The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1 (dir. Francis Lawrence).

Part 1 is as good as half a film can be. It sets everything up fluidly as a claustrophobic, insular introduction for the assured all-out war expected to come in Part 2. Jennifer Lawrence’s performance continues to anchor the entire dystopic universe. Director Lawrence really has a hold on the material, bringing a gripping urgency and compelling tone, handling small character moments and performances gracefully.