MOVIE: The Desolation of Smaug [The Hobbit, Movie 2]

Discussion of The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug [Extended Edition] Join Maggie and Cam in this special episode, where they question the narrative implications of having Benedict Cumberbatch voice every character in the movie. We discuss the nature of evil and the strange, incestuous relationship between Smaug, Sauron, and the Necromancer. This episode also explores the parallels between the Ring and the Arkenstone, as well as the many callbacks within this movie and the series so far. We also try to figure out who the real villain of the prequel trilogy is - Smaug or Azog? In the face of Maggie's lukewarm reaction to the movie, Cam mounts a spirited defense of it as his favorite Middle-earth film. During our Second Breakfast, we discuss adaptation and disappointment through the lens of the post-Sorkin years of The West Wing, and Maggie reflects on this year's Reading Rush.  Have an observation, comment, or theory on this episode? Email us at [email protected] Follow us on Instagram @secondbreakfastpod