Inferior to the First Two.

Rating: 7/10 (14 January 2016)

The Hunger Games: Mockingjay, Part 1 (2014): Dir: Francis Lawrence / Cast: Jennifer Lawrence, Liam Hemsworth, Josh Hutcherson, Julianne Moore, Philip Seymour Hoffman: Inferior yet tense sequel about counter moves. Katniss Everdeen is sought after to lead the revolution against the Capital. She is angry since Peeta Mellark was captured by the Capital at the conclusion of the previous film. She is shocked at the brainwashing used on Peeta in his media footage where he attempts to convince the remaining districts to end their revolution. While tension exist, the film lacks action to the point where there is only two or three such scenes including Katniss downing a fighter plane with her archery skills. Viewers are likely tiring of these books expanding into two or more movies that comes off as a cheap money grab than worthy entertainment. Francis Lawrence is back as director and is backed with tremendous production. Jennifer Lawrence remains a strong presence as determined Katiss whose focus is on the safety of Peeta. Josh Hutcherson goes through a brainwashing as Peeta that turns lethal by third act. Liam Hemsworth as Gale Hawthorne is always overwhelmed as being the third wheel of a love triangle. Thankfully here he is given more to work with as he takes a risk for Peeta despite what the results romantically will be. Unfortunately supporting roles seem placed in a spot just to have them employed. Julianne Moore and Philip Seymour Hoffman play leaders in the revolution whose roles are cardboard. While lacking the energy and intensity of the first two films, it still bridges the gap to part 2 effectively. Score: 7 Â½ / 10