Where to start withThe Hobbit
5 versions · originally a book, 1937
Themes: Good vs. Evil, Courage, The Hero's Journey, Greed, Friendship.
Start with The Hobbit (J. R. R. Tolkien, 1937) — the book. The Hobbit exists in 5 versions across media, beginning as a book in 1937; each is ranked below by what it does best.
The Hobbit follows a comfort-loving creature thrust into a perilous quest to reclaim stolen treasure from a fire-breathing dragon.
✦ Most fans start here
The Hobbit (1937)
The original novel
✦ Start hereThe Hobbit
J. R. R. Tolkien · Book · 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien’s 1937 original novel serves as the definitive source material, offering a charming, whimsical tone that establishes the foundational lore and character depth for all subsequent adaptations.
1977 film
The Hobbit
Arthur Rankin, Jr. · Film · 1977
The 1977 Rankin/Bass animated movie offers a stylized, nostalgic interpretation of Bilbo’s journey. Its unique visual aesthetic provides a shorthand version of the story for those seeking a vintage experience.
2012 film
The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey
Peter Jackson · Film · 2012
Peter Jackson’s 2012 film, An Unexpected Journey, expands the narrative scope with cinematic grandeur, emphasizing the epic scale of Middle-earth while introducing the ensemble of dwarves and Gandalf the Grey.
2013 film
The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug
Peter Jackson · Film · 2013
The 2013 film, The Desolation of Smaug, focuses on the tension of the trek beyond the Misty Mountains and the acquisition of the One Ring, delivering high-stakes action and adventure.
2014 film
The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies
Peter Jackson · Film · 2014
The 2014 film, The Battle of the Five Armies, concludes the saga with a sprawling conflict, centering on the defense of Erebor against men, elves, and the encroaching Orc army.
Common questions
What order should I watch The Hobbit movies in?
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 to follow the narrative arc established across the three films.
Is The Hobbit book different from the movies?
The Hobbit book, published in 1937, serves as the singular source material for the film adaptations. While the book is a standalone novel, the film adaptations expand the story into three separate movies released between 2012 and 2014.
Should I watch the 1977 version of The Hobbit?
The 1977 version of The Hobbit is an animated adaptation of the original 1937 book. It provides a distinct visual interpretation of the story compared to the live-action trilogy directed by Peter Jackson that began with The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey in 2012.
How long are the movies in The Hobbit trilogy?
The Hobbit trilogy consists of The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey, The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, and The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies. Each of these three films adapts portions of the original 1937 novel into a feature-length cinematic experience.