This is a series that has consistently surprised me, especially since I hate the premise (kids killing kids for entertainment, remember that?). It has evolved into a discourse about revolution and fighting against tyranny, which is all to the credit of its creator, Suzanne Collins (I have not read the books).  Despite my distaste for the premise, I have found the films exciting and well made.  Now along comes this final chapter, which is handsomely produced and well acted, and I just didn’t care very much.

Francis Lawrence’s film takes its sweet time to get to the preordained, obvious conclusion, telegraphing its surprises and shoving its large cast of characters into the background in favor of the personal plight of Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence).  It is her story, but the film should have integrated the other characters more at the end because the societal revolution is cathartic to everyone, not just her.  The pace also slows to a crawl all too often.

Having noted that, I must also note that Mockingjay Part 2, and, indeed, the entire Hunger Games series follows the best traditions of societal science-fiction, creating a world in which a new order must be created and doing so will mean great sacrifice.  Take what you will from the allegory about our own society; this vision of a possible future has been entertaining and exciting and, yes, meaningful.

After Mockingjay Part 1, which I felt was excellent, I was really hoping that this concluding chapter would be even better.  It isn’t, but it’s still pretty good.  The quiet, introspective ending is not exciting, but it is appropriate for how people will have to readapt to peace once the revolution has changed things.  It’s been a heck of a run; now perhaps Katniss can finally find her own peace.  ☆ ☆ ☆.  2 December 2015.