Movie Review: The Hunger Games: Catching Fire

The Hunger Games: Catching Fire

Release Date: November 22nd 2013
Studio: Lionsgate
Director: Francis Lawrence
Main Cast: Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth, Woody Harrelson, Elizabeth Banks, Lenny Kravitz, Donald Sutherland
Screenwriter: Simon Beaufoy (screenplay), Michael Arndt (screenplay), Suzanne Collins (novel)
Genre: Action | Adventure | Sci-Fi
MPAA Rating: Rated PG-13 for intense sequences of violence and action, some frightening images, thematic elements, a suggestive situation and language

Official Websites: The Hunger Games Explorer | Facebook | Twitter

Storyline: Katniss Everdeen has returned home safe after winning the 74th Annual Hunger Games along with fellow tribute Peeta Mellark. Winning means that they must turn around and leave their family and close friends, embarking on a “Victor’s Tour” of the districts. Along the way Katniss senses that a rebellion is simmering, but the Capitol is still very much in control as President Snow prepares the 75th Annual Hunger Games (The Quarter Quell) – a competition that could change Panem forever.

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The Hunger Games: Catching Fire, one of the most anticipated films of 2013, and after seeing the film you will know exactly why. From start to finish the film takes you on a wild ride that we know and love as Catching Fire. Francis Lawrence’s dedication to this film makes you believe that the story is just flying off the paper.

As a fan of the series I was extremely pleased with everything that went into this film, from the actors chosen for the tributes to the lavish outfits worn by the capital and the tributes during the opening ceremony and tribute parade. I cannot explain in enough words how epic this film was. I wasn’t overanalyzing the scenes thinking “well they should have done that” or “they should’ve added that from the book.” I was hooked from the very first scene to the very end of the movie, silently wishing that Mockingjay would just start after Catching Fire ended, I couldn’t get enough of our heroine Katniss. I went through a world wind of emotions, from depression, to joy, anticipation. I went from crying one moment to laughing the next, and followed by cheering. I was amazed with how well the movie was put together and not straying from the storyline.

Meeting and getting to know the tributes was probably my favorite, I fell in love with Peeta and Finnick all over again. We get to feel more from Peeta, and watch Katniss’ and his relationship unfold throughout the victory tour and 75th Quarter Quell. Though one-act stood out the most to me and that was Jena Malone. She wasn’t what I exactly who imagined for Johanna, but to my surprise she was immaculate. Her performance was raw and angsty, just like Johanna was supposed to be.

Catching Fire will not disappoint a soul, and fans alike will fall in love with the series all over again. And not only will fans of the books will be pleased, but fans that never read the books as well. That’s what I loved about the adaptation; there wasn’t a time where I would think if someone who didn’t read that book might not understand what was going on or what just happened. They explained and didn’t relish on something that was not of importance. The movie will be loved by anyone who comes along it. Make sure to see it this weekend 11/22/2013!

P.s. – Bring tissues (lots of it).