The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1
Kyler Sakamoto
Actor and Punahou student
Where and with whom did you see the movie?
I watched the movie the first time with my friends Addy Lee, Yoo Jin Seo, Scott Nakaoka, Mike Nakaoka and Rylee Tahara. I enjoyed the movie so much, I went to watch it a second time with my family: Karl (dad) and Kalene (mom) Sakamoto, Neil Shim, Katie Shim, Sylvia Werny and Riyana Werny.
Overall, what did you think?
I thought this Part 1 of the two-part movie was great. The storyline was really intriguing; it depicted the devastation and the sacrifices made in war. It kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time. It was so good that I had to see it again the next day!
Without giving away the ending, what was one of your favorite scenes?
My favorite scene was when Katniss stood up to become the Mockingjay, the symbolic leader. She sat by a riverside and started to sing a song. It was recorded and shown to the rest of the districts. One of the districts started to sing that song and march. Katniss had the power to encourage the other districts to fight against an oppressive government.
On a scale of one to four stars, what would you rate this film?
I would rate this movie ★★★. As this was only the first half of the book, this was the informational half. The second half probably will have even more action.
What did you think of the cinematography?
I think that all the film angles were very good. The way they got different angles and the timing of when they switched the angles was excellent. The scenes of destruction were impactful.
Was the message/theme clear?
The message was clear, thanks to Katniss, the Mockingjay. The poor, oppressed people revolt against an oppressive, affluent population.
Did it remind you of any other works of film?
This movie reminded me of Divergent because, in that movie, the people were put into different groups. In Mockingjay, the people were put into different districts. Another thing is that the main characters go against the government.
Who would you recommend this movie to?
I would recommend this movie to all of my friends, and everyone out there from age 10 and up — because of the violent war scenes.
Did any of the actors stand out?
I think that of the entire cast, the one actor who stood out was Peeta. Even though he wasn’t in many scenes, he still stood out. His facial expression was on point. You could tell how he felt by just looking into his eyes.
Did you identify with any of the characters?
Katniss, because I would stand up for what I believe and keep fighting, not just till my voice is heard, but until everything is made right. I also would protect my family and my friends from harm.
Did the soundtrack contribute significantly to the film?
I think the soundtrack to any film is very important. In this film it definitely added excitement and other emotions.
What’s your favorite movie snack?
My favorite movie snack is popcorn with butter, salt and mochi crunch.
On a different note, what’s new with you?
I’m in a great movie from the bestselling novel by Graham Salisbury called Under the Blood Red Sun (underthebloodredsun.com). The DVD and Blu-ray are coming out for Christmas. Movie screenings are set for Mid-Pacific Institute Bakken Theatre Dec. 7 and 14 at 4 and 7 p.m., and Dec. 12 at 7 p.m. The movie is about how my best friend and I get through prejudice and other obstacles following the bombing of Pearl Harbor.
I also have done a short film that just came out called The Fishing Club (featuring Keali‘i Reichel and Robert Kekaula).
