The Hunger Games

The Hunger Games is a film adaptation of the book with the same name. I'll let you know up front that it will probably be better for you to read the book before viewing the film as not everything is explained well upfront. Luckily for me I went with someone who had read it and they explained things as the movie progressed. The plot synopsis that follows is based on this secondhand knowledge that I assume to be correct.

In the not too distant future some "event" has occurred and the world as we know it is radically different. There exists a rich Capitol that is surrounded by twelve districts. At one time the twelve districts unsuccessfully rose up against the Capitol. As sort of a recurring punishment and reminder the Hunger Games were born. From each district one male and one female between the ages of 12 and 18 are chosen to take part in this free for all in which only one victor will emerge. We experience this harsh reality with Katniss a 16 year old girl who through a dramatic turn of events volunteers as "tribute" to take the place of her younger sister. The rest of the film follows her path from her district (#12) to the Hunger Games.

The Hunger Games is one of the best films of the year so far. It is exciting and most importantly it shows the full spectrum of the thing we all know as the human condition. The story that is told is intriguing and gripping. Acting on all parts were very good and the overall art direction of the film was fantastic.

For the most part the CGI was good and is what is expected from such a big budget film.

Overall, The Hunger Games is very enjoyable and I can't wait for the inevitable second movie. Hopefully I will have read the series by then. If you think you can survive it you should definitely......

GO NOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!