The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (2013)

Summary
"The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug" is a 2013 impressive fantasy-adventure movie directed by Peter Jackson. The film, based upon J. R. R. Tolkien's 1937 novel "The Hobbit", is the 2nd installation in a three-part film series, following "The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey" and preceding "The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies".

Plot
The movie continues the adventures of Bilbo Baggins, a timid hobbit, who embarks on an impressive quest with a group of dwarves to reclaim their homeland, Erebor, from the terrifying dragon Smaug. Led by Thorin Oakenshield, the band of dwarves, Gandalf the Grey, and Bilbo, navigate through treacherous lands filled with sorcery and wicked creatures.

Development of the Adventure
Fleeing from the Orcs, the group takes haven in Beorn's home - a skin-changer who turns into a strong bear. In their journey through Mirkwood, without Gandalf to direct them, they come across frightening huge spiders. The group, except Bilbo, falls captured by the Wood-elves led by Thranduil. The ring Bilbo possesses help him in freeing his buddies from the Elven jail.

Encounter with Smaug
Their journey continues to the Lonely Mountain, where Smaug the dragon sleeps amidst when dwarven treasures. Bilbo, with the help of his wonderful ring, deals with the frightening Smaug to locate the Arkenstone, the secret to recovering Erebor. Throughout this interaction, Smaug ends up being conscious of Bilbo's objectives.

Escape and Climax
An epic fight ensues as the company of dwarves tries to rekindle a forge and weaponize molten gold onto Smaug. Smaug, making it through the attack, breaks out of the Mountain, angered and eager to ruin Lake-town for their part in assisting the Dwarves. The film ends on a cliffhanger with the dragon stating his intent.

Character Development and Themes
"The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug" showcases Bilbo Baggins' more change from a homely hobbit into a brave hero. Maturity, guts, friendship, and the struggle against greed and power stay core themes of the series. Thorin battles with his increasing love for power and impending insanity.

Conclusion
As the middle chapter in the Hobbit trilogy, "The Desolation of Smaug" is an action-packed experience that prepares for the grand conclusion. It leaves audiences on a climactic cliffhanger, raising the stakes for the final movie, "The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies". The film captures the spirit of Tolkien's world, using a rich banquet of adventure, risk, and fantasy.

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