The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies, the final installment in Peter Jackson's Hobbit trilogy, boasts an impressive cast of talented actors, many of whom have become synonymous with the beloved characters of J.R.R. Tolkien's Middle-earth universe. Let's delve into the key cast members and their respective roles in this epic fantasy adventure.
Main Cast
Martin Freeman as Bilbo Baggins
The British actor Martin Freeman returns to the role of Bilbo Baggins, the unassuming hobbit who finds himself on an extraordinary journey of self-discovery and adventure. Freeman’s portrayal of Bilbo’s bravery, wit, and moral compass has been widely praised by critics and fans alike.
Ian McKellen as Gandalf the Grey
The legendary Sir Ian McKellen reprises his iconic role as the wise and powerful wizard Gandalf the Grey. With his profound understanding of Tolkien’s work and a remarkable ability to bring depth and complexity to his character, McKellen’s Gandalf serves as a guiding light and a force of good in the face of darkness.
Richard Armitage as Thorin Oakenshield
Richard Armitage’s performance as the dwarf king Thorin Oakenshield is a standout feature of the Hobbit trilogy. Thorin’s journey from a proud and ambitious leader to a conflicted and power-hungry monarch is beautifully captured by Armitage, who brings a nuanced and compelling presence to the screen.
Benedict Cumberbatch as Smaug and the Necromancer
The versatile Benedict Cumberbatch voices the fearsome dragon Smaug, whose insatiable greed and cunning intellect pose a significant threat to the inhabitants of Middle-earth. Additionally, Cumberbatch takes on the role of the Necromancer, a dark and mysterious figure with ties to Sauron, adding an air of foreboding to the narrative.
Evangeline Lilly as Tauriel
Evangeline Lilly’s introduction as the Elf warrior Tauriel in the second Hobbit film was met with critical acclaim. Tauriel, a character created specifically for the film adaptation, adds a layer of complexity to the Elf-dwarf dynamic and provides a strong female presence in the story. Lilly’s portrayal of Tauriel’s loyalty, bravery, and romantic entanglements with Kili and Legolas has left a lasting impression on audiences.
Lee Pace as Thranduil
Lee Pace brings to life the Elvenking Thranduil, father of Legolas and ruler of the Woodland Realm. Thranduil’s conflicted relationship with the dwarves and his role in the impending battle make him a pivotal character in the film’s narrative. Pace’s portrayal captures the Elvenking’s regal bearing and his complex emotions.
Supporting Cast
Luke Evans as Bard the Bowman
Luke Evans plays Bard the Bowman, a skilled archer and the hero of Lake-town. Bard’s role becomes increasingly significant as he takes up the quest to slay the dragon Smaug and protect his people from destruction. Evans’ performance showcases Bard’s resourcefulness, courage, and leadership qualities.
Ken Stott as Balin
Ken Stott portrays the wise and experienced dwarf Balin, a close companion of Thorin Oakenshield. Balin’s role as a mentor and voice of reason within the company of dwarves adds depth to the narrative, and Stott’s nuanced acting brings a sense of gravitas to the character.
Aidan Turner as Kili
Aidan Turner portrays the charismatic dwarf Kili, one of Thorin’s cousins and a member of the company of dwarves. Kili’s romantic involvement with Tauriel adds a layer of emotional depth to his character, and Turner’s performance showcases Kili’s bravery and loyalty to his kin.
Dean O’Gorman as Fili
Dean O’Gorman plays Fili, Kili’s brother and another cousin of Thorin. Fili’s relationship with his brother and their shared loyalty to Thorin create a strong bond between the three dwarves. O’Gorman’s portrayal captures Fili’s sense of duty and his growing awareness of the dangers they face.
Graham McTavish as Dwalin
Graham McTavish takes on the role of Dwalin, one of the original companions of Thorin Oakenshield and a skilled warrior. Dwalin’s loyalty and unwavering support for Thorin are central to the dwarf’s leadership, and McTavish’s performance brings a sense of camaraderie and humor to the character.
Stephen Fry as Master of Lake-town
The renowned actor and comedian Stephen Fry plays the Master of Lake-town, a cunning and ambitious leader who rules over the town of Esgaroth. Fry’s portrayal adds a layer of political intrigue to the story, as the Master’s motives and actions have far-reaching consequences for the inhabitants of Lake-town.
Extended Cast
Cate Blanchett as Galadriel
The acclaimed actress Cate Blanchett reprises her role as the powerful Elf-lady Galadriel, a key figure in Middle-earth’s history and a mentor to Gandalf. Galadriel’s appearance in The Battle of the Five Armies serves as a reminder of the larger forces at play in Tolkien’s universe and adds a sense of grandeur to the film.
Orlando Bloom as Legolas
Orlando Bloom returns as the agile and skilled Elf archer Legolas, son of Thranduil and a seasoned warrior. Legolas’ involvement in the battle against the forces of darkness solidifies his status as a heroic figure in Middle-earth, and Bloom’s performance brings a sense of honor and nobility to the character.
Mikael Persbrandt as Beorn
Mikael Persbrandt portrays the enigmatic and powerful shape-shifter Beorn, a friend to the dwarves and a formidable warrior. Beorn’s loyalty to Thorin and his role in the battle showcase Persbrandt’s ability to bring a sense of primal strength and unpredictability to the character.
Manu Bennett as Azog
Manu Bennett takes on the role of Azog the Defiler, a fierce and ruthless Orc leader who seeks revenge against Thorin and the dwarves. Azog’s presence adds a layer of darkness and danger to the film, and Bennett’s performance captures the character’s brutality and determination.
John Bell as Bain
John Bell plays Bain, the son of Bard the Bowman. Bain’s role becomes more prominent as he accompanies his father on his quest to protect Lake-town and face the mighty dragon Smaug. Bell’s performance showcases Bain’s growing maturity and his emerging skills as an archer.
Mika Walzeni as Alfrid Lickspittle
Mika Walzeni portrays Alfrid Lickspittle, a cowardly and conniving servant of the Master of Lake-town. Alfrid’s comic relief and constant attempts to save his own skin provide a lighthearted contrast to the film’s epic battles and dramatic moments.
The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies’ Cast
The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies boasts an ensemble cast of talented actors who bring J.R.R. Tolkien’s beloved characters to life on the big screen. From the returning cast members of the previous Hobbit films to the new additions, each actor contributes to the rich tapestry of Middle-earth, ensuring that this final installment of the trilogy is a fitting conclusion to a beloved fantasy epic.
