Benedict Cumberbatch has described Smaug as the 'ultimate symbol of the corruption of power'.
Cumberbatch will take on the role of Smaug this week in The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug; this will be the first time that we have been properly introduced to this character.
Cumberbatch has lent his voice to the character, while he is brought to life using CGI technology.
Speaking to the Yorkshire Evening Post the actor said: "Smaug is the ultimate symbol of the corruption of power. He's a sleepy serpent on top of his pile of gold.
"It brings him nothing but a damp, dank retirement, no joy or humour.
"He's vainglorious and proud of his own power and wealth, but it has essentially ruined him."
The movie will see Cumberbatch reunite with his Sherlock co-star Martin Freeman, as the actor returns to the role of Bilbo Baggins.
Peter Jackson returns to the director's chair for the second of three instalments of The Hobbit, while Richard Armitage, Ian McKellan and Orlando Bloom are also on the cast list.
The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug is released 13th December.
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