weren’t fond of the framing of the last 2 films (48fps instead of the typical 24fps) you will not see any change in that. It still feels odd to watch, but you can’t bash the director for changing his own cinematic vision of how he wants people to view his film. So for that, props to Peter Jackson, yet I am still not keen on it.
Some exposition seemed a bit forced at times, which has been prevalent in the previous Hobbit films so it’s not too much of a negative but still rather disappointing. Lastly, of all the criticisms, the one that irritates me the most is how useless and unimportant some of the characters are. In LOTR, we knew everyone, they had a brilliant scene at least once or twice and we got to see their role in the lore of middle earth. However, half the dwarves still don’t seem to do or say anything. They are literally just there for eye candy so people who have read the books can say they didn’t leave anyone out. It is not only dwarfs too, some character appear just for a moment to never be heard of again; Elron, Radagast, Beorn.
In conclusion, the final Hobbit film is exceedingly pleasing in the department of action yet falling on flat notes on many other factors. The drama is racked up to ten however, with the only comparison I can make without giving too much away is saying it is on par with a mild episode of game of thrones, which some people may see as good or bad, and the word mild not meaning it is toned down. The Battle of the Five Armies is a satisfying conclusion to a brilliant trilogy, and although It may not be a classic like LOTR, it is undoubtedly an incredible action film with plenty to enjoy.… Expand
1 of 5 users found this helpful14
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8
BertoflyingfoxDec 21, 2014
I would say it's the weakest movie of all six films, but even then it's still good. The battles were spectacular, the dwarven army and it's leader Dain were great fun to watch on screen. Even though some of the sub-plotting wasnt to myI would say it's the weakest movie of all six films, but even then it's still good. The battles were spectacular, the dwarven army and it's leader Dain were great fun to watch on screen. Even though some of the sub-plotting wasnt to my liking, there were constant scenes sprinkled in-between that brought a smile to my face.

Beorn's scene and the overall final battle will be in my memory for a long while. Definitely watching it again.… Expand
1 of 5 users found this helpful14
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10
WARCHILDJan 13, 2015
Watched this one from the 3rd row, in high frame rate 3D. It was amazing detail and the best 3D experience I've had in a decade. Times running out if you haven't already had that experience, I fully recommend it.

The movie itself wasWatched this one from the 3rd row, in high frame rate 3D. It was amazing detail and the best 3D experience I've had in a decade. Times running out if you haven't already had that experience, I fully recommend it.

The movie itself was unsurprisingly great! You have to forgive the writers for their liberties and you have to read between the lines in the book to appreciate the movie. If you're "The book was better" type -- don't go. In the end, Tolkien would have either loved or hated all of the first and second trilogies. I for one thought the Hobbit was just as good as LOTR. No matter what the writers did, the acting in all three of the Hobbit films is superb.… Expand
1 of 5 users found this helpful14
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7
TVJerryDec 19, 2014
As you can discern from the title, there's a lot of action in this concluding installment: humans, dwarves, elves and one little hobbit face the evil Orcs in a massive fight for Middle-earth. Director Peter Jackson is a master storyteller,As you can discern from the title, there's a lot of action in this concluding installment: humans, dwarves, elves and one little hobbit face the evil Orcs in a massive fight for Middle-earth. Director Peter Jackson is a master storyteller, able to deftly weave massive spectacle with moments of personal sentiment. Martin Freeman (in the title role) charms with his whimsical personality. The fantasy world is visually dazzling and the pacing seldom lags, although the battles and the concluding drama go on too long. If you're a fan of the genre, you'll be thrilled with this grand finale.… Expand
1 of 6 users found this helpful15
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7
TheQuietGamerApr 23, 2015
The "defining chapter" turns out to be the weakest. If you were expecting Jackson to fix the complaints many had with the Hobbit trilogy here prepare to be let down. Even with it's flaws though there is still enough excitement here to make itThe "defining chapter" turns out to be the weakest. If you were expecting Jackson to fix the complaints many had with the Hobbit trilogy here prepare to be let down. Even with it's flaws though there is still enough excitement here to make it worth a watch for fantasy fans. Especially those with a love for Middle-Earth.

One of the biggest issues is evident right from the beginning. The film picks up right where the last left off with Smaugs attack. The opening just serves as a rather brief conclusion to that event. It is over so abruptly that it all feels anticlimactic. You quickly realize how this all should have been wrapped up in the last film while the intensity of Smaugs arrival was still fresh in our minds, rather than picking up where an unnecessary cliffhanger left off. The dragon just feels wasted.

From there we are left with waiting while a big battle builds up. The moments before blades start clashing deal with Thorin's descent into madness. These moments are slow, but deal with an interesting theme regarding the corruption of money.

Things pick up in the big battle, and believe me they pick up. Action is everywhere. One-on-one battles pack a level of excitement, tension, and absurd moments that are just a blast to watch. Just like the previous Hobbit movies Jackson has infused the combat with a certain amount of over-the-top goofiness. This at times gets in the way of the seriousness of the overall conflict, but it doesn't make the huge, lengthy battle any less fun to watch.

There is a more solemn tone when compared to the previous Hobbit movies that does more often than not clash with the more light-hearted tone of the trilogy. This leads to a movie that feels uneven. Thanks to the way it handles and wraps up the different plot threads it also can feel rushed.

However despite all of this I can't deny that I enjoyed another trip to Middle-Earth. Even if it wasn't as enjoyable as the others I've taken. The conclusion to the Hobbit trilogy wraps up on a pretty flawed note, but one that should still be enjoyable to those who have hung around this world.

I give "The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies" a 7.4/10.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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8
SkulbJan 3, 2015
To address one or two points from the other reviewers first:
1: Yes there were five armies: dwarves, humans, elves, orcs and eagles, as I think Tolkien himself explains either in The Hobbit, or quite possibly in LotR appendixes.
2: Yes theTo address one or two points from the other reviewers first:
1: Yes there were five armies: dwarves, humans, elves, orcs and eagles, as I think Tolkien himself explains either in The Hobbit, or quite possibly in LotR appendixes.
2: Yes the death of Smaug is an anti climax. It is therefore one of the most accurate adaptations of the book itself, in which the death of Smaug manages to be even more anti climactic.
3: The size of the respective armies was about right if you read Tolkien`s description of the battle. It was a much smaller affair than Dagorlad or even Helm`s Gate. And it was a hell of a lot smaller than Pelennor, and basically a skirmish by comparison. If anything the Battle of the Five Armies was too grand in the movie.
4: Tauriel is not a Tolkien character at all, but she and her absurd dwarf-elf love story have been invented and added by the deranged Fran Walsh, solely to appeal to the female demographic. It therefore doesn`t matter if she survives or what she might or might not do in the LotR story. She doesn`t exist and is the single most embarrassing thing about the Hobbit trilogy. I squirm with discomfort every single time I see her ridiculously pining face. If anything could tempt me to give these movies a low score it would be Tauriel. She is an insult to anyone who likes Tolkien.
5: The tired argument that a trilogy isn`t warranted. It`s not just The Hobbit but the prelude to LotR. One would have been a blur, two a rush and three fine. At least if it had been done right.

Apart from these confusions on behalf of other reviewers, the movie was a bit of a letdown after the previous two. Perhaps there just wasn`t a whole lot there once the dragon was dead. Whatever the case you get a bit too much orc vs architecture/humans/elves/dwarves slapstick CGI, Fran Walsh romance and for some odd reason a battle, which is supposedly the centerpiece of this movie, which has been altered in basically every single detail. To the best of my knowledge there was NO fighting of any kind inside Dale. Rather, there were supposed to be these two hills or ridges, humans holding out on one and elves on the other, and with the orcs coming down from the mountain along both ridges and in the valley between them. Instead the worms from Dune (Google it kiddies) made a surprise appearance as tunnellers for the orcs while the last parts of the battle took place on top of some CGI friendly ruin/pond I can also not remember ever hearing about before.
It`s a visually exciting but at times tedious movie which changes too many things for no reason. For instance, the master of Lake Town does not die at all in the book, but survives as Bard`s second in command. Still Jackson kills off Stephen Fry, one of the best comic assets available to him, after about ten minutes. Why? Orcs are feeble and unable to parry anything, which makes the audience start cheering for the hapless cretins instead of considering them credible threats. Every stinking time they get close to anyone with a name they go into slow motion, miss and die unceremoniously. Apart from Azog and Bolg they are all utterly useless and pathetic. They even get killed by women and children.

But most of the negatives concern small and essentially insignificant niggles with the narration and the script. The movie does so much right, both visually and audibly, is reasonably faithful to the source material, leads nicely into LotR like it was supposed to and produces some good performances by the actors, that all the 1s and 0s here are laughable. Bitter little haters out in force in time to gnaw at Peter Jackson like the maggots they are. The truth of the matter is that The Hobbit is not a particularly good book, at least not if you`re above twelve. Many of the shortcomings of the Hobbit trilogy stem from this fact, and from Tolkien`s inability or unwillingness to flesh things out with any sort of detail. Everything he ever did took a bird`s eye view of ME and was ridiculously understated. The exceptions are LotR which gets this part just right and The Hobbit, which is Bilbo`s navel gazing extravaganza for the children. If Bilbo doesn`t personally see it, it isn`t happening. And that`s why The Hobbit manages to not describe the Fall of Smaug or the Battle of the Five Armies at all. The first happens too far away from Bilbo and the second while he`s unconscious. This fact seems to be lost on the fake purists though.
So I don`t blame Jackson for imposing the LotR perspective on The Hobbit. In fact I don`t think he had any choice if he wanted to make a halfway watchable movie.
The worst part of the movie though was that the awful Orlando Bloom didn`t die this time either. I have been cheering for every orc he`s fought for six movies and have finally given up. Apparently this fart-smeller is just something you have to endure in stoic fashion if you want to watch PJ`s Middle Earth movies. I suppose it could have been worse. At least Jeff Goldblum isn`t in it.… Expand
0 of 3 users found this helpful03
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8
emirbudMar 18, 2015
I am actually quite content with the series. More so than the LOTR series, and the main reason is - I like the casting much better in this series. Choice of actors is far better that the LOTR. Martin Freeman is excellent as Bilbo (as opposedI am actually quite content with the series. More so than the LOTR series, and the main reason is - I like the casting much better in this series. Choice of actors is far better that the LOTR. Martin Freeman is excellent as Bilbo (as opposed to Frodo in LOTR who was awful), and Luke Evans should have been Aragorn in LOTR, however he's excellent as Bard. The others are just fine. I did not read the book - Hobbit (I tried, I just couldn't go on), and I think the movie is much better than the book, as opposed to LOTR where it's quite the opposite. Overall, fine trilogy.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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7
quincytheodoreDec 21, 2014
It may not rise to legendary prestige, but it is a fitting, and quite spectacular end to the trilogy. Like the prequel, The Hobbit: The Battle of Five Armies is rather long, some scenes are deliberately prolonged to buff the movie's length.It may not rise to legendary prestige, but it is a fitting, and quite spectacular end to the trilogy. Like the prequel, The Hobbit: The Battle of Five Armies is rather long, some scenes are deliberately prolonged to buff the movie's length. However, it does so with crisper action sequences and slightly faster pace. There are many characters in play, each taking turns for their moments in spotlight. They are not the fellowship, yet they mash together sufficiently well to ensure a dynamic cast. With good choreograph and special effect, even though it's longer than it needs be, the movie will still entertain till the end.

Story revolves around a recently dragon plagued mountain, the valuable gold residing there and its strategic position attract many armies to fight for its claim, hence the title. It gives some intricacy and politic maneuvering for the backdrop, none too overly complicated and they push the plot nicely. The movie switches attention neatly between Ian McKellen, Luke Evans, Richard Armitage, Orlando Bloom and Martin Freeman, all capable of leading a movie on their own. The prequels often had a character running in circle, thus wasting ten to fifteen minutes. Fortunately, this one divides the scenes with more focus, while it doesn't solve the plodding pace entirely, it ensures smoother transition between characters and their respective battles.

Visual is splendidly done. Both the large scale shots as well as the skirmishes have fluid motion to them. The orcs look pretty humanoid, the slimy giants are convincing as they nudge bricks and stones in their path. Some scenes do look digitized, but considering the height difference and intricate details involved, the movie does a good job of portraying the mythical battle. It doesn't rely too much on CG for closer combat, one of the better aspects it has over the predecessors is the scale of combat differs and it simply has more. Choreograph for these scuffle look good since it mixes CG and real stunt efficiently, it also utilizes 3D effect better.

The main issue is the same persisting one, it's too thin a script to divvy into two and half hour movie. There's bound to be some padding here and there, like how Thorin wallows in the mountain or shenanigans of some comedic relief, although it's not as bad as forty five minute soiree on Bilbo's house or needless hide-and-seek with Smaug. It fortifies the playtime with incredible feat of acrobat or destruction, few of them are quiet the reminiscence of Lord of the Ring. As half of the it consists of heated battle, it manages to not be dangerously tedious.

The Hobbit: The Battle of Five Armies can be faulted for not delivering what it's promised on the title. It certainly could trim some of its unnecessary dawdling, yet it delivers a marvelous enough last act for The Hobbit trilogy.… Expand
0 of 3 users found this helpful03
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7
Bruce722Dec 27, 2014
Unfortunately each successive installment of this Hobbit trilogy not only failed to build on the previous film but actually left even more to be desired. Yes, this is the film where the resolution finally comes to fruition. Yes, they did aUnfortunately each successive installment of this Hobbit trilogy not only failed to build on the previous film but actually left even more to be desired. Yes, this is the film where the resolution finally comes to fruition. Yes, they did a fantastic job connecting this trilogy to the amazing Lord of the Rings trilogy through this film. Yes, the action sequences, the special effects, and the acting were all top notch. But I can't help but feel like this movie just missed in a few key areas. The characters, for example, feel less authentic than in the previous films and, being that this is the movie where a lot of death and tragedy occurs, you're not connected or attached to them because of that. It also didn't have that key character who carries the movie. While Bilbo was this trilogies Frodo and they carry the narrative, neither actually carried the film through the action. In the LOTR films, Aragorn and Legolas did that. The problem with this trilogy is that Thorin is no Aragorn and Legolas isn't featured enough to compensate for that. You end up with Dwarves without sufficient development and essentially faceless elves and humans and none of it connects to the viewer on an emotional level. I also thought they didn't develop certain characters enough in this trilogy. I'm sorry but you shouldn't have to read the book or the expanded lore in order to appreciate a movie. Peter Jackson should've done a better job there. That being said, I think this movie, when marathoned with the previous installments, will resonate better. I just don't think it stood alone enough to live up to the epic standard already established in the universe.… Expand
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8
gamerzxJan 23, 2015
Brilliant movie. Based on what it's not.

Good movie good script. Deserves an 8. It's brilliant in what it isn't. It isn't the first 3 movies. The Fellowship etc. is a masterpiece of drama and action. The Hobbit series is not. What theBrilliant movie. Based on what it's not.

Good movie good script. Deserves an 8. It's brilliant in what it isn't. It isn't the first 3 movies. The Fellowship etc. is a masterpiece of drama and action. The Hobbit series is not.

What the Hobbit series is solid storytelling. From an unexpected party to Riddles in the dark. To Beorn's house to Bilbo's waking of smaug. The Battle of The Fiv Armies could have had more drama. It could have had more sorrow. More epic combat. It didn't. Waiting for Dwalin to swing a maul in epic fashion turned into Dwalin as an emotional wreck at the change in Thorin. Thorin could have led his Company in epic combat and fallen in battle slicing down Bolg's bodyguard. He didn't. He died in single combat. Not dramatic not epic. But brilliant.

The love story added is,well, Hollywood. It leaves the story intact, but it's bringing in an element of what might have been (and some women) to the movie. It also brings the elf army and dwarf army to light in solid fashion. The men are a little weak. Original and on the surface dull. All told Peter jackson and crew have lost nothing. Peter Jackson's directing neither takes from other movies nor outdoes them. Solid storytelling. Reminding us that the actors and audience as well as the genre lose nothing from these movies. They only gain.

I would have like to give it a 9 or 10. It doesn't deserve it. It deserves what is offered to us from the actors and crew. Something we can enjoy. Something they can be proud of achieving… Expand
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7
beingryanjudeFeb 10, 2015
When looking at any of the three films in the Hobbit trilogy, it is unfair to constantly compare them to the brilliance of the original Lord of the Rings trilogy--we all know those are masterpieces. While the Hobbit series may not be, thisWhen looking at any of the three films in the Hobbit trilogy, it is unfair to constantly compare them to the brilliance of the original Lord of the Rings trilogy--we all know those are masterpieces. While the Hobbit series may not be, this final installment manages to capture much more of the adventure and excitement of the Hobbit novel. Peter Jackson and Co.'s decision to expand the Hobbit is justified very much so in this grand finale.… Expand
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1
csw12Nov 26, 2015
Mostly rubbish, a disgrace to the fine Tolkien's story. Too much mindless action, too much Disney style jumping around, altogether silly and unnecessary love story that is not in the original, almost everything Jackson and his team added toMostly rubbish, a disgrace to the fine Tolkien's story. Too much mindless action, too much Disney style jumping around, altogether silly and unnecessary love story that is not in the original, almost everything Jackson and his team added to the story is of mediocre quality. One of the worst movies in years.… Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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8
theofficeDec 28, 2014
Probably more of a 7.5. The movie focused almost soley on the battle sequence and while pretty good still was drawn out with basically no character development. One thing I will never understand is how such a small force can beat back oneProbably more of a 7.5. The movie focused almost soley on the battle sequence and while pretty good still was drawn out with basically no character development. One thing I will never understand is how such a small force can beat back one about 100x larger. The orcs must be the most incompetent group ever. But really I still like the movie but probably more just because of the universe and characters. Of the bunch in the 6 movie series it is the worst but still very enjoyable and better than most movies out there. Just don't get that sense of awe and wonderment that I did with some of the others.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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6
analogkid280Dec 22, 2014
Overall a good movie but wow what a letdown. The first battle you encounter is so full of amazing effects and awesome sound you think this movie is going to be the best trip to middle earth ever made. Once you reach the end though you areOverall a good movie but wow what a letdown. The first battle you encounter is so full of amazing effects and awesome sound you think this movie is going to be the best trip to middle earth ever made. Once you reach the end though you are somewhat surprised how mediocre this last vision has been. A word of warning this movie is certainly a final chapter and you must see the other films to have a grip on what is going on. The Bilbo Baggins character is so spot on with his dismissive personality.He does make it more bearable while you try to figure out which orc is which and why I should care. I also loved the ending of this movie and it is great to end on a good note for such a great series. I made the mistake of seeing this in High Frame Rate and I say it ruins all the effects and make a lot of scenes look like you are watching a Land of the Lost episode from 1979. Stay away from HFR and do not put on the ring.....… Expand
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7
JamesCannonDec 31, 2014
Simillarion! Simillarion!....5 season tv series. Told as a history of Middle Earth before the Lord of the Rings. All new actors. Five season to match the five chapters.
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8
Compi24Jan 3, 2015
A proper sendoff to one of cinema's greatest worlds, "The Hobbit: The Battle Of The Five Armies" is rousing, well-paced, emotionally resonant, and chock-full of some truly fantastic sprawling set pieces.
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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1
Patrick94Jun 28, 2015
7 out of 10? Are you people stupid? What a mess. It's like Peter Jackson just threw his hands up in the air after running out of ideas and said "f*Ck it! let's throw in an hour-long war scene for the ending!". ****ty CGI, ****ty "plot" (hey7 out of 10? Are you people stupid? What a mess. It's like Peter Jackson just threw his hands up in the air after running out of ideas and said "f*Ck it! let's throw in an hour-long war scene for the ending!". ****ty CGI, ****ty "plot" (hey guys, here's that dude from the previous movie, hey there's that guy, hey, now they're talking to each other, this is exciting guys! Okay, now that everyone's in the same place at the same time.... war scene! THE END.) That's it, that's all you get. I almost feel like this is an attempt to get people to buy the LOTR blu-ray collection because people want to erase this **** from their memories.… Expand
0 of 3 users found this helpful03
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2
Bo33yJan 1, 2015
I liked the first. The second got worse. The third was abysmal. Made for Children!!

Don't watch the 4k version, or, you too, can count the blackheads on Alfred's nose, when having perfect pores with 4k. Somethings really don't need to beenI liked the first. The second got worse. The third was abysmal. Made for Children!!

Don't watch the 4k version, or, you too, can count the blackheads on Alfred's nose, when having perfect pores with 4k. Somethings really don't need to been seen on TV like the textures of a dwarf a nose. However it is all CGI anyway like Azog's contact lens, but, where did Legolas ears go?

I had hoped Thorin would have gasped "gimme back my Mirthril". Making this comedy worth it.

Curiosity how many times, did the troll stumble?… Expand
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7
xTobyMcDec 23, 2014
I was surprisingly disappointed with this movie, it didn't live up to expectation. The movies now rely so heavily on animation/CGI that the realism is stripped away. I felt like Lord of the Rings (made over 10 years ago) had better visualI was surprisingly disappointed with this movie, it didn't live up to expectation. The movies now rely so heavily on animation/CGI that the realism is stripped away. I felt like Lord of the Rings (made over 10 years ago) had better visual appearance, the use of animated characters and scenery made this far to 'cartoony' for my liking. Of course The Hobbit isn't as brutal as Lord of the Rings, but I still feel it could have been a bit darker at times. This was like watching an action movie for 12 year olds, and of course people will disagree, but that's just my view of it.

The other thing that frustrated me was the cheesy behaviour of some characters. The dragon scene for example was pathetic, they made such a deal out of the dragon in the second movie, yet when he finally rises to the occasion he's completely underwhelming. For spoilers sake I cannot explain the particular scenes in detail, but you'll realise after watching it that some of the decisions and actions characters take lack so much common sense.

Overall the movie was satisfying, but nothing more. It really was the emphasis on CGI which ruined it for me as it wasn't even done to a good standard. Scenery looked unrealistic at times and enemies didn't feel real on the screen.… Expand
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7
callumjsouthDec 20, 2014
The Battle of the Five Armies is a good ending to Peter Jackson's Hobbit trilogy. We follow Bilbo Baggins for the last time, although in truth, Thorin Oakenshield feels like the major player in this instalment. The opening sequence isThe Battle of the Five Armies is a good ending to Peter Jackson's Hobbit trilogy. We follow Bilbo Baggins for the last time, although in truth, Thorin Oakenshield feels like the major player in this instalment. The opening sequence is brilliant and really does force you to raise your expectations immediately. It is masterfully executed and gives the film a strong platform. The acting is stellar in the most part, particularly from Freeman and Armitage. Unlike the previous instalments though, the final chapter lacks sufficient character development and seems too focused on attempting to brainwash our critical mind with numerous action sequences that are suffocated by CGI. These sequences certainly get the pulse raising, but cannot match the ever building suspense that made The Desolation of Smaug so good. The Desolation of Smaug had the right balance between action, suspense and characterization. The Battle of the Five Armies lacks this balance and appears to take a lot of emphasis away from suspense and characterization in favour of action, in order to create a film that can easily entertain kids. This is disappointing from a critical standpoint. From a customer standpoint though, you will feel satisfied that you easily got your money's worth.… Expand
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2
nablaDec 25, 2015
This whole trilogy is just a cash-in. And what a bad one... It's really sad watching Peter Jackson screwing it up a third time. Pale and boring main actor, no character buildup whatsoever, silly jokes all over the place and on top of thatThis whole trilogy is just a cash-in. And what a bad one... It's really sad watching Peter Jackson screwing it up a third time. Pale and boring main actor, no character buildup whatsoever, silly jokes all over the place and on top of that even more CGI. It's just way too much and it destroys the immersion completely IMHO.… Expand
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9
LeatherwoodJan 3, 2015
Fun movie to watch with alot of fighting and action. What more can you ask for, a good story. The story is pretty good, entertaining, and deep sort off. The transition between the Desolation of Smaug and the battle of the five armies wasFun movie to watch with alot of fighting and action. What more can you ask for, a good story. The story is pretty good, entertaining, and deep sort off. The transition between the Desolation of Smaug and the battle of the five armies was done well. My girlfriend dont even like fantasy, but she loves the hobbit. So take your girlfriend to the movies with a small popcorn, pop a hole at the bottom an enjoy.… Expand
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9
lukechristianscJan 11, 2015
The last Hobbit was a good til the twisted ending which i hated! But the i enjoyed the final chapter of J.R Tolken's series and i will miss Jackson's franchise. The battle sequences in The Battle of the Five Armies were so exciting,The last Hobbit was a good til the twisted ending which i hated! But the i enjoyed the final chapter of J.R Tolken's series and i will miss Jackson's franchise. The battle sequences in The Battle of the Five Armies were so exciting, thrilling to watch and so were the characters, Bilbo is still the same (which is good), Martin Freeman has the energy for Baggins. The Story is what put the popcorn in my mouth! and that's why we see this movie; Fans of the book will most likely dislike it cause some characters that aren't suppose to be in this one (a not needed), but don't blame screenwriters (Philppa Boyens,Fran Walsh, Peter Jackson and acclaimed Guillermo del Toro)!… Expand
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6
SpiderPlayerMay 25, 2015
Good movie, has a history not very good, the special effects are impressive, the film is long but not as engaging, the action scenes are good, but are very exaggerated, had parts of the film in which I no longer take it anymore so action scenes.
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8
jacob4Jun 8, 2015
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. A some what disappointing conclusion to The Hobbit trilogy filled with inaccuracies such as: characters dying the wrong way compared to how they died in the book, more than five armies battling each other, Tauriel and Legolas are still not part of the story, you only got to see Beorn fight as a bear for like five seconds and not kill Bolg like he did in the book, the Earth Eater worms that weren't even in the book, and the Eagle showing up to the rescue even though they didn't show up to the battle in the book. But still the movie had awesome battle scenes, spectacular effects, interesting characters, and heart tugging moments. Even though this movie wasn't like The Return of the King, it still would be nice to finish The Hobbit trilogy and see how it all ends. You know, this might just be the last Middle Earth movie you'll ever see. Unless they reboot the franchise, or make Shadow of Mordor or The Silmarillion into movies/… Expand
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8
CPD98Dec 23, 2014
Aunque en los primeros 40 minutos hay palabrería que me sobra, el resto ofrece un buen espectáculo para cerrar de una vez las sagas de Tolkien. La saga de los anillos podría haber ido un poco mas al grano como a hecho el Hobbit, personalmenteAunque en los primeros 40 minutos hay palabrería que me sobra, el resto ofrece un buen espectáculo para cerrar de una vez las sagas de Tolkien. La saga de los anillos podría haber ido un poco mas al grano como a hecho el Hobbit, personalmente no me habría importado.… Expand
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9
JFaddJan 28, 2015
The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies. Spectacular. What else is there to say? It has Smaug's demise, the battle for the lonely mountain, and Bilbo returning home. That's all that needed to happen and that's what did...besides a fewThe Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies. Spectacular. What else is there to say? It has Smaug's demise, the battle for the lonely mountain, and Bilbo returning home. That's all that needed to happen and that's what did...besides a few filler scenes with Radagast, Galadriel, and Saruman, but that's okay! Peter Jackson gave us something he said he would never do, and it is just as good as the Lord of the Rings.… Expand
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3
FrenchmanDec 27, 2015
What a boring one, bad CGI, predictable events, useless things just put there out of nowhere to fill the tape. An awful way to finish the saga, did they even care?
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7
launchpad2132Dec 21, 2014
Allthough not as good as any LOTR movies, it had its moments. It also had its dull ones. There were times I felt Like it was a ten at times and a four at others. Thats why seven seems fair. I just felt like between the lack of effort put in,Allthough not as good as any LOTR movies, it had its moments. It also had its dull ones. There were times I felt Like it was a ten at times and a four at others. Thats why seven seems fair. I just felt like between the lack of effort put in, and the fact that threw 80% of the movie I wish it would have been just one movie. All in all though, this part of the book was so good, that even though the movie couldn't have been worse, the plot was still so epic it was worth seeing it.… Expand
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9
mrshoes74Jan 2, 2015
How the hell can anyone give a score of zero?!?!?!?!? Just because it was nothing like the book it gets a big fat zero. When are movies ever like the books hardly ever. I am sick and tired of idiots picking holes in movies when there isHow the hell can anyone give a score of zero?!?!?!?!? Just because it was nothing like the book it gets a big fat zero. When are movies ever like the books hardly ever. I am sick and tired of idiots picking holes in movies when there is nothing wrong with them. They are made for entertainment they are there for us to loose ourselves in. They are an experience and for me the LOTR movies are a triumph to be hold. The final part was spectacular it had everything in it. Great action set pieces terrific acting and a grand finale. To those who scored this zero you are pathetic.… Expand
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10
WRRJan 22, 2015
One of my favorite movies, The Hobbit the Battle of the Five Armies was a chapter from the end of the Hobbit book made into a whole movie. Epic, perfect computer animation, you will find it here. Sure, it had it's issues. Azog was notOne of my favorite movies, The Hobbit the Battle of the Five Armies was a chapter from the end of the Hobbit book made into a whole movie. Epic, perfect computer animation, you will find it here. Sure, it had it's issues. Azog was not supposed to be in the movies. But that was (in my opinion) one of the two best movies of 2014.… Expand
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7
Ryzoft_StipeJan 26, 2015
The movie is unfinished, and completely looks like rushed. Most of the things were unexplained, but overall, is good. To be honest, I was dissapointed, especially when they devoted very little time to the scene Gandalf tells Bilbo he knowsThe movie is unfinished, and completely looks like rushed. Most of the things were unexplained, but overall, is good. To be honest, I was dissapointed, especially when they devoted very little time to the scene Gandalf tells Bilbo he knows about the ring.… Expand
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8
Go_LogicDec 23, 2014
A spectacular ending to a brilliant saga. The dragon is destroyed and the battle of the five armies commences.

It differs in textual origin from other pieces in the trilogy and eventually ends up winding down the clock, but with suchA spectacular ending to a brilliant saga. The dragon is destroyed and the battle of the five armies commences.

It differs in textual origin from other pieces in the trilogy and eventually ends up winding down the clock, but with such ferocity that it barely goes unnoticed. But I gave it an 8; It being produced by Peter Jackson, and we all know how much work he has put into this masterpiece.… Expand
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7
PenguenPrensDec 20, 2014
The last chapter of the trilogy the Battle of the Five Armies makes a strong entry. While I have to say I agree with some critics complaining about the opening scene and it's necessity of being in this chapter rather than the previous , IThe last chapter of the trilogy the Battle of the Five Armies makes a strong entry. While I have to say I agree with some critics complaining about the opening scene and it's necessity of being in this chapter rather than the previous , I personally did not have much issue with this. In any case, the BotFA makes a terrific beginning and turns into a disaster movie like Titanic with the dragon and its destruction added.

The things we see until the battle actually starts builds up the tension quite nicely but as soon as the battle starts, things become to fall apart. Never-ending one on one fights, meaningless dialogs and some scenes during the battle that don't tie up very well pull the movie down. While the CGI is not a big issue this time and looks clean enough, there are still some cartoonish action scenes that don't make sense. The Desolation of Smaug had lots of scenes that weren't in the book and they were pretty much all bad and didn't add anything to the story. This chapter though presents some of the best newly invented scenes in all six Peter Jackson movies.

The Battle of the Five Armies is not the Return of the King to a trilogy that isn't the Lord of the Rings. The battle and the struggle don't make you feel excited like the battle for the One Ring. It's not just because you hardly feel like choosing a side in this selfish war but also because PJ couldn't make his magic work this time and everything you see feels like overly done and it only proves that no matter how big of a fan you are of Tolkien, you can only take so much.… Expand
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5
BlaKDemonaZJan 3, 2015
Dentre os 6 filmes sobre as obras de Tolkien, acho que esse é um dos mais fracos, perdendo só para o anterior. A trilogia do Hobbit em si é fraca. Além do fato de ter muita coisa diferente do livro, tem muita coisa que deixa o filme semDentre os 6 filmes sobre as obras de Tolkien, acho que esse é um dos mais fracos, perdendo só para o anterior. A trilogia do Hobbit em si é fraca. Além do fato de ter muita coisa diferente do livro, tem muita coisa que deixa o filme sem noção, personagens forçados.... enfim, o filme no geral é fraco. O que realmente se salva é o final que liga perfeitamente com a grandiosa saga do Senhor dos Anéis.… Expand
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8
KoshkDec 23, 2014
Best Movie of the year!!!!
This is an epic ending to the Hobbit saga. It stays true to the book and makes you want to watch the whole Lord of The Rings Trilogy all over again. The effects were really great and made me want to go to MiddleBest Movie of the year!!!!
This is an epic ending to the Hobbit saga. It stays true to the book and makes you want to watch the whole Lord of The Rings Trilogy all over again. The effects were really great and made me want to go to Middle Earth myself. All the Hobbit movies were great. From Bilbo finding the One Ring to Smaug getting shot by Bard and flying dead into Lake Town. The amazing story of the Hobbit has been brought to life by Peter Jackson in an Amazing way.… Expand
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7
BillEffinMurrayDec 23, 2014
I rather enjoyed it. A little too much CGI for my tastes, but I definitely had fun seeing the movie and would watch it again. Don't look too much into the people giving it a 10 or a 0 for a score. Trust me.
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7
Thestew4088Dec 26, 2014
The Hobbit is a fitting end to the Middle earth legend. Great battle scenes made the movie. Like most people, I think the The hobbit should've been two movies, but Peter Jackson has made the last visit to Middle Earth an enjoyable one.

TheThe Hobbit is a fitting end to the Middle earth legend. Great battle scenes made the movie. Like most people, I think the The hobbit should've been two movies, but Peter Jackson has made the last visit to Middle Earth an enjoyable one.

The CGI was so bad that I thought that i was watching a Video Game walkthrough at some stages. Nevertheless, Peter Jackson has brought a great middle earth based movie and, in my opinion, he hasn't dissapointed.… Expand
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10
Splinter129Dec 27, 2014
An epic, sad, and fitting final chapter to the trilogy! Lots of people, especially critics, have missed the big picture of the movie especially the franchise. I have been a fan of Middle-Earth since LOTR: The Fellowship of the Ring, and inAn epic, sad, and fitting final chapter to the trilogy! Lots of people, especially critics, have missed the big picture of the movie especially the franchise. I have been a fan of Middle-Earth since LOTR: The Fellowship of the Ring, and in 2012, seeing the first Hobbit movie, I was full of excitement and was thrilled. The second one had more tension build and was just a bowl of fun to watch with a terrifying ending knowing that Smaug has went in full rage mode, wondering what exactly is going to happen; and the third one just left us with a jaw dropping and battle- raging conclusion to the triology, and connects well with The Fellowship of the Ring. Sure there was not much of a huge plot in this final film, but have you read the last few chapters of The Hobbit book that the movie is based of from? Its nothing but a battle and a goodbye from Bilbo returning back to the Shire, just as the movie shows. Now my true rating to the movie is a 8.5/10, as there were some flaws in the film itself like the love scenes with Kili and Tauriel, even though it could of been worse (a better love story than Twilight no doubt), and there is not that much closure to the ending of the film. I think critics have been too harsh on the film that I have to bump the film's rating up to a 10. But the Extended Edition could very much likely make the movie itself better, just as the Extended Edition for The Return of the King did. Overall, I love the Hobbit trilogy, despite the flaws, will still prefer the LOTR trilogy, but it is a fitting prequel, and should NOT be compared to the Star Wars prequels.… Expand
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8
AndImJavertDec 27, 2014
Well, we're sadly at the end of another journey into our beloved Middle Earth. While the Hobbit trilogy is obviously not as grand or great as the Lord of the Rings films were, I think they get far more hate than they deserve. I loved AnWell, we're sadly at the end of another journey into our beloved Middle Earth. While the Hobbit trilogy is obviously not as grand or great as the Lord of the Rings films were, I think they get far more hate than they deserve. I loved An Unexpected Journey, had quite a few problems with Desolation of Smaug, and went into Battle of the Five Armies with both absurd amounts of hype and doubt. Let me start of by saying that Battle of the Five Armies is definitely worth your time and money and you should go see it as soon as possible.

After the disappointment of Desolation, I went into BOTFA expecting it to be one long visually exhausting CGI filled action scene with characters that didn't have enough development or emphasis. I was partly correct. If you like action scenes then this is the movie for you. Once the battle gets started, it stops for nothing. My problem with all of this however, is that it was hard to get invested in the majority of the battles. I was seeing all of this carnage and action, but it all felt boring. A lot of the action was between people we don't know or care about. Obviously we're routing for the Elves/Dwarves/Men but when they're just a bunch of iffy looking CGI characters that we haven't met, it's hard to invest yourself in the battles. I'll take Aragorn struggling to take down Lurtz any day of the week over the vastest green screen battle that could be created on a computer. Sometimes, less is a hell of a lot more.

That being said, the action scenes with characters that we've met and care for, are simply amazing. Most of us have read the book, but even still it's difficult to not feel tension when Bard hops across rooftops to avoid Smaug's fiery breath. It's hard to not hope against all odds that a certain three Dwarves won't meet their deaths in battle. It's just my personal preference, but I prefer action that is rooted in characters. I'm not a huge fan of action for the sake of action. That's the great thing about BOTFA though, it has plenty of both and it is sure to please people on both sides of the spectrum.

Strangely enough, the strongest aspects of BOTFA are the moments that I thought would be done the worst. The characters. The main reason I loved An Unexpected Journey was because of all the little moments with the characters. When the characters, especially Bilbo, took a backseat to let the CGI action take over in Desolation of Smaug, I was concerned about how BOTFA would turn out. To put it bluntly, I could not have been more wrong. The performances in Battle of the Five Armies are the strongest in the entire trilogy. Martin Freeman is wonderful as Bilbo as per usual, I only wish we got to see more of him. Richard Armitage, the actor who plays Thorin Oakenshield, deserves an Oscar nomination for his performance in this. To restate it, BOTFA appeals to not only the action lovers but the character lovers as well.

At this point we should all realize what the Hobbit movies really are. They're well intentioned Middle Earth adventure movies that really only want to make us smile. They're not malicious, lazy cash grabs like the Star Wars prequels, which for some reason people love to compare the Hobbit movies to. The Hobbit trilogy wasn't made for the sole purpose of making money, they were made to tell a story, even if the story got a bit too bloated and heavy for it's own good. They were made so that we could all revisit the beautiful land of Middle Earth one last time. And there's absolutely nothing wrong with that.

Although it's not perfect, Battle of the Five Armies is a well crafted, emotionally wrenching, action filled ending to a slightly flawed but still excellent trilogy.

Pros:
- Excellent performances
- Emotionally involving
- Sense of payoff
- Fan service (Hey it's not a bad thing, okay.)
- Tied in well to Lord of the Rings

Cons:
- Visually exhausting and cluttered battles
- Some moments of very noticeable/bad CGI
- Lack of Martin Freeman… Expand
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8
WheelzFourReelzDec 29, 2014
There are some definite pacing issues, but The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies still has some great fun and some surprisingly emotional moments within the film. It's a great ending to a fantastic saga.
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3
spirytusDec 29, 2014
The Battle of the Five Armies takes the podium for being the longest, PG rated, CGI battle sequence in history of film.

I'm a passive fan of Tolkien's work, and enjoyed Peter Jackson's interpretation until now but the endless CGI perfectlyThe Battle of the Five Armies takes the podium for being the longest, PG rated, CGI battle sequence in history of film.

I'm a passive fan of Tolkien's work, and enjoyed Peter Jackson's interpretation until now but the endless CGI perfectly choreographed fighting scenes have taken their toll.

I can't wait until someone out there edits out all the fluff and puts together a single movie edition.… Expand
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10
willydubsDec 31, 2014
As a movie made to entertain, hold interest, and convey a theme, It did a pretty good job. It is an amazing wrap-up of a not-so amazing series (the first two smelled like Azog’s socks) and brings a sense of purpose and continuity (maybe notAs a movie made to entertain, hold interest, and convey a theme, It did a pretty good job. It is an amazing wrap-up of a not-so amazing series (the first two smelled like Azog’s socks) and brings a sense of purpose and continuity (maybe not continuity) where the first two movies failed to do so. It ties right into the start of Lord of the Rings with pinch of foreshadowing and an overflowing tablespoon of homages, as well emphasizing each character’s point of view as opposed to sticking with the good versus evil routine (Well, sure, Sauron’s definitely evil, but the Elvenking just seems like a bad family man to me). BE WARNED: Its not called The Battle of the Five Armies for nothing. Its not just two armies, cause there has to be five, so prepare for the orc-debowling, main-character-kicking, Dragon-killing conclusion to The Hobbit trilogy, that I’m sure the dwarves of yore will all be watching.… Expand
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10
tyrannoJan 1, 2015
one of the best movies of the year and a great ending to a great saga i did love every bit of it its so great dont listen to the critics they are just a bunch of haters wo dont know what there talkin bout
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7
lusnuanoJan 4, 2015
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. By now, we are used to the directive style of Peter Jackson. He has a unique and unparalleled way of bringing the works if Tolkien alive. His three smash hits of The Lord of the Rings trilogy proved this. Similarly to the ending if The Lord of the Rings trilogy, as I expected, it proved a good finale which answers all the audience's questions. Similarly, this film is also packed with the Jackson-esque CGI, stunning visual scenery and epic battle scenes. Not to mention the script, which creates the emotional and epic lines we all expected to hear from characters such as Thorin and Gandalf.

Why, then, have I not given it 10/10? As one of those who has read The Hobbit, the addition of barely mentioned characters and new plots particularly stood out. In the first film, this seemed to add to the film's central theme, especially through the eccentric and wacky rabbit-sleigh-riding Radagast and the idea of the 'Necromancer.' However, in this film is just felt as if they were trying to almost repeat Lord if the Rings. The fact that a battle that is hardly mentioned dominates almost the entire film means that they try to squash in as much Lord-of-the-Ringsy stuff as possible. This includes Legolas (only appears in LOtR), a romance with an elf as a female partner, unimaginable numbers if Orcs and random shots of tall towers. When Tauriel laments over Thorin's death and she says something like 'at least our love was real,' I found myself rolling my eyes and thinking 'they're at it again.'

Also, they went a tad (and by that I mean very) over-the-top with the whole 'killing orcs' thing. After about 30 minutes purely comprised of Orc-killing, I never wanted to see another Orc again. There are a certain number of Orcs that can be stabbed violently through the head before it stops being awesome and dramatic (which it is at first) and starts to become tedious and seem over-done.

Overall, it gave me the high levels of effects, visuality and, to a certain extent, story, that I expected. However, the over-strained effort to make it a 'second Lord of the Rings' and the over-done Orc-killing makes this, in my opinion, the weakest film of the Hobbit trilogy, which sadly does not match the majesty and brilliance to the Oscar-winning finale to The Lord of the Rings trilogy, as thrilling a ride as it it.… Expand
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10
RedBredJan 11, 2015
I loved it! Tolkien has created such a wonderful story and body of work. I think Peter Jackson has handled it with respect and love. I hope we'll see more of the Silmarillion handled with similar care.
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9
SilentJayJan 13, 2015
The 3 Hobbit movies were wonderful and a great representation of the Classic novel by the same title. It may not be as good as The Lord of the Rings Trilogy. It also suffered from what happened to Star Wars in the way it was going up againstThe 3 Hobbit movies were wonderful and a great representation of the Classic novel by the same title. It may not be as good as The Lord of the Rings Trilogy. It also suffered from what happened to Star Wars in the way it was going up against itself. So it could never live up too the LOTR hype. But for me I was very happy to revisit a story that was both part of my childhood and adulthood as well. I just have to say well done Mr. Jackson and Thank you again. Part of me wishes there was more stories but maybe this is the right place and time to end the series/saga and enjoy it for ages to come!… Expand
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6
nahtan1244Jul 2, 2016
As you may know from looking at my old reviews I have really enjoyed the hobbit movies. While the first was not perfect in terms of pacing it also had some unnecessary scenes like the rock fight for example it was an enjoyable from start toAs you may know from looking at my old reviews I have really enjoyed the hobbit movies. While the first was not perfect in terms of pacing it also had some unnecessary scenes like the rock fight for example it was an enjoyable from start to finish and while the second improved on pacing and was darker than the last the laketown politics put the movies pace to an annoying halt and kinda kept it from being perfect. It was not completely unnecessary to a certain extent but could have been shorter. The hobbit battle of the five armies is not a perfect but fairly satisfying conclusion to the hobbit trilogy. Lets start with the positives. The big action sequence was fun to watch. Martin freeman as always shines as Bilbo and we finally get to say good bye to Alfred. He was annoying. Gandalf shines like he always does and the dwarfs are fun to watch. The scene where smaug is destroying laketown was well done and is one of the best parts of this film. However the scene where legleos is defying gravity all I could was why peter Jackson must you do this why. Also were supposed to feel for touriel once her "love" dies but we don't because that stupid love story was completely underdeveloped. The movies run time also prevented this movie from being even more satisfying and epic than it came out to be. If it was about on par with the rest I think it would have been better. That's why you need to watch the extended addition it feels like a much more complete end to the hobbit films. This movie feels like Jackson just wanted to end the hobbit films. It is nowhere near as bad as the critics are making it out to be and feels pretty satisfying but nowhere near as good as the first two and will never feel as satisfying or as epic as the return of the king.… Expand
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8
merijnjFeb 21, 2018
(76/100)
The worst one in the Hobbit trilogy but a good movie nonetheless. Action was a bit mind numbing sometimes and the green screen was painfully obvious sometimes.
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9
DunyGMar 28, 2021
The book it's based on was one of the only classic books I have read, and I did really like it. Seeing these movies on the screen was different on so many levels.

I really liked the tension and emotional themes in the movie. This movie wasThe book it's based on was one of the only classic books I have read, and I did really like it. Seeing these movies on the screen was different on so many levels.

I really liked the tension and emotional themes in the movie. This movie was really fun for me to watch and I am glad it was for so many of you.… Expand
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0
ThunderMonkeyJun 16, 2022
I can only think of one expression for this, cheap.
You can tell that the film was produced quickly and did not cost much money.
No comparison, not even close to Lord of the Rings.
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7
TokyochuchuMay 19, 2015
The Hobbit: The Battle of Five Armies is a decent but entirely predictable send off for the Middle Earth series. The battle scenes are done well and there is enough here to satisfy... But we've seen pretty much everything this movie has toThe Hobbit: The Battle of Five Armies is a decent but entirely predictable send off for the Middle Earth series. The battle scenes are done well and there is enough here to satisfy... But we've seen pretty much everything this movie has to offer before. It also doesn't quite match up to the quality of it's direct predecessor, either. Still nice, though.… Expand
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3
ViljanenSep 21, 2016
It's basically 2+ hours of action that is supposed to be the battle of five armies. There is none of the epic feeling of the battles is the LotR movies, none of the buildup or character development. Instead Jackson decided to make this aIt's basically 2+ hours of action that is supposed to be the battle of five armies. There is none of the epic feeling of the battles is the LotR movies, none of the buildup or character development. Instead Jackson decided to make this a comedy action movie with a fast-paced "funny" action scenes after one another. I got bored at one hour mark and after realizing that it would still go on for more than an hour more, completely lost my interest to the movie.… Expand
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7
ClariseSamuelsApr 7, 2015
The 3-part series concludes with the characters who have become so familiar, they feel like old friends—Gandalf, Bilbo, Thorin, Galadriel, Tauriel, Legolas, and others. Martin Freeman as Bilbo has to carry the entire film with his dwarvishThe 3-part series concludes with the characters who have become so familiar, they feel like old friends—Gandalf, Bilbo, Thorin, Galadriel, Tauriel, Legolas, and others. Martin Freeman as Bilbo has to carry the entire film with his dwarvish friends, which are King Thorin (Richard Armitage) and the rest of the motley crew. The third installment wraps up the prequel to The Lord of the Rings film trilogy and just in time, because although as charming as ever, The Hobbit was beginning to wear just a bit thin.

The murderous talking dragon, Smaug, who possesses the baritone voice of none other than a distant relative of Richard III (Benedict Cumberbatch), was awakened at the end of Part II. Now the vile, sadistic, and rather intelligent beastie, who acts suspiciously Norse, is set on death, suffering, and destruction. The fire-breathing creature relishes the helplessness of his victims; nevertheless, he is not immune to a long iron arrow that is bravely aimed at his heart by Bard of Laketown (Luke Evans), thus bringing a long reign of terror to an end. The gold and jewel-filled mountain is no longer guarded by the sleeping monster, and the Dwarves can reclaim their ancient home. The only problem is that news of Smaug’s death spreads, and a lot of creatures feel they have a claim to the pile of gold in the mountain, thus forming five armies—Dwarves, Elves, the good citizens of Laketown, Orcs heralded by Were-worms, and a fusion army of Orcs and goblins from Gundabad.

The influence of Old English is notable but not always consistent, as there is the occasional glaring anachronism, such as “Come on!” and “We’ve got this.” The focus of the plot is on war, with respect to the military logistics and strategy of the final battle. The film is most entertaining when it is not overly centered on the five armies of the title squaring off and vowing to annihilate each other. There are intriguing subplots, such as Smaug’s deadly rampage and Bard’s bravado. Thorin’s temporary insanity and his duel with Azog (Manu Bennett) provide for some tension as well as a classic encounter between good and evil. The Romeo and Juliet dilemma between Tauriel (Evangeline Lilly) and Legolas (Orlando Bloom), son of the Elven King, becomes more complicated when it is clear that Tauriel is in love with Kili the Dwarf (Aidan Turner). If Legolas is off limits to Tauriel because she is a lowly Silvan Elf while Legolas is an Elven prince, there is clearly a conflict when Taureil is tempted to switch species and run off with Kili. Another subplot involves Gandalf the Wizard (Ian McKellen) and the loyalty he inspires in Galadriel (Cate Blanchett).

Azog , like Smaug, is conspicuous for being a brutal incarnation of evil, although Azog is a big dumb lug and lacks Smaug’s eloquence. Subtitles are used to translate his ancient Orkish, where he issues orders that sound something like, “Schmool la boole!”

The uneven but still riveting film takes the viewer up to the spot where the Lord of the Rings trilogy begins.… Expand
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4
Trev29Jul 17, 2015
How could such talented people in front of and behind the camera be responsible for such an underwhelming film? It boggles me that this is the same director of Lord of the Rings. There is no story, expect for a bunch of video game actionHow could such talented people in front of and behind the camera be responsible for such an underwhelming film? It boggles me that this is the same director of Lord of the Rings. There is no story, expect for a bunch of video game action scenes that are bad.… Expand
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8
mrmonsterFeb 8, 2015
I did not have high hopes for this movie, but this was fantastic. After the Desolation of Smoag, i was cautious about seeing this movie at all, but this was the best in the trilogy. It had good action, good characters, and an excellent story.I did not have high hopes for this movie, but this was fantastic. After the Desolation of Smoag, i was cautious about seeing this movie at all, but this was the best in the trilogy. It had good action, good characters, and an excellent story. Still not as good as the original Lord of the Rings, but still worth watching.… Expand
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6
mugen_is_hereNov 27, 2017
It was an okay watch.

Gandolf could whack people with a stick, as in all the other parts (yes I know he does a _few_ other tricks but showing him so underpowered is one aspect of the whole series that I honestly hate). He's supposed to be aIt was an okay watch.

Gandolf could whack people with a stick, as in all the other parts (yes I know he does a _few_ other tricks but showing him so underpowered is one aspect of the whole series that I honestly hate). He's supposed to be a much stronger character than what they show him to be in the movie.

The main plotline was _okay_. The battle was chaotic and unmemorable. The hobbit + the dwarf king really shine in the movie. I felt like they've brought up the rating majorly by their excellent acting.


Overall it was a forgettable experience. I watched the movie completely and then forgot about it. After 2 months I noticed it lying on my hard disk and thought that I haven't seen it. So I watched it once again. About an hour into the movie I started realizing that I _have_ seen it. I had to skip forward slowly till the end to confirm that I have indeed watched it. The whole point that I'm trying to make here is that there was nothing memorable about this movie apart from the beginning 20 minutes and the hobbit in a couple of scenes.… Expand
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7
Jack97Dec 17, 2016
It has a tonne of noticeable CGI, bad humor and some cheesy moments here and there. But apart from that, the final installment of The Hobbit trilogy gives you the epic battle you've been waiting for in mostly spectacular fashion.
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6
Iky009Jun 3, 2015
If Peter Jackson impressed the whole world with a battle and an epic final at KING'S RETURN, it seems that he can not repeat what the consecrated 10 years ago. Slow and tedious start to a grandly beautiful movie as a whole, I think the onlyIf Peter Jackson impressed the whole world with a battle and an epic final at KING'S RETURN, it seems that he can not repeat what the consecrated 10 years ago. Slow and tedious start to a grandly beautiful movie as a whole, I think the only thing we missed awake for a long time is the scene of battles that are amazing since the rest is not best quote.
The epic finale could be yes really '' EPIC '' but for me it was not, the end result is a film that can normalzinho to sleep and have fun for a few minutes and yet strangely enough to be interesting.… Expand
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5
Rox22May 2, 2015
It's like one VERY long action scene.

True, it is like a special effects orgasm, or ambrosia for the eyes, but is also so drawn out. There are also far too many conveniences obviously put in to speed things along or just lazy writing.It's like one VERY long action scene.

True, it is like a special effects orgasm, or ambrosia for the eyes, but is also so drawn out.

There are also far too many conveniences obviously put in to speed things along or just lazy writing.

Overall:
Not to much I can say. It was both exciting and boring at the same time with far too many plot holes and inconsistencies. A real let down when looking at the potential the story had in the first movie.… Expand
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5
MeritCobaFeb 7, 2015
Ouch,, just seen the last in the hobbit trilogy. It was just painfully bad.

Jackson simply stopped pretending to have any sort of story line with characters to root for. The whole movie comes down to a very long drawn out extended seriesOuch,, just seen the last in the hobbit trilogy. It was just painfully bad.

Jackson simply stopped pretending to have any sort of story line with characters to root for. The whole movie comes down to a very long drawn out extended series of fights that are interspersed with some dialog. It doesn't make any sense whatsoever and it is not meant to.

There is a kind of hap-hazed romance story between an elf and a dwarf that is never developed in any part of the trilogy and we never get to understand why these two members of two very different races would feel anything for each other. It is just a given and you just have to go with it.
(Incidently. Jackson is just bad at romances. He basically made a mess of the few romances in the lord of the rings. Like he is a big boy that has to have love scenes because the story has them, but really doesn't know how they work or what to do with them.)

There is Thorin, head dwarf and now the king of the mountain and all that lies within. He commands a mighty army of about twelve dwarves that constitutes a force on equal footing to an army or hundreds of other dwarves, elves or orcs as people are asking why Thorin doesn't intervene in the battles as if his intervention would make the difference between losing and winning them. And it actually does...because he directly assaults the main baddie. Gosh.. how come nobody thought of that one?

There is this head orc Azog who looks similar to all the other orcs that get killed so you continuously wonder if this or that guy just killed the bad orc. No he didn't.. it is just one that looks like him.

There is Gandalf, the grand wizard who excels in not doing anything magical whatsoever. Geesh people.. why don' t you let him cast some spell so he looks like a wizard. But no, he just does some fancy moves with his staff and sword in a few battles. That is about it.

There is even a showing up of some of the powers of the lord of the ring movies: Saruman, Galadriel and Elrond, who are fighting the nine ring wraiths for god knows what reason. It is not in the hobbit or in the lord of the rings, but hey they are cool. And granted any time one of these enter the scene they are cool.

There is Legolas making a sort of cameo that doesn't belong in this movie as he isn't supposed to be in this tale. So he is in it, but not too much because it is not his movie . Like Jackson couldn't decide what to do with him but wanting him to be in it. And granted. He is impressive. Why just not make him a main figure then?

And worst of all: Eowyn is not in it.
If they had to have about anyone in it, why not Eowyn? She at least is someone I could connect with as she was human and not specifically special. She was brave and not some unhuman person. Have Eowyn in it!

But she isn't in this movie, just like nobody really is in this movie because too many people are. If they had just trimmed the story down to a few people instead of the cast of many, then at least we had some people to connect with. But we don't. And even what little screentime is given to acting is given to such superfluous characters as Alfrid ,the sidekick of the master of Laketown, a character that Jackson made up, while he already has dozens running around that eat the precious acting time. This guy probably got more screen time in this episode than Bilbo has.

And that is Jackson for you. Instead of doing more with less he thinks that more and more and even more is the way to go: more actors, more fight scenes, more orcs, more cgi. But the acting and story telling get to be less and less and less.

Why go through all this trouble to make a movie that is basically a long drawn out muddled affair that isn't quite a good battle nor a good tale? Why not redo the battle of Gaugamela? It is big. It is cool. It has a hero in it and a bad guy(if you want to picture Darius that way). It has a story line that is pretty established so even Jackson can not mess it up. It leads to an epic confrontation and decides the fate of lot of real people.. Please make that one next.. with orcs and dwarves if you have to.
At least you have something that is coherent.

A thumbs up for Richard Armitage for his Thorin character, and thumbs down for the dumb elf dwarf love affair that shouldn't be in there, but if it has to at least make it one that is gripping like Romeo and Julia!… Expand
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