Highly anticipated Hunger Games lives up to the hype...

Rating: 10/10 (25 March 2012)

First, I would like to say that I have never been so excited for a movie adaptation in my life.
The Hunger Games trilogy is the best book series I've read to date, and I was a bit worried that the movie adaptation would be vastly changed as they normally are.
For the most part, it really did stay true to the book with some minor details that were changed (Katniss suffered a burn on her calf, not her thigh, Peeta hinted to Katniss to strike Cato's hand by drawing an X in blood, not tapping the hand, etc).
Some people are questioning the shaky camera. I actually enjoyed it from that perspective as it felt more gritty. If it were straight-on shots while running through the woods, it wouldn't have been the same.
Praise must be given to the cast, especially Jennifer Lawrence as she perfectly conveyed the complex character of Katniss. You felt her pain and anguish. Lawrence is a force to be reckoned with. Not only is she naturally beautiful, but her acting ability is well beyond her years.
Some are making comments about Josh Hutcherson being cast as Peeta. I questioned it at first, but after seeing him take on the role with such vulnerability and strength, I was pleasantly surprised.
Also, hats off to Amandla Stenberg, Alexander Ludwig, and Elizabeth Banks. They were also great in their roles.
Overall, the film was raw, frightening, and fantastic. I am sincerely looking forward to the rest of the franchise.
Now, let's hope Kellan Lutz can be cast as Finnick Odair.