“Are you, are you, going to the tree?” In context, this song serves as a symbol of the rebellion, but in reality, serves as an infectious tune that swims through the heads of all who see the newest installment of “The Hunger Games” trilogy.

“The Hunger Games: Mockingjay- Part 1” continues the story of Katniss Everdeen, victor of the 74^th Annual Hunger Games and escapee of the third Quarter Quell. After being rescued from the arena, Everdeen, portrayed by Jennifer Lawrence, now resides in the once thought destroyed District 13 and serves as a symbol of the imminent rebellion.

For those who have not read the book, the beginning of the movie can seem a tad confusing, but as the movie progresses, the plot becomes obvious and coherent. From the moment Katniss (rather embarrassingly) films the propaganda, the audience is enthralled with the story, and is rallying for the heroine’s cause.

The actors in the film were phenomenal, a standout being Natalie Dormer, who played Cressida, Katniss’ film director. Dormer was confident and strong in her role, making her character appealing to the audience. Though Finnick Odair, played by Sam Claflin, might not have had as much screen time as an adoring teenage girl would have hoped, his few moments are powerful and captivating, showing a sensitivity that was not seen in the previous films. The most engaging portrayal was by Josh Hutcherson, whose character, Peeta Mellark, was captured and taken hostage by the Capitol. Throughout the movie, Hutcherson shows an extraordinary range of emotions, from frightened to relieved and everything in between. Hutcherson’s acting compels the viewers to sympathize for Mellark.

Though there was not much music in the film, one song, “The Hanging Tree,” served as an excellent motif in the film, intensifying the dramatic and powerful scenes in the movie with a catchy and solemn tune that will leave the listener humming for hours on end. The soundtrack featuring big names such as Lorde and Charlie XCX, though not featured in the film,  is somber, yet energetic, matching the tone of the movie.

The makeup, wardrobe and special effects infused in the film are quite nice. The sunken eyes and bruises on Hutcherson add believability to his character and performance, making him look just as broken as he is portrayed. The lack of makeup applied to Lawrence, however, makes her relatable and seem like the teenage girl that Katniss  is. The special effects, however, were few and far between. The magnificence and technological innovations of the Capitol that were seen in the previous films are obsolete, with simple technology being much more prominent. Though logical, the lack of colorful costumes and outrageous hairstyles donned by fan-favorite Effie Trinket, played by Elizabeth Banks, is a true disappointment and a contrast to her bright and over-the-top personality, though this is addressed in the movie.

For those who both read and enjoyed the novels by Suzanne Collins, the adaptation will be enjoyable, with only minute details being changed from page to screen. Those who liked the previous two films, might be disappointed in the severe lack of combat that was seen in both “The Hunger Games” and “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire.”

Those who enjoy tense action with an engaging storyline will find this movie satisfactory and well-worth the price of the movie ticket. But be warned: in typical, two-part movie fashion, the film will end in a cliffhanger that makes the year-long wait to see the next film seem agonizing.