Catching Fire is an exceptional sequel.

Rating: 9/10 (9 December 2013)

The original Hunger Games was very good, if only a bit forgettable. In retrospect, it appears to have been more of foundation to write this film upon. Kudos to the director, for the noticeable rise in quality. It improves upon the original in every way. The world itself, from its politics to its districts, is more fleshed out. The after effects of the first Hunger Game are really explored well here. PTSD and blackmail are powerful themes it uses well. Rue's death is actually more heartbreaking in this film. Consider the fact she died in the previous movie and you can see how shocking this is. The director really understood emotion and how to portray it. There are some truly moving scenes, and some equally horrific ones. The jabberjay scene especially comes to mind. In conclusion, this movie is chokingly dark.
The characters really shine this time around having been properly fleshed out and given memorable personalities. The new characters are welcome additions as well. Props to Jennifer Lawrence for acting the hell out of Katniss, and props to everyone really.
I left the theater feeling extremely moved. I was by no means an enthusiastic fan, not reading the books and only mildly enjoying the first movie. But Hunger Games, you've earned yourself a fan.