People have gone crazy over ‘The Hunger Games’ book and movie series. Just think of how many people dressed as Katniss Everdeen on Halloween the past few years. Audiences fell in love with the first two movies, and now, audiences have fallen in love with the girl on fire all over again in ‘Mockingjay Part 1.’

Fans have built up so much excitement and they were not disappointed. The official trailer was released on Sept. 15. It was announced on July 10 that the book ‘Mockingjay’ is going to be split up into two parts for the on-screen version. This film did not do as well in the box office as ‘Catching Fire’ did, however critics and fans alike have been pleased with how well the movie turned out.

The original movie, ‘The Hunger Games’ and the sequel ‘Catching Fire’ were thrilling, high-action movies that stayed true to the overall storyline. ‘Mockingjay Part 1’ met the expectation that it would also be thrilling, enjoyable and true to the original plot. The movie looks visually incredible. The effects, especially in the scenes that take place in The Capitol were excellent. It stayed true to the original plot which is what die-hard fans of the novel were wanting and expecting.

“I had the same feeling watching the movie as I did reading the book,” said junior Mary Norkol. “I was completely captivated.”

The filmmakers decided to split the last book into two parts, which caused them to pay attention to even more details than if they had not split it up. Splitting the last novel could have caused the movie to drag on scenes that are unnecessary or boring. This film, however, was magnificently captivating and thrilling.  The filmmakers chose a great place to end part one. The movie’s ending left people astonished, but did not anger the fans.

“Mockingjay was my favorite book in ‘The Hunger Games’ series,” said junior Emma Harvieux. “The ending I really, really liked.”

The only weak point in this movie was that Jennifer Lawrence, who plays Katniss Everdeen, always looked put together. Her hair and makeup always looked good, which is normally a great thing, but Jennifer Lawrence is portraying a rebellion leader. It is unrealistic for her to always look incredible.

“Katniss’s hair looked too perfect,” said junior Aly Brasch. “She’s supposed to be the leader of a rebellion.”

‘Mockingjay Part 1’ had some high standards to meet, but this film did not disappoint. This movie is a movie worth going to see in the theaters. Everyone has been talking about it, and for good reason.