On November 20^th, 2014, Hunger Games fanatics poured into movie theaters for the late-night premiere of Mockingjay Part 1. Mockingjay is the third novel in Suzanne Collin’s best-selling series. When it comes to books being made into movies, it is often difficult to please the fans. However, Mockingjay did not only delight enthusiasts; it surpassed all expectations.

Katniss Everdeen, former District 12 resident and Hunger Games victor, was thrown into another Hunger Games during the second movie, Catching Fire. After escaping the games with the rebels and Peeta being taken to the Capitol, the star-crossed lovers are once again in trouble. Peeta is seen on the Capitol TV supporting President Snow, but Katniss knows he is being forced and tortured by them to do so. Katniss now resides with her family in underground District 13, ruled by President Coin.

After getting to see what Snow did to District 12, Katniss realizes that the rebels must wage a war. She timidly accepts President Coin’s offer to become the Mockingjay: a symbol of the revolution. Katniss makes Coin agree to save the former victors from the capitol. Peeta Mellark, Johanna Mason, and Annie Cresta will all be granted immunity. With Beete’s help, they are able to override the Capitol’s TV stations and play their own “propos” showing that Katniss and the revolution are alive and well.

Once again, Jennifer Lawrence plays the role of Katniss with believable passion and emotion. In every part, Lawrence shows a deep understanding of the plot and characters. Playing the role of a mentally deteriorated Peeta Mellark, actor Josh Hutcherson does it perfectly. Besides the main characters, every role in the movie is portrayed flawlessly, bringing the novel to life with each scene.

Most viewers agreed that the movie was action-packed and kept everyone on the edge of their seats. The movie constantly followed the plot from the book. It may have been confusing for those who did not read the books, but the frenzied fans were overjoyed with the final outcome.

A fellow viewer, Kaylee Rendon, agreed that “The Hunger Games series never fails to impress.” Everyone walking out of the theater agreed that the movie turned out even better than they expected.

After such an exhilarating show, fans mark their calendars and anxiously wait for Mockingjay Part 2, the final movie that will be released exactly one year from Part 1. Enthusiasts know that, like the first three movies, the wait will be worth it.