Why I Hate Peter Jackson: I Miss Book Bilbo

As I’ve previously established during my LOTR rewatch, I do not base any of my criticism strictly on the argument, ‘It’s different from the book.’ When adapting a work, changes are necessary. But I do believe that changes need to serve a purpose, and unnecessary changes should at the least be an improvement.

The change in Bilbo’s character is both unnecessary and a regression. Why is he such a stick in the mud?

I think Peter Jackson believed he was adding some comedy by having Bilbo react so grumpily to the appearance of the dwarves. But I humbly submit that Tolkien had the right idea. The humor comes from Bilbo being so exasperated with the appearance of the dwarves, yet he’s so well-mannered he continues to put on a good face and serve them to the best of his ability. Who would allow thirteen strange dwarves into his home? None of us would. But Bilbo Baggins did.

So not only is it humorous to see him waiting hand and hairy foot on his visitors, but it firmly establishes his character. That Bilbo Baggins is someone I want to root for.

Minutes Watched: 20:53

Number of Montages: 1

Number of Gratuitous References To The First Trilogy: 1

Start at the beginning

Check out Decater's new novel, available now at Amazon. Plus, don't forget his earlier books: Ahab's Adventures in Wonderland and Picasso Painted Dinosaurs.