Wow, it was better than I expected

Rating: 9/10 (24 March 2012)

Now far from the future, North America collapsed. The country is divided into the Capitol and 12 districts. For the last 75 years the Capitol hosts the annual Hunger Games. The rules are simple: 2 people, one male and female in each district are drafted and must kill each other for survival. Whoever wins the game will receive fame and fortune. Prim (Willow Shields) is drafted to compete the hunger games. Her sister Katniss (Jennifer Lawrence) bravely volunteers for her replacement. On the male side, Peeta Mellark (Josh Hutcherson) is drafted. Together Katniss and Peeta represent District 12. For the next two weeks the 24 contestants must be train both physically and mentally in order to get an idea of what the outcome will be. Her trainer Haymitch Abernathy (Woody Harrelson) has one thing to say "Put up a good show." Let the games begins
After months of speculations, I'm happy to say that The Hunger Games is well adapted onto the big screen. Fans of the book won't be disappointment. Yes, there are going to have sacrifices and changes, but keep in mind my dear readers that books and films are different entertainment formant. It is impossible for a movie to have all the content in a novel. If that was the case, then the movie would have been at least 10 hours. As long as films is faithful to the novel, then its good news. The story is far from original. From reading the book and watching the movie, it seems the Suzanne Collins, the author and screenwriter of the film, was influence by Battle Royale, The Running Man, Survivor, Gladiator, The Most Dangerous Game, Greek Mythology, and Reality TV. When you have this combine, you'll have a great story toe tell that is if the filmmakers can pull it off and they did. The characters development was astonishing, which is extremely rare in modern films. All of the actors were fantastic, but mainly Jennifer Lawrence and Woody Harrelson were great. Katniss is one of best female leads that I've seen in a long time and I have to give credit to Jennifer Lawrence for her portrayal. Her character reminded me of Allen Ripley from Alien Series. She's young, kicks ass, shows emotions, smart, and caring. On the hand Woody Harrelson is a well known actor who knows how to play his characters. One of the reasons why I like Haymitch is because he's an alcoholic and can be mean, yet he also is helpful and kind at the same time. Nobody can play the role as good as Woody Harrelson. The film lacks action, but that's a good thing because story comes first. There are moments of intensity during the actual game. Even better, some parts were brutal for a PG-13 rating. There are moments that were emotional, but unfortunately I can't tell you because I don't want to ruin it for you my dear readers. Believe it or not the film is political. Is it conservative flick or liberal? It all depends on you. There is one negative part; even the audience who I asked after the film was over, that I didn't like and it was the hand-held cinematography. It was unnecessary for Davie Ross, the director, to use this technique. The main problem was that he overused it. At least this problem is forgivable.
The Hunger Games is well adapted. Fans will not disappoint (unless of course you're picky about changes). Newcomers will love it. Male audience will appreciate it. The Hunger Games is easily one of the best films of the year.
A-