The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug Blu-ray Review

The video presentation of The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug on Blu-ray delivers a visually compelling experience marked by a stylized aesthetic that enhances the dramatic narrative. Employing a varied color scheme appropriate to the film's dark and moody atmosphere, the high-definition visuals reveal a wealth of textural nuance and subtle refinement, particularly in close-up shots. The film’s digital color grading, managed by director Peter Jackson and cinematographer Andrew Lesnie, is meticulously rendered, with skin tones appearing naturally desaturated in line with the somber tone. The 1080p/AVC-encoded 2D and MVC-encoded 3D presentations are both rich in detail and remain faithful to the production’s dramatic intent. However, certain scenes influenced by post-production effects might limit the overall sharpness, especially in wide-angle views.

In 3D, the visual experience elevates further with a remarkable level of depth and dimensionality that stands among the finest 3D releases available. The film’s darker palette does not detract from the MVC-encoded 3D presentation, maintaining clarity and immersive imagery. Dynamic sequences such as orc battles, forest chases, and dragon encounters are enhanced with substantial 3D effects that make each scene pop with vividness and intensity. Additionally, environments like Laketown and Erebor are portrayed with immersive detail, accentuating the grandeur of their respective backdrops. Both 2D and 3D versions exhibit minimal issues such as aliasing or ghosting, ensuring a smooth viewing experience.

One minor caveat includes sporadic usage of lower-definition GoPro Camera shots during the barrel escape sequence, attributed to creative choices rather than encoding flaws. Despite these brief moments, artifacting and banding are effectively managed across both formats. Warner’s encoding efforts ensure that The Desolation of Smaug remains visually stunning regardless of whether viewers choose the comprehensive 3D presentation spread over two BD-50 discs or the single BD-50 disc for the 2D version.

The DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack for "The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug" stands as a benchmark of audio excellence in the Blu-ray format. Enthusiasts can expect a meticulously detailed, dynamic, and rewarding listening experience. The multi-layered sound effects are deftly positioned within the soundfield, allowing their intended purpose to be clear without overwhelming the listener. The mix leverages the surround channels efficiently, extending the front soundstage through spatial and discrete sound reproduction. Seamless integration between front and rear sound fields ensures smooth transitions during sequences with sound movements. Dialogue has remarkable articulation, with exceptional clarity, focus, and intonation, effectively grounding the viewer in Jackson's Middle-earth without being overshadowed by the action.

Addressing previous concerns over low-end output, the 7.1 DTS-HD Master Audio track does not disappoint. With multiple listens, no discernible faults were detected. Dynamics are vigorous, supported by a robust LFE channel that lends considerable weight to impactful scenes, from Beorn's rampages to Smaug's wings' windstorm. The rear speakers adeptly handle a variety of challenges including the skittering of Mirkwood spiders and the hissing tendrils reacting to Gandalf's light shield, ensuring an immersive auditory experience. Directionality is precise with transparent pans and a thoroughly enveloping soundfield. Whether capturing the subtle lapping of water in Laketown or the ferocious roar of Smaug, the audio mix excels in delivering an engaging and satisfying surround experience.

The Blu-ray release of "The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug" offers a compelling array of extras that provide an insightful and immersive experience into the film's production. The special features are comprehensive, covering multiple aspects such as behind-the-scenes footage, cast and crew interviews, and detailed views of the beautiful New Zealand locations that doubled for Middle-earth. The production videos are particularly engaging, offering a close look at the filmmaking process, from preliminary shoots to music scoring with Howard Shore. Additional features include a live event with Peter Jackson, giving fans further insight into the director's creative process. The inclusion of several trailers and a music video adds to the robust nature of this extras package.

Extras included in this disc:

• Peter Jackson Invites You to the Set: Four segments featuring behind-the-scenes footage and interviews.
• Production Videos: Four featurettes covering various production stages.
• Live Event: In the Cutting Room: Archival footage of Jackson answering fan questions.
• New Zealand: Home of Middle-earth, Part 2: Overview of filming locations.
• Trailers & Previews: Six trailers including film and video game promos.
• Music Video: "I See Fire" by Ed Sheeran.

Peter Jackson's The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug stands as a dynamic midpoint in the Hobbit trilogy, a visually enthralling and action-packed epic that diverges significantly from its source material. Faithful to the spirit but not the letter of J.R.R. Tolkien's beloved narrative, Jackson's adaptation chooses spectacle over subtlety, altering key events and characters for heightened drama and a grander cinematic experience. Defenders of Tolkien's work may find themselves disappointed by these liberties, but there's no denying the film's energetic momentum and engaging set pieces. Its action scenes are elaborate and frequent, injecting the storyline with rapid-fire thrills and boundless peril.

Performance-wise, Martin Freeman continues to captivate as Bilbo Baggins, even as Thorin Oakenshield (Richard Armitage) and other characters, including fan favorites like Gandalf (Ian McKellen) and Legolas (Orlando Bloom), take on more prominent roles. The ensemble cast delivers strong performances across the board, adding depth and intrigue to their characters.

Noteworthy technical achievements accentuate the cinematic experience. The computer-generated imagery (CGI) is both intricate and compelling, especially during Bilbo's confrontation with the menacing dragon Smaug, voiced with chilling precision by Benedict Cumberbatch. While Jackson's creative choices and deviations from the original text may spark debate, his imaginative direction ensures an engrossing journey through Middle-earth that is visually stunning and thematically rich. The Desolation of Smaug may not satisfy purists but remains an exhilarating chapter in this mythic saga, packed with adventure, challenges, and moments of unexpected heroism.

"The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug" captivates with its thrilling action-adventure fantasy landscape, despite deviating significantly from Tolkien's narrative. This middle chapter of Peter Jackson's trilogy expands the rich, immersive world of Middle-earth, showcasing stellar performances from its cast and exemplary work from the crew. Warner's Blu-ray release boasts an outstanding audiovisual quality that meets the high expectations set by the previous installments. The production design, visual effects, and Howard Shore’s evocative music collectively enhance the viewing experience, making for a compelling, if not entirely faithful, adaptation.

Technically, the Blu-ray features an exceptional video transfer with remarkable detail, vivid colors, and excellent contrast. The 1080p high-definition presentation brings Jackson’s imaginative set pieces and CGI creatures to life with precision. The 7.1 DTS-HD Master Audio track is similarly impeccable, delivering an immersive soundscape that faithfully reproduces every sound cue, from the smallest whisper to the most thunderous battle sequence. Extras include over two hours of bonus content that delve into the production process, offering fans a fascinating behind-the-scenes look.

In summary, "The Desolation of Smaug" Blu-ray is a must-have for enthusiasts and collectors alike. While there is an Extended Edition with additional content on the horizon, this release should satisfy those eager to add both the theatrical and future extended cuts to their home libraries. If managing expenses, consider awaiting the more comprehensive edition due in November. However, regardless of when you choose to purchase, this release highlights why Peter Jackson's Middle-earth remains a monumental achievement in the realm of fantasy filmmaking.