Directed by Francis Lawrence
Written by Simon Beaufoy and Michael DeBruyn
Based on the novel by Suzanne Collins
There's always one question to ask when a sequel to a high profile film is released: How does it compare to the original. In the case of Catching Fire, it proves to be a rare case where the sequel is actually stronger than the original. The credit for this goes to director Francis Lawrence, who shows a surer hand and a better feel for pacing than Gary Ross did. Unfortunately, this film went in with issues from the book that it simply was unable to correct, and which hold the film back.
The first two acts of the film are incredibly strong. Where the first film kept the focus squarely on the games, this film is at its best when depicting the political unrest that permeates the world. The tone of the film is perfect in these parts, and Francis Lawrence keeps the tension up, as we realize that the world is a powder keg ready to go off. This is aided greatly by the film's gorgeous cinematography, miles better than the shaky-cam plague that the first film had.
The performances are better for the most part as well. Unfortunately Katniss is a less dynamic character this time around, which is a shame as it doesn't allow Jennifer Lawrence much room to really show her talents. She is still a great actress, though, and performs very strongly in the film, making the most of whatever she is given. What's truly been improved this time out is the supporting cast. Harrelson and Banks are markedly improved this time around, as is Hutcherson, who proves to be the heart of the film. Donald Sutherland and Philip Seymour Hoffman are perfectly intimidating villains, and truly help keep the stakes high on the film. Even the past victors are strong, at least those who are given characterization. Sam Claflin may seem like a piece of art direction rather than casting at first glance, but when given a chance to portray more of Finnick's subtextual personality he lives up to the challenge, but in the end it is Jena Malone who truly steals the movie. She doesn't have a ton of screen time, but she makes the most of every second, truly having fun with the role and developing her character well.
In the end, the film falls short when getting to the climax. Though I relished the opportunity for Francis Lawrence to improve upon the missed opportunity that the first film's games were, the emphasis on environmental factors over personal combat lessened the tension of the film, as well as the fact that going back to the games inevitably feels redundant. Another major issue is the PG-13ification of the story. I understood that they had to play it very safe in the first film, as it was children who were being killed, but this time the targets are older, and I can't help but feel like they could have gotten away with more. It's just tough to really feel the stakes of a fight to the death if all of the deaths happen conveniently offscreen.
In the end, this is a strong film that unfortunately had some issues going into it that couldn't have been fixed, not the least of which being its weak ending. However, as a part 2, this film could have been a lot worse, and indeed does improve the story and deliver some great tension, now if only they can continue the upward streak for the two parts of Mockingjay (The two parter being a terrible idea) then they may be able to make something truly great. B+
The performances are better for the most part as well. Unfortunately Katniss is a less dynamic character this time around, which is a shame as it doesn't allow Jennifer Lawrence much room to really show her talents. She is still a great actress, though, and performs very strongly in the film, making the most of whatever she is given. What's truly been improved this time out is the supporting cast. Harrelson and Banks are markedly improved this time around, as is Hutcherson, who proves to be the heart of the film. Donald Sutherland and Philip Seymour Hoffman are perfectly intimidating villains, and truly help keep the stakes high on the film. Even the past victors are strong, at least those who are given characterization. Sam Claflin may seem like a piece of art direction rather than casting at first glance, but when given a chance to portray more of Finnick's subtextual personality he lives up to the challenge, but in the end it is Jena Malone who truly steals the movie. She doesn't have a ton of screen time, but she makes the most of every second, truly having fun with the role and developing her character well.
In the end, the film falls short when getting to the climax. Though I relished the opportunity for Francis Lawrence to improve upon the missed opportunity that the first film's games were, the emphasis on environmental factors over personal combat lessened the tension of the film, as well as the fact that going back to the games inevitably feels redundant. Another major issue is the PG-13ification of the story. I understood that they had to play it very safe in the first film, as it was children who were being killed, but this time the targets are older, and I can't help but feel like they could have gotten away with more. It's just tough to really feel the stakes of a fight to the death if all of the deaths happen conveniently offscreen.
In the end, this is a strong film that unfortunately had some issues going into it that couldn't have been fixed, not the least of which being its weak ending. However, as a part 2, this film could have been a lot worse, and indeed does improve the story and deliver some great tension, now if only they can continue the upward streak for the two parts of Mockingjay (The two parter being a terrible idea) then they may be able to make something truly great. B+
First one was just a bit better, but this one still has its moments that will make you happy to see what happens when a book-to-movie adaptation is done right. Nice review Alex.
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