With the blockbuster success of the first installment of “The Hunger Games” franchise and trilogy, much was riding on today’s release of its sequel. “Catching Fire” exceeded my expectations and possibly burns brighter than the first installment.

The sequel picks up right where we left off. District 12 victors Katniss Everdeen and Peeta Mellark, played by Jennifer Lawrence and Josh Hutcherson respectively, must embark on the traditional victory tour through all of the districts, culminating with a visit to the president’s mansion. Although Katniss and Peeta’s romance has burned out, they must continue to keep up appearances under pressure from President Snow, played by Donald Sutherland.

Yet, Katniss cannot help but inspire hope in the oppressed members of the Panem, which prompts uprisings and attempts on behalf of the Capitol to squash any hint of revolution. Snow enlists new Hunger Games gamesman Plutarch Heavensbee, played by Phillip Seymour Hoffman, to make the 75^th annual Hunger Games and 3^rd Quarter Quell, whose tributes are drawn from former victors.

Of course, this ultimately sends Katniss and Peeta back into the arena for another test of survival, but, unlike the “Hunger Games,” more emphasis is on alliance-building than fighting, as a bigger threat looms over the arena.

The odds certainly were not in director Francis Lawrence’s favor as he took the helm from predecessor Gary Ross. However, Catching Fire comes to life on screen with the help of a spell-binding plot, which stays admirably true to the novel’s complexity.

It is impossible to praise “Catching Fire’s” without referencing the captivating Jennifer Lawrence’s portrayal of Katniss. Her convincing performance juxtaposes vulnerability and strength to defy Snow several times. Her performance hits hard, almost as Katniss’ arrow cuts through the skin of a hare.

Lawrence does not outshine her supporting cast, comprised of Woody Harrelson as Haymitch, Liam Hemsworth as Gale, and Elizabeth Banks as Effie Trinket, who significantly expand their roles from the first installment. Banks in particular, takes her role to a new level with a haunting performance. She becomes known for more than just her gold-flecked hair and distinctive strut.

Newcomers like Hoffman and Sutherland also deliver fantastic performances as they portray the dark intensity of a sinister Capitol seeking to assume absolute control over its citizens. New tributes Finnick and Joanna played by Sam Claftin and Jena Malone respectively also make a splash.

The costumes, a Hunger Games trademark, are even more spectacular, soaring off the screen and into the audience with dazzling embellishments, soaring higher (no pun intended) than before.

The special effects, showcased during scenes in the arena and tribute training facilities, are nothing short of spectacular. They escalate the movie to a class of its own with realistic and vibrant images of genetically engineered animals and human holographic images.

The darker tone of the sequel lends itself to developing deeper themes, capturing the essence of the inner conflict between obeying an authority or doing what is moral. “Catching Fire” transcends its action-movie stereotype and raises questions about morality and remaining subordinate to a self-serving government.

The climatic ending adds more fuel to the fire and will leave you wanting more. But, we must wait 364 days before we can see Katniss on screen once again, as “Mockingjay Part 1” will be released Nov. 21, 2014.