The Hunger Games series is known for its powerful themes of sorrow, strength, and persistence.  In Catching Fire, the second film of the trilogy, these themes are integrated into the film through the movie’s famous soundtrack.

The popular novels and films are set in a post-apocalyptic era, subject around a young heroine, Katniss Everdeen, who fights for survival in a competition known as the Hunger Games.  In Catching Fire, Katniss returns to the games, as an act of revenge against the president, who believed Katniss was becoming a symbol of rebellion.  The author, Suzanne Collins, brings the topic and setting across in serious and passionate matters.

Every song on the soundtrack echoes Catching Fire’s prevalent themes.  The songs mix well with the passion of the film and display power, sorrow and joy all in one.  Most of these songs have more alternative sounds, allowing the film to portray its various accents and crescendos.

The album begins with the song “Atlas” by Coldplay.  The melancholy background to the song matches the desperate background to the film.  Coldplay’s music is generally placed under the alternative genre and their distinct sound serves to emphasize the  film’s unique qualities.

The next song of the album is Of Monsters and Men’s “Silhouettes”.  The song’s heavy drumbeat is representative of the military lifestyle that citizens of the twelve districts are forced into.  The lyrics describe a heavy weight on one’s shoulders, appropriate for the protagonist Katniss who is faced with multiple extreme conflicts throughout the film.

Christina Aguilera’s “We Remain”, although a pop song, has a hopeful sound that symbolizes the determination of the rebellion in the film.  This factor in addition to the catchy melody of the song makes it a favorite among fans.

“The Devil May Cry” by The Weeknd has a heavier sound that shows the confusion and sadness present in the trilogy.

The list of these songs goes on, all pertaining to the alternative genre.  The lyrics and instrumentals display the select intensity of the trilogy.

Those that were not necessarily appropriate for the album leaned towards different genres.

“Capitol Letter” by Patti Smith completely strays from the emotions surrounding the rest of the soundtrack.  The country genre that this song falls under seems irrelevant to the setting and passion of Catching Fire.  Although the song describes a fearless heroine, Smith’s voice and southern instrumentals add a less intense effect to the song.  Otherwise, the lyrics are meaningful and would be more appropriate for the album if they were a different genre and musician.

The large fan base of Collin’s trilogy is constantly growing and this relatively successful album will most likely attract others.  Although some of the songs did not fit the specific emotions to match the film, those that did were perfect.

Overall, the soundtrack is fitting for Catching Fire and portrays the power that shines through the main characters and general concept.