The Hunger Games: Catching Fire (PG15) – Starring Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson and Woody Harrelson, directed by Francis Lawrence
The long-anticipated sequel to the film that made Jennifer Lawrence a household name finally hits our screens. Based on the trilogy by Suzanne Collins, the original adaptation was a hit as much for its riveting lead actor as its fantasy depiction of subversion and its circuitous approach to today’s obsession with reality TV.
Having been crowned winner of The 74th Annual Hunger Games, Katniss Everdeen (Lawrence) alongside fellow tribute and official love interest Peeta Mellark (Hutcherson), embarks on a “Victor’s Tour” of the districts. Along the way, Katniss begins to sense a rebellion amongst the district’s citizens but the Capitol retains its grip on the people.
Meanwhile, President Snow (Donald Sutherland) announces that the 75th anniversary of the Capitol’s victory, known as the third Quarter Quell – calls for a new set of games to be played by all the former winners. With many of these players old friends and national heroes in their own right, Katniss and the others must once again fight for survival with force fields and poisonous gas amongst the manufactured obstacles threatening them. Expect plenty of game-changing twists and turns as the gladiators forge alliances and test newcomers Katniss and Peeta.
Philip Seymour Hoffman adds some sparkle to the already golden cast, which included Harrelson, Lenny Kravitz, and Elizabeth Banks.
The Hunger Games: Catching Fire hits cinemas this Thursday 21st November.
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