The Great Cinefex Dragon Smackdown

Dragons are taking over the world. Well, that’s how it seems to me. With Game of Thrones dominating the TV schedules, and The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug just out on Blu-ray, it’s a wonder we haven’t all been burned to a crisp. All these dragons set me off asking a whole bunch of questions. … Continue reading The Great Cinefex Dragon Smackdown

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug

A year ago, I told you what I thought of The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey, the first instalment of Peter Jackson's latest Tolkien adaptation. Looking back over that review, I see I was in a forgiving mood over a film that I mostly enjoyed, but which left me unsure of the wisdom of adapting the material. … Continue reading The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey

I feel kind of sorry for The Hobbit - Tolkien's original novel, that is. It's a simple story that bounces cheerfully along in episodic fashion, sketching in a delightful fantasy world along the way. It has singing dwarves and talking animals. It's cheerful and charming and sweet. Peter Jackson's film adaptation of The Hobbit was always … Continue reading The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey