By Matt May.

As visually stunning as it is enchanting, Peter Jackson has taken us on an exciting and detailed journey once more.

The Hobbit: The Desolation Of Smaug, the second instalment in the fantasy trilogy series, has received far better reviews than the first film, ‘An Unexpected Journey’ and you can certainly see why as we discover new worlds in this supercharged sequel.

I am a fan of Peter Jackson’s work, loved the Lord of the Rings series and enjoyed the first Hobbit film despite varied reviews but I wasn’t overly excited and compelled to go and see the second film straight away. Although I would’ve got around to it I’m certainly glad I went today. From the very beginning I was immersed in to the world that Jackson has visually created for us, hanging on every word, every swing of a sword and full of anticipation.

We all know this film is going to be long, we all accept that it has to be long in order to justify the fantastic works of J.R.R Tolkien, yet it doesn’t feel long, rather energetic with enough action to keep even the most casual fan gripped. The action scenes are simply and expectantly epic. The way they are filmed, the combination of combat and CGI, you are pulled back and forth on your seat as Orcs hunt and arrows protect.

As we follow Bilbo (Martin Freeman) and the 13 dwarfs, lead by Thorin Oakenshield (Richard Armitage) on their quest to seize back the lonely mountain we are taken through gloomy atmospheric surroundings one minute to stunningly colourful landscapes the next. We get to experience a fantastic barrel-rolling escape down a rapid river that almost puts you in to the barrel itself as the water crashes up around the camera, its so beautifully filmed. One barrel goes off course to roll a few Orcs over like bowling pins before crashing back in to the raging waters, I was almost on my feet. Never far behind them were the incredibly imagined Orcs, hunted themselves by Legolas (Orlando Bloom) and Tauriel (Evangeline Lilly), a new elfin heroin with unquestionable aim. Then there is Smaug (Benedict Cumberbatch), a fire breathing dragon with almost serpent like qualities leading to inevitable fiery chases and a tense tactical approach from our heroes. The final scenes are action packed, intense and explosive and although you knew all along it was never going to that easy it leaves you desperate to see what Jackson will produce for the third and final film.

Fans of the Hobbit and Lord of the Rings are always going to go and see this film regardless of how they viewed the first one however I urge even the casual fan to go and see it as it visually outstanding, full of exciting action and an incredible two hour escape in to a world of magical fantasy.

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