So rare to see additional content in a book adaptation!

Rating: 8/10 (15 May 2012)

**Major SPOILER Alert**
I really enjoyed this movie. Some other reviewers have (correctly) commented on the fact that certain elements were missing or altered from the book, such as the "hunger" aspect of The Hunger Games. For me, notably, it was 1) not seeing Rue leap through the tree-tops to escape as Katniss releases the Tracker Jacker hive, 2) omitting the tribute who explodes after prematurely stepping off the platform and 3) the Muttations not walking upright. As for the Muttations, I think it is likely that the filmmakers simply decided that portraying the nuances of Katniss's realization that they were the re-animated (or imitated) dead tributes would be simply too lengthy and costly to portray.
After I finished the book, I mentioned that I was surprised that the author didn't include details (maybe alternating chapters?) of the reaction of the Capitol's spectators or the experiences of the Gamemasters. I was shocked to find both in the film. Bravo!
It is not often that you find a film that adds legitimate content missing from the book. I say "legitimate" content as opposed to the District 11 rebellion which was not even hinted at in the book.
The casting was fantastic with the exception of Woody Harrelson as Haymitch. In the book, Haymitch is described as a paunchy, gone-to-seed middle-aged man with short dark and curly hair, but Harrelson's version looks more like a buff, overly-recognizable, albeit shaggy superstar.
All in all, a terrific movie!