Catching Fire: A Review

by: Maricella D. Valdivia (2013-55498)

1. Is the film a science fiction? Why or why not?

            “Science fiction(Sci-Fi) is a genre of fiction dealing with imaginative content such as futuristic settings, futuristic science and technology, space travel, time travel, parallel universes, and extraterrestrial life”. Based on the given definition, I consider the film Sci-Fi. Although we have the LCD projector which we can compare with their 'TV', and the train that is quite similar with our MRT's. But there was a great advancement of technology in the film, just like the ship which is somehow similar to those in the movie, Avengers. In the arena, they were able to make a poisonous fog, a lightning, a large wave, wild baboons, and even birds imitating the cries of the tributes' love ones. They were also able to check up on the tributes' every move and everything they talk about, clearly and understandably.

            Today, it is Sci-Fi. But for me, there may come a time when this is no longer considered fiction. Nothing is impossible, with God. With the curiosity of man, we might have these advancement in no time. In the movie “Back to the Future”, they never thought of smartphones and laptops, but look at us now, we have these portable gadgets everywhere. Let's just hope that the odds are ever in our favor. ;)

2. Is the film a commentary on past, present and future human society?
   

            I think it covers all, past, present, and future human society.
            -Past, since there were people, slaves to be exact, who weren't able to experience the life of the future, those people who are starving, and with low educational attainment. Those districts with low technology, for they have no privilege of using the advanced stuff;
            -Present, since there are people, just like the other families who live the life of somewhat the ordinary. Those who we can compare with the people today; and
            -Future, since some have the opportunity to use the high tech stuff by themselves, those in the imaginative part of the story which we consider extraordinary(since we have the concept of ordinary, today). But we don't know, maybe the extraordinary will just be ordinary someday, somehow.


    3. How does science, technology, and society fail or succeed in the world of the 13 districts?

            There were only twelve districts, but in the end, a thirteenth district was made. Science, technology, and society succeeded in the thirteen districts although not everyone has the opportunity to use the advanced science. It succeeded in the sense that it improved and didn't degrade. From how they transport, their cameras that can record live on its own, the clothes worn by Katniss and Peeta on the welcoming of the tributes, and Katniss' farewell evening gown that transformed into a dress which symbolizes the mocking jay. Although I haven't watched the prequel, nor have read the book series, from what I've watched. It cannot be unseen.