Writers: Fran Walsh (screenplay), Philippa Boyens (screenplay) Stars: Martin Freeman, Ian McKellen and Richard Armitage The Hobbit trailer 2 is, without shadow of a doubt, the best trailer of 2012. We’ve been praying that The Hobbit would live up to the expectation set by The Lord of the Rings trilogy, and from what we have seen so far, it will.
Certain of the actors were guarantees, having performed so well in the original trilogy. Cate Blanchett, Ian McKellen, Christopher Lee, Andy Serkis and co. were always sure to meet expectations. What we’ve seen from Martin Freeman, Richard Armitage and co. is more than enough to make us confident of their performances too.
Even better than the acting is the visual. There is so much to feast on visually even in these three minutes. What makes the visuals so stunning is the level of contrast. From the pen and ink simplicity of the map graphics to the breathtaking scale and beauty of the landscapes to the sublime costume design, The Hobbit trailer is visually stunning. And that’s without even mentioning
The absolute highlight of this trailer, however, has to be when Galadriel askes Gandalf, “Why the Halfling?” “Because I am afraid, and he gives me courage.” Here we have the essence of Bilbo Baggins: he is symbolic of hope (he is symbolic of a child, inspiring courage in Gandalf as a desire to protect him). And hope, of course, is that theme most central to the human heart, which has given rise to many of the worlds greatest ever movies, from The Shawshank Redemption to The Grapes of Wrath.
The Hobbit trailer is a marketing masterpiece. Here it is in all its splendour.
