This season’s most anticipated movie premiere is “The Hunger Games,” a dystopian thriller based on the wildly successful book series by Suzanne Collins. Since the first book was published in 2008, the series has become popular among readers of all ages.
According to Amazon.com, “In the ruins of a place once known as North America lies the nation of Panem, a shining Capitol surrounded by twelve outlying districts. Long ago the districts waged war on the Capitol and were defeated. As part of the surrender terms, each district agreed to send one boy and one girl to appear in an annual televised event called, “The Hunger Games,” a fight to the death on live TV. Sixteen-year-old Katniss Everdeen, who lives alone with her mother and younger sister, regards it as a death sentence when she is forced to represent her district in the Games. The terrain, rules, and level of audience participation may change but one thing is constant: kill or be killed.”
To the excitement of fans, the first Hunger Games movie is going to be released on March 23rd, 2012. The vivid descriptions and fast-paced action of the books has many people anticipating a thrilling movie. Advance ticket sales for the release broke the one-day record previously held by The Twilight Saga: Eclipse. So what do we have to look forward to?
The Hunger Games combines action, romance, politics, and even has funny moments—there is something for every taste. The media coverage surrounding the release has been going on for months, and some believe that the movie’s young, mostly unknown stars will soon become the next power trio, like Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint of the Harry Potter series. The protagonist role of Katniss Everdeen will be played by Jennifer Lawrence. Peeta Mellark, the male tribute from District 12 will be played by the drool-worthy Josh Hutcherson, and the character of Gale Hawthorne, Katniss’ friend-with-chemistry from home will be played by hunky Australian Liam Hemsworth. And who doesn’t go crazy for a good love triangle?
As if that isn’t enough reason to go see this movie, Taylor Swift has written and performed two songs on the soundtrack: Safe and Sound and Eyes Open.
The trailers look as though director Gary Ross stayed mostly true to the book, and the sets and costumes are sure to capture anyone’s attention. Can’t wait until the premiere to catch a glimpse of the movie stars? If you’re going to Minneapolis or Seattle over spring break, stop by the Hunger Games mall tour and get an autograph. Want to see what the Muppets have to say about the Hunger Games? Don’t miss this Disney spoof.