Fire is catching

Grace Fendrick
Features Editor

Mockingjay Part 1 earned only $123 million in the U.S. over opening weekend, far under the previous films which made $158 million* (Catching Fire) and $153 million (The Hunger Games).  Although the numbers were disappointing for the franchise, the film exceeded very high expectations and did achieve the highest box office numbers of the year. Fans of the books will be very pleased due to the fact the movie is split into two parts, enabling more book content than in comparison to the other two films. 

Just after the sabotaged Quarter-Quell, Katniss finds herself stricken with nightmares and medically drugged in the District 13 hospital. Throughout the course of the film, she struggles to acclimate to her life as the symbol of the rebellion. Those around her hold their breath to see what their “mockingjay” becomes.

While the movie is filled with plenty of action, there are definitely more romantic aspects than in the previous films; this time however it is not revolving around the "star crossed lovers of District 12". Jennifer Lawrence and Liam Hemsworth show great chemistry while playing their characters Katniss Everdeen and Gale Hawthorne. Josh Hutcherson’s character, Peeta Mellark is not often seen in the film, but the few scenes he is in are truly powerful. Although she is not covered in over-the-top Capital clothing and makeup, Effie Trinket’s bubbly personality shines through thanks to the talented Elizabeth Banks. Woody Harrelson once again played Haymitch Abernathy, this time sober, flawlessly. Both Lawrence and Sam Claflin do an outstanding job at portraying their character’s confusion and grief from what has happened.

Lionsgate’s Mockingjay Part 1 is an outstanding production and a great movie for date night.