Peter Jacksons' universe The Hobbit Marathon
Page Last Modified:
9 December 2025
Most Recent Release:
The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies - 2014
Total Runtime:
1033 Minutes
Total Items:
6
Average User Score:
(7.7)Watching orders for The Hobbit
Peter Jacksons' universe
Picture this: you're ready to embark on a Middle-earth marathon, but the debate begins. One friend insists, "Start with Frodo!" while another argues, "First The Hobbit, of course." No need to fret we've got you covered. To truly immerse yourself in Peter Jackson's legendary adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien's universe, there's a viewing order that enhances the story's logic and maximizes your enjoyment. From Bilbo's unexpected journey to the climactic battle for the fate of the One Ring, this is the chronological path to follow. So, grab your popcorn, dim the lights, and prepare for an epic high fantasy binge that will captivate you from start to finish.
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1
The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey Movie 169 min. 2012Bilbo Baggins, a hobbit enjoying his quiet life, is swept into an epic quest by Gandalf the Grey and thirteen dwarves who seek to reclaim their mountain home from Smaug, the dragon.USER SCORE 7 -
2
The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug Movie 161 min. 2013The Dwarves, Bilbo and Gandalf have successfully escaped the Misty Mountains, and Bilbo has gained the One Ring. They all continue their journey to get their gold back from the Dragon, Smaug.USER SCORE 8 -
3
The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies Movie 144 min. 2014Following Smaug's attack on Laketown, Bilbo and the dwarves try to defend Erebor's mountain of treasure from others who claim it: the men of the ruined Laketown and the elves of Mirkwood. Meanwhile an army of Orcs led by Azog the Defiler is marching on Erebor, fueled by the rise of the dark lord Sauron. Dwarves, elves and men must unite, and the hope for Middle-Earth falls into Bilbo's hands.USER SCORE 7 -
4
The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring Movie 179 min. 2001Young hobbit Frodo Baggins, after inheriting a mysterious ring from his uncle Bilbo, must leave his home in order to keep it from falling into the hands of its evil creator. Along the way, a fellowship is formed to protect the ringbearer and make sure that the ring arrives at its final destination: Mt. Doom, the only place where it can be destroyed.USER SCORE 8 -
5
The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers Movie 179 min. 2002Frodo Baggins and the other members of the Fellowship continue on their sacred quest to destroy the One Ring--but on separate paths. Their destinies lie at two towers--Orthanc Tower in Isengard, where the corrupt wizard Saruman awaits, and Sauron's fortress at Barad-dur, deep within the dark lands of Mordor. Frodo and Sam are trekking to Mordor to destroy the One Ring of Power while Gimli, Legolas and Aragorn search for the orc-captured Merry and Pippin. All along, nefarious wizard Saruman awaits the Fellowship members at the Orthanc Tower in Isengard.USER SCORE 8 -
6
The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King Movie 201 min. 2003As armies mass for a final battle that will decide the fate of the world--and powerful, ancient forces of Light and Dark compete to determine the outcome--one member of the Fellowship of the Ring is revealed as the noble heir to the throne of the Kings of Men. Yet, the sole hope for triumph over evil lies with a brave hobbit, Frodo, who, accompanied by his loyal friend Sam and the hideous, wretched Gollum, ventures deep into the very dark heart of Mordor on his seemingly impossible quest to destroy the Ring of Power.USER SCORE 8
The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey
Your adventure begins here. The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey introduces us to a younger Bilbo Baggins, played by Martin Freeman. He's whisked away from his cozy hobbit hole into an adventure beyond his wildest dreams. Alongside Thorin Oakenshield (Richard Armitage) and a band of dwarven warriors, Bilbo sets out for the Lonely Mountain to reclaim Erebor from the dragon Smaug. You'll traverse Mirkwood, Rivendell, and the Misty Mountains, encountering a seemingly innocuous ring that holds far greater significance. This film sets the stage for the epic saga, introducing a younger Gandalf the Grey (Ian McKellen) as he begins to confront the looming threat of Sauron.
The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug
The journey intensifies in The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, plunging deeper into the shadowy realms of Middle-earth. Explore the eerie forests of Mirkwood, meet Thranduil's elves (Lee Pace), and witness Orlando Bloom's Legolas before his Fellowship days. The tension mounts as the company nears Erebor, culminating in a face-off with Smaug, voiced by Benedict Cumberbatch. This chapter feels like the heart of a grand quest, showcasing character development, escalating threats, and a world growing ever darker.
The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies
Think Helm's Deep was massive? The Battle of the Five Armies takes epic to new heights. This explosive conclusion to the Hobbit trilogy sees alliances shift, friends become foes, and the fate of Erebor hanging by a thread. Richard Armitage's Thorin undergoes a complex transformation, echoing arcs of later LOTR characters. This film not only delivers a spectacular finale but also bridges the events leading to The Fellowship of the Ring. Watch for political tensions, Gandalf's maneuvers, and the first hints of Sauron's return.
The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring
Enter Frodo (Elijah Wood), Sam (Sean Astin), Aragorn (Viggo Mortensen), and the entire Fellowship. The Fellowship of the Ring reveals how Bilbo's actions spark a monumental battle against evil. The One Ring isn't just a prop it's the linchpin of the saga. Tasked with its destruction, Frodo and his companions embark on a journey that will alter the world. Gandalf returns, wiser than before, and the landscapes of Rohan, Gondor, and Rivendell are breathtaking. The tone? Darker. The stakes? Higher. The tension? Unmistakable.
The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers
Though the Fellowship is divided, the mission presses on. In The Two Towers, we follow Frodo and Sam's perilous trek to Mordor, aided by the unforgettable Gollum/Smeagol (Andy Serkis). Meanwhile, epic battles rage across Middle-earth, including the iconic Helm's Deep. Meet Éowyn (Miranda Otto), Éomer (Karl Urban), and King Théoden (Bernard Hill), each with heroic moments. This film serves as both a pause and a buildup to the climactic final battle. Helm's Deep is a must-see one of cinema's most legendary battles.
The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King
You've reached the pinnacle. The Return of the King is the grand finale, where everything converges. Frodo and Sam near Mount Doom, Aragorn embraces his destiny, and the battle for Minas Tirith unfolds in the epic Pelennor Fields. With 11 Oscars to its name, this film gives every character their moment of triumph, farewell, or victory. The ending may be lengthy, but it's a heartfelt goodbye to a beloved world. And just when you think it's over, the Extended Editions offer even more depth, lore, and emotion. Keep those tissues handy.
Why This Order Works
Following the chronological order beginning with The Hobbit trilogy and progressing to The Lord of the Rings lets you experience Middle-earth's story as it naturally unfolds. Witness the world's transformation, Sauron's growing menace, and how past choices echo into the future. You'll appreciate recurring locations like Rivendell and the Shire, familiar characters like Legolas and Elrond, and significant objects like the Arkenstone and the One Ring. It's like reading a prequel that enriches the main narrative.
Pro Tip: Extended Editions or Not?
If time allows (and let's face it, you'll make time for this marathon), opt for the Extended Editions of The Lord of the Rings. Peter Jackson, Fran Walsh, and Philippa Boyens have packed them with extras that enhance the lore. Discover additional scenes in Gondor, more backstory on Boromir (Sean Bean), and deeper insights into Aragorn's lineage. You're not just watching longer you're watching richer. For The Hobbit trilogy, the differences are subtler, but if you're going all-in, why not go all the way?
Finally: Plan Your Marathon Well
This isn't just a binge; it's an epic quest. Plan wisely: one Hobbit film per night, followed by a LOTR trilogy weekend? Or dive into a 48-hour marathon with snacks, blankets, and your best nerdy friends? Whatever your choice, ensure your surroundings are as ready as you are. Consider a Middle-earth map on the wall, a replica of Andúril (Aragorn's sword) on the table, and a playlist to set the mood. This isn't just a viewing it's your gateway to the most iconic high fantasy cinematic universe ever created.