‘THE HUNGER GAMES: MOCKINGJAY,’ PART 2 (2015) – Romantic and Epic Conclusion to Collins Best-Selling Series
The worldwide phenomenon that first burst into our world as a YA dystopian trilogy (some seven years gone) followed by its subsequent films has finally drawn to its close with Mockingjay Part 2. Since nearly all young adult adaptations make a trilogy more complicated (not to mention drawing the saga out) by splitting the final book into two parts, this franchise figured it best do the same. We saw part one released back in 2014 and now, in 2015, we’re seeing how Katniss Everdeen’s story concludes.
The Hunger Games: Mockingjay, Part 2 (2015) Film Review
Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence) is shattered following the Hunger Games and her second brush with death in the Quarter Quell. Her psyche has just been dealt another crushing blow, a trauma that might just be her undoing. District 13’s team of soldiers rescued the remaining victors, including Peeta (Josh Hutcherson) from the Capital. He’s been returned to Katniss but trained as an assassin with one target: Katniss. This inspires the rebel district of 13 to restrain Peeta in case he does harm to their symbol of the rebellion, the Mockingjay.
Meanwhile, President Snow (Donald Sutherland) persists in his end game of destroying Panem and more presently in his sights is Katniss, the girl on fire. His dislike of her is as strong as ever especially now her numbers among the surviving district residents continue to grow under the guidance of President Coin (Julianne Moore), District 13’s leader. The rebel nation of 13 makes plans, great plans to end the Capital’s reign even as Katniss plots in silence to end her tormentor. To make a stand, 13 have need of their Mockingjay. With one final arrow, Katniss’ last stand comes with a price, but more than that, it forever changes the power struggle of Panem.
The Hunger Games can be coined as an iconic series. Written by Suzanne Collins, the series is as popular today as it was upon its debut (perhaps more so). This final film is a prime example of excessive promotion, so much so shutting it out is impossible. I saw both the first two films relatively soon after their release yet only recently sat down to watch Mockingjay, Part 1 in anticipation of seeing this in theaters (which is the first I went to in theaters). Having now seen both, I think I can safely say (though not intentional) that watching them together is more rewarding.
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‘THE HUNGER GAMES: MOCKINGJAY,’ PART 2 (2015) – Romantic and Epic Conclusion to Collins Best-Selling Series #fromthearchives Share on XUnfortunately, Mockingjay did buckle to the pressure of splitting into two parts. I think by and large, I agree with those who feel this isn’t necessary. An effective and well-produced finale could have been achieved in one two-hour script. Having said my piece about that, and putting that aside, the concluding narrative in this epic series is really cinematic excellence. The scripters and actors seem to have a layered understanding of the material and world building. None of the writers have many credits to their name, but in collaboration with Suzanne Collins, the script is brilliant. The two parts do follow the book extraordinarily well with exception to some minor changes.
Keeping pace with the prior films, the entire cast is on point. Josh gets more (well deserved) screen time and what starts with Liam’s Gale in Mockingjay, Part 1 continues to grow here. I never felt really “bonded” to him or loyal because he always seems a present figure rather than relevant character. In this, I love what I see of him and if I’m being honest, I think his character (in consideration of the entire series) is possibly the most developed. Returning favorites from Jena Malone, Elizabeth Banks, Sam Claflin and Woody Harrelson also appear though those who’ve read the book will know not everyone surfaces with the happy ending they were due. Then there is Jennifer Lawrence. My repetitive praise of her performance could be replicated in this review, but instead I’ll merely say this: she is absolutely dazzling in this role. She gives Katniss more layers.
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Moving from place to place in this fictional world is always an adventure; the set designers brought to life a magnanimous world that’s terrifying and beautiful in equal nuances. Costuming reflects the moods of its films and continues to be striking, though not as ornate as “Catching Fire,” the final battle scene when Katniss and Gale don their cloaks to reach a destination in disguise were particularly gorgeous. Feelings for the end of the book were of the indifferent variety for me, however, the visual interpretation was beautiful. The reason for this, I think, was getting outside of Katniss’ head. In the book, I didn’t find her to have found any peace or real joy (despite this being a sweet give and take between her and Peeta – “Real or not real?”). Here, seeing her at the end made a difference. Her promise of “someday” gives us a glimpse of what she is still struggling with, but again, here’s where Jennifer Lawrence’s performance helps bring the character full circle.
Katniss calms Peeta with the words, “Stay with me.” His reply, “Always.”
Minor flaws aside, this blockbuster deserves every accolade it collects. It may be the “it” film everyone is currently raving about (sometimes this is more detrimental than complimentary) to which I’m here to add my voice to. Because of the split films, this does drag in a couple of places (Mockingjay probably could have been cut by a number of minutes and been just as effective) and yet I was still transfixed. There are some beautiful and if possible, joyful moments, all shot to perfection. Anyone who has stuck by this series from the beginning will appreciate this. It’s a long overdue reward for those of us who invested so much in the lives of these shattered and heroic lives.
Photos: Lionsgate
Have you seen Mockingjay, Part 2? Did you think it was well made; what about the cast, who’s your favorite? Sound off with any thoughts you have. I’d love to chat about this one.
I'm planning on seeing it again this weekend with friends :)
Ahhh! Yay! What'd you think, Jamie!? Hope you like it okay. :) :) :)
I loved the movie! I definitely like movie Katniss over book Katniss in Mockingjay. Nice review! :)
As did I, Gennifer. Jennifer Lawrence gives the character "life" in a sense and I love how she portrays her. :)
Thank you so much for reading. :)
I thought this was the most beautiful movie–the ending was perfection. I was afraid they'd cut it off and make Katniss and Peeta's eventual marriage about their physical attraction; I loved that it was about their friendship and understanding and comfort for one another after the things they'd been through. I certainly didn't expect to like the movie so much, but it has to be one of the best (blockbusters) I've seen all year if not the best. And you're right; the book Katniss just seems so detached. She needed a three-dimensional movie to bring her to life. It's understandable that she would seem detached after all she went through (though I can't remember if the books are written in present or past tense?).
Also, I've never loved Peeta so much before until this movie :D Collins was brilliant in giving him a while where he actually became what he feared–mean and a killer. It was essential for his character development and his relationship with Katniss.
Dance A Real
Ditto, ditto and ditto! What more can be said but how you summed this one up in that first paragraph!? Nothing, I say. :) I loved this conclusion so very much! The one minor flaw is the two parts really. I mean, it wound up being fine, but I do think an effective and well made conclusion could have been done in the same length as this film. But I'm not going to complain because this one was amazing! So well done and complimentary to the book while still being stronger.
I'm so glad you liked this one too, Hannah.
As for the characters, yes! Book Katniss just doesn't come across as interesting to me. I mean, like you, I get why she's detached but her flat characterization is so… boring. Jennifer Lawrence adds more and I love that. I think the book is first person… but don't quote me! I did just read it, but it was a rush job.
I've always like Peeta fine, but then I did know how the book series ended. The movie end was so much more moving for me. Weird, I know since it's virtually the same, but there you have it! :)
Thank so much for sharing YOUR thoughts, Hannah. Glad to chat with you! :)
Glad you enjoyed this Rissi!
I really liked this film too. A part of me is sad that the series has ended. However, the ending did wrap up things pretty nicely.
I did indeed, Ella and I'm pleased to know you did as well. If a series has to end, I think the depiction and place the writer's left Katniss in was as good as it gets. So much joy after too much turmoil… or at least, I felt there was. :)
It has been quite awhile (2012???) since I have read The Hunger Games. But when I saw the first movie I learned a valuable lesson. I must enjoy the books for the books, and the movie adaptions for the movie. That being said, I have adored the movies and am completely thrilled with how they concluded the series in film. It never fails, I cry during every movie and MJ Part 2 was no exception. This is one story that will never grow old for me. Excellent review!
What a great way to look at these, Rachel. The books never "worked" for me in the way that the film adaptations do. There's something fabulous about the films including the cast. And while it's the same, I do respect HOW the films end more than the books – Jennifer somehow "softens" Katniss' thoughts whereas in the book we only have her narrative, which to me reads too depressing.
I'll definitely re-watch the movies and who knows, perhaps I'll someday have more interest in the books. Thank you for reading, Rachel. :)