As a fan of the best-selling book from which the story originated, I had high expectations for Gary Ross' The Hunger Games. Complete with a stellar cast, a unique story, and the support of millions, the pressure was on for Lionsgate to craft the film that fans so desperately wanted. And while the film is good in nearly every way, I still found myself missing something as I exited the theater nearly two-and-a-half hours later.
Set amongst the ruins of what was once North America, the film details the Hunger Games, a yearly event where the Capitol forces two participants from each of the twelve districts to enter into a ruthless battle where only one can walk away alive. One teenage boy and girl are drawn at random and sent through a rigorous training period where bets are wagered and personalities tested, all for the sake of entertaining those back home. Sixteen year-old Katniss Everdeen is representing District 12. The film is her journey as she fights to stay alive.
Oscar-nominee Jennifer Lawrence gives audiences a raw and authentic look at their heroine. Her chemistry with co-star Josh Hutcherson is impeccable as the pair venture into the arena with the perfect blent of strength and innocence. Combine that with brilliant portrayals by Elizabeth Banks and Stanley Tucci, and you can't help but be impressed. But in a fairly uncertain move, director Gary Ross hardly gives the audience enough time to notice.
With so much detail lying within the pages of Suzanne Collins' novel, Ross attempted to delve into every scene to bring the entire experience to life. While I applaud him for his efforts, so much content leaves little time for built-up suspense and action. Scenes come and go with alarming velocity as it becomes hard to truly connect with any of the characters as they scheme their way to survival.
That being said, The Hunger Games is still a very solid film. The story is downright lethal, and there appears to be no hiccups in their telling. Fans of the book will adore it for what it does offer, even if it appears to be lacking any serious adrenaline. And those who aren't familiar with the origin material, you'll just savor in the originality of the premise. Either way, you'll enjoy what the film has to offer"”I mean, come on...it's The Hunger Games!
