Film stars have gathered on a green carpet for the world premiere of The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies.
The premiere is being streamed live to more than 160 countries from the Odeon cinema in Leicester Square, London, and some fans camped out on the streets for five days to get a glimpse of the cast.
Among them were Martin Freeman, Sir Ian McKellen, Orlando Bloom, Evangeline Lilly and Benedict Cumberbatch.
The film is the culmination of director Sir Peter Jackson’s The Hobbit films.
Sir Peter, 53, who finished editing the movie a week ago, said: “Saying goodbye to the cast was like this agonising long torture over 10 weeks.
“But the real emotions will hit me in days to come.”
Orlando Bloom plays the role of an elf called Legolas
Actress Evangeline Lilly plays the part of the elf Tauriel
The film, which stars Freeman as hobbit Bilbo Baggins alongside Sir Ian as Gandalf the Grey, is the final instalment of The Hobbit trilogy.
Both Sir Peter and Freeman paid tribute to the films’ strong fan base and Sir Peter told the crowds: “We hope you enjoy this film. We make it for you, for the fans and the people who enjoy these movies so I hope you like this one.”
Freeman, 43, added: “The reason I’m not sad is because we are handing it over to the audience and sharing it with you. You’re the best fans in the world – you’re loyal and mad – so thank you so much.”
His co-star Armitage, who plays dwarf king Thorin Oakenshield, agreed, and said: “It’s the most amazing feeling to be here when you step out of the car …read more
Source:: BBC Entertainment
