Bluffing kfooz

For most movie series, their sequel sucks... But not this one. This one is awesome!

The Hunger Games: Catching Fire (2013)

Directed by: Francis Lawrence

Written by:  Simon Beaufoy, Michael Arndt, Suzanne Collins (novel)

Starring:      Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth, Woody Harrelson, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Elizabeth Banks, Sam Claflin

This is my review on the first movie:

The Hunger Games (2012) "It’s a high-tech version of Royal Battle, with a bit 1984 influence. Pretty promising franchise. I hate people always compare this to the stupid Twilight Saga. Before I know anything about the book, I think it’s a very exciting movie. The brutality failed to meet my expectation though. I like the political allegory. The scenario is impressive. I also like the reality show format. The tv show part is more interesting to me, than the competition. The parade, the talk show and the commentary is fun to watch. We can see the change of face on/off screen.  And, after I know what’s going in the book, I find something important is missing in the film. The book is written as Katniss’s monologue. It tells us that katniss is manipulating the audience throughout the whole game esp. how she raises a legion in district 11. At first, I was confused by Katniss’s relationship with Rue. One, Katniss doesn’t seem to befriend with others easily. Two, the crying and the flower after Rue’s death  is a bit over. Now, it all makes sense. The film doesn’t inform us her schemer side. That’s a weak link for me. Also, Peeta is the most decent guy in the book. He didn’t want to kill anyone and he really loves Katniss. I don’t know if the film change this or not. About the cast, Jennifer Lawrence and Josh Hutcherson are good. I can hardly recognize Woody Harrelson and Wes Bentley. They look awesome :] And Peter Dinklage's appearance, what a nice surprise! Looking forward to the sequel. The president, the tension between The Capital and the 12 Districts, Katniss and Peetr being martyr, the next Game. Should be good."

Yes. I am not totaling buying the franchise after watching the first film. However, the 2nd film totally blew me away. And now, I am a believer! (rasing my left arm up)

The story is more mature and complete. The allegory is more well-developed. It's now a story about fighting against the tyrant, about a revolution, not just a game that teenagers killing each other. This film continue to emphasis reality tv as a propaganda tool. This time the agenda is more revealing. The big brother is watching and using it to compel and fool his people. The story is cool and exciting. You wouldn't realize it's 2 1/2 hour long.

The game changed. Contestants are selected from previous winners. However, those contestants are weird. They all seem to have different level PTSD. Definitely some thing’s wrong. And when the big scheme is revealed, it all makes sense.

Peeta’s role is crucial in this film. Supportive, helpful and daring. The whole “save Peeta” thing is a bit confusing though. Katniss is so attached to Peeta now. I guess she’s doing this because 1. she has to keep acting to convince the president and the audience, 2. She survived last game because of Peeta, so she’s thankful, 3. She loves him like a family or 4. He represents a decent individual with a pure soul. I haven’t read the book, I could be very wrong. However, I’ve heard that Peeta would be very “different” in the next chapter! No more sweet boy I reckon.

Jennifer Lawrence's performance, Forget about Silver Lining's Playbook, this is award-winning performance. To me, she is one of the best leading girl of her genreation. Lots of potential. You go girl!

All in all, from a Disney movie to a well-developed, tension building movie, I am very impressed. It could be one of the best film I've watched in 2013. Can't wait for Mocking Jay.