Review: Aiming to be epic, ‘Hunger Games’ hits target

Don't be fooled by the first hour or so of "The Hunger Games: Catching Fire," the second installment in the four-part series. It starts off slow, slogging through a recap of the first film.

But then, it takes off: The last half of the film features incredible action scenes packed with emotion. At the center of it is Jennifer Lawrence's character, Katniss Everdeen, a teen literally fighting for her life. She is the series' anchor, giving it a moral center and weight.

The movie also benefits from its great cast. Stanley Tucci's character, an over-the-top television host who gives commentary on the teens' life-and-death battles, brings a needed lightness to the action. Phillip Seymour Hoffman is a welcome addition to the series as well.

The film ultimately leads you to a cliff -- and leaves you hanging, wanting more. The next installment is slated to open in 2014.

Watch the video above for more. And on the radio this week, Current Morning Show host Jill Riley reviewed "Delivery Man" and I reviewed "Hunger Games."

• After five years, State of the Arts comes to a close
• Park Square’s second stage to open Friday
• Most critics find ‘Romeo and Juliet’ a dreamy delight