THE HUNGER GAMES novels written by Suzanne Collins are being adapted into a film franchise and I could not be more excited! The premise is admittedly a blatant rip off of the Japanese cult classic BATTLE ROYALE except toned WAY down. I am just starting the third and final book in the trilogy and it is a very fun series to read. THE HUNGER GAMES will come to us from director Gary Ross (SEABISCUIT, PLEASANTVILLE) and stars Jennifer Lawrence (X-MEN: FIRST CLASS, WINTER’S BONE) along with Josh Hutcherson (THE KIDS ARE ALRIGHT, unreleased RED DAWN remake) and Woody Harrelson (ZOMBIELAND, CHEERS). Here is the official synopsis and teaser trailer:
Every year in the ruins of what was once North America, the nation of Panem forces each of its twelve districts to send a teenage boy and girl to compete in the Hunger Games. Part twisted entertainment, part government intimidation tactic, the Hunger Games are a nationally televised event in which “Tributes” must fight with one another until one survivor remains.
Pitted against highly-trained Tributes who have prepared for these Games their entire lives, Katniss (Jennifer Lawrence) is forced to rely upon her sharp instincts as well as the mentorship of drunken former victor Haymitch Abernathy (Woody Harrelson). If she’s ever to return home to District 12, Katniss must make impossible choices in the arena that weigh survival against humanity and life against love.
THE HUNGER GAMES opens March 23rd 2012.
