As soon as the “Hunger Games” trilogy by Suzanne Young swept across the nation, filmmakers grew eager to bring the elaborate series to life. Hunger Games fans seem to have loved the movies so far, but as filmmakers grow closer to finishing the series, fans have become more critical.

When the two-part Mockingjay movie directed by Francis Lawrence was revealed, many “Hunger Games” fans were skeptical. The only matter on every reader’s mind was hoping the movies would do the series justice and incorporate the same intricate imagery readers conjured up while immersed in Young’s books.

Some “Hunger Games” enthusiasts may notice the incorrect appearances of mentor Effie Trinket (Elizabeth Banks) and the rare mentions of President Snow’s (Donald Sutherland) granddaughter, but these do not affect the film’s plot. Ultimately, the Mockingjay Part II gives the books the justice they deserve.   

“Mockingjay Part II” follows Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence) on another attempt to overthrow the evil Capitol and return home to the victor’s village in District 12. The movie begins with Panem engaging in war between the districts until Katniss makes it evident their real enemy is President Snow.

Leaders of the rebellion continue working on ways to stop Snow while Katniss plays the role of the symbol of the rebellion, the “Mockingjay.” Propaganda featuring Katniss is broadcasted to all districts and gives an incentive for an uprising, and Katniss makes her way to District 1 to find and kill Snow.

Following Katniss on her merciless journey keeps the audience watching at the edge of their seats with goosebumps. There are plenty of moments that will make the crowd jump and draw them in for more. Special effects such as explosions and the CGI of the Capitol’s mutts brings the audience into an intense atmosphere and make it impossible to look away.

Filmmakers of “Mockingjay Part II” envisioned the story’s varying settings, from the Capital to the districts, almost exactly how readers imagined them. The special effects by far exceeded moviegoers’ expectations.

Despite the gripping effects, the last 20 minutes of the movie dragged on without much action, making it feel too drawn out. This time, however, the anticipation of the end leaves a bittersweet feeling as viewers realized that they were watching the final scenes of the beloved trilogy.

Perhaps the filmmakers themselves were not ready to see the movie series end, but the ending itself finishes on a happy note, pulling everything together. There’s no doubt “Mockingjay Part II” is an excellently crafted film that will satisfy even the hungriest of readers.