10 | ARTS | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2013
film
THE CLARION
THE HUNGER GAMES: CATCHING FIRE Film Feature
Catching Fire Hunger Games sequel sticks to script with plenty of action By TOM RICHARDSON Staff Writer Imagine the worst thing that has ever happened to you. Then try to imagine reliving that exact moment over again. Not easy, right? Unfortunately, Katniss Everdeen and Peeta Mellark had to relive the worst experience of their lives for a second time, in the latest sequel to “The Hunger Games,” entitled “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire.” In “Catching Fire,” Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence) and Peeta Mellark (Josh Hutcherson) are on their Victory Tour after becoming the winners of the 74th Annual Hunger Games. But things are not getting better for Katniss—in fact, things have gotten worse. All the districts of Panem are suffering due to the Capitol’s fear of rebellion after watching what Katniss and Peeta did in the Hunger Games Tournament. The 75th annual Hunger Games represents the third Quarter Quell, in which a special twist is added to the games for that year, and while Katniss and Peeta thought they would become mentors for future Hunger Games Tournaments, the Capitol has other plans in mind. What should impress viewers is the sequel’s brilliant first half, and how everything gets set-up. The aftermath of the first “Hunger Games” film is brilliantly incorporated, and it really shows just how brutal the Capitol gets within this cinematic universe. And new characters, such as Beetee and Finnick, add more pizazz to the film, as the two actors brought something new to the table that will feel fresh for many. Jennifer Lawrence’s return to the role of Katniss Everdeen was acted amazingly once again. “Catching Fire” also soars when it comes to effective drama and touching moments that will almost bring tears to viewers’ eyes for certain scenes. Katniss Everdeen might be “the girl on fire,” but there are a few flaws along the way that might put the fire out for some. The film might feel a bit “spotty” for some viewers during the second half, specifically during the 75th Annual Hunger Games. As certain aspects of the book are adapted perfectly to the screen, other aspects either get skipped entirely or are only briefly mentioned. Also, certain challenges that the tributes face in the Hunger Games Arena this time around feel a tad boring. A good example of this would be Part 1’s forest in flames, getting replaced by Part 2’s poisonous fog. The film also runs into the same problem that most film trilogies face: it sets up too much for Part 3. Some might feel cheated by Part 2’s cliffhanger ending. But for those who loved the first installment of “The Hunger Games,” this new installment should feel just as action-packed, just as entertaining, and acted just as well. This film could be a fun time at the movies, but at the same time don’t expect anything ground-breaking.
FROZEN
Walt Disney Animation Studios For a long time Disney has been criticized for failing to provide strong female role models. They have struggled to find the sweet spot at the intersection of gender equality and the dreams of little boys and girls. “Frozen” lives in that sweet spot. It is well written, well acted and amazingly well animated. The plot follows a pair of sisters, both princesses, as they grow from young children to their coming of age and coronation. As one might expect, one of the princesses has power over ice and cold, and this causes complications. From there is the central conflict of the story. Part of the greatness of this movie is the self-aware humor Disney sometimes uses to make fun of itself. However, its true greatness comes from the core plot: that of a pair of sisters who love each other more than anything else, and how that love is tried and tested. It’s hard to exalt in the glory of the way this movie is written without giving away any spoilers, so let’s suffice it to say that neither princess is a wilting flower waiting for some prince charming to save her. Go, watch it, and take your kids. If you don’t have kids, grab a friend who has kids and make them watch it with you. Or just see it for yourself, to prove to yourself that Disney can tell a story about a princess that doesn’t stick in the caw of every feminist to see it. I have only one criticism for Disney; the short at the start was horrible.
– DANIEL HERRON
PREVIEWS DEC. 18 THE HOBBIT: THE DESOLATION OF SMAUG PG-13 Picks off where the first Hobbit movie left off. Gandalf and friends set off on a crusade to reclaim Erebor from the dragon Smaug.
DEC. 20 ANCHORMAN 2 PG-13 Ron Burgundy is back in the anchor chair with the whole original cast of the first Anchorman film. Will Ferrel, Christina Applegate, Paul Rudd, Steve Carell and others are sure to provide plenty of dirty humor and laughs.
MAY 24 Lionsgate
A scene from Hunger Games: Catching fire.
THE WOLF OF WALL STREET PG Starring Leonardo DiCaprio as a crooked banker.