Review of “The Hunger Games: Mockingjay”

This review needs to be taken with several grains of salt.  I have never read the “Hunger Games” series and I wouldn’t consider myself on expert on the series or the fictional universe in which it exists.

So, here it goes.

“The Hunger Games: Mockingjay” picks up soon after the end of the Quarter Quell, in which Peta and Katniss had to fight in the Hunger Games for the second time. The movie opens with a traumatized Katniss coping with the trauma of the last games and her separation from Peta.

She also awakens to discover that she is in the midst of a civil war between District 13 (the rebels) and the Capitol. Although Katniss is credited with inciting the civil war, she is unsure of her intentions and her own dedication to rebel against the Capitol.

Similarly to the other films, this Hunger Games brings up questions about the nature of government, personhood, and individuality.  This Hunger Games, however, also makes the audience, and even Katniss, question who is good and who is bad. The film never gives any answers to this last question, but instead seems to imply that the lesser bad guys must be the good guys.  Although the Hunger Games is a young adult novel and film series, it tackles extreme questions about our own involvement with government injustice. Are we good guys or bad guys?

The film is shot absolutely beautifully. Every single take and scene change is beautifully detailed and gorgeous. The lighting and filming alone are worth seeing this film.

As usual, Jennifer Lawrence delivered a fabulous performance as Katniss. J Law has unusual stage presence that is strengthened by flawless delivery.  She captures Katniss and you believe that she is hurt, in love, traumatized, and hopeful all at the same time. How does she do it?

Philip Seymour Hoffman is perhaps the most devastating and unforgettable part of the film. P.S.H. is one of my favorite actors and I was deeply saddened by his passing in February.  This film is yet another testament to his artistic genius, however.  Every line, no matter how seemingly insignificant is delivered perfectly. P.S.H. is always on point and is always good.  He can do so much and make you feel so much with such a small role. He was an unforgettable actor and his performance in the Hunger Games underscores that point.

I recommend seeing the Hunger Games for one simple reason: it will get you thinking.