Marval Movie

Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1 is a place setting movie. Ever since Hollywood figured out there were big bucks to be made from splitting  finales into two parts, the game is on, and it works. They get my money. I’ve read the series by Suzanne Collins, and I do recommend the books. It’s not too late. You get more of the descriptions of despair and fuller characterizations. But if you are only watching the films, then be sure to watch this Part 1. The first Hunger Games gave us Katniss and Peta as wily competitors from District 12. Catching Fire had the two playing the game better with heightened stakes. By the end, District 12 has been destroyed and Katniss is the model for the growing revolution.   

Now, Katniss has been pulled out from under President Snow’s nose. Hiding in the once rumored ruined District 13, Katniss worries about Peta’s status captured in the Capitol. He’s transmitting a message of forgiveness under duress. Katniss does not believe he turned into one of “them”. She’s torn between Gael and Peta. She misses Cinna. She’s unsure of her message as the mockingjay. The district president, played by Julianne Moore, is wise and wants Katniss to recognize her potential as a leader. As Katniss (Jennifer Lawrence) ventures out on missions, sees the destruction and poverty, her stoic demeanor cracks and she vows to do what she can.  

There are a lot of quiet moments in Mockingjay, but the tense undercurrent heightens the urgency of the situation. As the propaganda machines heat up and Katniss is showered in white tulips, she knows her battle with President Snow is for the sake of the world. Jennifer Lawrence just keeps getting better as an actress – she can look so sad and forlorn, and then kick butt. Donald Sutherland is suitably sinister. Liam Hemsworth, as Gael, is loyal to the revolution and fights hard for Katniss’s heart. Josh Hutcherson, as Peta, is soulful and tortured. The late Philip Seymour Hoffman, as Plutarch, is plucky (his performance makes us sad to know he’s gone).  And Woody Harrelson is a hoot as a regrettably sober Hammish.  

Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1 makes us hungry for the true finale. It’s well filmed, has plenty of action, and gives us fear, sorrow, worry, and some humor. Raise your three fingers, and give the soulful mockingjay whistle. Katniss needs rebels on her side.

All good things must come to an end. Some go out with a whimper, others with a bang. Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2 is the latter – a worthy end to quite a journey for Katniss Everdeen. This film picks up right where the other ended. Katniss is in the once thought destroyed District 13. She’s banged up but recovering. Peeta is still in isolation after being brainwashed in the Capitol. Hammish, Gale, Plutarch, and Finnick are there to rally with Katniss and plan a way to get into the Capitol to kill President Snow and free the people of war torn Panem. 

From the movie synopsis blurb - What lies ahead are mortal traps, dangerous enemies and etika choices that will ultimately determine the future of millions. 

We’ve watched Katniss grow and she’s a bit weary now – tired of fighting, tired of the stress, and afraid she will fail those who depend upon her. However, the girl has gumption and a good team who has her back. In Mockingjay Part 2, she has to dig deep and fight for Peeta’s soul. Will she ultimately choose him or Gale? Was there ever a question?  President Snow (Donald Sutherland) is so evil, so full of snake oil, and he knows better than to underestimate Katniss. Believe me, there’s a Holy Crap! scene that will have you cheering.

Jennifer Lawrence as Katniss has been so perfect for this role. She embodies character, growth, loyalty, and a stoic presence. She is a true heroine. Josh Hutcherson has grown as Peeta, the baker boy. He and Katniss have been thrown together and their strength and bond has evolved. Woody Harrelson as Hammish has offered Katniss wisdom and strength of friendship. The word strength keeps appearing and that’s the key to the Hunger Games series – it’s been the key to survival after all.  Time to put down your bow and arrow. Time to say farewell to Katniss. The odds have been forever in our favor, after all.