Literature
Who Was the Better Bilbo Baggins: Orson Bean or Martin Freeman?
Who Was the Better Bilbo Baggins: Orson Bean or Martin Freeman?
When it comes to portraying Bilbo Baggins, both Orson Bean in the animated adaptation and Martin Freeman in the film trilogy directed by Peter Jackson present unique challenges and triumphs. Whether a voice actor or a live-action performer, each brought their own interpretation to the beloved character, resulting in a fascinating comparison.
Animated Version: Orson Bean
The animated version of The Hobbit directed by Peter Jackson and produced by Fran Walsh and Phillipa Boyens offers a different dimension to viewers. Orson Bean, known for his distinctive voice, took on the role of Bilbo Baggins in this adaptation. However, this version also had limitations, particularly in the character's physicality. Unlike Martin Freeman, who portrayed Bilbo in live-action, Bean's performance was entirely dependent on his voice and occasional physical expressions through computer animation.
One flaw in this adaptation is the portrayal of characters like Thranduil, the king of the Wood-elves, as nearly indistinguishable from Goblins. It's a disconcerting depiction because Thranduil, as a king, should have access to clothing, including pants. This decision, while possibly geared towards targeting a younger audience, detracts significantly from the character's nobility and status.
The musical score, particularly the song "The Greatest Adventure," is a contentious point among fans. Personally, I find it off-putting, with "Down Down to Goblin-Town" being a much more fitting and evocative track. Additionally, the depiction of the Dwarves is vastly different from the original source material, with overly sexualized images that don't match the age-old beards and traditional attire as described in The Hobbit.
Despite these drawbacks, Bean's performance was commendable. The animated version required a different set of skills, including the ability to convey emotions and personality strictly through voice. Bean's portrayal, however, was more limited in scope and depth compared to that of Martin Freeman.
Live-Action Version: Martin Freeman
Martin Freeman's portrayal of Bilbo Baggins in the live-action film trilogy is a more complex and nuanced performance. Freeman, known for his dry wit and emotive acting, had to bring an entire character to life, from the character's humor and charm at Bag End to the gravity and tragedy of the quest.
Freeman’s journey in the trilogy was nothing short of a commendable effort. The transition from the slapstick comedy of the first film to the intense battle sequences and emotional turmoil in the third film is a testament to his range as an actor. His portrayal of Bilbo's grief at the incorrect moment of Thorin's death is particularly poignant, evoking a profound sense of heartbreak and loss that resonates deeply with the audience.
It's worth noting that the live-action performance had its challenges, thanks to the physics and limitations of filming with CGI. Despite these obstacles, Freeman's skills as an actor shone through. His ability to convey a range of emotions, from subtle humor to profound sadness, is a testament to his talent. In scenes where the CGI and green screens are minimized, Freeman's performance is nothing short of brilliant. His character's development and depth are more apparent in these moments.
While other actors in the trilogy, such as Orlando Bloom, Cate Blanchett, Ian McKellen, and Hugo Weaving, had their strengths and weaknesses, Freeman's portrayal stands out. He delivered a performance that was both heartfelt and grounded, bringing a sense of realism to the character that set him apart from the others.
Conclusion: Both Performances Are Worth Evaluating
In conclusion, both Orson Bean and Martin Freeman brought their best to their respective portrayals of Bilbo Baggins. The animated version, while having its flaws, showcased Bean's unique talents as a voice actor. In contrast, Freeman's live-action portrayal required a different set of skills and delivered a nuanced, memorable performance.
The Tolkien nerd in me might prefer the cartoon, but Freeman's performance, particularly his portrayal of Bilbo's grief, stands out as a highlight in the trilogy. It is a testament to Freeman's dedication and skill that he managed to convey such complex emotions despite the limitations of his role.
Ultimately, both interpretations offer unique insights and emotional journeys, and the choice between them comes down to personal preference and the medium through which one prefers to experience Bilbo Baggins' tale.