The Hunger Games: Catching Fire

More than anything, the biggest issue working against “Catching Fire” (the novel) was that Katniss, the character through whom we experience this world, has the worst perspective on the story that is unfolding. The film doesn’t have the luxury of pulling back too far—that would risk spoiling the experience—but it pulls back enough to let you appreciate the slow burn so much more. Also, whatever elements in the second half came across as hokey in print feel far more realized here with veteran actors working their ass off. A shockingly great adaptation, arguably better than the book deserves.

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