Opened: November 21, 2014

Directed by: Francis Lawrence

Starring: Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth, Woody Harrelson, Elizabeth Banks, Julianne Moore, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Jeffrey Wright, Stanley Tucci, Donald Sutherland, Willow Shields, Sam Claflin, Paula Malcomson, Jena Malone, Stef Dawson, Mahershala Ali, Natalie Dormer, Wes Chatham, Elden Henson, Patina Miller, Evan Ross, Robert Knepper & Sarita Choudhury

Despite lessening the action and upping the politics in the first half of The Hunger Games finale, Mockingjay: Part 1 benefits from strong performances from returning and new actors.

As part of her plan against the Capitol, District 13 President Coin (Julianne Moore) employs the help of Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence) as a symbol of hope and rebellion. Katniss agrees only if Peeta Mellark (Josh Hutcherson) is rescued from the clutches of President Snow (Donald Sutherland).

This film is deeply emotional following the continual growth of Katniss from her first appearance as a child to, only a year later, becoming a pawn in war. Lawrence brings incredible strength and vulnerability to the role.

With camerawork that sometimes makes you feel like you’re on the battlefield, director Francis Lawrence creates a gripping war film.

Final say: Stand with the Mockingjay. ★★★★☆