The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies (2014): The final chapter of The Hobbit trilogy picks up immediately after Smaug’s attack on Lake-town, with the dragon’s destruction leaving the town in ruins and its people displaced. Thorin Oakenshield, now consumed by dragon sickness, becomes increasingly paranoid and alienates his companions as armies of men, elves, dwarves, and orcs converge on the Lonely Mountain. Amid the chaos, Bilbo Baggins plays a crucial role, attempting to mediate peace and prevent bloodshed. The film climaxes in an epic battle where Thorin confronts his nemesis, Azog the Defiler, sacrificing himself to end the threat. As Thorin redeems himself in his final moments, Bilbo returns to the Shire, forever changed by his journey. The Battle of the Five Armies delivers an action-packed and emotional conclusion to the trilogy, exploring themes of greed, loyalty, and the costs of war.

Best Dialogues and Quotes from The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies (2014)

“Will you follow me, one last time?”

This line, spoken by Thorin Oakenshield, is a call to unity and courage. It reflects the importance of loyalty and perseverance, even in the face of overwhelming odds. It speaks to the human spirit’s resilience and the value of standing together with loved ones in challenging times.

“If more people valued home above gold, this world would be a merrier place.”

Thorin’s realization underscores the value of love and simplicity over material wealth. It suggests that true happiness comes from relationships and a sense of belonging, rather than the pursuit of riches.

“You have but one question to answer: How shall this day end?”

Thorin challenges his companions to consider the power of their choices and actions. It emphasizes personal responsibility and the impact one’s decisions have on their destiny, urging individuals to actively shape their future.

“I belong with my brother.”

Kili’s declaration emphasizes the strength of familial bonds and loyalty. It highlights the idea that true belonging is found in connections with loved ones, even in dangerous or dire circumstances.

“The world will never be the same.”

This line reflects on the inevitability of change and transformation. It encourages acceptance and adaptability, acknowledging that every significant event leaves a lasting impact on the world and its inhabitants.

“You have changed, Bilbo Baggins.”

Gandalf’s observation of Bilbo signifies personal growth and transformation. It illustrates the idea that experiences, especially challenging ones, can lead to profound changes in character and perspective.

“The King under the Mountain is dead.”

This statement is a somber reminder of mortality and the temporary nature of power and leadership. It serves as a reflection on the fleeting nature of life and the importance of legacy.

“We make our own luck.”

Bilbo’s assertion highlights the role of agency and determination in one’s life. It suggests that individuals can influence their fate through actions and decisions, rather than relying solely on chance.

“You gave a promise.”

This reminder underscores the importance of keeping one’s word and maintaining integrity. It speaks to the value of trust and the moral obligation to honor commitments.

“I am not my grandfather.”

Thorin’s declaration reflects the desire to forge one’s path and not be defined by the actions of predecessors. It highlights the importance of individual choice and self-definition.

“There is no choice, Balin, not for me.”

This line captures the weight of duty and responsibility. It suggests that sometimes, duty can supersede personal desires, especially when it comes to leadership and protection of others.

“It’s not our fight.”

This pragmatic perspective emphasizes the importance of choosing battles wisely and recognizing when to engage or step back. It reflects the value of discernment in conflict situations.

“You started this. You will forgive me if I finish it.”

Thorin’s words speak to the idea of accountability and the need to confront and resolve conflicts. It highlights the importance of seeing things through to their conclusion.

“You cannot see what you have become.”

This reflection on Thorin’s journey serves as a caution against being blinded by ambition or desire. It emphasizes the need for self-awareness and reflection to prevent losing oneself.

“We are sons of Durin, and Durin’s folk do not flee from a fight.”

This declaration of courage and determination highlights the importance of heritage and standing firm in the face of adversity. It speaks to the value of bravery and resilience.

“The time to do the right thing is now.”

Bilbo’s sentiment underscores the urgency and importance of acting ethically and morally, especially in critical moments. It speaks to the necessity of timely and principled decision-making.

“I came to give you this.”

This gesture of goodwill and reconciliation emphasizes the power of peace and diplomacy. It highlights the value of extending an olive branch and seeking resolution over conflict.

“You would go to war over a handful of gems?”

Bilbo questions the priorities of others, reminding them of the futility of materialism and the cost of war. It challenges individuals to reconsider what is truly worth fighting for.

“I have no right to ask this of any of you.”

Thorin’s humility and acknowledgment of his companions’ autonomy emphasize respect for others’ choices and the importance of voluntary support and loyalty.

“But others will come.”

This acknowledgment of continuity and the ongoing nature of struggle reflects the cyclical nature of history and conflict. It reminds us of the constant need for vigilance and preparedness.

Interesting Facts about The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies (2014)

Title Change Controversy

Originally, the film was titled “The Hobbit: There and Back Again,” but Peter Jackson changed it to “The Battle of the Five Armies” to better reflect the film’s focus on the climactic battle.

Guinness World Record Holder

Sir Christopher Lee, who played Saruman, was 92 years old at the time of the film’s release, making him the oldest person to star in a leading role in a major motion picture, a Guinness World Record.

Elijah Wood’s Cameo

Although Elijah Wood does not appear in “The Battle of the Five Armies,” he filmed scenes as Frodo for promotional content that was ultimately not used in the final marketing campaign.

Special Effects Challenges

The filmmakers used a new technique called “virtual cinematography,” which involved previsualizing the entire film in digital format before shooting any live-action scenes, allowing for complex battle sequences.

Martin Freeman’s Improvisation

Martin Freeman, who played Bilbo Baggins, improvised the scene where he hides the Arkenstone in his jacket, which was not in the original script.

Practical Effects for Dain Ironfoot

While much of the character Dain Ironfoot, played by Billy Connolly, was brought to life using CGI, the filmmakers also used practical effects for close-up shots to maintain realism.

Record-breaking Box Office

“The Battle of the Five Armies” grossed over $956 million worldwide, making it the second-highest-grossing film in the “Middle-earth” series, only behind “The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King.”

Howard Shore’s Score

Composer Howard Shore returned to score the film, marking his completion of scoring all six films in the “Middle-earth” saga, a rare achievement in film series music history.

Filming Location Consistency

Many of the battle scenes were filmed in the same New Zealand locations used for the “Lord of the Rings” trilogy, maintaining visual consistency across the series.

Peter Jackson’s Cameo

Director Peter Jackson makes a brief cameo in the film as one of the townsfolk evacuating Dale during the battle, continuing his tradition of appearing in his films.