adamgehrke.com

In a post apocalyptic not so distant future what we know as North America is now a union of 12 districts collectively known as Panem. Each year one male and one female from each district is selected by a lottery to participate in The Hunger Games; essentially a game of survivor with fatal consequences for all but one contestant. One part entertainment and one part social control, The Hunger Games serve as a method for the government to oppress its citizens. Now, Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence) and Peeta Mellark (Josh Hutcherson) are the representatives from the fringe district 12. Considered underdogs the two a challenged with the prospects of dying young, all the while learning how to navigate a game of death that’s as much about political savy as it is being a wilderness survival expert. Adding to the difficulties, President Snow (Donald Sutherland) and game master Seneca Crane (Wes Bentley) have their own intentions as to how to shape the game for the greater good. But what will it take to survive the game, and at what cost? Adapted from the wildly popular children’s novels of the same name, The Hunger Games is partially written and directed by the lesser known Gary Ross (Seabiscuit); however, it’s important to point out backing him are a whole host of second unit directors including power hitter Steven Soderbergh so let’s not be too hasty in writing this one off eh? Nor should you, with the exception of a little cinematography shakiness to start with, the overall picture is strong. Cleverly weaving between live action, televised chaos, and behind the scenes political masterminding, the screenplay stays rich without compromising the original integrity of the source. Acting from the ensemble feels up to par, sometimes over the top performances from Stanley Tucci and Woody Harrelson are also much appreciated. Art direction, makeup and hair are worth noting, attention to detail here is nothing short of amazing. Musical cues from James Newton Howard blend nicely to set the scene even better. Basically, I’m saying this is a winner and worth your attention, regardless of any preconceived notions you might have about another kid’s book being translated to the silver screen, this one’s here to stay. Worth noting there is some semi-graphical violence so it may not be for the youngest audiences. The Hunger Games is rated PG-13.