The Hunger Games
- -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 is forced to rely upon her sharp instincts as well as the mentorship of drunken former victor Haymitch Abernathy. 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 world will be watching.
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[vc_row][vc_column][wpsm_woobox id=”48148″][/vc_column][/vc_row]by Ginger
The Hunger Games is perhaps the most awaited movie in a decade or more and this family movie guide has the scoop. This futuristic sci-fi flick tells the story of a few selected teens who must fight for their lives in order to allow citizens of their district to have food. The world is divided into twelve districts and each district must choose a tribute through a lottery draw who will fight to the death for them on live television. Katniss Everdeen is the young heroine who volunteers to take her younger sisteräó»s place in The Hunger Games.
The story behind the movie was written by Suzanne Collins, now a hero among teen novel fans. If your teen wants to see the movie, it is very likely that they have read the entire series of novels already, been introduced to the video games and listen to the songs on the radio. There is quite a bit of hype and promotion surrounding this movie. Are they violent? Absolutely. Are there disturbing images? Yes, in both the books and the movie. The violence and themes of the movie are disturbing for most adults too.
The list of disturbing images is extensive. The entire premise of the movie is based on violence, gore, suspense, and violent death. The teens in this movie die horrible deaths. Yes, they curse and are very intense and emotional. Several adults in the movie drink champagne and one man is implied to be drunk. As far as sexuality is concerned, that is about the only mild thing about the movie. Two teens kiss passionately, hold hands and one is seen shirtless and with badly ripped pants.
The Hunger Games is slightly reminiscent of another sci-fi classic, The Running Man, only this one involves teens. If your kids have read the series, be forewarned that the movie is toned down from the books. I was allowed the privilege of seeing a few favorite scenes in the books for myself, and let me tell you, this is not light bedtime reading by any definition of the term.
The Hunger Games is violent, intense, and not for the weak at heartäó_ and they promise to be the most popular theme of conversation next Monday morning. They did not cross the line into the R territory, but they are not a mild PG-13 either. Be forewarned that the Hunger Games may not be for everyone. Even some adults will find them to be very disturbing.
From a movie perspective, The Hunger Games movie promises to deliver. This movie will have an impact on everyone. It has an intense soundtrack, intense drama, and intense emotions throughout. To call this an intense movie would be an understatement. Should you allow your teens to see it? The family movie review answer is simple. If they have already read the book, you have nothing to lose; they have been exposed to worse. If they have not read the book, then the decision is a little more complicated and you must decide for yourself with the information available. If you see the movie with your kids this weekend, post to the Parental Guide facebook page and let us know what you think.