Hunger Games

To be honest I didn’t know anything about this story prior to the release of the book (written by Suzanne Collins).  As soon as production on the movie was in full swing the public took to the “blog-o-sphere”, and even uploaded amateur videos/ websites in anticipation of the release. Not holding back their true feelings about the upcoming movie, devotees are keeping close tabs on every decision Hollywood is making.  Most rejoice, but others announce their disapproval (ex: casting the heroine, Jennifer Lawrence was a wrong decision).

The story takes place in a futuristic world called Panem, which used to be North America. Penem is divided into 12 Districts- all severely ruled by a harsh government; The Capitol. We learn that 74 years prior to the beginning of the book, Panem rebelled against the Capitol. As an example to the other citizens never to undermine or rebel, District 13 was completely obliterated.  The “Hunger Games” is an annual televised event, where one girl and one boy from every district are chosen compete into an outdoor arena – literally battling for their lives.  And as a result, whoever is the last one standing receives fame, fortune, and their district gets privileges rained upon them for the next year.  (So wait…all that effort to stay alive and the rewards are only good for one year?...What a rip-off!)

Collin creates an interesting blend of two worlds.  The whole notion of people fighting to the death for the sake of entertainment is barbaric --dating back to the early days of Rome and the Gladiators fighting in the coliseums – except this time adolescent children are being used as pawns in this ruthless game.  Now for the twist, all of this is being broadcasted the audience via television– adding a modern and futuristic component to the story.  It’s like a game show, yet it’s disturbing that “entertainment” has succumbed to the demoralization of human lives.

The contextual ideas and themes in this story aren’t necessarily the most original creations.  A couple stories that immediately came to mind were “The Gladiator” and “Battle Royale”.  All contained similar underlying concepts, but I liked how she was able to produce her own uniqueness.  After reading this book, I’m definitely curious to see the movie and whether it fell short or remained true to the novel.