As the second movie of the Hunger Games series, “Catching Fire” had high expectations to live up to, and did not fail to meet them. This two and a half hour long movie had its audience members at the edge of their seats for the entirety of the film.
“I read the books so I knew what was going to happen but I was still so into it the whole time, it was intense!” said senior Stephanie Ferrante.
The movie starts from where the first one left off: with Katniss and Peeta returning to District 12 after their unlikely victory at the 74th Hunger Games. President Snow is obviously unhappy with the two rebels who managed to break his so-thought unbreakable system. So, he plans to punish them for giving the other districts hope, and inspiring them to rebel against the capital. As in the book, this movie is filled with plenty unexpected twists and turns, making it a hit with not only the critics, but also the fans.
Fans who have read the books prior to the movie release will be relieved to know that the movie is as true to the book as it can be, even using directs quotes. There was some doubt that the movie would be up to par after the reins of the director position was passed from Gary Ross to Francis Lawrence (known mostly for directing “I Am Legend” and “Water for Elephants”). However, Lawrence proved himself worthy of the franchise and is already making plans for the third movie based off the book “Mockingjay” which will be split into two films to be released November 2014 and November 2015.
“I can’t wait for the next movie to come out, I’ve started reading the books just to know what happens next!” said senior Matt Bolden. This shows that movies can stay true to the plot of the book, and the fans will be pleased with the outcome.
The cast and crew stepped up to the plate for this movie, with improved special effects and borderline award-winning acting. Fan favorite Jennifer Lawrence is getting rave reviews for her portrayal of Katniss Everdeen. The role she takes on is not a typical love-struck damsel in distress, but a strong, brave, humble hero to the people of the Districts.
“Katnisss is like my idol, I would love to be like her, and I wouldn’t mind having Peeta and Gale to choose from either,” said senior Katie Moore with a laugh. It’s refreshing to see a girl have such a powerful role; compared Bella Swan in “Twilight”. Much of the original cast returned, and many new cast members were added as the new tributes for the 75th Annual Hunger Games, otherwise known as the Quarter Quell. With notable appearances from Sam Claflin as Finnick Odair, Philip Seymour Hoffman as the new game maker Plutarch Heavensbee, and Jena Malone as Johanna Mason; the new cast has definitely kept up with the alum
“Johanna is my new favorite character because she is sassy and reacts just how I would if I were in her situation,” said sophomore Ally McKelvey.
“Catching Fire” is the highest-grossing film from Wednesday to Sunday over the Thanksgiving holiday, bringing in $110.2 million, raising its domestic total to $297 million. At number one at the box office, it does not seem that this movie seems to be slowing down, with fans of the movie going back to see the movie multiple times. “I’ve already seen it twice, it’s the best movie I have seen in a while,” said senior Kyle Spear. If you have not already seen it, you are missing out! Go see what all of the buzz is about.