The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug Extended Edition 25 minutes
of new and extended footage, bringing the total runtime to 186 minutes
. Many viewers consider this the definitive version because it restores book-accurate scenes and provides better narrative flow. Key New and Extended Scenes The Quest for Erebor (Flashback)
: An expanded opening at the Prancing Pony with more dialogue between Gandalf and Thorin, including a flashback to the Battle of Moria where Thorin’s father, Thrain, disappears. Beorn’s Introduction
: Re-establishes the book's sequence where Gandalf introduces the dwarves to Beorn two-by-two to avoid startling him. The Mirkwood Crossing the hobbit desolation of smaug extended edition
: Includes the enchanted river scene where the dwarves must cross using vines because the bridge is destroyed. It also features Bombur falling into the water and falling into a deep sleep. Thrain at Dol Guldur
: Restores a major subplot where Gandalf discovers a maddened Thrain imprisoned in Dol Guldur. They attempt to escape together before Thrain is killed by the Necromancer. Lake-town Details
: Additional scenes involving the Master of Lake-town and Alfrid, including a scene where they discuss the prophecy over a meal. Physical Edition Guide
If you are looking for a physical copy, there are several versions available: Standard Extended Edition (Blu-ray/DVD) The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug Extended Edition
: Typically a 5-disc set containing the film and extensive "Appendices" documentaries. Retailers like carry these. Steelbook Editions
: Collectible metal cases often featuring unique artwork. These can be found at and sometimes through Official Movie Guide
: A companion book by Brian Sibley with behind-the-scenes photos and interviews. It is available at HarperCollins Barnes & Noble Price Information Prices vary based on condition and format: New Blu-ray Extended Edition : Typically Pre-owned Sets : Can be found on for approximately $30.00 depending on the disc count and condition. Collector Steelbooks : Often fetch higher prices around $100.00 on found in the "Appendices" discs?
The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug [Extended Edition] [5 Discs] [Includes Digital Copy] [UltraViolet] by Peter Jackson If you love The Lord of the Rings
Hardcore Tolkien fans often ask: “Does this include the Beorn backstory?” No. The extended edition does not restore the “Beorn’s Hall” sequence (where Gandalf tells the story of the dwarves’ capture). That remains a deleted scene. Similarly, the “White Council vs. Sauron” scene is only slightly extended; the full battle is still in the theatrical.
However, the additions focus on what the theatrical cut neglected: the dwarves, the dragon, and the desperate humanity of Lake-town.
In the theatrical cut, Thranduil is a cold, vain antagonist. The extended edition fleshes him out. A new scene between Legolas and Tauriel reveals that Thranduil has sealed the borders of Mirkwood not out of pride, but out of a calculated, fearful isolationism. He knows what is stirring in Dol Guldur, and he refuses to sacrifice his people.
But the crown jewel of the extended edition is purely joyful: The Dwarves' Song of the Lonely Mountain. In a risky, brilliant choice, Jackson slows the film to a halt as Thorin and the company sing a haunting, a cappella ballad in the Elven dungeons. As their deep voices echo through the stone, we see Thranduil pause mid-step. Even the Elves are moved. This moment—absent from theaters—is the emotional heart of the film. It reminds us that beneath the barrel-rides and dragon-fire, this is a story about exiles longing for home.
Many viewers wrote off The Hobbit trilogy after the first film’s pacing issues. If you are one of those people, The Desolation of Smaug Extended Edition is the film that will change your mind. It is widely considered by Tolkien scholars (and YouTubers like Lindsay Ellis and Nerd of the Rings) to be the strongest entry in the Hobbit trilogy specifically because of the Extended Edition’s additions.