The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies (2014) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
“The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies,” released in 2014, is the epic conclusion to Peter Jackson’s ambitious trilogy based on J.R.R. Tolkien’s beloved novel, The Hobbit. As the final installment, this film delivers the climactic showdown that has been building throughout the series, wrapping up the tale of Bilbo Baggins and his journey with a band of dwarves to reclaim the Lonely Mountain from the fearsome dragon Smaug.
Plot Overview
The movie picks up immediately after the events of The Desolation of Smaug, with Smaug, the dragon, wreaking havoc on the town of Lake-town. As the town burns, Bard the Bowman (played by Luke Evans) takes on the daunting task of slaying the beast. Once Smaug is defeated, the focus shifts to the Lonely Mountain, where the vast treasure hoarded by the dragon becomes the central point of contention among various factions.
Thorin Oakenshield (Richard Armitage), the leader of the dwarves, becomes consumed by “dragon sickness,” a greed-driven madness that threatens to destroy him and his companions. As armies of elves, men, dwarves, and orcs converge on the mountain, the stage is set for a massive battle that will determine the fate of Middle-earth.
Amidst the chaos, Bilbo Baggins (Martin Freeman) plays a crucial role, not only as a peacemaker but also in ensuring the survival of his friends. The film ties together the themes of loyalty, friendship, and the corrupting power of greed, making it a fitting end to the saga.
Visual Effects and Cinematography
“The Battle of the Five Armies” is a visual spectacle, boasting some of the most impressive special effects and battle sequences ever put to film. The titular battle, which takes up a significant portion of the movie, is a masterclass in CGI, with armies of orcs, elves, and dwarves clashing in a beautifully rendered environment.
Peter Jackson’s direction ensures that the action is both epic and intimate, with close-up shots of individual combatants interspersed with sweeping views of the battlefield. The film also makes excellent use of New Zealand’s stunning landscapes, which serve as the perfect backdrop for the epic conflict.
However, the reliance on CGI has been a point of contention for some viewers, with some feeling that it detracts from the sense of realism that characterized The Lord of the Rings trilogy. Despite this, the film’s visual grandeur is undeniable, and it delivers a satisfying conclusion to the story.
Themes and Character Development
At its core, The Battle of the Five Armies is about the destructive power of greed and the importance of unity in the face of overwhelming odds. Thorin’s descent into madness is a central theme, mirroring the corrupting influence of the One Ring in The Lord of the Rings. His eventual redemption is a poignant moment in the film, highlighting the themes of forgiveness and the consequences of one’s actions.
Bilbo’s character arc also reaches its culmination, as he proves himself not just as a burglar but as a hero in his own right. His courage and compassion stand in stark contrast to the greed and ambition of the other characters, making him the emotional heart of the film.
The supporting cast, including Gandalf (Ian McKellen), Legolas (Orlando Bloom), and Tauriel (Evangeline Lilly), also have their moments to shine, though some characters, like the elf king Thranduil (Lee Pace), could have benefited from more development.
Soundtrack and Performance
Howard Shore’s score for the film is as epic as the battles it accompanies, with sweeping orchestral pieces that enhance the grandeur of the film. The music is both haunting and heroic, perfectly capturing the tone of the story.
The performances are strong across the board, with Martin Freeman delivering a standout performance as Bilbo. His portrayal of the hobbit’s quiet bravery and moral integrity grounds the film, making it more than just a series of battle scenes. Richard Armitage’s Thorin is also a highlight, with his portrayal of the character’s inner turmoil adding depth to the story.
Where to Watch “The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies” Online
For those looking to watch The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies, there are several streaming options available in the United States. The film can be found on various platforms, both for streaming and for digital purchase or rental.
- Streaming Services:
- HBO Max: The movie is available to stream on HBO Max as part of its extensive library of Warner Bros. films, making it accessible to subscribers.
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for streaming with an Amazon Prime subscription. Additionally, the film can be purchased or rented through Amazon for those who prefer to own a digital copy.
- Peacock: Subscribers can stream the movie on Peacock, offering another option for those who have a subscription to the service.
- Rental/Purchase Options:
- Apple iTunes: The movie can be purchased or rented in HD on iTunes, making it accessible for Apple device users.
- Google Play Movies: Like iTunes, Google Play offers the film for purchase or rental, allowing for viewing on various devices.
- Vudu: Another platform where the film is available for digital rental or purchase, ensuring a high-quality viewing experience.
Conclusion
The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies delivers a fitting and thrilling conclusion to Peter Jackson’s Hobbit trilogy. While it may not reach the heights of The Lord of the Rings series, it is nonetheless a worthy entry into the world of Middle-earth, filled with epic battles, memorable characters, and timeless themes.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of Tolkien’s work or new to the story, this film offers a grand finale that is sure to entertain. With a variety of streaming and rental options available, it’s easy to experience the final chapter of Bilbo Baggins’ adventure from the comfort of your home.
