Well paced and action packed

Rating: 8/10 (13 December 2013)

"Desolation of Smaug" picks up the proceedings quickly unlike "An Unexpected Journey" where much of the time has been wasted. DoS is well paced and action packed compared to AUJ.
Visually the film is stunning. It takes us through the dark forest, Kingdom of Elves, the beauty of Lake town and the grandeur of Erebor.
Its no wonder the film feels a bit stretched because these Hobbit films have thin story lines. Of course we don't expect much from them because its a small book. Smaug episode was promising but it takes too much of time for the final act.
Gandalf didn't have much screen presence this time. Its the Elves leaded by Legolas that bring smartness to the film and Tauriel is a scene stealer. In the end the Dwarfs, Gandalf, Elves, Orcs, Smaug were thrown to different places so they have to get together for "There and Back Again". 'Arkenstone' and 'Black arrow' will have much to play in the grand finale.
Its always a treat to watch middle-earth films but Mr.Jackson please do not stretch "The Hobbits", they aren't "The Lord of the Rings".
Overall, DoS is a better film than AUJ. Period
I'm very much excited for "There and back Again" !!