The Hobbit IS different in spirit in relation to the trilogy. More focus on the individual (Bilbo), not as "dark" and militaristic--at least that's my recollection (although it's been a few years since I've read them). But of course there's a lot that they have in common.
It's probably a good idea not to stray TOO far from Jackson's vision and style, which worked very well.
I'm still hoping for James McAvoy as Bilbo.
“It’s probably a good idea not to stray TOO far from Jackson’s vision and style, which worked very well.”
In terms of characters, plot and theme, Jackson showed great disregard for Tolkien’s masterpiece.
In one of his letters, Tolkien ripped apart a guy who wanted to make MINOR changes for a film; Tolkien probably would have challenged Jackson to a duel when he first saw the script.