The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug Extended Edition clocks in at a substantial 3 hours and 18 minutes (2 hours and 18 minutes for the theatrical release). This added time enriches the cinematic experience, offering deeper insights into Middle-earth and its characters, a fact often highlighted by Tolkien scholars and film critics alike.
Deeper Dive: Unveiling the Running Time Details
Understanding the duration of The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug requires differentiating between the theatrical release and the Extended Edition. The theatrical cut, released in 2013, is a swift-paced, action-packed adventure, reaching 2 hours and 46 minutes (161 minutes). The Extended Edition, however, provides a more complete and immersive experience, adding 25 minutes of previously unseen footage. This extra content significantly enhances character development, world-building, and adherence to the source material.
The added scenes are not mere filler. They often provide vital context or further exploration of key plot points. For example, added dialogue between Beorn and Gandalf expands upon Beorn’s character and backstory. Other scenes elaborate on Bard the Bowman’s role within Lake-town society. These additions, while extending the overall runtime, are crucial for a richer and more satisfying viewing experience for dedicated fans.
The Extended Edition Advantage: Worth the Extra Time?
The crucial question isn’t just how long is the new hobbit movie, but is the extended version worth watching? For most viewers, especially those deeply invested in Tolkien’s world, the answer is a resounding yes. The additional scenes provide context and depth often missing from the theatrical release. They enrich the narrative, allowing for a fuller appreciation of Peter Jackson’s vision.
However, for casual viewers or those unfamiliar with The Hobbit novel, the Extended Edition might feel overly long. The pacing is slower, and the added scenes, while interesting, are not always essential to the central plot. Ultimately, the decision of whether to watch the Extended Edition depends on your level of commitment to the story and your tolerance for a longer viewing time.
Breaking Down the Added Scenes
The 25 minutes of extra footage are dispersed throughout the film, offering a variety of enriching moments. Some notable additions include:
- More interaction between Beorn and Gandalf: Delving deeper into Beorn’s reclusive nature and his motivations for aiding the dwarves.
- Expanded scenes in Lake-town: Showcasing Bard the Bowman’s struggle and his growing concerns about the dragon Smaug.
- Additional dialogue and character development: Providing more nuanced portrayals of the main characters, particularly Thorin Oakenshield’s descent into greed.
- Enhanced visual effects and landscape shots: Further immersing the viewer in the breathtaking beauty of Middle-earth.
FAQs: Your Burning Hobbit Questions Answered
Here are some frequently asked questions that delve deeper into the complexities surrounding The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug and its various versions:
FAQ 1: How does the Extended Edition affect the overall pacing of the film?
The Extended Edition undeniably slows down the pace compared to the theatrical release. While the additional scenes enhance the story, they also require more patience from the viewer. The pacing is more deliberate, allowing for a more immersive but potentially less action-packed experience.
FAQ 2: Are the added scenes in the Extended Edition essential for understanding the plot?
While not strictly essential, the added scenes provide significant context and enhance the overall narrative. They fill in gaps, deepen character motivations, and offer a more complete picture of the events unfolding in Middle-earth. Watching the theatrical cut will still provide a coherent plot, but the Extended Edition adds layers of understanding.
FAQ 3: Where can I watch The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug Extended Edition?
The Extended Edition is typically available on Blu-ray, DVD, and through digital streaming platforms that offer extended versions of films. Check your preferred online retailer or streaming service to confirm availability.
FAQ 4: Does the Extended Edition change the ending of the film?
No, the Extended Edition does not significantly alter the ending of The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug. The core narrative conclusion remains the same. The dragon Smaug is still awakened and flies towards Lake-town, setting the stage for the final installment in the trilogy. The additional scenes primarily enhance the events leading up to the climax.
FAQ 5: Is the Extended Edition suitable for young children?
The Extended Edition contains the same level of violence and intensity as the theatrical release, along with slightly more dialogue and exposition. If you are concerned about your child’s viewing experience, consider the theatrical cut, or preview the Extended Edition to ensure it aligns with your family’s preferences. The extended runtime may also make it less appealing for younger viewers with shorter attention spans.
FAQ 6: How does the Extended Edition compare to the book?
The Extended Edition attempts to incorporate more elements from The Hobbit novel than the theatrical release, but it still takes significant liberties with the source material. While the additional scenes provide more context and character development, they don’t fully capture the intricacies and nuances of Tolkien’s writing. Both versions are adaptations, and dedicated readers will likely notice differences.
FAQ 7: Are there any significant differences between the 2D and 3D versions of the Extended Edition?
Beyond the visual dimensionality, there are no significant differences between the 2D and 3D versions of the Extended Edition. Both contain the same added scenes and run for the same duration. The choice between the two depends on your personal preference for 3D viewing experiences and the capabilities of your home entertainment system.
FAQ 8: What are some of the most notable added scenes in the Extended Edition?
Some of the most notable additions include the expanded interactions between Beorn and Gandalf, the more detailed scenes in Lake-town showcasing Bard the Bowman’s concerns, and the additional dialogue that delves deeper into Thorin’s growing obsession with the Arkenstone. These scenes add considerable depth and context to the story.
FAQ 9: Does the Extended Edition include any behind-the-scenes footage or special features?
The Blu-ray and DVD releases of the Extended Edition typically include a wealth of behind-the-scenes footage, interviews with the cast and crew, and other special features. These extras provide valuable insights into the making of the film and the creative process behind bringing Middle-earth to life.
FAQ 10: Is it worth buying the Extended Edition if I already own the theatrical version?
For dedicated Tolkien fans and those who appreciate a more complete and immersive cinematic experience, purchasing the Extended Edition is highly recommended. The additional scenes offer significant enhancements to the story and provide a more satisfying viewing experience overall. However, casual viewers might find the added runtime less appealing.
FAQ 11: Does the Extended Edition improve the overall quality of the film?
Whether the Extended Edition “improves” the quality of the film is subjective. It undeniably adds more depth and context, but it also slows down the pacing. For viewers seeking a more complete and nuanced narrative, the Extended Edition is a significant improvement. For those prioritizing action and a faster pace, the theatrical release may be more suitable.
FAQ 12: Is the Extended Edition available on all streaming services?
Availability varies depending on the streaming service and regional licensing agreements. It’s best to check your preferred streaming platform to see if the Extended Edition is currently offered. Often, the Extended Editions are available for purchase or rental digitally, even if they aren’t part of a subscription service’s regular library.