Where to start
The Hobbit
5 versions · originally a book, 1937
The Hobbit has more than one version — here's where most fans start, and what each offers.
✦ Most fans start here
The Hobbit (1937)
The original novel
✦ Start hereThe Hobbit
J. R. R. Tolkien · Book · 1937
The original novel, 1937.
2012 film
The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey
Peter Jackson · Film · 2012
2012 film, 2012.
2013 film
The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug
Peter Jackson · Film · 2013
2013 film, 2013.
2014 film
The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies
Peter Jackson · Film · 2014
2014 film, 2014.
Common questions
What order should I watch The Hobbit movies?
You should watch the trilogy in the order of release: The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey, followed by The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, and finally The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies. These three films serve as the cinematic adaptation of the original 1937 novel.
Is The Hobbit book different from the 1977 movie?
The Hobbit book written in 1937 is the source material for all subsequent adaptations. The 1977 movie is a distinct animated version, while the three live-action films released between 2012 and 2014 provide a different cinematic interpretation of the events described in the original 1937 text.
How many movies are in The Hobbit film series?
There are three live-action films in the series: The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey, The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, and The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies. These movies were released sequentially between 2012 and 2014 to adapt the narrative of the 1937 book.
Should I read The Hobbit before watching the 2012 movie?
Reading the 1937 book before watching The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey provides the original context for the story. While the movie is an adaptation of the text, reading the book first allows you to compare the source material with the creative choices made in the 2012 film production.