Epic and beautiful

Rating: 10/10 (29 December 2012)

Don't believe the reviews. I was floored with how excellent this film is. After reading reviews, feared it would make me vomit in 3D, or be ridiculous and/or overly long.
None of the above. Charming, stunning, beautifully crafted. Did not feel any ill effects from 3D version. Very true to the book. The entire audience (a mix of ages, ethnic groups, some LOTR fans, others with no Tolkien experience) around us enjoyed it as well, many applauded.
Martin Freeman is perfect as Bilbo Baggins, a Hobbit but in fact the everyman we identify with along the journey. Dwarfs are played as funny but gritty warriors,all interesting. Few actors could make a noble hero of Thorin, this part well-cast also. This film's Gollum is more physically life-like, incredible to watch.
Some scenes are truly gorgeous, more real-looking than LOTR, unforgettable. Especially near the end (eagles), a stunner. Regarding the reviewers: in time they will wonder at their pettiness. This is great film-making, a great classic of a great classic.