THE HUNGER GAMES is set to be released here in Singapore on 22-March-2012. It stars Jennifer Lawrence, John Hutcherson, and Liam Hemsworth. The film is about an annual event in which randomly selected contestants from each District will fight to the death for a reality TV show that is broadcast to everyone. Even though it is not released in the summer, it remains to be one of the year's most anticipated blockbusters. As the date draws closer, there are 5 Things You Must Know About the Gary Ross-directed film.
[Film still of THE HUNGER GAMES]
1. The Games as Reality TV Show
Contrary to popular belief, this film was not inspired by the controversial and violent Japanese film BATTLE ROYALE (2000), directed by Kinji Fukasaku. Yes, it may have a similar -themed plot, but the novel that the film was adapted from was written by author Suzanne Collins, who had no knowledge of Fukasaku's film prior to writing the novel. She was inspired to write something after an idea sparked in her mind when switching channels continuously between a reality TV variety show, and news showing footage from the Iraq War.
2. The Tessera Process
In case you are wondering, yes, even children are eligible to participate in the cruel games. Many of them are forced by their plight to put their names into the "draw" in order to receive food. This is known as the Tessera process. Katniss Everdeen (Lawrence), the lead character, has put her name into the "draw" many times since she turned 12 to feed her poor family. However, the entries into the "draw" are cumulative. This means with each passing year, she is more and more likely to be selected.
3. Muttations
Muttations are weapons of a biological nature created by The Capitol, the organizer of the Hunger Games, to be used against the population of Panem, which is essentially the US of A run by a dictator. A type of muttation is the Tracker Jackers. They are wasps with deadly stings and areused to combat against any rebellion in any District. It is believed that a minor sting can cause horrifying hallucinations, while multiple stings will begin a slow and painful process towards death.
4. The Arenas
As the name suggests, this is where all the fights will take place. Expect action and thrills. The arena is changed every year. In THE HUNGER GAMES, the arena will be a wild forest. The author had some help from the movies to aid her in visualizing the battles and weapons that would be used in a forest battle, most notably from RAMBO (2008), starring Sylvester Stallone.
[Jennifer Lawrence shooting a scene in THE HUNGER GAMES]
5. Possible Franchise?
THE HUNGER GAMES is the first of three novels in the series. The other two are "Catching Fire" and "Mockingjay". Depending on the success of the first film, the sequels may or may not be made. However, there are high hopes that THE HUNGER GAMES will be a box-office success and become a popular modern franchise that we can look forward to!
Aren't you excited already?
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