The second in the dystopian trilogy, this book described the ramifications of the 74th Hunger Games, both on Katniss and Peeta, and on the entirety of Panem. Showing us the desperate attempts at control the Capital uses against the districts, and growing discontent of the citizens, this book gives us the transition from the quiet resentment of the people, to full blown revolution. The movie delivers. While it leaves out many factors, like parts of the tour, Katniss getting trapped in the woods, and the preparation for the wedding, It keeps the most important details.
The Hunger Games most obvious message is about the media, and it was obvious here. Snow trying to convince angry Capital citizens to be okay with having their favorite victors sent to die, trying to sell to the districts a message no one was buying. Using the fashion and the romance of the Hunger Games as a way to distract from what is really happening. This all reflects our own media, and it’s in the movie. Katniss and Peeta use it against the government, using weddings and babies to anger Capital citizens. To create as much chaos as they can when they realize Snow won’t let them go free. The games captured the anger of Johanna and Finnick, and the constant fight for them to stay sane. They showed the sacrifices and difficulties that they had not yet recovered from during the last games. The arena showed that the whole point of the Quarter Quell was to torment the victors, with poisonous gas, blood rain, and the screams of their loved ones. The best scenes, though, were probably the last ones. When Katniss figures out the plan to escape, figures out Beetee’s plan, and Shoots her arrow at the sky while Snow is aghast on the other side of the cameras... It’s a powerful scene. And, it’s a little funny watching Snow call for his Gamemaker for an explanation, only to find that he had fled.
I wished the past Hunger Games had been talked about more, how Haymitch and Katniss’ mom knew each other and what past Hunger Games were like. I also think it would have been fun to watch Katniss, Peeta, and Haymitch try to get back in shape after sitting around for a year (even more for Haymitch).
I know a lot of people compare this movie to the first, saying that it is funny how the worst book got the better adaptation, but I disagree. The first movie had a more unfinished feel, fit for the mining town it starts in. The second movie is definitely well done, but I think it’s on the same level the Hunger Games, not above it. Regardless, this is an excellent adaptation and movie.
Lydia, I enjoyed your well thought out review of the film adaptation of Catching Fire. For example, your articulation of how you disagree with many viewers claim it was ironic how the worst book had the best film adaptation. You disagree with this view in a effective way which helped persuade me towards your claim.
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing, Mr. Heitz