The Hobbit vs The Lord of the Rings

2. Frame Rate

Sadly, the most discussed factor of An Unexpected Journey has nothing to do with plot, pace or even character development. The divergence from the industry standard 24fps - a technical issue - has unfortunately overshadowed the efforts of the many.

There is little to be said of the frame rate debacle that hasn't already been raised by every critic and his dog. However, I personally found that the standard 24fps version allowed for a better appreciation of the film, and that the 3D - a frustrating gimmick that refuses to step aside - hampered the overall experience. It is for that reason alone that The Fellowship of the Ring - shot exclusively with a lower definition in mind - triumphs.

Winner - The Fellowship of the Ring