Anxiously waiting in line outside of a movie theatre could only mean one thing: a midnight release, and more specifically a film adaptation of a New York Times Best Selling novel. After months of anticipation, The Hunger Games was finally released on March 23 across America. As any loyal fan would, I had watched every trailer clip and interview on repeat, counting down the seconds until my chance would come to see Katniss Everdeen in action. My only worry was whether or not the film could live up to Suzanne Collins’s astounding book.
In my opinion, every moment of anticipation climaxed into a captivating experience of exploring Panem and vividly sharing in Katniss’s journey. In some ways the film had strayed from the book, but most were smaller details that only an obsessed book lover would note. From the casting to the special effects, The Hunger Games was meticulously depicted to represent the dystopian world that Collins created.
The “hunger games” is a cruel and viscous form of capital punishment. Each of the twelve districts must send one girl and one boy to compete to the death as a consequence for the past wars and rebellion and to be sacrifices to the Capitol. To my surprise, the gore of the book was not explicitly depicted in the film; far less blood, aggression, and violence was shown. Whether this decision was made to satisfy PG-13 requirements, to address the concerns of parents, or to appeal to wider audiences, it did not harm the impact of The Hunger Games.
Many subliminal messages and overt themes are portrayed in the book and film. From environmental degradation and the overwhelming wealth disparity to compassion and teamwork, The Hunger Games is more than just a fictional bloodbath; it is an indication of the struggles for humanity.
Mike Kruboltz of Yahoo Movie Talk pointed out the political appeal of The Hunger Games as both conservatives and liberals can embrace the film’s ideals. Is it more than a movie? In Krumboltz’s article, Suzanne Collins states, “I hope they question how elements of the books might be relevant to their own lives. About global warming, about our mistreatment of the environment, but also questions like: How do you feel about the fact that some people take their next meal for granted when so many other people are starving in the world?” These messages are all well conveyed in the film and yet the film is not an explicit political message, but an entertaining story that alludes to personal reflection and the potential for change.
Whether you loved reading the books, or you’re just looking for a fast-paced action flick, The Hunger Games is the must see movie of the month. After grossing a colossal $68.3 million in just Friday’s release day alone, The Hunger Games is predicted to gross a total of $150 million in the debut weekend. Don’t miss out on this heart-racing adventure, head to a theatre near you to experience The Hunger Games in all its glory.
“Ladies and gentlemen, let the Seventy-fourth Hunger Games begin!”
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Sources:
http://movies.yahoo.com/blogs/movie-talk/hunger-games-politics-223719796.html#more-5444
http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/hunger-games-friday-box-office-jennifer-lawrence-303934