The Hunger Games: Catching Fire

Jennifer Lawrence returns as heroic Katniss Everdeen in this adaptation of the second book in Suzanne Collins' dystopian trilogy—a film that is even darker and more dramatic than the first. After winning the 74th Annual Hunger Games, Katniss and Peeta Mellark (Josh Hutcherson) embark on a Victory Tour of the oppressed, underprivileged districts. But first Katniss must face suitor Gale (Liam Hemsworth), now that she is supposed to be romantically involved with Peeta. This fictional liaison is fostered by diabolical President Snow (Donald Sutherland), who—along with wily gamemaker Plutarch Heavensbee (the late Philip Seymour Hoffman)—is planning the next survival-of-the-fittest TV reality show, The Quarter Quell, which will bring together former Victors in competition, even as the seeds of subversion and rebellion continue to sprout throughout Panem. “Last year was child's play,” warns Katniss' manipulative mentor, Haymitch (Woody Harrelson). Catching Fire is adroitly directed by Francis Lawrence, who not only adheres to the central themes of loyalty, trust, and betrayal, but also maintains the resonant political undercurrent and suspenseful tension of the jungle Games, which involve a rotating rock island, rabid monkeys, attack birds, blood rain, and a rolling fog of poison gas. Acclaimed actress Lawrence once again effectively embodies the outspoken, revolutionary warrior whose weapon of choice is the bow and arrow. And she receives masterful support from Elizabeth Banks as PR-maven Effie Trinket, Lenny Kravitz as designer Cinna, and Stanley Tucci as TV host Caesar Flickerman, along with newcomers Jeffrey Wright, Amanda Plummer, and Jena Malone. An exciting, engaging, and escapist entertainment spectacle, this is recommended. [Note: DVD/Blu-ray extras include audio commentary by director Francis Lawrence and producer Nina Jacobson, deleted scenes (5 min.), and trailers. Exclusive to the Blu-ray release is a nine-part “making-of” documentary with cast and crew interviews (145 min.), and bonus DVD, digital, and UltraViolet copies of the film. Bottom line: a fine extras package for a winning second film in the popular franchise.] (S. Granger)