Release Date: Nov 21, 2014
Runtime: 2 hr. 3 min.
Director: Francis Lawrence
Cast: Jennifer Lawrence, Liam Hemsworth, Josh Hutcherson, Julianne Moore, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Sam Claflin, Donald Sutherland, Woody Harrelson, Elizabeth Banks, Stanley Tucci, Natalie Dormer, Jeffrey Wright.
She's been hunted, demoralized, and enveloped by fire, but Katniss Everdeen's greatest challenges have yet to be materialized. In part 1 of the finale in "The Hunger Games" series, propaganda takes the forefront in the fight against the Capitol. Touting the 'Mockingjay' symbol as the leader of hope, Jennifer Lawrence continues her role as the catalyst of the films. It's through her perseverance the story cultivates the most interest, though not enough to warrant a 2-part summation. What starts out as a cry for urgent revolution leisurely meanders into 2 hrs of idle preparation. This is mostly in part due to the languid source material – the third book, personally, being the weakest in the dystopian trilogy. As it's the slow buildup before the imminent warfare, there's not much to be seen in active battle. But if there's one thing that Francis Lawrence adds as director, it's the multiple facets other than just Katniss' point of view. By integrating scenes not previously actualized in the book, the film brings tension in otherwise placid of moments. Jennifer Lawrence, conjointly, delivers an arresting performance, baring her soul in the aftermath of the games and fall of District 12. Normally levelheaded, she takes a turn for the worst, as she attempts to regain her sanity and adapt to new bearings. Josh Hutcherson similarly makes use of his time, eliciting a raw facade never seen before. Albeit, the film no longer focuses solely on their wayward romance, they still hold a prominence when it comes to engaging the viewer. As "Part 1" comes to a close leaving much to be desired, there's at least solace in knowing the general premise of "Part 2." Given that all of the games has led to this moment, expectations are ripe for a blazing showdown.
Rating: 3 stars
