December 17 is just a few short weeks away, and that means The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies is almost here. It's the climactic chapter in Jackson's Hobbit trilogy, a journey that's seen him direct six epic movies set in J.R.R. Tolkien's fantasy world. This entry is expected to both finish out The Hobbit and feature connective tissue that ties it to The Lord of the Rings.

As Tolkienites await their final trip to Middle-Earth, Warner Bros. has posted seven new images to keep the anticipation factor cranked up to a feverish level. Check 'em out, and click on each one for a high-res look.

Thorin's company of Dwarves prepares for one last battle.

The ups and downs of the friendship between Thorin Oakenshield and Bilbo Baggins figure prominently in The Battle of the Five Armies.

Azog, commander of the Necromancer's army of Orcs. He really wants Thorin dead.

Gandalf stands ahead of the Elvish army.

Viewers may recognize this shot of Bard the Bowman with Elvish archers, since it was featured in the movie's trailer.

...And here's the same scene from Bard's P.O.V.

Thranduil, the selfish, prickly Elf King, also has a beef with Thorin. He'll have to get in line.