A new paradigm of realism in fantasy worlds

Rating: 9/10 (18 December 2012)

The 5k, 48 frame per second, 3D footage w/ Dolby Atmos is truly incredible.
This is a film, finally, that is worth seeing in the theatre. Just Like the first Star Wars in 1977, or the Lord of the Rings. This is a seamless view of a fantasy world.
While some have complained that 48 fps is somewhat jarring, it completely revolutionizes 3D. 3D had lacked some clarity and sharpness before, but the 48 fps completely fixes all fast action scenes, and enhances all 3D effects. Some scenes, if scaled properly, could hypothetically appear as if the movie were a stage play in the theatre. This is a true revolution and it is worth seeing the film in 48 fps. Clearly, this is where film is headed, and it is beautiful. Some computer generated effects are more noticeable, but all are an overall improvement from the Lord of the Rings series. On the other hand, clothing, make-up, and overall set design, is absolutely outstanding and manages to keep pace with the new resolution.
A famous Riddles in the Dark scene, and a guest appearance from a lead character from Lord of the Rings shows excellent enhancements, and again is brilliantly acted.The actors are all excellent, and some of the most enjoyable scenes involve the dwarfs.
The score is outstanding, again by Howard Shore, and the songs from the dwarfs were memorable, nuanced and sombre. There is a scene in the beginning where the atmospheric sound of the room is entirely dull and absent, and this was quite striking, almost suffocating in a way- just like a hobbit who lives in a hole-bravo!
Overall, I thought the narrative adaptation was extremely disciplined, conservative, and appropriate in almost all situations. Sadly however, the narrative middle, or the part where the suspense takes a break before a temporary conclusion, is too long. Jackson appears to want to show off his more popular actors in one scene that is somewhat distracting from the overall film. I heard that since there were few women in the movie, they lingered on a scene involving Cate Blanchet; sadly, this is noticeable. Some things are better left to mystery, and Jackson would also do well NOT to answer every curiosity to his audience. Continued restraint will be necessary for maximum effect in this film. If Jackson avoids tying every plot line he can to the previous Lord of the Rings, his work will be stronger overall as it will appeal to the narrative mystery held by the audience.
This was an extremely complex film to design and deliver, and it is truly an amazing accomplishment of our species to put this tome to film. One thing is certain; if you love cinema, and fantasy, you will not be let down. The people who made this film love their work, and it is clear in every aspect of this mostly very tight film.
This viewer can only imagine that the reports of 'sickness'. vertigo, or comments that the movie is unnecessarily long, are overblown, and perhaps are part of an organized attempt to undermine something outside the Hollywood production circuit. Irrespective of these overly critical perspectives, this film will still deliver one of the most worthwhile and technically rewarding experiences in the history of cinema.