The Hobbit (1977): The Rankin/Bass Animated Classic

What Makes The Hobbit 1977 a Gateway Film for Fantasy?The greatest adventure -- or so the song in the movie claims.This animated adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien's The Hobbit was directed by the famous duo of Jules Bass and Arthur Rankin, Jr.Released as a TV movie, it was broadcast by NBC in 1977, dividing critics but winning over some within the fanbase.While you would think this adaptation would vanish in time or be overshadowed by the Peter Jackson live action versions of the 2010s, I'll argue with you there's still a place for it in introducing our youngest audiences to the fantasy genre and works of Tolkien (along with some appreciation from adults).Join me for this discussion of a savage Gollum that wants to eat Bilbo rather than play tricks, a cat-like dragon Smaug, and a curious but lamentable absence of violence.Based on The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien. Directed by Arthur Rankin, Jr., and Jules Bass. Starring Orson Bean, Richard Boone, Hans Conried, John Huston, Otto Preminger, Cyril Ritchard, Brother Theodore, Glenn Yarbrough, Paul Frees, Don Messick, John Stephenson, and Jack DeLeon.Connect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com