“The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 2” embodies the themes of friendship, loyalty, dedication, and, ultimately, sacrifice. Peeta (Josh Hutcherson) has returned from the Capitol and from the clutches of President Snow (Donald Sutherland). The effects of having been tortured and brainwashed with tracker jacker venom has made Peeta a threat to Katniss (Jennifer Lawrence). Yet, as she speaks with him and spends time with him, he begins to slowly recapture the reality of their relationship. In fact, when he makes a statement here and there, he asks, “Real, or not real?” And she confirms his memory.
The Capitol is determined to wipe out the rebels, and Katniss is just as determined to assassinate President Snow. Ultimately, any victory will require the sacrifice of many lives, and this includes those who are close to the rebels and to Katniss, as well.
This final “Hunger Games” film is the darkest of all of them, but it ends with scenes of hope and the promise of a peaceful life following the reign of the Capitol. We were able to award “Mockingjay Part 1” our Dove Seal, and this film is very similar in its content. It includes death and explosions but very little blood in comparison. The filmmakers seem to have held back a bit, as in Part 1, in order to gain a larger audience. But make no mistake about it, there are a lot of deaths, including that of the “mutts,” zombie-like creatures with fangs that the rebels have to kill before they are killed. We encourage parents to consult the content listing and to make their own informed decisions.
The themes of sacrifice and dedication are to be commended. The film features excellent acting and a gripping story line as it all builds to the climactic scenes. Powerful figures are involved, and where their true allegiance lies is hard to say. We are pleased to award “Mockingjay Part 2” our Dove “Family-Approved” Seal for ages 12-plus. “Mockingjay Part 2” is a well-crafted film that will satisfy “Hunger Games” fans everywhere, and it brings the films to a fitting conclusion.
