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'Hunger Games: Mockingjay' Becomes Highest Grossing Film of 2014 in U.S.

Hunger Games Mockingjay Jennifer Lawrence
Hunger Games Mockingjay Jennifer Lawrence

By Brent Lang and Dave McNary

The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1 shot past Guardians of the Galaxy to become the highest grossing domestic release of 2014.

It’s the second time in a row that the dystopian franchise has topped the charts. It gives Lionsgate bragging rights as the studio with the top film in consecutive years — something no one else has achieved in over a decade.

The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1 hit $333.2 million on Wednesday, edging past Guardians at $333.17 million at the U.S. box office.

Lionsgate also announced Thursday that it will release the Digital HD verison of Mockingjay — Part 1 on Feb. 17 and the Blu-ray Combo Pack (plus DVD and Digital HD), DVD (plus Digital) and On Demand versions on March 6.

Mockingjay – Part 1 opens in China on Feb. 8. It has already grossed more than $700 million worldwide, bringing global box office for the three Hunger Games films to over $2.2 billion.

"The number one theatrical release of 2014 is poised to become one of the biggest home entertainment events of 2015," said Lionsgate Home Entertainment President Ron Schwartz and Lionsgate President of Worldwide Television & Digital Distribution Jim Packer.

Unlike most major tentpole releases, the latest Hunger Games didn’t get the benefit of a 3D or Imax surcharge. Mockingjay – Part 1 stars Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, and Liam Hemsworth and was directed by Francis Lawrence. The next and final film in the series hits theaters in November.

It may be difficult for Lionsgate to score a three-peat; this year brings sequels to Star Wars and The Avengers. May the odds be ever in their favor.