A great experience (might contain minor spoiler)

Rating: 8/10 (12 December 2012)

After watching the premiere of "the hobbit: an unexpected journey", I could finally breathe out in relief, and know that The Hobbit trilogy is off at a good start. All in all, "an unexpected journey" is fantastic film which stays true to the nature of J.J.R Tolkien and his universe. The film does in fact go into a bit more detail and might contain some parts which were not added in the original novel "the hobbit", but never the less, it is a marvelous journey back to middle earth. The story was great compared with the novel, but it also stands strong alone as film. Some scenes and prologues might have large similarities with the LOTR trilogy, but nothing that hurts or compromises the movie. Fight scenes were well choreographed (in my opinion), but I feel that some fast paced scenes might get a bit blurry with the 3d and the animation. Dialogue is warm and familiar, while at the same time they manage to pull of the new "not so elegant" dialogue of the dwarfs. Martin Freeman has portrayed a very convincing Bilbo Baggins. Ian McKellen as Gandalf is strong and prominent as ever.
It has a runtime of 169 minutes, which is a handsome but necessary amount of time for the fantasy genre. When it comes to the 3d experience, I was a bit skeptic at first, but know that the combination between 48fps and the 3d effects is stunning. Middle-earth is simply beautiful. The 3d does enhance the cinematic experience, but does not enhance the film experience. When it comes to critics discussing and claiming that "an unexpected journey" is just a dumbed down version of Lord of The Rings, please keep in mind that the atmosphere in novels "The Hobbit" and "the Lord of The Rings" are very different. "The Hobbit" was meant a children and young adult's book, while "LOTR" aimed for a bit older audience. This is because that "LOTR" both the novel and trilogy have a darker tone and feel to it and it is in fact a battle between good and evil. While in the "Hobbit" both the novel and the movie have a warm feel, and the journey is more personal. In other words, it is a fantastic film which brings joy and tension towards the audience. It Stays true to the novel "The Hobbit" and its atmosphere. Some scenes might feel a bit off or forced, along with some minor characters. Amazing cinematic experience, along with breath taking scenery. Fantastic story which leaves a warm feeling inside you long after the film is done. 8/10