Smaug's Threat, Reelive

Bilbo Baggins
Bilbo Baggins

I am looking for someone to share in an adventure.

Smaug
Smaug

And what is it that you seek, little burglar?

Bilbo Baggins
Bilbo Baggins

I seek a treasure... a jewel called the Arkenstone.

Smaug
Smaug

The Arkenstone is mine! You have no business here!

Bilbo Baggins
Bilbo Baggins

Business? Or pleasure? You seem... lonely.

Smaug
Smaug

Lonely? I have mountains of gold! You dare to insult me?

Bilbo Baggins
Bilbo Baggins

I'm not here to insult you, just to talk.

Smaug
Smaug

Your arrogance is matched only by your lack of intelligence!

Bilbo Baggins
Bilbo Baggins

Maybe… but I'm not afraid of you!

Smaug
Smaug

Fear is wise when dealing with a creature like me!

Negotiation in Rivendell, Reelive

Thorin Oakenshield
Thorin Oakenshield

We have come to reclaim our homeland.

Elrond
Elrond

And what makes you think you have a place here?

Kili
Kili

We seek not to offend, only to find a way.

Legolas
Legolas

Your kind has brought strife to us for generations!

Dwalin
Dwalin

Enough with your rebukes! We seek friendship.

Thorin Oakenshield
Thorin Oakenshield

Friendship is not what brought us here!

Elrond
Elrond

Then do not expect gratitude.

Kili
Kili

Our quest is noble; we fight for our future!

Thorin Oakenshield
Thorin Oakenshield

If we do not unite, we shall fall.

Elrond
Elrond

Very well; let us talk of truce.

The Battle of Five Armies, Reelive

Thorin Oakenshield
Thorin Oakenshield

Are we to fight together or not?

Legolas
Legolas

We have no choice; the enemy comes!

Balin
Balin

We must show them the strength of the dwarven heart.

Tauriel
Tauriel

And what of the elves? Will we not fight?

Thorin Oakenshield
Thorin Oakenshield

Together, we may prevail; divided, we perish!

Legolas
Legolas

Then let us stand! For peace!

Kili
Kili

And for the future we fight for!

Balin
Balin

Aye! The history shall remember this day!

Thorin Oakenshield
Thorin Oakenshield

Then let it be written that we stood united!

Legolas
Legolas

For we are stronger as one!

Farewell to a Friend, Reelive

Thorin Oakenshield
Thorin Oakenshield

We lost a true warrior today.

Bilbo Baggins
Bilbo Baggins

He fought bravely, right until the end.

Balin
Balin

His sacrifice will not be forgotten.

Kili
Kili

How do we carry on from here?

Tauriel
Tauriel

We honor him by living on.

Legolas
Legolas

And fighting against the darkness.

Fili
Fili

He would want us to celebrate his life.

Gandalf
Gandalf

Grief is heavy, but so is hope.

Bilbo Baggins
Bilbo Baggins

Hope must be our guide.

Thorin Oakenshield
Thorin Oakenshield

Let us not failed him.

The Prophecy of the Arkenstone, Reelive

Thorin Oakenshield
Thorin Oakenshield

The Arkenstone is my birthright!

Bilbo Baggins
Bilbo Baggins

Your obsession will destroy us!

Kili
Kili

We need to focus on the quest!

Fili
Fili

Thorin, listen to reason.

Thorin Oakenshield
Thorin Oakenshield

Reason is for the weak! I will reclaim what is mine!

Bilbo Baggins
Bilbo Baggins

And what if it costs you everything?

Thorin Oakenshield
Thorin Oakenshield

It will be worth the cost!

Balin
Balin

We follow you, but at what price?

Thorin Oakenshield
Thorin Oakenshield

The price of our freedom!

Bilbo Baggins
Bilbo Baggins

At what cost? Can we afford to lose each other?

Thorin Oakenshield

There is a darkness in my past. I cannot face it.

Thorin Oakenshield

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, Reelive
Bilbo Baggins

You will make a fine burglar.

Bilbo Baggins

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, Reelive
Smaug

I am fire. I am death!

Smaug

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, Reelive
Kili

What have we done? What have we done so far?

Kili

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, Reelive
Gandalf

The world is changing. You must either adapt or be left behind.

Gandalf

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, Reelive
Gandalf

I cannot carry it for you, but I can carry you.

Gandalf

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, Reelive
Bard the Bowman

You have nice manners for a thief and a liar.

Bard the Bowman

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, Reelive
Gandalf

It’s the choices that matter.

Gandalf

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, Reelive
Thorin Oakenshield

I will not let you go so easily.

Thorin Oakenshield

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, Reelive
Kili

This is our home. We must fight for it.

Kili

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, Reelive
Smaug

You cannot pass into the mountain! You shall not go near the treasure!

Smaug

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, Reelive
Thorin Oakenshield

If more of us valued food and cheer and song above hoarded gold, it would be a merrier world.

Thorin Oakenshield

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, Reelive
Bilbo Baggins

I am not a hero. Just a hobbit.

Bilbo Baggins

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, Reelive
Fili

You’ll never come back, will you?

Fili

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, Reelive
Thorin Oakenshield

I’ve always been afraid of the darkness within me.

Thorin Oakenshield

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, Reelive
Bilbo Baggins

The most important thing is that I won’t let my friends down.

Bilbo Baggins

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, Reelive
Smaug

You are a pretty pale little thing, aren’t you?

Smaug

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, Reelive
Gandalf

One does not simply walk into the mountain.

Gandalf

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, Reelive
Gandalf

We are all on our own journeys; where do they lead?

Gandalf

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, Reelive
Bilbo Baggins

I have never been so afraid in my life.

Bilbo Baggins

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, Reelive
Bard the Bowman

Come on, you don't want to make me angry, do you?

Bard the Bowman

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, Reelive
Bilbo Baggins

My name is Bilbo Baggins. I am a hobbit.

Bilbo Baggins

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, Reelive

I See Fire

I See Fire by Ed Sheeran, End credits song

The Adventure Begins

The Adventure Begins by Howard Shore, Opening score

Smaug

Smaug by Howard Shore, Theme associated with the dragon Smaug

Beyond the Forest

Beyond the Forest by Howard Shore, Music during the journey through Mirkwood


Download App

The Unexpected Party

Bilbo Baggins, unexpectedly thrust into the adventure of a lifetime, meets Gandalf and the dwarves at his home. The confusion and determination in Bilbo's demeanor set the stage for his character development. Bilbo's initial reluctance transforms into a reluctant acceptance of his quest during the chaotic dinner. This moment showcases the stark contrast between his peaceful life in the Shire and the looming adventure ahead.

Context: This scene establishes Bilbo not only as a reluctant hero but also introduces the audience to the dynamics among the dwarves and their quest to reclaim Erebor.

The Trolls' Capture

Under the light of the moon, Bilbo and the dwarves encounter trolls who capture them. The moment of tension peaks when Gandalf comes to the rescue, cleverly using his magic to confuse the trolls. The visuals of Gandalf's shadowy figure wielding fire create a breathtaking atmosphere, turning the scene into one of action and cleverness. This act not only saves the dwarves but also showcases the importance of friendship and teamwork.

Context: This scene emphasizes the hurdles Bilbo and the dwarves face on their journey, setting up the tone for their perilous adventures.

Riddles in the Dark

Bilbo meets Gollum deep in the dark cave and they engage in a life or death game of riddles. The pivotal moment occurs when Bilbo accidentally finds the One Ring and realizes its power. The tension escalates as Gollum grows increasingly desperate. This exceptional scene encapsulates Bilbo's bravery and cunning in a moment of fear and danger, marking a crucial step in his transformation.

Context: This scene not only enhances Bilbo's character depth but signifies the weight of the ring, which becomes central to the larger narrative in 'The Lord of the Rings'.

The Escape from the Elves

Captured by the Elves of Mirkwood, the dwarves experience a dire moment of hopelessness. Bilbo, now more courageous, aided by the ring, devises a clever escape plan. The sudden shift from despair to stealth showcases Bilbo’s growth. The visual of dwarves escaping in barrels creates a thrilling mix of comedy and tension, highlighting their unconventional tactics.

Context: Here, Bilbo’s evolution from a timid hobbit to a resourceful hero truly begins, building significant momentum towards the climax.

Facing Smaug

In Erebor, Bilbo meets the mighty dragon Smaug. The tension peaks when Bilbo converses with Smaug, trying to outwit him while risking his life. The visuals are stunning as Smaug's enormous form looms over Bilbo, and the dialogue is rife with tension. The confrontation reveals not only Bilbo's bravery but also his cleverness and ability to adapt against overwhelming odds.

Context: This scene embodies the essence of Bilbo’s character and the danger of their quest. It is a moment that signifies the turning point in the story.

The Arkenstone Revealed

Bilbo discovers the Arkenstone and struggles with the decision to keep it a secret from the dwarves or use it as leverage. This internal conflict peaks when he chooses to act against Thorin's orders. This significant moment captures Bilbo's growth into a more complex character as he balances friendship and duty.

Context: Bilbo’s choice reflects deeper themes of loyalty and the burdens of leadership.

Thorin's Downfall

Thorin’s obsession with the treasure begins to consume him. The pivotal moment is when Thorin confronts Bilbo for taking the Arkenstone, showcasing the themes of greed and pride. This intense confrontation reveals the emotional chasm growing between the characters.

Context: Thorin's transformation highlights the destructive power of greed, establishing a conflict that deeply affects the group dynamic.

The Battle of the Five Armies

As the armies gather, the atmosphere thickens with tension, culminating in an epic battle. The pivotal moment is characterized by heart-stopping action sequences where alliances are tested, and sacrifice is made. The visuals are stunning, with fighters colliding, dragons soaring, and chaos reigning.

Context: This finale connects various character arcs, depicting the broad consequences of their journey and choices.

The Death of Thorin

In his final moments, Thorin reconciles with Bilbo, demonstrating the emotional weight of friendship and sacrifice. The raw emotion of this encounter, paired with the melancholic visuals, brings a tearful closure to their complicated relationship, emphasizing themes of redemption and nobility.

Context: Thorin's death serves as a critical turning point, reminding viewers of the cost of their adventure.

Bilbo's Farewell

Bilbo’s goodbye to the dwarves encapsulates his growth from a hesitant hobbit to a seasoned adventurer. The poignant moment is underscored with bittersweet emotions as he acknowledges the bonds formed throughout their journey. The visuals transition from the grandeur of the mountain to the simplicity of Bilbo’s home, signifying his profound transformation.

Context: This farewell signifies the end of one chapter and the beginning of another in Bilbo's life, bringing a sense of closure to his character arc.

The White Council

The meeting of the White Council reveals deeper concerns regarding Sauron’s return. The moment builds tension and foreshadows pivotal events leading to the downfall of Middle-Earth. The discussion among powerful characters creates a sense of dread and urgency.

Context: This scene broadens the narrative scope, connecting 'The Hobbit' to the larger lore of 'The Lord of the Rings' and the looming threat that surrounds them.

The Meeting with Bard

Bilbo’s unexpected alliance with Bard highlights a crucial turning point where trust and unity become essential for survival. The pivotal moment unfolds as Bilbo shares information about Smaug, showcasing a shift in perspective from self-interest to collective good.

Context: This alliance emphasizes the recurring theme of cooperation and the impact of individual choices within a broader narrative.

Smaug's Destruction

Smaug meets his demise as Bard takes the shot with the black arrow. The moment is visually spectacular as the dragon falls, symbolizing the end of an era. It shifts the power dynamics in Erebor and reflects Bilbo’s indirect influence in this moment.

Context: The death of Smaug bears significance as it represents the downfall of greed and the hope for new beginnings.

Farewell to Lake Town

The dwarves prepare to leave Lake Town, marking a bittersweet departure. The moment encapsulates the deep connections made during their journey. The visuals carry the weight of gratitude and loss, highlighting the transient nature of adventure.

Context: This farewell reinforces the idea of home and belonging, central to Bilbo's character.

The Enchanted River

The encounter with the enchanted river leads to tension as the dwarves struggle against its magic. The visuals are both beautiful and haunting, creating a sense of helplessness. Bilbo's efforts to keep everyone united showcase his growing leadership.

Context: This scene emphasizes the trials the group must face, reinforcing the theme of overcoming adversity together.

Thorin's Leadership Tested

The pressure of leadership weighs heavily on Thorin as he makes choices that threaten the group's unity. The emotional tension peaks during his confrontation with his companions, establishing a powerful pivot point in his character arc.

Context: This moment marks the struggles of leadership against personal desires, framing the moral complexities of their journey.

Bilbo Takes the Ring

Bilbo’s first interaction with the ring highlights his curiosity and foreshadows its dire consequences. The pivotal moment occurs when he puts it on for the first time, showcasing a mix of wonder and trepidation. The visuals shift dramatically as he disappears, inviting a deeper exploration of his character.

Context: This scene establishes the importance of the ring and its influence over Bilbo’s journey, hinting at greater dangers ahead.

The Moment of Choice

Bilbo stands at a crossroads, torn between his loyalty to the dwarves and the pull of his own desires. The moment is filled with emotional weight as he contemplates the risks ahead. This pivotal decision enhances Bilbo's growth and showcases his evolving moral compass.

Context: This scene emphasizes the theme of choice and its implications, fundamental to the film's narrative.

Dwarves vs. Elves

The tension rises as dwarves face off against elves, showcasing the complexities of their relationships. A pivotal moment occurs when conflict escalates, filled with rebellion and pride. The visuals make for a spectacular clash, driving home themes of rivalry and honor.

Context: This conflict adds depth to the world of Middle-Earth, illustrating long-standing grievances while propelling the narrative forward.

The Heart of the Mountain

As Bilbo enters the heart of the mountain, encountering the vast treasure, the moment is breathtaking. The visuals depict both wonder and the foreboding sense of greed that comes with it, marking a critical moment in the story where treasure becomes both a blessing and a curse.

Context: This scene deepens the themes of temptation and the duality of wealth.

The Return Home

Post-adventure, Bilbo reflects on his journey, transitioning from adventure to returning to the comforts of home. The visuals of the Shire contrast with the grand landscapes he’s seen, highlighting personal growth. It serves as a bittersweet reminder of the changes experienced along the journey.

Context: This return to home underscores the essence of belonging and the change one can undergo through adventure.

Mirkwood's Darkness

The moment the dwarves enter Mirkwood captures the pervasive sense of danger. The atmosphere grows dark and foreboding, showcasing fears manifesting as physical threats. This scene adds tension to their journey, revealing the lurking dangers ahead.

Context: The darkness of Mirkwood enhances the themes of fear and foreboding, highlighting the challenges that await.

Bilbo Stands Up to the Others

In a moment of heroism, Bilbo defends his decision to take the Arkenstone against the objections of the dwarves. His emotional plea is powerful, showing his growth and the courage to speak for what he believes is right.

Context: This moment highlights Bilbo's inner strength and his evolution into a leader in his own right.

A King's Final Stand

As Thorin prepares for battle, the moment showcases his resolve and burden of leadership. The visuals depict his isolation despite having friends around, emphasizing the toll of responsibility. This battle sets the stage for significant character resolutions.

Context: The scene embodies the struggle between Kingly duty and personal desires, a recurring theme throughout the film.

Ending on a Note of Hope

In the film's conclusion, the aftermath of the battle leaves characters looking towards the future. The visuals of rebuilding and camaraderie signify hope as they reflect on sacrifices made. This sense of renewal encapsulates the theme of new beginnings.

Context: The ending ties various character arcs together, reminding the audience of the bonds formed and the journeys undertaken.


Download App

Benedict Cumberbatch's Motion Capture Performance

Benedict Cumberbatch performed his portrayal of Smaug using motion capture technology, providing both the voice and physical movements for the dragon.

Why it matters: This method allowed for a more nuanced performance, allowing Cumberbatch to convey Smaug's emotions and personality through his physicality, which directly enriched the authenticity of the character in the final product.

The Barrel Ride Scene

The barrel ride scene, a thrilling action sequence involving the dwarves escaping from the Elves, was surprisingly one of the most challenging for the crew to film due to the extensive use of practical effects combined with CGI.

Why it matters: The combination of practical effects and CGI allowed for more dynamic stunts, which enhanced the visual excitement of the scene. This showcased Peter Jackson's commitment to blending traditional and modern filmmaking techniques.

Evocation of the Smaug Character

The creative team drew inspiration from various sources, including classic literature and artwork, to craft Smaug’s character and design, ensuring he was both relatable and terrifying.

Why it matters: This attention to character development made Smaug one of the most memorable dragons in film history, enhancing the overall storytelling by giving depth to the antagonist.

Richard Armitage's Physical Transformation

Richard Armitage undertook extensive training and physical conditioning to properly embody Thorin Oakenshield, including sword-fighting choreography.

Why it matters: His commitment to the role added authenticity to the action sequences and allowed for a more convincing portrayal of a warrior leader, thereby elevating the emotional stakes of the story.

The Orcrist Sword Prop

The designers spent considerable time crafting Orcrist, Thorin’s sword, ensuring it looked both beautifully ornate and functional, which involved detailed research into ancient weaponry.

Why it matters: The authenticity of the prop contributed to the world-building in Middle-earth, helping audiences immerse themselves more deeply into the fantasy setting.

The Role of the Elves

Additional writing was done to incorporate a stronger presence of the Elves in this installment, particularly through Legolas and Tauriel, who were not present in Tolkien's original depiction.

Why it matters: This creative decision expanded the narrative scope and introduced compelling new dynamics, ultimately leading to a more engaging story that appealed to a broader audience.

On-set Weather Challenges

Filming in New Zealand presented various weather challenges, occasionally delaying shoot schedules and requiring additional adjustments in cinematography.

Why it matters: These challenges forced the crew to adapt their filming techniques, enhancing the film's aesthetics with natural lighting and atmosphere that ultimately added authenticity to the imagery.

Practical Effects for Lake-town

The set for Lake-town was constructed as a full practical set, which included detailed replicas of buildings and marketplaces, rather than relying solely on CGI.

Why it matters: This decision created a tactile environment for the actors, allowing for more genuine interactions with their surroundings, and resulted in visually rich scenes that grounded the fantasy narrative.

Thorin's Lament Scene

Richard Armitage improvised some lines in the emotional scene where Thorin confronts his greed and lament, adding depth to the narrative.

Why it matters: His emotional portrayal in these moments allowed for a deeper resonance with the audience, highlighting the character’s internal struggles and making his journey more compelling.

The Use of 48 Frames Per Second

The film was shot using a high frame rate of 48 frames per second, which was a controversial choice that divided audiences.

Why it matters: This filming technique provided an unprecedented clarity and smoothness but also prompted discussions about the future of cinematic visuals, affecting how viewers experienced the film's richness.

The Dwarven Culture Design

Extensive research was done by the design team to develop the visual motifs of Dwarven culture, which included unique architectural styles and clothing designs.

Why it matters: This attention to detail helped create a distinguishable culture, enhancing immersion in Middle-earth and allowing audiences to appreciate the depth of Tolkien's world.

Martin Freeman's Improvisation

Martin Freeman frequently improvised lines during filming, bringing a natural and spontaneous energy to his character, Bilbo Baggins.

Why it matters: His improvisation contributed to a more organic feel in Bilbo’s interactions with other characters, making the humor and drama more relatable for audiences.

Adding Tall Trees at Camp

Tall trees were digitally added in post-production to create a more dramatic and perilous atmosphere during the scene with the spiders.

Why it matters: This visual enhancement created an immersive experience, elevating tension for audiences and making the encounter feel more dangerous and thrilling.

The Creation of Smaug's Lair

The design of Smaug's lair involved intricate set designs where piles of gold and treasures had hidden compartments, allowing for clever cinematographic shots.

Why it matters: This elaborate design provided a visually stunning backdrop that enriched the storytelling, making the scene both awe-inspiring and foreboding.

Multiple Takes for Dragon VFX

Scenes featuring Smaug took numerous takes due to the complexity of integrating CGI and live-action performances, ensuring seamless interactions.

Why it matters: The dedication to achieving realism in interactions between actors and CGI characters paid off, allowing audiences to fully engage with the story and its fantastical elements.

The Role of Howard Shore's Score

Howard Shore's score was created with themes specifically tailored to highlight the emotional arcs of key characters, enhancing their journeys throughout the film.

Why it matters: The music added another layer of emotional depth, guiding audience perceptions and heightening the impact of poignant scenes, thus enriching the overall cinematic experience.

Kili and Tauriel's Relationship

The budding romance between Kili and Tauriel was developed to add depth and stakes to the storyline, which was not present in Tolkien's original vision.

Why it matters: This relationship offered emotional weight to the film and enhanced the character arcs, making the stakes in the adventure feel more personal and relatable.

Gandalf's Investigation

Gandalf's subplot involving the investigation of the Necromancer was expanded upon with additional scenes and character interactions, providing crucial narrative context.

Why it matters: These additions offered audiences a better understanding of the greater dangers in Middle-earth, ultimately setting up the emotional stakes for the subsequent installments.

Dwarven Battle Stunts

Sophisticated stunt choreography was devised for the Dwarves' battle scenes, requiring extensive practice to achieve the desired fluidity in action.

Why it matters: The visual impact of these meticulously crafted action sequences contributed to a heightened sense of authenticity and excitement, engaging audiences in the film's epic battles.

Peter Jackson's Cameo

Peter Jackson made a cameo in the film as a character in the Lake-town sequence, a tradition he began in his earlier works.

Why it matters: This self-inclusion adds a layer of fun for attentive viewers while establishing a connection between the director and the cinematic universe he created.

Detailed Art Direction

The art department constructed over 1,000 props to ensure a fully realized world, from tiny trinkets to vast set pieces.

Why it matters: This meticulous attention to detail ensured that each scene resonated with authenticity, allowing viewers to immerse themselves fully into the rich world of Middle-earth.

The Uruk-hai's Evolution

The film included a new take on orc designs, evolving from the original trilogy’s Uruk-hai, showcasing advancements in visual effects and creature design.

Why it matters: These changes highlighted the effort to innovate within the franchise, creating distinct visual experiences that resonated with both new and returning fans alike.


Download App

The Social Media App for Movie & TV Enthusiasts
👉 Reelive App 👈

No mods, no censorship—just a space to relive epic movie moments. Like Reddit, but made for movie lovers.

Download App

Amadeus

The Maltese Falcon

Stagecoach