Thanks to stronger performances and a more exciting arena, this is a vast improvement in the already successful Hunger Games universe.

Rating: 8/10 (26 November 2013)

Sequels have come a long way. We used to take it for granted that a sequel would be worse than its original, but with the implementation of the franchise, it's become imperative for studios to make decent sequels. We, the viewing public, should be thankful for this shift, with "Catching Fire" being the latest sequel to match, and in ways better, its predecessor. Bigger budget, powerful imagery, strong performances, and marked improvements in excitement and action make this an intense and enjoyable upgrade to the Hunger Games universe. It picks up one year after the last games, with Peeta (Hutcherson), Katniss (Lawrence), and the surrounding world of colorful characters reeling from the effects of the last arena as Panem preps for the 75th Hunger Games. Though it has been a year since the first film and the director changed, the world and tone of Panem is consistent with the first film yet better realized and more filled out. Likewise, the dialogue is much stronger, thanks in part to the great cast of veteran actors who bring stability to the young talented lead actors. Specifically, Sutherland's President Snow is given more screen time, relishing his evil role. Now let's face it: Hunger Games is Harry Potter. It's a wonderful fable with great characters and detailed worlds, led by a reluctant but endearing hero. This isn't a criticism, just an observation, and of the many Potter replicants, this is the best. Will it have the critical and commercial endurance of Potter? I'd say the odds are ever in its favor.