Catching Fire is my favorite of the trilogy. It’s a lot like The Hunger Games, yet different enough that it didn’t feel the same. I enjoyed being with my favorite characters from the first book and enjoyed meeting the new characters. I also loved the interaction between Katniss and Peeta; it seemed more genuine, even if it was conflicted. The new arena for the Quarter Quell was so imaginative and had such interesting obstacles. I enjoyed seeing the seeds of rebellion, the bravery of the citizens, and how all of that affected the districts and the Capitol and the emotion it caused. And, of course, the ending! Catching Fire is the The Empire Strikes Back of the The Hunger Games trilogy. Cliffhanger, no closure, everything left in peril. The wait for Mockingjay was excruciating.
When I saw the previews for Catching Fire, I was very excited to see the movie. I honestly didn’t fear that the movie would disappoint me because I loved The Hunger Games movie so much. The filmmakers for this series have really captured the essence of these stories so well. Now, having seen the movie, I can honestly say that I wasn't disappointed. The movie was great. I don’t think the book could’ve been better adapted for the screen. Sure, there were a few changes and a few things left out to fit the allotted time. But, the changes were good. Just like with The Hunger Games, you get to get out of Katniss’s purview for a little bit and see how the games are run, how President Snow interacts with the head gamemaker, Plutarch Heavensbee.
The actors have grown into their roles so well. I liked the additions and their interpretations of the characters: Jena Malone (Johanna), Amanda Plummer (Wiress), Sam Claflin (Finnick), etc. And, no one can beat Stanley Tucci as Caesar Flickerman. Seeing the arena on screen was so awesome! It’s like it came right out of my imagination. It was so intense and scary to watch the obstacles come to life! The emotions in this film were intense and spot on.
I honestly can say that I loved the movie just as much as the book.
