Gandalf leaves the Dwarves to investigate the growing evil at Dol Guldur, which sets up the rise of Sauron.

Legolas is introduced, and the non-canon character Tauriel is created to add a female presence and a romantic subplot.

The human settlement and the corrupt Master of Lake-town are expanded upon, with Bard the Bowman introduced as a central hero. 🎬 Action and Visual Spectacle The film features several action sequences:

While The Desolation of Smaug has some bloat, it succeeds as fantasy entertainment. It delivers adventure, expands the lore of Middle-earth, and features one of cinema's most legendary dragons.