REVIEW: THE HUNGER GAMES: CATCHING FIRE

Yet another movie sequel hits the big screen in the form of a book adaptation of Suzanne Collins' novel trilogy The Hunger Games. Catching Fire is the second book in the trilogy, preceded by the self-titled The Hunger Games and followed by Mockingjay. The film adaptation of The Hunger Games received generally positive reviews when released in 2012.

The Hunger Games: Catching Fire reunites all the cast members from the previous film but this time under the helm of a new director Francis Lawrence (Constantine, I Am Legend) who replaces Gary Ross. The film reunites stars Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Woody Harrelson, Liam Hemsworth, Elizabeth Banks, Lenny Kravitz, Stanley Tucci, and Donald Sutherland. Rounding up the supporting casts are additional actors in Phillip Seymour Hoffman, Jena Malone, Jeffrey Wright, and Amanda Plummer. I have to say, this is such a mouth-watering list of cast members assembled. For the record, Jennifer Lawrence and director Francis Lawrence has no relation whatsoever.

I watched the first film last year but will the sequel live up to my expectations? Do read on...

Jennifer Lawrence as Katniss Everdeen and Josh Hutcherson as Peeta Mellark

SYNOPSIS:
After the events of The Hunger Games in which Katniss Everdeen (Lawrence)and Peeta Mellark (Hutcherson) emerged victorious, they returned to their hometown of District 12 and live their own separate lives. To both their surprise, the country's President Snow (Sutherland) threatens their lives and their families since they inspired rebellious citizen movements after winning the last games. Both Katniss and Peeta are forced to pretend to live a blissful relationship and brought through a tour across the country including the capital. Once reaching the capital, they are forced to compete in another Hunger Games competition where the loser will die and only the strong will live.

Both the leads are 'Catching Fire'

SCRIPT:
Just like the previous film, the script mostly follows the lives of Katniss Everdeen and Peeta Mellark all the way. For a movie that is set in the not too distant future, it seems pretty understandable as to what is at stake in the story. The strong themes of courage, sacrifice, and teamwork from the previous film is also evident again in this film. Those who watch this MUST watch the previous film for a better understanding.

Jennifer Lawrence has really grown as an actress.

ACTING:
Actress Jennifer Lawrence outshone mostly the ensemble cast. This Oscar-winning actress of Silver Linings Playbook managed to hold her own against the big established stars surrounding her. I liked the inclusion of another Oscar-winning actor, Phillip Seymour Hoffman (Best Actor for 2005's Capote) as the villain. Woody Harrelson and Elizabeth Banks performed well to make the acting ensemble look solid. Josh Hutcherson who plays Peeta Mellark and partner to Lawrence's Katniss Everdeen has grown maturely as an actor.

Phillip Seymour Hoffman as Plutarch and Woody Harrelson as Haymitch in supporting roles

FILMING:
Director Francis Lawrence brought a refreshing direction to the film. The sequel feels like it has more budget when you can see elaborate sets and visual effects. Both production design and visual effects were well executed. Francis Lawrence used his usual filming style technique which were more interesting the Gary Ross' slightly boring feel in the first film. I liked the cinematography which managed to capture this bleak look of a dystopian future.

Francis Lawrence (center) directing Liam Hemsworth and Jennifer Lawrence on set.

PACING:
Slightly slow in beginning as it tries to establish some backstories. Pretty moderate pace in the middle. Good third act towards the end when it was engaging in terms of action sequences.

TONE (MOOD):
A dark future where only strong and brave survive, and those who try to lie and be deceitful will go out to harm the heroes.

Elizabeth Banks as Effie Trinket being flanked by Hutcherson and Lawrence

DOWNSIDE:
I had a problem with the pacing. Could have been better and more interesting. The dark and bleak mood might be a turn off to some.

UPSIDE:
Good build up towards the end. Nice action shots.

Jennifer Lawrence in the lead role as Katniss Everdeen

OVERALL:
It is a good movie sequel. It is not better than the first film but slightly on par with the first film. Remember, you MUST watch the first film to understand this one.

RATING:
7.5 out of 10.