Unraveling the Presence of Trolls in The Hobbit Movies

In the expansive universe of J.R.R. Tolkien's Middle-earth, the film adaptations by Peter Jackson have undoubtedly introduced a unique take on iconic characters and events. This article delves into the presence of trolls in The Hobbit movies, exploring their origins in both the books and the films, as well as the decisions behind certain alterations made by the director. Through a detailed analysis of these elements, we aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of why these characters have a place in The Hobbit, despite their absence from the Lord of the Rings film series.

Origins and Cancellation in The Lord of the Rings

The early Lord of the Rings movie adaptations, now known as the Extended Edition, included scenes featuring trolls. However, these scenes were removed in the theater edition due to time constraints, as the films were already near their maximum run-time. These trolls, specifically Boromir's aforementioned trolls, served a particular narrative purpose and were a crucial part of the extended version's storyline. Despite the presence of trolls in Peter Jackson's interpretation of The Lord of the Rings, they did not make an appearance in the following films, which focused primarily on orcs.

The Hobbit and the Three Trolls

In the first installment of The Hobbit trilogy, titled "An Unexpected Journey," Peter Jackson reintroduced trolls to the screen. However, this inclusion was not without precedent, as the trolls in question, named Bert, Tom, and Bill, were originally present in J.R.R. Tolkien's novel. Their depiction in the book and film serves as a testament to the director's commitment to maintaining certain elements from the source material.

During the scene where Bilbo and the dwarves are captured by these trolls, a powerful transformation occurs when the sun rises. The trolls are turned into stone, a narrative device that carries significant thematic weight. This scene, a clear homage to the source material, showcases the rich and engaging storytelling style that has become synonymous with Peter Jackson's film adaptations.

The Battle of the Five Armies and Additional Creations

While the inclusion of the trolls in the first Hobbit film was well-grounded in Tolkien's original work, the Battle of the Five Armies provided a more significant departure from the source material. In this battle, Peter Jackson introduced a new set of trolls, significantly different from their earlier counterparts. This addition was not present in Tolkien's novels, highlighting the creative choices made by the director to enhance the cinematic experience.

The trolls at the Battle of the Five Armies, while similar in appearance, contributed to the overall intensity and scale of the battle, emphasizing the conflict and the various forces at play. This expansion of the troll character in the film series demonstrates the importance of visual storytelling and thematic exploration, which are key elements in the success of these epic adaptations.

Conclusion

The presence of trolls in The Hobbit movies, particularly their roles in both the first film and the Battle of the Five Armies, reflects the director's dedication to both honoring the source material and innovating within the confines of cinematic storytelling. By reintroducing trolls from the early Lord of the Rings films and introducing new trolls for the Battle of the Five Armies, Peter Jackson has enriched the narrative, adding depth and historical continuity to the Hobbit universe.

Through an understanding of these elements, one can appreciate the complexity and care with which the films have been crafted, aligning with the rich tapestry of Tolkien's literary legacy. Whether as a nod to the original novels or as a creative extension of the narrative, trolls have played a significant role in shaping the cinematic experience of The Hobbit, making them an integral part of the film series.