The Hobbit II: Desolation of Smaug

Saw the Desolation of Smaug. Like how they elevated the story from an adventure to kill a dragon to having something to do with the rise of Sauron. A true prequel. It gives the movie a higher sense of purpose. I do have quibbles: some of the early scenes can disappoint a bit. But at the end of the day, my nails were gone and I left the movie quite satisfied. Gandalf is superb. Was good to see Legolas, even if he did clearly look older. Left me in great anticipation of the third installment. Much better than the first one. Grade: A.