The Hobbit Scene Description Involving Gandalf and Thorin Oakenshield

In the The Hobbit Gandalf frequently disappears for long stretches. He also seems to jet during critical moments. Quint describes an emotional scene between Sir Ian McKellen and Richard Armitage that leads up to Gandalf vanishing. How often and for how long Gandalf will disappear from the story in Peter Jackson's version is not known, but I'd expect that it won't be as often or for as long as it was in the book.

The scene shot this day was a hefty bit of character work as Thorin and Gandalf’s friendly consultation turns heated.

The introduction to the scene was a good LOTR style shot, though, so don’t you worry. There’s still a lot of New Zealand on display as all 13 dwarves, Bilbo and Tall Paul ride their horses and ponies through some rocks to the hill where the derelict farmhouse sits, or what’s left of it.

Quint's 5th Set Report for aintitcool.com

It’s late in the day and the idea is that this is a suitable place to make camp, but Gandalf wants to push on and seek Elrond’s council at Rivendell.

This scene is all about Thorin and my first real chance at seeing Richard Armitage craft a layered performance with the character. Thorin’s a stubborn dwarf, very much a leader, but is smart enough to heed the council of Gandalf.

He is a man torn in this scene. His deep resentment at the elves (he believes they have betrayed his ancestors by not stepping in when they needed their help) pulls him one way, but his respect for Gandalf pulls him the other.

Sir Ian had to be here for this moment since a full performance was required from both men, so he spent the day as he does most days on this movie: standing on a platform a good 2-3 feet off the ground.

Armitage does a great job with Thorin’s inner struggle. The look on his face isn’t someone locked into a decision. Gandalf urges him to seek Elrond’s help, for the good of the quest. Instead of playing it like a stone-faced general, Armitage does weigh his options and mostly in reaction to Gandalf’s words, not in his own dialogue.

To read more info on Quint's 5th set report click the aintitcool.com link below.