The Hobbit: High-Frame-Rate Discussion

After hearing how the 48fps high-frame-rate version of the first Hobbit film nearly ruined it in the eyes of most critics, 48fps (frames-per-second) has almost become a tainted word among the film reviewing community. In fact, high-frame-rate distribution of the Desolation of Smaug and Battle of the Five Armies was limited compared to the first film. However, when presented with the opportunity to watch the most recent and final entry in the Hobbit trilogy in 48fps, I decided to take it, and, to my surprise, the HFR (high-frame-rate) was actually impressive. 

While the first 15-20 minutes were jittery and noticeably faster, after my eyes adjusted to the higher frame rate, it actually improved the 3D's quality a great deal. Compared to the previous two Hobbit films, which I watched in IMAX 3D, the 3D combined with the HFR made the 3D, action sequences, and special effects far more realistic and clear. My prior experience with 3D was fine, but any scenes with a lot of fast movement became blurry to a degree. The HFR seemed to eliminate this issue almost entirely. The 3D popped and the action sequences were as detailed as I have ever seen, which made for a far more immersive experience (after the initial adjustment). However, the most noticeable difference is that the special effects and computer graphics are far more realistic and immersive. At many points the effects were so convincing that I did not know what was real and what was computer generated, and this brings me to the main point of controversy: Most critics say that the film uses too much CGI, and it compromises the experience. While I agree that more practical effects like the ones in the Lord of the Rings trilogy would have been much better, what we got in the film was exceptional and convincing CGI, at least if you are watching it in HFR. My opinion of the film differs so much from others, it as if I was watching a different film, and maybe the HFR made a difference in some respects. Regardless, I stand behind my review of The Hobbit: Battle of the Five Armies being an exceptional film with many thrills and emotionally impactful moments. Also, if more 3D movies look this good in HFR, maybe there is a chance it will become more popular, although it is still not a biggest enough difference to the change the industry like 3D has. Did you watch the film in HFR? What is your opinion of HFR? And what do you think of the most recent Hobbit film? Please comment below and let me know, and do not forget to check out my review for the film by clicking here. 

Here is a video explaining the difference between 24 and 48 frames-per-second. 

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