“The Hunger Games” has some weaknesses

May 7, 2012 • Anna Koricancic  
Filed under Entertainment

“The Hunger Games” is the film version to Suzanne Collins popular book series, set in a near future of what once was the U.S.  It is the nation of Panem, with a capitol head and 12 districts.  

The transition from book to movie was not without flaws. The film was well held together by the leading role Jennifer Lawrence (Katniss), who portrayed the girl hardened by suffering, who doesn’t seem to have room for humanity. Lenny Kravitz (Cinna) also made the trusting relationship with Katniss believable. He played the role of her friend in the capitol, without skipping a beat.  Josh Hutcherson was also convincing in his role of Peeta. The differences from the Capitol and districts were displayed well, as was the differences within the districts.  Woody Harrelson (Haymitch) was also convincing in his role of the only mentor of District 12 and alcoholic.

The movie was changed from a first person view to a third person view. The movie was easier to follow for those who didn’t read the books because of this. Although, this might have upset die-hard fans. 

Some cast member choices were not as strong, like Liam Hemsworth (Gale), who came off weak next to Jennifer Lawrence.  Gary Ross also failed to direct it with mastery.  Thankfully, he is not directing the next movie. The camera angles and choice of shaking the camera whenever action started in the movie did not play well. It distracted from what was the action itself.

Hopefully for “Catching Fire” there will be some casting revisions and the new director not ask the camera crew to the amateur thing and shake the camera every time the main character is attacked.