Review: Mockingjay

Mockingjay Part One, the second sequel to the Hunger Games, begins the story following the precession of Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence) and Peeta Mellark`s (Josh Hutcherson) journey after the 75th Annual Hunger Games. With Peeta being in captivity of the Capitol, Katniss takes on the role of symbolic Mockingjay and leads the rebellion in the 12 Districts against President Snow. To say that the producers of this film may have outdone themselves is an understatement. 

From the very beginning of the movie the audience is captured in Jennifer Lawrence`s outstanding acting abilities. Her anger, sadness and determination are projected onto each viewer in an emotional way. With each scene I could feel myself becoming more attached to the story and rooting for the ever-endearing Katniss to succeed in her battle against the Capitol. Josh Hutcherson also did not fail in winning the crowd over to feel broken-hearted for the imprisoned boy in President Snow`s hands. Overall, the entire cast did such a wonderful job in portraying their emotions in a relatable way that I honestly can say that the Hunger Games cast is one of the best I’ve seen.

This movie encompassed every component of a good story; it had excellent actors, an interesting plot, realistic visualizations, and a fitting soundtrack. For anyone who hasn`t been up to date with the Hunger Games Trilogy, this movie is certainly an compelling watch, but for those dedicated watchers, Mockingjay Part One is simply awe-worthy. Director Francis Lawrence created the movie to be an almost exact replica of the novel by Suzanne Collins. They were able to recreate a fictional story into something that an audience could digest as realistic because the effects in Mockingjay were absolutely amazing. A hover-craft that looked like it belonged in Stars Wars seemed like it could be something seen in present day and explosives seemed to occur right before your very eyes. It is unbelievable how well the creators of this film told this story and were able to capture the attention of every person in the theatre. They were also able to combine action, romance, and comedy so fluently that it was constantly interesting and upbeat, never a dull moment that could allow ones mind to wander.

So whether or not you`re a Hunger Games fan, I would highly recommend seeing this outstanding movie. It appeals to a wide range audience and the two hours passes easily because of how enveloped you become to the film. Chills, tears, laughter are all guaranteed during the movie and I can`t say that about many movies. With Mockingjay Part One being such a success, I have high hopes for Part Two on November 20th, 2015.