Movies: The Hunger Games: Catching Fire

Movies: The Hunger Games: Catching Fire

Hi all, was fortunate again to have the chance to catch a movie soon after its release, and as a result, felt the need to review it so that people can actually read up and have a better expectation of the movie before going to see it! To clarify though, I have actually read all three books after seeing the first movie which was called "The Hunger Games". I would have to say that this movie follows the book pretty well in terms of its starting point and its end point but will this work to the movie's benefit or not? That is the main question to be answered here.

For those who don't know about this movie yet, this movie follows the life of a girl called Katniss in an alternate world scenario whereby the world is divided into various districts with a single capital city. The various districts all live a life of forced labor to produce all the products and things that the capital needs, while the capital enjoys a luxurious and more loose type of life style. Every year, they will have this hunger games whereby two people from each district are chosen to battle out in a free for all battle royal style in a specially designed arena.

This is the arena for the 75th Hunger games... wanna participate?

These are the participants... still wanna participate?

Katniss in the previous movie was the winner of the 74th Hunger Games which you can probably see on your own computer these days, and this continuation movie follows how her life or has not changed after winning. The catch is however, that she offended some very powerful people in the 74th Hunger Games and hence these people are taking it out on her as well as other people in this 75th Hunger Games. I shan't reveal anything more about this movie to not spoil it for others. So lets break it down and see how did it perform in the categories!

Storyline 3.5/5

This is a movie that is supposed to be rich on story line given that it is a new world with new laws and regulations and the way things are supposed to be. The main issue it has here is that this movie focuses less on the new world but rather tries to focus on Katniss' new life as a Victor of the previous games but doesn't do anything particularly interesting or striking.

Without any focus on telling the audience any new things or information about this world where this movie is based in, it does little to attract the attention or intrigue the audience resulting in a lack of appreciation for the things that are happening.

This is even more pronounced because this movie is a continuation to the previous and things that are happening in this movie actually were quite similar to the previous, and you could actually say that this movie is too similar to what happened to the previous movie. Hence for those who saw the previous movie it is really hard to like it as much as the first when the producers did not do anything more to flesh out this world.

Character 3/5

This is a pretty underrated aspect of the movie that could have been greatly improved, like seriously greatly improved. This movie has many many participants from the other districts but instead of having a bit of focus on how unique these participants are, they are just touched on very slightly. There are some who are not even mentioned although the book doesn't mention them either, but movies do need something fresh and interesting to keep the interest of the audience.

Also, the relationship between the main characters are not new or fresh which is another flaw only because this movie is a continuation. Like I said, you will generally just see what has happened in the previous movie... but even then it is not as interesting or well fleshed out.

In the end, you hardly feel anything for the many characters which is sad as it could have been done so much better.

Cinematography 3/5

Its pretty sad that the movie did not really stand out too much even in this aspect. I would probably say that this movie was not meant to be a action flick but it did have a lot of opportunity to at least do so and entertain the audience on another aspect of the movie. (If storyline is not as good, make the action better) There were many bird eye shots but aside from that, there was little to actually immerse the audience into the movie.

Music 3.5/5

Music was there, but it was nothing entirely special or striking. It did add to what immersive feelings that the show had but I can't really say it helped the movie greatly.

Spectacle 3/5

Sadly, I would say that this movie did not perform well in any of the aspects that it could have done well which was mainly the storyline section or the action section. If it was me, I would have put in extra budget on highlighting and giving the other participants in this hunger games events or opportunities to differentiate themselves from each other to add more character value. I would put in more action sequences just to entice the action loving crowd and use different perspectives to add in the immersiveness.

Storyline wise, it actually told very little or made too little advancement of the story for the time frame given to this movie which might not have been the fault of the movie itself as the story book also was like this and they were trying to stay true to the source material.

However, if this movie carries on to the third installation, I would say the movie can easily redeem itself as the 3rd book does have a lot of potential.

Storyline 3.5 (Too little advancement due to source material, they could have focused on fleshing out the world and its people instead)
Character 3 (All additional people were pretty highly forgettable, really, flesh out the world more, the source material did allow for this.)
Cinematography 3 (It was at best just above ordinary as there was no real epic scenes while some scenes have been seen before in the previous movie)
Music 3.5 (It was fine, adding somewhat to immersion)
Spectacle 3 (Did not do entirely well on the aspects that it should have done well in like storyline or cinematography)

Overall 3.2 (I would say this score reflects the advice that I will give to you, see this movie if you seen the first and you could roughly derive some enjoyment from it, most likely less then the first movie, but as you guessed by now, there will be a following movie to complete the story and if you actually missed this one, its no real big deal as nothing big did happen. You could basically just wait for the 3rd movie to come out first, which will be in a year or so, and see this movie at home in your own leisure. All in all, see it if you want, but if you don't, you can always see it at a later date.)

P.S for the rest of you who are not satisfied at the ending, you can always follow the book to have complete closure while waiting for the last movie to be released. Hopefully they don't split it unnecessarily into two movies though... although it is possible if they so desire.

I have also added genre labels and tags to my posting so next time you can have a better idea of what the post and content is about!

And now its back to studying, so catch ya all later! Share your comments if there are any!

Series: Fringe

Series: Fringe


Its been quite a while since I reviewed a show, one reason is that there ain't many spectacular movies that are coming out the last few days, the other reason is that there is no one to see movies with. Probably the movie of the last few days would be twilight, and i expect to see it probably in the next month or so. But since there is no movies for me to review currently, I decided to continue my reviews on series. This time, its slightly different from crimebusting criminal minds, slightly, only cause it is still crime busting, but this show is a bit more sci-fi, and generally more fun.


INFORMATION

Status : Currently ongoing
Seasons : 4 as of 4th December 2011
Episodes per season : ~20
Length of each episode : 43 minutes
Genre : Crime solving, Thriller, Sci fiction, Drama


INTRODUCTION


This show caught my eye when it was made known to me that this show has it emphasis on many kinds of fringe science. For those who do not know what fringe science is, this is the definition as according to wikipedia. Basically, science is generally all types of very established theories and laws. For example gravity is something that is very established as we experience it every day. But, when we start to talk about anti gravity, to be able to float above or to switch the gravitational pull that is acting on us, now that is fringe science. Interestingly, some ideas that we have today were actually considered fringe science a long time ago. For example in-vitro fertilization would probably have been fringe science before it was made into a reality today. Cryostasis is also something that much research is being put into and who knows, maybe this is something that might actually happen some fine day.


Here is the opening theme where you can actually see some of the fringe sciences of today.

Notice the top right corner opening, that is the opening sequence used during one of the episodes whereby they went back into the future. So if you look closely, you can see what was probably considered fringe science just a few decades ago.


Also take note that throughout the series, the main scientist of the show would actually draw some very interesting ways to understand fringe science. One of the memorable ones that I heard was his explanation on if whether it is possible to pass through solid objects. He basically used a beaker of rice and placed a toy soldier on it. Then he basically vibrated the beaker and the soldier was able to disappear into the rice. So if we consider our body to be made out of particles, if we vibrated it at the same frequency as the wall, it would be possible to pass through the empty spaces of molecules. Complicated? Well thats why hes a scientist :)

Dr Walter and his lab

This is what you will keep seeing


Ok before you start getting too bored with science, here is the review.


Plot


So as was highlighted above, this show falls under the genre of crime solving, only thing is that all the crimes that happen comes with a fringe science twist. So instead of normal bombings or killings, we start talking about cryostasis bombs, and killings done by less human humans. Or at least humans that have been experimented on that kind of stuff. 


There is also some emphasis on different methods of getting information, for example early in the series, we see them trying to extract information from a dead body by virtue of embedded memory by the currents that flow around in the brain neurons. So basically, this show is a lot of fun being distinct from other story by its good use of science.


This is not an action show however, so you won't see things such as firefights and that kind of stuff. Its more of a thriller in terms of concept and how it is used in the show. There is also some drama here and there between the characters.


However, one thing to note is that as the series goes along, it starts to dive into issues like time travel and also parallel universes. So one fact about parallel universes is that when you start talking about what happens when you do things in this universe and how it will affect the other universe it will start to get confusing. This is the gist and the main attraction factor of the 3rd season. However, at least the story is still pretty easy to follow with regards to this aspect and the parallel universe do add to the intrigue and fun of the show.


The series also puts in episodes that are more catered to fun and entertaining their fan base. For example there is the token musical episode where everything is done in song, as well as one episode where it moves from real life into animation.


Character

Characters in this show are very interesting also. First of all, the show doesn't neglect the fact that all the characters are working together and hence grow in feelings and affections for each other. So we can see a level of relationship building that aids in the immersion of the show.


Also this show does not portray all its characters as invulnerable and unrealistic. So there are seasons and episodes whereby certain characters are killed, injured. The fun part of science fiction however is that it is possible to still bring back the characters although they might come from a different time and space.


Also, the characteristics of certain characters also change as they come from different universes and this adds a bit more entertainment value. In fact, the character with the biggest and most amusing change was actually quite a minor character in season one,  also due to the fact that her original character was supposed to be one who likes to keep a low profile.


Cinematography


Like i said earlier, the show Cinematography is pretty versatile and they even do musical episodes and animation episodes. So generally, the cinematography is pretty well above average. Further more, the actors themselves do a very good job of portraying different personalities in a very convincing manner. The main character in fact, at a moment in the show becomes possessed by someone who is not her, and she is able to bring out the essence of the possessing person in a very fun manner. 


Points to note however is that the show generally always takes place in enclosed areas, so you won't usually see anything that is too striking or pretty, but that is urban life for you anyway. 


There are however a few episodes whereby there is no progression of the underlying story and its merely one of the other episodes whereby they just reveal a new fringe science idea and show you how it is solved.


Music


Besides the musical episode, there is no real particular emphasis on music during the show except at some points before they go into commercial they kinda do a cliff hanger music kind of thing. Still, it doesn't detract away from the show in anyway.


Spectacle


For a show whose emphasis is on sci fiction, I would say that the level of understanding required to enter the show is not particularly high, therefore it is more comfortable for any normal common people to enjoy and see the show. The explanations are also welcome to help people who are interested to know more, be more immersed into the show. 


The thrilling factor is also there, provided you are thrilled by science and the possibilities of the fringe sciences. No action sequences are particularly outlandish, so this is probably not the show for pure action freaks though.


In terms of the drama between the characters, this show also does it very well and hence people are able to fill like they really know the characters, be it the present universe ones or the alternate universe characters.


Longevity


For a show that requires much scientific content, I would personally say that it would be hard to maintain the show when all the fringe ideas are exhausted. 4 seasons into the show, I would say that things that I have known have pretty much already been used in the show. So its really hard to say whether this movie can continue to remain fresh when the ideas in reality are limited. Unless they are going to dive further in and create new concepts or ideas.


Overall


Plot                       : 4.5 (Plot is new for a series, also pretty well done)
Character              : 4.5 (Characters are very believable and also you get two of every character)
Cinematography   : 4.0 (Actors do a very good job, but I guess overall there could be feeling that everything looks the same after a while)
Music                    : 3.5 (Music is not of any particular emphasis, but at least it is visible)
Spectacle             : 4.5 (For all the listed genres, this show does a good job)
Longevity              : 3.5 (I personally feel that the ideas are running out. Who knows what could happen)


Overall                  : 4.1 (Fans of the genre will be able to enjoy and be immersed in this world of science fiction, being entertained by the idea and concepts of "what ifs and possibilities". Lovers of action however would probably not be as entertained. Its a show that really caters to a specified audience. However the drama is also pretty good so it allows entry of other people who want a good story line in general)


Here is two of the characters for your viewing pleasure.

You are not seeing double, it is the same actress for both of them 


Heres the review for fringe, a show that is still under my list of shows that i see. Hope to hear your views and comments :)

Series: Criminal Minds

Series: Criminal Minds

Today I shall begin on another category of reviews, still related to the entertainment industry but this time its on the TV series that we have. Generally they will all be US TV series that will come to Singapore sooner or later. I will start by giving a brief introduction of the series and then probably use the same criteria of the movie reviews to score and review the series. Advantages of seeing series is that once you get one entire season, you can have at least 10 hours of something to see unlike movies. Hence series provide good on the go entertainment which is basically what i put into my phone and its really good company from the work place and back and from anywhere else. You will never feel that you are wasting your time again ^_^

Of course in a series there will be moments of where the show storyline is bad, or the actors get killed and stuff like that which may affect particular seasons and episodes, but to be honest, I haven't found many series whereby i got totally bored by the story, EXCEPT Japanese anime. In my opinion most are still worth seeing even as their direction changes slightly or the storyline gets a bit more convoluted.

Without further Ado, here is some information about Criminal Minds

INFORMATION

Status: Currently On-going
Seasons : 7 as of 22th Oct 2011
Episodes per Season : ~22
Length of each episode : 45 Minutes
Genre : Crime Solving, Thriller, Psychology, Drama

INTRODUCTION


This show is basically touted to be the most closest to real life, meaning how true are the procedures done, that the cases that are shown in the show are actually pretty likely, and there are also many episodes that were modeled after true events. In fact during the show, the resident intelligent geek of the show actually sprouts out many statistics and details that are true. There are also many psychological conditions that are talked about during the show and these are true problems that people do face in the real world.

In fact, during one of my lectures in my university, a guest lecturer was invited from the psychological profiling department of the Police and he said that Criminal minds is one of the tv series that is most realistic and not just dramatized ala CSI.

Also, this show not only focuses on a single crime every episode, but it also develops the story and the backstory of each character hence giving each season another level of story. However this is generally more evident towards the last 10 episodes of the seasons. Most of the episodes follow a standard format, starting off with the crime being committed and it sometimes puts you into the perspective of the perpetrator. Then it goes on to the responding towards the crime and finally the conclusion whereby the perpetrator is caught and apprehended or something to that effect.

There is also the traditional profile giving in almost ever episode, whereby the behavioral unit actually describes the characteristics and profile of the perpetrator and for people who have particular interest in this field this might be a plus point as you can see how the conclusion was drawn from the crime scene and other factors.

Also, this show places quite a emphasis on the apprehending of the perpetrator part. So that's why there is a thriller and a bit of action element to the show. This aids in making the show less theoretical only by adding a touch of excitement to the show.

Plot


This is where the series scores extremely high, every episode has a generally unique storyline with a new type and kind of perpetrator. Some are inherently bad, some are actually good, and there are some who are merely just misunderstood. This allows for a variety of directions for the episode to take and hence it doesn't degenerate into a show whereby everything seems to just be repeated again and again.

It is done so well that there are some episodes whereby you yourself are actually scared at how this kind of situation may occur in the real world, and there are other episodes whereby you wonder how can anyone justify doing these things. And according to some testimonies from friends that I have, there are some episodes whereby you feel so much for the perpetrator that you cannot help but shed a tear. Of course I never cried seeing this show being the emotional less guy that i am but for the more human, this might really happen to the benefit of the show.

Add on to this the underlying story that involves the backgrounds of the characters in the show and you have a compelling show that is able to generate interest into the starring characters as well as episodic characters.


Character

Character development in this show is also very good, with all the starring characters having their own little section in some seasons whereby their backgrounds are elaborated upon and we start to be able to see how do they react on the personal level rather then imagining them to be some robotic police officers. There are romantic involvements, encouragements that put a more human touch into the show which helps us immerse and feel more for the character.

Note that this show is not afraid to kill off characters and put in the additional cruel moment that is important to show the viewers that this is the real world, and in the real world not everything comes out smoothly and happily.

Also given the way the episodes are shown, we also are able to feel for the episodic villains and victims reasonably well although this show tends to highlight more on the villains then the reaction of the victims. Still this gives them a bit more depth and results in a bit more emotional attachment to the characters which helps the premise of the show.


Cinematography


This show uses a variety of ways to help immerse the viewer into the show and to pretty good effect. We sometimes see things in the eyes of the victims, sometimes in the eyes of the villains and this extra touch adds to the feeling and atmosphere of the show. There are also more action orientated moments and this show does a pretty good job at bringing the thrill out.


Music


Music is alright in this show, no particular notice of anything too enhancing or too hindering. I guess there are some moments where there is some music assistance but to be honest the story is compelling enough already and hence it probably only helps in the subconscious.


Spectacle


Take a normal crime solving show, add in explanations about the psychology of the criminal and put in action into the apprehension. This is what Criminal mind sets off to do and it does this very well. It doesn't construct unrealistic stories and sometimes even uses real life crimes as a backing for what has happened. This show entertains as well as teaches us more about real life that we might not see everyday and that not all bad people want to be bad.


Longevity


This is a new addition to the rating system as I feel that there are series that really have many many seasons and spin offs till they tend to get boring. The ways to give longevity to the show include to hide many details and the beginning and elaborate on them as time goes by, like how Criminal minds introduces the characters backstory, and to also have a interesting overarching story. Criminal minds combines these two aspects together and 7 seasons down the road it is still going strong. However some crimes and their basis for happening has already been used in the past episodes and thus it is anyone's guess how much more they can twist and turn the story to still generate interest.

Killing off and reintroducing characters also do help to keep the show fresh and this show did it before but hasn't done it in the recent seasons


Overall
Plot                     : 4.5 (The premise is good and it is well carried out)
Character            : 4.5 (Has many characters all which are elaborated on already and they show their distinct nature throughout the episodes)
Cinematography   : 4.5 (Has a good way of immersing the viewers into the show)
Music                  : 3.5 (Really never noticed it but neither did it hinder the show)
Spectacle             : 4.5 (Exemplifies the genre very well)
Longevity             : 4.0 (As seasons have gone along it starts to seem slightly repeated, but it has the potential to go on strong)

Overall                 : 4.25 (If you like crime solving, you like to learn more, you like a bit of action and you really want to see what goes on in the minds of a perpetrator, this show is the show for you and you will be able to enjoy and feel for the characters of the show.)

To conclude this is the way I have chosen so far for my series review, please feedback if you think there could be any improvements.

J.J says goodbye and thanks for reading :)