Come the holidays there are always a number of big blockbuster films available in theaters, and this year brought about one that I've been looking forward to for more than a decade.
"The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey" made its debut on Friday, and I couldn't resist finding the time to view it during opening weekend. I'm a huge fan of J.R.R Tolkien's work, so I went out for the weekend premieres of the three "The Lord of the Rings" films when they came out in the early 2000s as well. I had read the books in the same order of the film releases in high school, so watching the "Lord of the Rings" trilogy was a complimentary experience to the written works. And, it was the same with "The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey."
Being that the "The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey," was a prequel to the "Lord of the Rings" trilogy, many of the characters and scenery were familiar. However, the film offered a truly unique experience, which I felt was absent from the trilogy. I've always believed that Bilbo Baggins was the most interesting character of the Middle-Earth universe. So, a film entirely about his adventures was actually more exciting to me than the trilogy. And, I have to wonder if the producers had the same idea. Even though the events depicted in "The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey" occurred before the events of the "Lord of the Rings" trilogy, I'm glad that the trilogy was released first to ensure a large fan base and a higher production value for "The Hobbit" trilogy.
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Dusten Rader
One thing I noticed right off the bat is that the Middle-Earth universe in "The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey" was a lot less dark than the "Lord of the Rings" trilogy. Sauron has long been defeated, but not entirely, and Gandalf is one of the few who believes that his power is again growing to foreshadow his imminent return. Viewers actually witness the foreboding darkness grow throughout the film, which not only causes a renewed interest in the "Lord of the Rings" trilogy, but also in the two future installments of "The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug" and "The Hobbit: There and Back Again."
It may be hard for those who haven't read the books and have only seen the "Lord of the Rings" trilogy to imagine Bilbo as the adventuring type, but that's what makes his story so interesting. The very reluctant Bilbo opts to sign up for the burglar position in a group of 13 dwarves and is drawn into a journey far greater than he could imagine. Which, being that Bilbo is a writer, refusing the offer to join the group could have been the biggest regret of his life. The journey gives light to the history of the dwarves, depicting the proud, but playful nature of the race. The dwarves' bravery and willingness to defend their home against impossible odds is exactly what makes the Middle-Earth universe so compelling.
The films in the "Lord of the Rings" trilogy and "The Hobbit" trilogy all have a PG-13 rating. Although there are scenes of violence in "The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey," there is no blood nor gore. And, the comedic nature of the dwarves and hobbits actually creates a welcoming atmosphere for families. However, keep in mind that the film is two hours and 46 minutes long. But, that's definitely not a downside; I actually felt that the film was worthy of even more screen time. Whether you've seen the other films, read the books or you've managed to avoid Middle-Earth, there hasn't been a better time to be absorbed by the masterfully done saga.
HIGHLIGHTS
'Rolling Hills Radio' Episode 19 Set For Dec. 27: This month's live recording of "Rolling Hills Radio" will feature John and Mary and Chris Bell.
The show will begin with a performance by John and Mary. Mary Ramsey, current member of 10,000 Maniacs, appeared with her band the Healers during last season. At the recording of episode 19, Ramsey will appear with her musical partner, area native John Lombardo. Lombardo is a founding member of 10,000 Maniacs and, with John and Mary, has released several CDs and has made a name for himself as half of the notable folk-rock duo.
Chris Bell, a unique artist hailing from Jamestown, will also bring his act to the "Rolling Hills Radio" stage. Bell isn't bound by traditional views of how music should be played, constructed or delivered. He is a multi-talented artist who may appear with banjo, guitar, cello or any number of other instruments. His approach to music involves unusually interpreted covers as well as his own original compositions.
The show will be held at the Labyrinth Press Company, 12 E. Fourth St. in Jamestown. Tickets are $5 and can be ordered through the Reg Lenna ticket office, online at www.reglenna.com or at the door the night of the show if there are any left. Tickets can also be reserved by emailing info@kenhardley.com or by sending a message to the "Rolling Hills Radio" Facebook page.
Local Author Book Signing Is Saturday: LouAnne Johnson, a Youngsville native, is the author of the memoir that was adapted for the hit movie, "Dangerous Minds," starring Michelle Pfeiffer.
She has written a number of books for teachers, but her newest venture is for younger readers. "That Darn Donkey!" is a book based on the true story of Pardo, a wild burro she adopted in New Mexico.
Johnson will be reading and signing copies of "That Darn Donkey!" at Authors Books & Music in Warren on Saturday from 1-3 p.m. She will also play her guitar and share a song she wrote called, "Pardo is a Burro." Audience members will be invited to sing along. The song can be viewed in a five-minute video clip on YouTube.
HAPPENINGS
To include an upcoming show or event in this column, email drader@post-journal.com or call 487-1111 ext. 253 by Monday.
Tonight
Blue Grass Jam: 7-10 p.m., Celoron Legion, 26 Jackson Ave. in Celoron. Area bluegrass musicians are welcome to sit in and play.
Friday
Cindy Haight: 8 p.m. to midnight, Miley's Old Inn, 845 E. Second St. in Jamestown.
Movies At The Reg: 8 p.m., "Sleepwalk With Me," 116 E. Third St. in Jamestown.
The Bogarts and Blue Brix: 10 p.m., Mojo's, 104 E. Second St. in Jamestown.
Saturday
Movies At The Reg: 8 p.m., "Sleepwalk With Me," 116 E. Third St. in Jamestown.
Annual 777 Christmas Party With DJ's UNLIMITED: 8 p.m. to midnight, Celoron Legion, 26 Jackson Ave. in Celoron.
Bill and Amanda's Winter Wander: 7 p.m., The Pad, 1064 New York 394 in Kennedy.
Thirst N Howl: 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., Murdock's, 104 E. Main St. in Sherman.
Chris Bell: 8-11 p.m., Chautauqua Suites' Bellini Lounge, 215 W. Lake Road (Route 394) in Mayville.
Tuesday
35th Annual Christmas Reunion With Bill and Amanda: 9 p.m., The Wine Cellar, 309 N. Main St. in Jamestown.