In 2008, children’s writer, Suzanne Collins published a book titled, “The Hunger Games.” Set in a dystopian future where kids are chosen to participate in a Battle Royale type of game. A fight to the death. Whoever’s the last one standing, wins. When a girl named, Primose Everdeen turns 12, she’s selected as a contestant. Her older sister, Katniss spares her from participating by taking her place. To stay alive, Katniss’ mentor, Haymitch gives her tips to win the crowd as well as forging a bond with Peeta. The Hunger Games sold millions of copies. Followed by two sequels “Catching Fire” & “Mockingjay.” I’m come clean, I never read the books. My first exposure to “The Hunger Games Trilogy” was the first book adapted by Lionsgate starring Jennifer “J-Law” Lawrence.
Released in 2012, (same year Skyfall came out) the first film received positive reviews from critics and movie goers alike. Besides good reception, it made enough money at the box office. Catching Fire came out a year later and Mockingjay’s split into two parts released separately in 2014-2015. As you may know, a prequel known as, “The Ballard of Songbirds and Snakes” will be released on November 17, 2023. I am so not looking forward to it. Why? Because, Rachel Zegler’s in it. All she’s been doing is sabotaging Snow White’s live-action remake. She’s like a real life Dementor from “Harry Potter” sucking the fun and joy out of you. I plan on watching the prequel at home.
Today’s review contains no SPOILERS. Feel free to read my non-spoiler article.
Bullseye & Miss Qualities
Bullseye: Jennifer “J-Law” Lawrence & Josh Hutcherson both did a superb job for their respective performances.
Fun Fact 1: Before J-Law won the lead part, other actresses considered to play Katniss including Dakota Fanning & Alyson Stoner. The latter went to rehab, due to health issues. The former was busy filming “Now Is Good.”
Fun Fact 2: Jack Quaid & Amandla Stenberg make their film debut.
Fun Fact 3: The Hunger Games sparked interest in archery. So, did “The Avengers” & “Brave.” I’m talking about Clint Barton/Hawkeye & Merida. Even “Arrow” on the CW encouraged people to try out archery.
Other Cast Members such as Woody Harrelson, Elizabeth Banks, Lenny Kravitz, Liam Hemsworth, Wes Bentley, Stanley Tucci, Toby Jones, Willow Shields & Donald Sutherland all did a solid job for their respective performances.
Gary Ross (Pleasantville, Seabiscuit) did a good job directing. He also co-wrote the script with Suzanne Collins.
Action Sequences are really good. Katniss uses her skills to endure a deadly game.
James Newton Howard (Unbreakable, Atlantis: The Lost Empire, The Dark Knight) orchestrated the soundtrack. Rue’s whistle is unforgettable.
Practical and Visual Effects were heavily involved to create Set Pieces and an immersive world.
Chemistry between Katniss & Peeta serves as the main highlight. As the film progresses, they form a bond.
Pacing wasn’t a problem. Didn’t feel like a two hour plus film.
Costume Designs reflect a dystopian atmosphere.
If you look at the Mockingjay pin differently, it looks like “Johnny Bravo” posing.
The Ending sets up Catching Fire.
Miss: I couldn’t take Peeta’s name very seriously. Whenever somebody utters out his name, I picture Lois Griffin calling out Peter.
Taylor Swift performs “Safe and Sound.” It’s played during the End Credits. If you’re not a Swiftie like me, you can skip it. Sorry folks, I don’t like Taylor’s music. She recently won too many MTV Music Awards. As if her fans and MTV love to eat her farts.
Katinss said, “I’ll be right back. I find it predictable. Why? Because Randy Meeks from “Scream” taught me a lesson in surviving in Horror movies. Never say I’ll be right back, or else someone will die.
Cameraman struggles to keep the camera still. As if Woody Woodpecker consumed too much Monster Energy Drinks.
The Final Verdict: B-
Not a masterpiece or a stinker, The Hunger Games is average. 2012 was J-Law’s year as an A-List star. She won an Oscar for “Best Actress” in “Silver Linings Playbook.” If you’re preparing for The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes,” watch the trilogy to keep yourself occupied.
Nickthemoviecritic.com 