Exceptional

Rating: 9/10 (5 April 2012)

When I first read the cast list I was slightly disappointed; however after watching the film my opinions have all changed. The right people were certainly assigned the right roles and because of this a convincing and engaging performance was delivered. Josh Hutchersons portrayal of Peeta Mellark was heartwarming enough to make me warm to a character that I despised throughout the book trilogy - which is something that does not happen often.
The special effects looked for the most part real and the costumes (bar one of two outfits) were beautifully designed and suited both the setting and the character.
Dialogue was well thought out and kept me hooked throughout the entire 2 hours and 40 minutes. The characters were so well distinguished and varied that you'd be hard pushed not to find a character that you identify with making parts of the film very personal.
Really the only problem I have is that some of the scenes strayed from the original story - which shouldn't have happened with the author writing the script. The opening is slow to start and it is only when the tributes reach the Capitol that you feel the pace liven.
This is one of the few book adaptations that has actually worked and well worth the ticket fare. I thoroughly enjoyed this film and am waiting in anticipation for the sequel.