New image from The Hobbit: The Desolation Of Smaug

While UK cinemagoers only have a couple of days left to wait before The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey opens in cinemas, the studio has dropped a welcome teaser for the next film in the form of a shiny new image.

The new still is taken from The Hobbit: The Desolation Of Smaug and features Bilbo Baggins looking anxious once more, but sporting a rather natty new set of robes.

He’s also stumbled upon a vast reserve of gold coins, but from the look of the expression on his face, it seems that he isn’t alone. And Smaug is a jealous protector of treasure…

"The dragon is a huge, wonderful, amazing part of [ the second film ], but it doesn't end there," said writer/producer Philippa Boyens. "Everyone can suspect there's a rather large battle in film three."

So there’s something to look forward to. In the meantime, The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey opens in the UK on Thursday. The wait is nearly at an end…

For much more on The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey , grab yourself a copy of Total Film magazine issue 201 - out now!

And don’t forget, the issue is available as our incredible interactive iPad edition for just £1.99 .

George Wales

George was once GamesRadar's resident movie news person, based out of London. He understands that all men must die, but he'd rather not think about it. But now he's working at Stylist Magazine.