If you're a fan of The Hunger Games books, you might be more than a little worried that the film can't live up to the greatness of the first novel. But after catching an early screening of the flick last night in New York City, these J-14 editors are here to assure you that the big-screen adaptation does not disappoint! Read on to hear what we thought of The Hunger Games...
Warning: Spoiler alerts!
"The anticipation leading up to The Hunger Games was like I was going into the arena myself. And then I realized, even after watching the trailer a hundred times, we really hadn't seen much of the arena, so the suspense grew every moment leading up to that final countdown into the arena. This story itself is pretty brutal, and they didn't shy away from it in the movie. Although there were moments of suspense and horror as you watch some of your favorites (and not so favorite) characters die, there were also a lot of sweet moments and even some much needed laughs."
-- J-14 Photo Editor Danielle Kepler
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"From the heartbreaking scene of Katniss volunteering as Tribute in Prim's place to watching Peeta and Katniss' love blossom during the Games, The Hunger Games was two and a half hours of falling in love with the story all over again. Sure, they had to cut and change some details from the book (like eliminating the character of Madge), but for the most part, the movie stayed true to Suzanne Collins' words. Jennifer Lawrence and Josh Hutcherson are so perfect as Katniss and Peeta -- and I'm completely convinced they should date in real life now. I cried when Rue died and cheered when Katniss and Peeta shared their first kiss. And I can't wait to go back and do it all again this weekend."
-- J-14 Deputy Editor Ashley Spencer
"To say that the books lived up to the movie is an understatement. From Jennifer Lawrence's gut-wrenching portrayal as Katniss, the 'girl on fire,' to Rue's tragic death, The Hunger Games lived up to my expectations and then some. Fans of the books will be amazed how the world of Panem is brought to life, and for people who have not read the book, the excitement of learning about the post-apocolyptic fight-to-the-death match is enough to keep them on the edge of their seats for two hours and twenty two minutes. The only problem I had with the movie... is that the second flick doesn't come out until next year!"
-- J-14 Senior Editor Kim Messina
The Hunger Games hits theaters this Friday, March 23. Are you excited to see it?
Photo: Courtesy of Lionsgate
