We have been waiting for it for a while, and now, part one of the third and final Hunger Games movies is here: The Hunger Games: Mockingjay, Part 1. This movie pulled at my heart strings and was emotionally taxing to watch, but I loved every minute of it. Having read the books, I had a hard time dealing with the little details left out, but besides that, this movie is a great adaptation of the book by Suzanne Collins.
WARNING: MINOR SPOILERS AHEAD!
If you are going to go to the theater, sit down, start chomping on your popcorn, and expect the same old Hunger Games you are used to, you’ll be surprised. This movie is unlike any other Hunger Games movie.
The opening scene is creepy, and successfully sets the movie up. Set in District 13, from the beginning, Katniss (Jennifer Lawrence) is angry, confused, and heartbroken. Katniss, Finnick (Sam Claflin), and Beetee (Jeffrey Wright) were the only people from their alliance saved from the blast that ended the last movie, and of course, Katniss is enraged that they couldn’t save Peeta (Josh Hutcherson). Alma Coin (Julianne Moore), president of District 13, wants Katniss to be named the face of their rebellion, the “Mockingjay”.
Katniss has no interest with being the Mockingjay unless the District 13 army can rescue Peeta, Annie (Stef Dawson), and Johanna (Jena Malone) at their earliest convenience. They agree, and begin to film a series of propaganda, or “propos”, as they call them. Whilst filming their “propos”, the Capitol begins to film their own propaganda, featuring a withering Peeta.
Going into the film 100% Team Gale, I saw that Gale’s (Liam Hemsworth) performance compared to Peeta’s in this movie is minuscule. I was so impressed with Josh Hutcherson’s performance. Every scene he’s featured in, he shocks the audience. Even without Peeta’s physical presence, they still include that memorable scene between Peeta and Katniss, where she wakes up from a night terror and Peeta runs in to her rescue. She then asks, “Peeta, will you stay with me?” and of course, the dreamed-up, apparition of Peeta agrees. His performance was honestly outstanding and I left being 100% Team Peeta.
One thing I was disappointed with was how they undermined the technology of District 13. In the book, District 13 is described by having lots of interesting technology, whether it be devices used to talk, daily schedules engraved in their arms, or tracking devices. The book specifically touches on a communication device that Gale is awarded to wear whilst on missions and consequently, gets it taken away. However, in the film, they only feature Katniss’ specially made bow and arrows and a high-tech aircraft-type device. The only mention to the communication devices was a beeping while Katniss and Gale are out filming “propos”.
Although this is not your average Hunger Games film, Mockingjay truly takes you on an emotional roller coaster that you do not want to get off. This film’s realness really makes it appealing and makes you feel like you are on this journey along with Katniss and her family. For those of you who haven’t read the books, you’re still in for a treat. I can’t stand having to wait an entire year for part two.
I give it 4 out of 5 North Stars and I highly recommend it.
