Favourite Film Review - The Hunger Games: Catching Fire

The Hunger Games: Catching Fire

 

Plotline – A rebellion is sparked by the defiance shown by the ‘star crossed lovers’ from District 12. The capitol is furious at Katniss Everdeen and Peeta Mellark for their stunt they pulled at the 75^th Hunger Games, as a form of revenge and an attempt to squander the emerging rebellion President Snow decides for the third Quarter Quell that the tributes will be reaped from the remaining pool of victors from previous games.

Director – Francis Lawrence

Cast – Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth, Elizabeth Banks, Woody Harrelson 

Year released – 2013

Why is this my favourite film?

The Hunger Games: Catching Fire is my favourite film because:

Firstly, the cinematography is absolutely stunning. The camera shots are leagues above the ones in the first film. One key thing I noticed about the camera shots is that in the first film they were handled in a way that made the image appear shaky and didn’t allow the viewer to focus in on what the image exactly was, this was allegedly to hide some gore from the viewer in order the make the age rating as low as possible so more people could see the film so as a result more money could be made. In Catching Fire most camera shots were still or moving in a smooth consistent pace and direction which instantly made the film feel significantly more expensive and artistic. To match this the set design and locations of the film had received a huge upgrade as the set was more complex due to it having to perform specific duties such as the cornucopia spinning around and a tropical jungle setting was the foundation of the arena.

Secondly, there is an underlying message of the film that inspires me. I take away that the message is that even if you are put into the worst situations possible just take a breath and with your inner courage and determination you can find a way through. Just like how Katniss Everdeen was thrust into the arena again with twenty-three other tributes who won their games, so her chances of survival were marginal. However, with support of the rising rebellion her growing courage and determination where we see a huge transformation in this movie where Katniss Everdeen becomes the Mockingjay: face of the rebellion.

Finally, I can relate to the character of Katniss Everdeen because she often keeps quiet often keeps with her thoughts and gives conscience answers to questions where possible. But when she is angry at an injustice or having a good time with Prim where we see her true colours shine bright where she will speak up if she believes something terrible is going on like when she ran into the yard to stop Gale from being whipped to death or singing and laughing with her sister Primrose. This is exactly where I connect with Katniss, I sometimes can be very quiet but can come to life in the most crucial moments when passionate about something and opening up and having a laugh when feeling comfortable and Safe. 

Bonus Trivia – Jennifer Lawrence said while filming in the arena she hit herself with the bow mid-sprint, and dove into a pool of jets, leaving her partially deaf for six days.