Not One Jay Was Mocked: Hunger Games Mockingjay part 1

You can watch my youtube review HERE!!!

The Hunger Games franchise has taken the world by storm and for good reason; first off the source material was incredibly popular, secondly it was filling in the gap between adults and children that is often forgotten and lastly because they're rather intelligent blockbusters. I'm have not read the source material (though I have done some research) and don't really consider myself a fan but I can appreciate it when a movie does more than what's expected or asked of it and this franchise has done that.

Directed by Francis Lawrence and starring Jennifer Lawrence, Donald Sutherland, Julianne Moore, the late Philip Seymore Hoffman (he will be missed), Woody Harrelson, Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth, Elizabeth Banks, Stanley Tucci, Jeffrey Wright, Sam Claflin and the lovely Natalie Dormer. After being rescued from the Quarter Quell Katniss (Lawrence) struggles with PTSD and guilt while also reluctantly becoming the symbol for the rebellion and fearing what has become of Peeta. What follows is a battle of propaganda as both sides begin to build up to an explosion of violence.

Mockingjay part one changes the formula of the first two films by not having a Hunger Games and though its good that it didn't become repetitive it's unfortunately weakened by have the book split into two films. Though there is definitely a lot to cover in the book it's the second half which is the meatiest and this being based on the first half stretches the story too thin while also making the movie longer than it needed to be. Running at two hours this film could have easily been cut to improve pacing, focus and story while also removing various unnecessary scenes and sub-plots. But even though its not as dynamic as it could be there is still enough to make it a good watch.

The cast is as solid as always and was well constructed from the inception of the franchise. The added additions of Julianne Moore and Natalie Dormer further boosts its talented cast. Unfortunately Liam Hemsworth remains as uncharismatic as always and weakens the strong ensemble. The film is well shot though it finds itself between the shakycam of the first film and the much improved camera work of Catching Fire. James Newton Howard's score is also good but a bit too intrusive and manipulative but that's also the fault of the script which thinks exposition is much more important than showing us the story and the reasons for our feelings.

But Mockingjay part 1 is a solid entry to the solid franchise which still doesn't impress me but still manages to be an engaging and entertaining watch. The world of the film is an interesting and compelling one and the actors do well to keep you invested. Unfortunately the social commentary and satire is lessened and the themes can't dig deep enough given the films rating because of the target audience. One day I would love to see an adult rated version of the story (yes I've seen Battle Royale but they're commenting on different things). Mockingjay is well made and contains enough blockbuster thrills while also being thoughtful to make it worth a watch and though it's not great it still is rather good.

3 out of 5 stars.

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