Far over the Misty Mountains' rise...

Rating: 10/10 (16 December 2013)

Although some fans of the Tolkien books have had mixed feelings regarding additional scenes and characters, I personally found this to be a non-issue. That disclaimer aside, this movie is the best I have seen in a year, and worth the year-long wait. IMAX 3D (if you don't mind forking over the extra cash, but it is surely worth it) brings the visual depth and storied richness of Middle Earth truly alive, and immersive like a tidal wave. The acting is cathartic, and Smaug (voiced by Benedict Cumberbatch of Star Trek: Into Darkness fame) is beyond brilliant. All throughout the experience, I felt like I was on vacation; I didn't want the ride to end! You know a film is compellingly good when the film moments keep replaying in your mind for hours or even days after the end credits roll. If you are a fan of Tolkien, you will be entertained at the very least. If you are a fan of Peter Jackson's Lord of the Rings iteration, then you will get twenty times your fix. But if you are a fan of really good film - thoughtful dialogue, beautiful storytelling, spot-on cinematography, charismatic characters, amazingly brilliant action and choreography - this Christmas has just come early for each and every one of you. Reckonize, and see this one ASAP. To the Lonely Mountain!