Smaug - The Magnificent

Rating: 9/10 (20 December 2013)

A much darker aspect of the movie than was An Unexpected Journey, but still enjoyable, nonetheless. AUJ was jolly and bright in environmental appearance. It built up the story through comedy and action that would unify one adventurous Bilbo w/Thorin and Gang. This time, the scene is more sinister as TDoS has the crew trek their way through dangerous grounds. The tones of gloom and doom are most apparent and even Bilbo's further descent into greed and violence is clearly depicted in the spider scene in Mirkwood Forest.
There were many scenes that were extremely enjoyable such as the barrel scene, Legolas and his superb fighting skills during the barrel scene, Sauron's appearance, Bard's interactions w/the dwarfs, and last, but not least, the absolute beauty and greatly detailed Smaug. Never afore, have I had the pleasure of looking at a more breathtakingly gorgeous, but sinister dragon. Weta sure did a super job on Smaug!