"The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey" is a 2012 epic fantasy adventure film directed by Peter Jackson. It is the first installment in "The Hobbit" film trilogy, which serves as a prequel to "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy, based on the novel "The Hobbit" by J.R.R. Tolkien.
The film follows the journey of Bilbo Baggins, a hobbit who is swept into an epic quest to reclaim the Lonely Mountain and its treasure from the dragon Smaug. Bilbo is recruited by the wizard Gandalf the Grey and a company of thirteen dwarves led by Thorin Oakenshield. Along the way, they encounter trolls, goblins, orcs, elves, and other dangers as they travel through Middle-earth.
"The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey" is praised for its stunning visual effects, immersive world-building, and faithful adaptation of Tolkien's beloved novel. The film features breathtaking landscapes, thrilling action sequences, and memorable characters, including Martin Freeman as Bilbo Baggins, Ian McKellen as Gandalf, and Richard Armitage as Thorin Oakenshield.
While the film received mixed reviews from critics, with some criticizing its pacing and deviation from the source material, it was a commercial success, grossing over $1 billion worldwide. It was also nominated for three Academy Awards and won the award for Best Visual Effects.
Overall, "The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey" is celebrated by fans of Tolkien's work for its faithful adaptation and stunning portrayal of Middle-earth, setting the stage for the epic adventure that continues in the subsequent films of "The Hobbit" trilogy.