"I am fire..."

Rating: 10/10 (27 December 2013)

Let me start by saying that this is far better than the first film. Unlike the first, which is all talk and more talk, Desolation of Smaug is a fun movie with visually stunning environment, great action sequences, engaging story, bad-ass elves(I'm talking about Legolas and Tauriel, of course, dwarfs, a hobbit, a wizard, and an awesome dragon.
Ian McKellen still stands out as Gandalf. Martin Freeman's Bilbo is now starting to feel the effects of the One Ring and Thorin (Armitage) is now showing his selfish nature. The surprise of all is Smaug who is voiced by Benedict Cumberbatch (BBC's Sherlock, Star Trek Into Darkness). Even though he only provides the voice, Cumberbatch makes Smaug awesome. And if you have seen the trailer, well, you ain't seen nothing yet. Smaug is one the best (or probably the best) dragons on film. There also cool action sequences. What I like the most is the one with the barrels in the river. Trailer showed as just a walk in the park, but wait 'til you see the movie.
I really haven't read the book, but I am a fan of the LOTR Trilogy and this movie convinced me to read the book of The Hobbit. It's because I really want more after I saw the film. The only downside, for me, with this movie is the growing relationship between Kili and Tauriel. I really don't buy it.
Overall, this movie is in the same level, or in a bit lower level, with the LOTR Trilogy and I can't wait for the last film: There and Back Again.