The Hunger Games (2012)

The boom of the cannon signals the death of a fallen tribute as Katniss Everdeen fights to keep herself alive. The Hunger Games, based on the wildly popular trilogy of books by author Suzanne Collins, brings to the big screen the story of Katniss and her struggle to survive a forced, nationally televised fight to the death.

In the not too distant future, in the place that we currently know as America, stands the great country of Panem. Seventy-four years ago, The Capitol quelled a rebellion among the Districts, the outlying territories of Panem controlled by the Capitol. Now, in tribute for their past sins, each year all 12 districts of Panem must send one boy and one girl between the ages of 12 and 18 to compete in The Hunger Games. The Games are a brutal fight to the death in a controlled outdoor arena where the tributes are forced to fight not only themselves but the cruel and controlling Gamemaker as well.

In the 74th Hunger Games, Katniss Everdeen and Peeta Mellark are sent as tributes from District 12; for them the Games are not simply a struggle to survive but prove to be a complex battle between love and life.

In the coveted role of Katniss Everdeen stands Jennifer Lawrence, who was nominated for an Academy Award in 2011 for her role in Winter's Bone. Lawrence is an interesting yet apt choice for Katniss as she is able to play meek and strong with equal conviction. Alongside Lawrence as the lovestruck Peeta Mellark is Josh Hutcherson, who proves that he has the muscle to play such a physically demanding role.

In his typical fashion, Woody Harrelson gives a wry performance as Katniss and Peeta's mentor, and former winner of The Games, Haymitch. Harrelson is one of those actors who has such a powerful on screen presence that even when placed in a secondary role he manages to steal the show.

Also in small but memorable roles are Elizabeth Banks as the obnoxious Capitol fan girl Effie Trinket, Stanley Tucci as Games television host Cesar Flickerman and Wes Bentley as the Gamemaker Seneca Crane.

There is also the unforgettable role of Hollywood heavyweight Donald Sutherland as Panem's cruel president, Snow. There has been much talk surround The Hunger Games and its allegorical properties that could very well apply to the world in which we live. Though this has lead to some heated feelings towards the story and the film itself, when watching the movie it brings to mind similar dystopian stories such as Battle Royale, Brave New World and even hints of 1984. Though similar to numerous other fantastical stories, The Hunger Games stands out as a powerful, exhilarating yet hopeful film.

If overt violence and children fighting to the death make you uncomfortable, it may be best to steer clear of The Hunger Games, but if you find yourself wanting a real heroine to cheer for, you will find that in Katniss and you're sure to love The Games.

Rating: 4 1/2 out of 5