The news that The Hobbit was being split into three movies was met with a mixed reaction from fans, but perhaps the best part about the announcement was the fact it meant we will get to see "The Battle of Five Armies" brought to the big screen.

The news that The Hobbit was being split into three movies was met with a mixed reaction from fans, but perhaps the best part about the announcement was the fact it meant we will get to see "The Battle of Five Armies" brought to the big screen. It hasn't even been shot yet, but talking to Empire Magazine recently, Richard Armitage had this to say about the battle sequence. "It's been put aside until next year, thankfully," he joked. "It's this big thing looming over us. I'm predicting about ten weeks for the shoot because it's an extensive battle and each character is going to have their 'hero' moment on the battlefield. It's a manic fight in the air - the eagles are fighting bats - and on the ground, and I can't wait to see what Pete does with that." That's right, the battle will see men, elves, dwarves, orcs and eagles all facing off for the future of Middle-Earth! It falls to second unit director Andy Serkis to handle the action, but he isn't letting the pressure get to him. "It's going to be intense beyond belief. It's going to be extraordinary - that's all I can say."

This could possibly be one of the best cinematic fantasy battles ever brought to film - it could even surpass Siege Of Minas Tirith/Battle of The Pellenor Fields. It will truly be an epic battle - can't wait for the 'Eagles vs Bats' dogfight!