My plans had been changed enough that by the time I actually was sitting in a theater and watching the Breaking Dawn Part II trailer, it was a Monday afternoon. I won’t mention my reluctant neighbor, nor the fact that the Sprite induces bizarre peeing schedules.
I reread the book ahead of time, just so I could familiarize myself with the plot and get inside Katniss’s head once again. It has been three years after all. The book is still as amazing as I remember. With that, I sat in my seat, accompanied by a bundle of high expectations.
I can tell you that Gary Ross, the producers, Suzanne Collins, and the cast & crew managed to blow me away. I have to say this is one of the best book-to-movie adaptations I’ve had the honor to watch. The acting was superb. Jennifer Lawrence did an excellent job portraying Katniss, the girl on fire. I loved Josh Hutcherson’s performance and Gale, who although remained in the background for most of the movie, still broke my heart. Willow Shields did a fantastic job as Prim and I adored Rue, crying for both of these young actors while they were on screen. Some of the effects were beyond my imagination, as long as I wasn’t distracted by the shaky camera.
But...I’d like to take some time to point out things that turned me off. First, there’s the matter about Madge and the confusing facts the movie gave about mockingjays. Also, I noticed a strange connection between Cinna and Katniss that I didn’t recall reading. Although Woody Harrelson was a terrific actor, I wished they could have made him more drunk, introducing him with that famous dive off the stage. Katniss had even said she hated him! A few more minor details were also lacking: the orange backpack, the bread scene, the dog’s eyes, and perhaps the importance of Avoxes. Maybe I’m being too critical, but considering how much I anticipated this movie; I think I have a right.
Overall, watching The Hunger Games was an experience of a lifetime. There is a very good reason why it made number three in the highest domestic opening film in history. I’m sure Ms. Collins is tremendously happy with her hard work paying off and I’m happy giving this a four star rating. Let’s hope we survive 2012 and all the months leading up to November of next year.
The elusive Linda-saurus: Mover and shaker by day, book-ninja by night. Only native to Florida. Afraid of small children but has an affinity to the elderly. Beware of her sarcastic humor.
Categories: Linda, movie review
Generally speaking I think they did a great job. I think we all come in with our preconceived notions and scenes in our minds that we hope to see on screen. That said- I agree with you on a lot of points. I really would have liked to have seen more of the *real* Haymitch appear, and I wish they would have included the Avoxs. I think the Avox is the most important omission- if they had set it up here they wouldn't have to waste time explaining it later; as I'm sure they will be required to do.
ReplyDeleteJosh Hutcherson actually plays Peeta. It's Liam Hemsworth that play Gale. Anyway, great review. I noticed all the differences you did, but for whatever reason which is totally out of my character for book-to-movie adaptations, I didn't care. I loved the movie for what it was and thought it was awesome! No complaints other than the shaky camera.
ReplyDeleteHey Jenni!
ReplyDeleteHaha, I knew that. Who could forget the name of the sexy actor that plays Peeta? But thank you for letting me know. Agreed! This is still a great movie! Thanks for being a fan and stopping by.
Yes! That's what I get for being a big fan. Yup, I think the audience would have loved seeing the real Haymitch, too. Exactly, I just hope the people who didn't read the books won't get confused. On the other hand, I'm excited to see what the movie producers have in store for us. Thanks for stopping by!
ReplyDeleteOh, Gale. He broke my heart into tiny pieces. I just, I adore him. I thought the main three as well as Cinna, Effie, and Caesar were perfectly cast, but I'm not a fan of Woody as Haymitch. IMHO they watered Haymitch down a lot - too much. :/ But overall it was an amazing movie and I look forward to the sequel. Great review - I definitely agree with you on some things like the missing scenes and such!
ReplyDeleteGreat review of the movie! Ignore the shaky camera and it was a perfect adaptation!!
ReplyDeleteI would have liked to see some of the things you mentioned as well, like the explanation of the dogs at the end and the bread from Rue's district. I remember Cinna and Katniss having a bond, but the movie I felt didn't really let us see the development of it, so it would have confused me had I not read the book. I also would have liked Haymitch to be more of the drunk he's supposed to be!
ReplyDeleteI also wish they would have mentioned the fact there used to be thirteen districts, as I felt that the annihilation of District 13 just makes the origin of the Games that much more messed up.