“The Hobbit: The desolation of Smaug” (Sm-ow-g for those of you who pronounce it smog), the second movie in the Hobbit saga, has lived up to the first.

Each of the movies leaves the viewer wanting more of the story, not wanting it to end and yet leaving us all at a frustrating cliff hanger. Released on Dec. 13, this movie has turned into the top box office movie  bringing in over 200 million dollars.

With increased CGI (Computer Generated Imagery), the filmmakers were able to create the stupendous dragon Smaug with accurate anatomy and attitude. Voiced by Benedict Cumberbatch, Smaug was both terrifying and amazing, like a dragon should be.

Another  feature in this movie, the viewer is shown elves different to those of Rivendell, featured in the previous film. One elf in particular has made his first appearance since the Lord of the Rings: Legolas has returned; the now 37 year old Orlando Bloom has brought back the elf we all know and love, although having blue eyes in this movie when in Lord of the Rings his eyes are dark which the dark eyes a prettier and more natural. Bloom brings back the rise of elven fan girls (myself included). Martin Freeman (Bilbo Baggins), Evangeline Lilly, (Thaureil) Lee Pace (King Thranduil), and Richard Armitage (Thorin Oakenshield) are also part of this huge star studded cast. The scene scape of this movie is just stunning, filmed primarily in New Zealand. We see places that seem literally not of this world.

Without giving away spoilers, which i would love to do, I give this movie a definite thumbs up. Full of action, suspense, creepy crawlies, and  a hint of romance, this movie has risen to my personal top ten, and I can’t wait for the next one.