Peter Jackson's much anticipated 'The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey' will shortly be released in the UK. Martin Freeman stars as the plucky young Bilbo who sets off on an adventure with 13 oddly familiar Dwarves.

Featuring a host of acting talent, we take a look at the fellas underneath the Dwarf make-up.

Thorin — Richard Armitage

Former circus performer and 'Spooks' star, Richard Armitage, plays Thorin Oakenshield — the leader of the pack when it comes to the Dwarfs. "The real height of Thorin is five-foot-two," the English-born actor told Collider, "I think most five-foot-two people would be quite offended if they were to be called dwarves."



Dwalin — Graham McTavish

Previously best known for his role as Waden Ackerman in another height-related series, 'Red Dwarf', Glaswegian McTavish admits he feels honored by his casting. Speaking to theonering.net he said: "I think that I would be very lucky indeed if ever again in my career, I was offered an opportunity that was going to be so iconic in its influence and scale."

Balin — Ken Stott

Veteran of the odd TV crime-thriller (or five), Ken Stott will be using his detective skills as Balin, older brother of Dwalin and the Dwarves' vigilant look-out-man. Jackson said of Stott's casting: "Fran and I have long been fans of Ken's work and are excited he will be joining us on this journey."

Kili — Aiden Turner

'Being Human' star Aiden Turner plays Kili, one of the better looking of the company (as Dwarves go). Denying producers wanted to "de-handsomfiy him", Turner told Entertainment weekly he was giving a beard a chance: "We're just trying stuff out and seeing what it looks like," said the 29-year-old.

Fili — Dean O'Gorman

Former New Zealand soap star Dean O'Gorman joined 'The Hobbit' after 'Eastenders' actor Robert Kazinsky dropped out in April 2011. Described by Jackson as a "terrific Kiwi actor," 35-year-old O'Gorman will play Fili, the red headed brother of Kili - and apparently the Dwarf with the biggest nose.

Dori — Mark Hadlow

Story continues