Gen-Z loves a good parody, and Grace Reiter just dropped a great one.
Parodies have always held a special place in the hearts of Gen-Z. They’re ridiculous, hilarious, and a light-hearted contrast to mainstream media. But for years, we’ve been missing them.
On November 18, 2025, comedian Grace Reiter released “The Hunger Games (but better) — A Parody” onto YouTube, delivering the perfect parody Gen-Z has been waiting for. Starring Reiter as Katniss and nine other friends in supporting roles, the movie combines the traditional storyline of the Hunger Games with random Christmas songs, honesty, and a glorious amount of unseriousness.Â
Reiter is best known for her skits on her personal Instagram and TikTok, and has amassed over 4.5 million followers across multiple platforms. Her content is relatable, witty, and important. She embraces every role, is original, and fully commits to her performance; this parody was no exception.Â
Filmed over a single weekend for Reiter’s 24th birthday, the movie is proudly low-budget, in the best way possible. The costumes are creative but bizarre, the actors are immensely talented, and the editing is intentionally (and delightfully) chaotic. Together, these elements create a sense of authenticity. As one YouTube commenter, @peachy.nayelli, wrote: “This in the face of AI feels golden — I miss real people with real thoughts.” In a world full of content that feels fake or overproduced, this parody is refreshingly real.
Another standout element is the cast’s commitment to their roles. Reiter hilariously mimics Jennifer Lawrence’s voice and mannerisms. During the reaping, the infamous line, “I volunteer,” is delivered seamlessly with as much striking desperation as the original. Brothers Aidan and Ryan Micho play Peeta and Gale, transforming both characters into awkward teenage boys trying to be nonchalant. There are many hilarious scenes in which both of them try to avoid vulnerability, which is such a clever commentary on how men are expected to show up in society. Luke Burke maintains a perfectly blank expression throughout his portrayal of Katniss’s mother, resulting in what is arguably the funniest moment in the film.Â
This parody is based on the first movie of the Hunger Games franchise, which consists of three novels, four films (with a fifth coming in 2026), and a strong fan base that has loyally supported the franchise’s growth. It is clear that Grace and her friends are part of that fan base.Â
Part of what makes this parody land so effectively is the cultural relevance of the Hunger Games. In recent years, it has seen a massive resurgence online, especially among Gen Z, who connect deeply with its critiques of inequality, media spectacle, and youth exploitation. TikTok has reignited interest through edits, memes, and renewed fan theories. Reiter’s parody taps into that wave, honoring the nostalgia of the original films while reframing them through humor, revealing just how enduring and adaptable the story truly is.
Next time you need a study break or some winter-break entertainment, give it a watch. You won’t regret it!
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