THE HUNGER GAMES: CATCHING FIRE – The Review

Katniss Everdeen captures audiences once again with her bravery and spirit in THE HUNGER GAMES: CATCHING FIRE.

In the second film adaptation of Suzanne Collins trilogy, we find that Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence) has returned home, and despite some post traumatic stress, she and Peeta Mellark (Josh Hutcherson) are alive. Despite winning the 74th Annual Hunger Games, the two cannot move on. They must leave their families and friends and embark on a “Victor’s Tour” through all of the districts, and face the families of the tributes who lost their lives. Along the way, it becomes more and more apparent that a rebellion is stirring, and the Capitol, controlled by President Snow, blame one person for this – Katniss.

I have been excited for this film to come out since the release of the first film, and it did not disappoint! This film doesn’t have as much action as the first one, but it still has it’s fair share. Director Francis Lawrence more than makes up for it with a compelling story that draws viewers into their chaotic world. Lawrence maintained the tone and feel that Gary Ross set when he directed the first film, minus the shaky camera action shots. In my opinion, the film is better without them.

Jennifer Lawrence shines as Katniss. Her talents continue to soar as she takes character of Ms. Everdeen to new levels and depths as her character is faced with the realization that her bravery and sense of hope has inspired a rebellion against the Capitol. Josh Hutcherson also continues to shine as he plays Peeta, especially in the earl scenes where he is forced to, yet again, do most of the public speaking due to Katniss’s lack of talent at faking her pride in the Capitol, and inability to control her thoughts from spewing out of her mouth. Liam Hemsworth, Woody Harrelson, Lenny Kravitz, Phillip Seymour Hoffman, Donald Sutherland, and Stanley Tucci all lend their talents to the second installment. Elizabeth Banks performance as Effie, however, seems to stand out above the rest in this installment. We get to see a different side of Effie as she lets a more caring side shine through, and Banks plays the part with grace and heart.

We are also introduced to a new set of characters who are chosen as tribute for the 75th Annual Hunger Games, which includes Sam Claflin, Jena Malone, and Jeffrey Wright. They blend in with the returning cast of the first movie nicely.

Seeing as there is another Hunger Games about to begin in this film (the 75th Annual Hunger Games), certain plot points and events are similar to the first movie. Having said that, this is not a problem! Plenty is still new, and fresh in this film. As much as I would love to go into detail about all of the things I found amazing about this film, I also don’t want to spoil anything for audiences… especially those that might not have read the book.

The film does end abruptly, leaving audiences wanting more, but setting up the anticipation for the final installment THE HUNGER GAMES : MOCKINGJAY, which will be broken up into two films.

THE HUNGER GAMES: CATCHING FIRE is an inspiring tale of bravery, struggle, and standing up for what is right, despite the cost.

OVERALL RATING: 4.75 out of 5 stars

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THE HUNGER GAMES : CATCHING FIRE releases in theaters
November 22