The fact that “Hunger Games” is technically considered a young adult adaptation perceives me. Although yes, it has sensible themes of love and romance, in a dystopian society (the perfect blend for YA novels). Delving deeper into the realm of this world, there is something more to be uncovered. Much like Harry Potter, “HG” seems to get darker and more robust with every next move. I’m saying that “Hunger Games” is much better than what it’s being compared to.

I digress….

Huge franchises are starting to cash in on this idea of breaking up their big budget blockbusters into “parts”. We saw this first happen a few years ago with “Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows”. Then again with “Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn” (I mean who really cared about that one?). Now, as those studios did, in an attempt to keep the revenue coming in; have broken up The Hunger Games: Mockingjay, the third, and final, book of the popular young adult novels, into two parts. A good move for the studios, not for everyone else watching.

To me, there are only cons into splitting movies in halfs, the second tier is almost always going to be better than its predecessor, and the first part is always hype, with no conclusion. As history seems to repeat itself – Mockingjay P1 is all dialogue with extreme close attention to detail, and exposition with very little action, and a slightly slower pace than I am used to when it comes to “Hunger Games”. In my, oh so humble opinion, Suzanne Collins final book is easily the most boring entry, so the decision to split it up was already futile.

Taking place after the events of “Catching Fire” concluded, Katniss (Lawrence) is now a symbol of the ongoing revolution movement that is the Mockingjay. Being forced to hide underground in a once decimated District 13; the fight to the capitol continues as President Snow (Donald Sutherland) holds Peeta (Josh Hutcherson), Johanna, and others in captivity. With aid from Plutarch Heavensbee (Philip Seymour Hoffman) and President Coin (Julianne Moore) – they will get others to enlist in the cause, bringing down the capitol once and for all.

Jennifer Lawrence has truly come into her own as a top notch performer. Stealing scene after scene as the brave, heroic Katniss. A more than remarkable heroine that is easily the character to root for, a fierce poster child that delivers everything she promises. While (although restricted this time around) Josh Hutcherson has added more empathy and emotion into Peeta then the previous entries combined.

The problem, however, does not lie in the performances – it’s the structure and layout. Aside from a heightened “Zero Dark Thirty” esq finale nothing truly keep me as entangled as I needed to be. Which is always the problem with the first part (of a two part finale) things are heightened, dramatically, and just when you think it could get better? the film ends abruptly. The filmmakers did pick a good point to end the film, and I truly mean, when I say, I’m excited for the Part 2 finale (due out next year).

Director Francis Lawrence shows inept control in certain areas of expertise. The execution of the propaganda side of events. Showcasing the effects and brutality of war, while conveying the message along is impressive.

The story was already written, there are no actual “games” this time around (which already hurt the pace) but “Mockingjay Part 1” is filled to the core with memorable performances, and strong moments of heroism. Just know the best is still yet to come, and regardless I will be in line for Part 2 come this time next year.

B-

Directed: Francis Lawrence

Rated: PG13

Runtime: 130 mins

Release Date: November 21st 2014

Studio: Lionsgate

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