As with Hobbit 2, I watched this with family who chose it, not me; it is, nevertheless, entertaining, scary and more

Rating: 7/10 (27 November 2017)

Picking up after Hobbit 2, the dragon has been tricked into giving up his gold and he is very angry. Therefore, he decides to punish Laketown again and burn it to the ground, killing all. However, Bard (Luke Evans) has a magic arrow and one chance to fell the fire- breathing beast. He does so, hooray! But, some have been killed and part of the town lost. Now, however, there is a new threat. Thorin (Richard Armitage), the leader of the dwarfs, does NOT want to honor his promise to share the treasure. This leads to a great battle of five armies, including the cretin-like Orcs, dimwitted but strong. Gandolf cannot immediately help, as he has been captured by a powerful necromancer. Yet, the eagles free him and the armies begin fighting. Which army will prevail? Who knows, but Bilbo just wants to go home. This exciting "last chapter" has some strong scenes of violence, which may not be suitable for the youngest viewers. Especially impressive is a battle on an icy, mountainous terrain. In general, good defeats evil and it is a joy to watch Bilbo (Martin Freeman) return to his meadow home, only to find he must stop the auctioning of his possessions, as the town gave him up as lost forever. Having seen the world, Bilbo rests peacefully in his rocking chair, with a special memento from his journey, a memento which will be important later. Again, actors, scenery, costumes, story, and direction are entertaining. No, these fantasies are most likely not the "cup of tea" for all but don't miss out if you get the chance to view it.