3D releases and Review: "Rise of the Guardians" "The Hobbit An Unexpected Journey"

If you enjoyed the previous Hobbit films you will find this one to be up to the standards of the others. This is the first of a trilogy and the result is that the storyline does seem unfinished, much like the first Hobbit film. There is a leisurely pacing, particularly the first 40 minutes most of which takes place in Bilbo Baggins home. This was budgeted somewhere around $300 million and the box-office brought in over a billion dollars making it the fourth highest-grossing film of 2012, and the 14th highest-grossing film of all time.

The film received three Academy Award nominations for Best Makeup and Hairstyling Best Visual Effects, and Best Production Design.

For 3D enthusiasts, this is a must own collectible as the settings are spectacular from the interior of Baggins humble home to the magnificent battle scenes with the Goblins, Orcs and Wargs. The story line is a formula plot that we have all viewed from time to time: the heroes must overcome all odds as they travel to their destination to reclaim their homeland. There is a 2D bonus disc that includes ten documentaries on the making of the film. 3 1/2 STARS are well deserved for this enjoyable film.

Rise of the Guardians

This is a DreamWorks animated fantasy film staring Jack Frost, the Easter Bunny, Santa Clause the Tooth Fairy, and Sandman. Together they battle Pitch who threatens the “hope” of children around the world. This was budgeted at $145 million and the big dollars spent show in every scene with eye-popping sets and wall-to-wall fast action scenes.

The characters will appeal more to children than adults as will the storyline. It lacks a strong central character like Wreck-it Ralph, and Brave. Jack Frost is the hero; however he is not that engaging, nor is the villain. The movie took in a lackluster $303 million and reported lost money for the producers. Most of these animated features bring in around $500 million and the result is a sequel. There may not be a sequel as the concept doesn’t have strong characters that would be worth a second look. Nevertheless the film is worthwhile and should entertain many viewers, mostly for the breakneck pacing and eye-popping effects. The 3D is outstanding as many of the effects do jump out of the screen more than most others. TWO STARS is earned for this animated fantasy.