the messenger cannot be allowed to continue

Rating: 7/10 (4 August 2014)

First, I should note that I had never heard of the "Hunger Games" books until the first movie got released. I did eventually see the movie and found it to be a good one (so realistic that it seemed redundant). The sequel continues the story, showing how Panem's rulers feel threatened by Katniss's popularity among the oppressed populations and try to co-opt her. One scene in particular looks exactly like something out of Coliseum games in ancient Rome.
"The Hunger Games: Catching Fire" turned out to be Philip Seymour Hoffman's last movie released before he died. His portrayal of the dynamic Plutarch Heavensbee shows him to have been one of the greatest actors of his generation. While this movie is not a masterpiece, I still recommend it. I'll be eager to see the next two installments.