Written by Valentina Pia Morgillo
A new Hunger Games movie based on Suzanne Collins’ forthcoming fifth novel in the saga (titled The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping) is coming, so it is worth examining all the previous journeys to Panem.
Thanks to the Hunger Games’ success, Jennifer Lawrence, playing Katniss Everdeen, became the symbol of rebellion against the oppressive Capitol, while navigating the affeections of her two suitors from home, Peeta and Gale.
The series became famous for its exploration of wealth disparity and social injustice, but which of the five films triumphs can be recognized as the most successful?
The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1
The decision to split Suzanne Collins' third Hunger Games novel, "Mockingjay," into two films was driven by studio interests, despite the book being the weakest in the series. "Mockingjay" lacks the captivating structure of the actual Hunger Games, leaving audiences with over four hours focused on a rebellion without the gripping arena scenes. Fans argue over whether Part 1 or Part 2 is worse, with some favoring Part 1 for its intelligence and contemplation, though it is considered dull for an action franchise. The setting in District 13's underground bunker is unappealing, and the plot heavily involves war propaganda, with Katniss creating propaganda videos and worrying about brainwashed Peeta. This results in a film that feels more like stalling than progressing the story, resembling the first act of a film rather than a complete first half.
The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2
In "Mockingjay Part 2," Katniss escapes the monotony of the bunker to lead a challenging invasion of the Capitol, aiming to overthrow President Snow. While it's a relief to see Katniss in action, the film can feel slow-moving. Part 1 was heavy on dialogue and introspection, whereas Part 2 lacks these elements, a common issue with splitting a story. Filmed consecutively with Part 1, the actors appear tired, which suits the narrative since the characters should be exhausted. Despite some shortcomings, the Capitol invasion provides engaging, game-like challenges. Suzanne Collins excels at endings, and Part 2 benefits from a series of satisfying conclusions, including the twist where Katniss kills rebellion leader President Alma Coin instead of Snow. This twist highlights the transformation of the rebellion into another form of tyranny, adding depth to the story. Additionally, Katniss' interactions with Peeta are genuinely moving, further enhancing the film.
The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes
Lucy’s songs in "The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes" often interrupt the narrative flow, despite Rachel Zegler’s commendable performance in a role inevitably compared to Jennifer Lawrence’s. The bombed-out arena setting is dull and uninspired compared to earlier films. However, the movie stands out by focusing on Coriolanus Snow’s rise, with Tom Blyth delivering a compelling portrayal that makes viewers root for Snow to make the right choices, despite knowing his fate. Snow’s relationship with Lucy is more intricate and engaging than Katniss’ relationships with Peeta and Gale, which followed typical YA tropes. The film's ending is surprisingly subtle and faithful to the book, revealing Lucy’s realization of Coriolanus’ impending betrayal just before he himself recognizes it. This character-driven approach breathes new life into the franchise.
The Hunger Games: Catching Fire
"Catching Fire" is often considered the "Empire Strikes Back" of the Hunger Games franchise. It is the most critically acclaimed film in the series and its highest-grossing, earning $424 million. Directed by Francis Lawrence, who also helmed both "Mockingjay" films and "The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes," this sequel is more polished and assured than the original. The plot drags the unlucky Katniss back into an arena designed like a massive clock, maintaining a relentless pace. "Catching Fire" benefits from the franchise's strongest supporting cast, featuring Philip Seymour Hoffman as the scheming Plutarch, Jena Malone as Johanna Mason, and Jeffrey Wright and Amanda Plummer as tributes Beetee and Wiress. Debate continues over whether this film or the original is the best, but "Catching Fire" contains the franchise's most memorable shot: Katniss transforming from a grieving survivor to a furious rebellion leader upon learning that the Capitol has destroyed District 12. This pivotal moment showcases Jennifer Lawrence's acting prowess, as it required a masterful performance to avoid slipping into farce.
The Hunger Games
The original "Hunger Games" film may lack the budget and polish of its sequels (with notably subpar CGI mutts), but it offers a grounded feeling and tension absent from the later movies. Its narrative stands out, making the sequels seem like variations of a successful formula. Woody Harrelson excels as the troubled Haymitch Abernathy, and Stanley Tucci delivers a smarmy performance as talk show host Caesar Flickerman. However, the film's triumph largely rests on Jennifer Lawrence's star-making performance and director Gary Ross's smart choices, treating the material like an elevated indie drama. Despite the overly wrought handheld camera work in some District 12 scenes, Ross's execution of critical sequences, such as the Reaping, the cornucopia countdown, and Katniss' interview with Flickerman, is masterful. Ross skillfully immerses viewers in Katniss' perspective, making them feel her fear and uncertainty, particularly during tight shots that highlight Lawrence's performance. Although Ross was replaced after clashing with the studio over the tight deadline for "Catching Fire," his work in the first film is riveting and foundational for the franchise. "The Hunger Games" uniquely conveys the horror of a competition where children are forced to kill each other, making it the only film in the series to effectively evoke this chilling reality.