Positively Wonderful

Rating: 10/10 (27 March 2012)

My grandson and I went to see this film the other day. I haven't read the novel, but he is absolutely enthralled with it so I figured I'd give it a go. I don't ever comment on this website, but I just had to create an account so I could review this film. It was simply marvelous. I didn't like some of the violence and how it was focused on teenagers, but the message behind the story was made very clear in the film and I think it somewhat necessitates the brutality of the Games. The acting was wonderful across the board, especially Jennifer Lawrence as Katniss. The emotion and poise with which she portrays the character is mind-boggling, and for someone who hadn't read the novels, I feel like I know Katniss inside and out because of her incredible performance. The other characters are great as well, each adding something unique to the story. I especially liked little Rue and saw that Katniss felt like she had to protect her from the horrors of the Games. I even liked some of the antagonistic "killer" competitors (yes, even the brutal blond guy) because even they eventually realized that the true enemy is the government, not the other fighters. Brilliant casting, acting, and directing all around! Overall, the film is fantastic. Parents, be warned: there is definitely some harrowing stuff in there. But it's necessary for the moral that the film is trying to give. Without it, I'm not sure I would have been as affected. I give "The Hunger Games" a 10/10 for its wonderful meaning, incredible cast, and capacity to make non-readers like myself care deeply about the fates of the characters.