The Hobbit

Like Malthe said, it's based off a children book, which is why Gandalf always appear at the last minute and save the day. He's supposed to show the children that even when things get really bad, you will always be saved. Problem is that this isn't a children movie so some lines and moments seem out of place.

I guess knowing The Hobbit is based off a children's book, or at least was written for children, makes the film better for me, because I really disliked it compared to the majesty of Lord of the Rings due to all of the cheesy, cliched, clearly drawn-out-for-a-child's-comprehension elements, both in plot/storytelling and Hollywood action.

Ultimately I'm "excited" to see the next two films, but solely because I love these books. I just know now to not expect anything as incredible as Peter Jackson's first trilogy.

There is just one thing that bothered me:

 Spoiler

random stone golems out of f'ucking nowhere

My father is a diehard LoTR fan (he's read the trilogy 7 times and is finishing his 3rd read of The Hobbit, which he started after seeing the movie for the first time). He was shocked by the scene too but went back and closely read for it, and it does actually occur in the book - for the entire span of about 1-2 pages.

She wasn't there physically. She projected herself into the minds of the council. Hence why she suddenly dissapeared. According to the index.

There was actually a council in the book? Because I don't remember one, and if not that entire scene felt utterly forced and ridiculous, a blatant method to include Christopher Lee and Cate Blanchett in the film for recognition status from fans and more adoration from film critics for finding parts for A-list actors.