May The Odds Be Ever In Your Favor

Well, i realized recently that i hadn't reviewed this film, and seeing as we are on the cusp of the release of the second movie in the Hunger Games Saga, aka the movie for people too smart to watch or read Twilight. I will disclaim that i have never read the books, and will thus not be critiquing the manner in which this book was adapted to the screen, or the differences between this film and the source material. The film takes place in the distant future in the former United States, now known as Panem, in a world where children are chosen to fight to the death in a reality show known as The Huger Games.

The film stars Jennifer Lawrence as Katniss Everdeen, a tribute from the twelfth district. Now i am a huge fan of Jennifer Lawrence, and she really shows her versatility in this film, the whole film is about Katniss, and Lawrence has to be reserved and at the same time likeable, we have to understand her actions and she has to be heroic whilst also being believable as a character. Lawrence does a fantastic job and her acting is understated, subtle and captivating, and we never once loose faith in our heroine.

The film uses a handheld camera technique, which reminds us firstly that the film is entirely from Katniss' point of view, it also allows the viewer to become a part of the film, and makes it feel as if we are really there, without resorting to 3D. The handheld camerawork is really well done, and there is no unnecessary shaking of the camera, and i never felt a need to scream at the cameraman!

The film actually contains some strong political themes, these themes will, i imagine, be continued in later films. The main theme is that of revolution and uprising, President Snow realizes Katniss' potential as a revolutionary figure, and the potential she has to unite the citizens of Panem, this is shown when the citizens of the 11th district swear allegiance to her. The film is also a discussion about reality television, and is a bloody satire of the dog-eat-dog culture we live in, which constantly pits people against one another.

What i also like about this film, and this series in general is that it isn't directed in 3D. Studio imposed 3D inhibits directors hugely, and the film would be unable to use the quantity of handheld footage shown here, if the film was in 3D, instead the filmmakers have opted to use IMAX, a high definition format, defining the series as having a true director, rather than having their artistic vision dictated by a studio.

I was pleasantly surprised by this movie, and by this series in general, it is surprisingly more intelligent than most teen sagas, and raises some important political points about revolution and race. Spearheaded by Jennifer Lawrence supported by a strong cast and good cinematography, The Hunger Games is the most exciting new series right now, and i await the sequel with much anticipation. Rating: B