Rating: 4.5
Discussion questions added. Scroll down.
Hope everyone who is reading is enjoying the book so far. It's actually a very deep book for a YA and I found I liked it more than I expected.
Thought you might like some visuals...just because. Although the movie won't be out until the 23rd, please let us know what you think of the potential it has and those who have been cast. :)
Jennifer Lawrence as Katniss
Liam Hemsworth as Gale
Josh Hutcherson as Peeta
Elizabeth Banks as Effie
Lenny Kravitz as Cinna (yeah baby!!)
Woody Harrelson as Haymitch
HERE ARE NEW STILLS OF THG, COURTESY OF JESS! Peace out "Twilight"!
Here are just a few of the questions we will be asking. I wanted to give a heads up as some of them require time to really think and ponder. :)
1. How does Katniss feel about the country of Panem?
Why does she need to make her face “an indifferent
mask” and be careful what she says in public?
2. Describe Katniss’s relationships with Gale, with Prim,
and with her mother. How do those relationships
define her personality? Why does she say about Peeta,
“I feel like I owe him something, and I hate owing
people”? How does her early encounter with Peeta
affect their relationship after they are chosen as
tributes?
3. Why are the “tributes” given stylists and dressed so
elaborately for the opening ceremony? Does this
ceremony remind you of events in our world, either
past or present? Compare those ceremonies in real
life to the one in the story.
4. When Peeta declares his love for Katniss in the
interview, does he really mean it or did Haymitch
create the “star-crossed lovers” story? What does
Haymitch mean when he says, “It’s all a big show.
It’s all how you’re perceived”? Why do they need
to impress sponsors and what are those sponsors
looking for when they are watching the Games?
5. Discuss the ways in which the Gamemakers control
the environment and “entertainment” value of the
Games. How does it affect the tributes to know
they are being manipulated to make the Games
more exciting for the gamblers and viewers? Does
knowing that she is on live TV make Katniss behave
differently than she would otherwise?
6. In 1848, Karl Marx wrote in The Communist
Manifesto, “The history of all hitherto existing
society is the history of class struggles.” Discuss this
statement as it applies to the society and government
of Panem. Do you believe there is any chance to
eradicate class struggles in the future?
7. Reality TV has been a part of the entertainment
world since the early days of television (with shows
such as Candid Camera and the Miss America
Pageant), but in the 21st century there has been
a tremendous growth of competitive shows and
survival shows. Discuss this phenomenon with
respect to The Hunger Games. What other aspects of
our popular culture do you see reflected in this story?
Ok, since this is fresh on my mind, I just have to say this: I am far more fond of this series than Twilight, and I loved Twilight. That is until the films came out...that's another story. Anyway, I like the fact that although there is a love story, it's not the MAIN story line. It's a matter of survival, democracy, and exercising free will. Far better than trying to decide if you want to live forever as a vampire or live with a wolf. Oh and in TGH, the protagonist has a lot more to fear and handles it like a lion. Ok, I'll stop there for now, but I am really excited about our discussion!!!
ReplyDeleteI think so far the casting looks amazing. Katniss and Peeta were cast perfectly! And OH man am I loving Lenny as Cinna!! However that is not how I imagined Gale. Only because they describe him differently in the book. But I am sure he will pull it together.
ReplyDeleteHaymitch even though I can't stand Woody Harrelson, He looks the part very much! And WOW I can't believe Elizabeth Banks is playing Effie. that girl is always in comedies! So I am surprised.
And what is with that picture of their opening ceremony costumes? They weren't all black they had red flames on them. And then were set on fire. Hmm See that is also something I usually don't do Read the book first before seeing the movie because then I nit pick everything out of it. Watching the movie first I don't pick at every little thing. So we will see how I do lol Because the movie looks really great and I can't wait to see it!
I think because Peeta is blonde they don't want Gale blonde. You know what I mean. They want different looks. Yeah, I'm sure there will be many differences, but it's nice that it isn't as detailed down to how they smell *coughTWILIGHcough* and feel to the touch. I think there is more room for our imagination to take over.
DeleteOh and yes I am excited about Elizabeth Banks!
DeleteI thought Haymitch was supposed to be dark haired. I'm not a Woody fan either, but he'll probably do a good job with him. I wish they did Josh's hair with a more natural blonde color. It looks like they bought the cheapie hair dye and did it himself. lol
Delete~4string
4string,
DeleteI often wonder if they change looks from the book because something may or may not look good on camera. I honestly don't see Woody playing Haymitch, so I hope we are all pleasantly surprised.
I am excited to see Lenny as Cinna! He really isn't described in the book so I love the open interpretation. I didn't have Lenny or anyone in mind really when reading the book, but I can see it now. Fingers crossed ladies for a great film!!!
Gale had dark hair remember? It was black and long. practically covered his face. I imagined Jacobs cropped look. Not the hair Taylor had but a crop up to his jaw line. Like it was SUPPOSED to look.
ReplyDeleteahahahahahahaha!!! So glad they didn't use Jacob's wig! Mmmm...maybe Liam wouldn't have looked good with long hair, just like Rob would have looked ridiculous if he had worn extensions. Maybe???
ReplyDeleteNot the long one! I hated that one with the half hair up! WTF was that?? I looked clearly fake! Ahahah. But a short one. Liam looks like Gale but the hair is throwing me off. Hmm but hopefully he will be great!
ReplyDeleteSo what would you rate this book Jess?
ReplyDeleteAt first I didn't like it, It was kinda stale and the characters could of been better. And I felt like the author was rushing too much of the story. But now I love it. It is a great book. So I give it a 4.5. Now I have to read the second book like pronto stat.
ReplyDeleteI concur. :)
DeleteHi Everyone-
ReplyDeleteSorry I've not been able to participate in reviewing this book. I've been a bit busy but great reading everyone's comments and analysis.
Hi OB! Absolutely no worries. :) Just having you pop in when you can is great. I hope you will see the movie as I would love to know your thoughts on story, characters, and of course COSTUME DESIGN! I'm almost done with the second book. Whenever you get the itch to read the series, I would love to know your opinion. I am liking it more and more. I didn't have any expectations going into it. Take care of yourself and be sure to get some sleep. :)
DeleteSooooo excited about this discussion today!! I wish it was 6 already!! Since I have have chomping at the bit to talk about it for a week. AND I just got the rest of the books too. It was a surprised with BOTH the books!! From my friend! I was soooo happy! And still am! I am going to be a reading fiend though since I have those two books then Neverending story and Namesake and I know what you did last summer to read.. Whew.. Worth it!
ReplyDeleteHi everyone! Before we get started, I have decided we will do the entire series for our book club. However with our schedule, I will be posting them as optional reading. I'm thinking of doing reviews before each film comes out. What do you think????
ReplyDeleteJess!!! It's 6:02 PST. 9:02 EST. WHERE ARE YOU???? hahahaha!!! I know you have been dying to discuss so I'm just calling you out of your cave. :)
ReplyDeleteI am here!!!! HERE present!! YAY!!!
ReplyDeleteHi Jess!
ReplyDeleteHow are you? I know you have been dying to discuss this book, so let me ask you: what was your impression of the book?
Ok first I want to say how happy I am that we are now going to read all three in the series!!!! Whoohooo! Second At first I didn't really care for the book. It was a bit dead at first and Katniss made no immediate impression on me. But once the Games started oh my word I could barely put the book down.
ReplyDeleteThe book is amazing. Gut wrenching because lets be honest watching kids kill themselves just because of a uprising that happened a long time ago is outrageous. But in reality is not far off from our society if you think about it.
The book is deeper then I thought it would be and truly has so many double meanings that it is amazing. To watch how Their world is parallel to ours? Wow.
I felt the same way when I first started. It seemed to start out of nowhere and Katniss seemed a little blah. But then it did pick up. I wish there was more storyline around their training for the actual games. it seemed to go extremely fast. I realize Katniss, Peeta, and everyone is very skilled, but I would liked to have had more insight into their training as far as how they do what they do.
DeleteAs I said before I think Collins did a better job with her characters (than Meyer) because even though we are given some physical characteristics, it's not so indepth that you can't use your imagination AND it allows more freedom for experimenting with the characters when it comes to the movie.
What kind of government came to mind when you first read about Panem?
ReplyDeleteTbh when I first read about Panem it was very Old days American. Like the depression in the 1930's. It was so odd to hear Katniss say she had to go without and had never had certain things. Like Hot Chocolate, Or how certain things were not sold in district 12. How they have a black market.It was really weird. Also it was a cool story line to make it like a long ago story that its history about how the districts started and Panem actually used to be The Rockies. Or Colorado. That is such a interesting way to take the story. But then I like odd ball stuff like that. Little tidbits that the author puts so that your mind wanders else where, on why?? What happened to Colorado?? To OUR world?? We use Planes and had cars and food and beautiful cities and historical sites. What happened to them?? Just opens your mind to wander into those important questions.
ReplyDeleteBut I love that because it gives the reader a connection to the story.
I never thought about it that way, but you are right! I also felt it had a very communistic feel. You were told what your district would do for the country and that was that. If you talked ill about the Capitol, you were punished. Very controlling.
DeleteDescribe Katniss’s relationships with Gale, with Prim,
ReplyDeleteand with her mother. How do those relationships
define her personality?
Oh yes I was going to say that as well. It did remind me of the communist way too. Because of the Capitol.
ReplyDeleteWith Gale I think she doesn't realize that she actually has feelings for him because frankly it never came up. But it becomes obvious once she see's him last in the room to say goodbye and he says "remember I-" AHH you know he said LOVE YOU! I am actually rooting for Gale and Katniss. Especially because I read a bit of the second book and WOWWWW!! Gale obviously loves her as well.
With Prim I think that she feels like SHE is her mother. Since her mother isn't taking care of anything since her dad died. She is very protective of Prim and obviously would do anything for her no matter what.
The relationship with her Mother is very rocky. She resents her because her mother "Left" her and Prim during such a hard time. She doesn't even like talking to her. Its just a strained situation.
The relationships obviously make her this strong willed person who is a survivor. She doesn't let fear conquer her. She is pretty awesome to me. A girl who can take care of herself. I admit sometimes she over reacts a bit ok alot! But she is still young and that is to be understandable.
1. How does Katniss feel about the country of Panem?
ReplyDeleteWhy does she need to make her face “an indifferent
mask” and be careful what she says in public?
Well in the beginning I think that Katniss really doesn't make it apparent how she feels about the city just that she has to survive in it and that is the way it is can't change it. When she gets in the arena you start to see her actually miss her home. And hate the capitol for doing this to them. So I think it is a love hate relationship with it. She doesn't talk freely except with Gale because the Capitol could be listening and watching. They don't of course at first because everyone knows everyone in that city so they let things slide. But in the second book that changes.
2. Describe Katniss’s relationships with Gale, with Prim,
and with her mother. How do those relationships
define her personality? Why does she say about Peeta,
“I feel like I owe him something, and I hate owing
people”? How does her early encounter with Peeta
affect their relationship after they are chosen as
tributes?
I think she says that about Peeta because she owes him her life. She feels like maybe he will turn on her during the games and say "Well I helped you out now help ME out!" and kill her. So she doesn't want that.
3. Why are the “tributes” given stylists and dressed so
elaborately for the opening ceremony? Does this
ceremony remind you of events in our world, either
past or present? Compare those ceremonies in real
life to the one in the story.
This is the part that parallels our world. Reality TV is HUGE now. And it is all fake and scripted too. But even for people to watch it the media has to create a image. They HAVE sell the show. Make people WANT to watch. So the tributes have stylists to make them look the "Part" make people WANT to tune in and watch and get them sponsors. The Ceremony actually reminded me of The Olympics. But also when I was describing this book to my friend they mentioned Gladiators. In ancient times when they would parade the strongest or weakest men together to fight to the death, Even fight animals. So really it is a bit of both. but how barbaric like the gladiators to parade children around as if it is a huge party just to watch them kill eachother. Tragic.
4. When Peeta declares his love for Katniss in the
interview, does he really mean it or did Haymitch
create the “star-crossed lovers” story? What does
Haymitch mean when he says, “It’s all a big show.
It’s all how you’re perceived”? Why do they need
to impress sponsors and what are those sponsors
looking for when they are watching the Games?
I think Peeta DID mean it. And Haymitch uses it to his advantage for the games. What better way to get sponsors? Peeta was telling the truth and wanted to kiss her and wanted to be with her. It is a big show and again people want to watch a tragic love story, I mean people nowadays are soo obsessed with real life love stories EVEN if it is made up for the media um Prsten anyone?? But you have to be CONVINCING to get the sponsors because without them you don't get supplies you need during the games. You gotta sell yourself out to get ahead. Sad but true. And if you look at the way things are now in our world it is exactly that.
Jess said:but how barbaric like the gladiators to parade children around as if it is a huge party just to watch them kill eachother. Tragic.
DeleteMe: Yes! And their (Capitol) sole purpose is to show how powerful they are and what nothings everyone else is. So don't try to rebel or we will kill your children!
Jess I pretty much agree with everything you have said in all of the answers, so instead of repeating, I will just add my two cents. :)
5. Discuss the ways in which the Gamemakers control
ReplyDeletethe environment and “entertainment” value of the
Games. How does it affect the tributes to know
they are being manipulated to make the Games
more exciting for the gamblers and viewers? Does
knowing that she is on live TV make Katniss behave
differently than she would otherwise?
Again the Gamemakers make them watchable. The environments are to enhance the watching experience. Well you start to see during the games how some like the Career tributes change and turn into these vile people who you WANT to die. Then there are some who actual rebel against it and then some that hide and try and not to die. I actually found it really disturbing that once the games started some of the kids that were killing had NO remorse like whatsoever. I understand survival mode but I mean like Clover and Cato they WANTED to kill people and liked it and that is sick! Of course it changed Katniss. She knew she couldn't say what she wanted or act indifferent to Peeta. Well after things happened. Because like that the Gamemakers could kill her.
6. In 1848, Karl Marx wrote in The Communist
Manifesto, “The history of all hitherto existing
society is the history of class struggles.” Discuss this
statement as it applies to the society and government
of Panem. Do you believe there is any chance to
eradicate class struggles in the future?
Wow. Well with our society there is class struggles all the time. With our economy being shot and finding it hard to find work and make money everywhere. then you have the people who have tons of money who don't have to worry. Such as our president who makes outrageous taxes which we can't pay still because he won't fix it in the first place. With Panem you see that it has gone back to the depression times. 12 districts the 12th being the most poor and the 1st being wealthy. Society obviously thinks that District 10,11,12 are the worst of the Lot and poor, pretty much homeless. Which is really sad but totally can happen in the future. I mean we have seen signs already.
7. Reality TV has been a part of the entertainment
world since the early days of television (with shows
such as Candid Camera and the Miss America
Pageant), but in the 21st century there has been
a tremendous growth of competitive shows and
survival shows. Discuss this phenomenon with
respect to The Hunger Games. What other aspects of
our popular culture do you see reflected in this story?
Again Reality TV has taken over now. But it isn't real, it too is scripted and made to sell a show. No matter what happens. the fights, the messy talks, the rocky relationships are all scripted. And we as a country are so manipulated by anything media says that we buy it. This is one of the reasons I despise TV especially American TV. It seems so juvenile sometimes. I mean really? We are entertained by watching a bunch of Jersey Shore losers getting drunk and talking about sex?? Why?? How is that entertainment?? it is mindless! Same with the Capitol and the Hunger Games. The Capitol to me and the people who watch the games and cheer for seem mindless too. They seem like this is all entertainment and I bet when they watch they actually clap and cheer and feel NOTHING for the children dying except that they lost a bet. And that is sick and sad. I mean really? But that is how our society is. People are so stupid now and believe anything the Media spews out. We have become zombie sheep who follow and believe anything that the media portrays and manipulates. Nothing is real anymore. It is sad and truly depressing how things are now.
New Stills!!! YAY can't wait for this MOVIE!!
ReplyDeletehttp://themockingjay.livejournal.com/393309.html
Jess!
ReplyDeleteWhat fantastic comments and insights. I'm sorry I had to leave for a bit. I'm going to post the link so everyone has easy access to it. Ok, I will have to come back tomorrow and give my two cents as well. You have given me so much to think about, on top of what has already been on my mind.
I love book clubbing with you! :)
I love book clubbing with you too!
ReplyDeleteHere is a question:
Why does Katniss ignore Haymitch’s advice to head directly away from the Cornucopia? Did she do the right thing to fight for equipment? What are the most important skills she has for staying alive – her knowledge of nature? – her skill with bow and arrow? – her trapping ability? What qualities of her personality keep her going – her capacity for love? – her intelligence? – her self-control?
I think that she ignored Haymitch because at that moment she looked at Peeta and distracted her. I was hoping she got the bow and arrow. But it worked out for her eventually. I think the environment was perfect for her because she is so used to going in the woods and fending for herself. She was the strongest in the games. I found her ability to sleep in a tree and actually hunt for food really great!
Great questions!
ReplyDeleteI think she too was distracted by Peeta, but I also think she may have had a moment where you second guess yourself (in her case, Haymitch) and just does what she thinks is best. I don't know if she was fully ready to trust Haymitch in that he knew what she should be doing in the Arena.
I think she should have definitely fought for equipment. Your fighting for your life so you better get what you can to survive. I think her will to live is her biggest weapon, imo. I think the will to live makes you focus on your strengths, the weaknesses of others, and strategy. She already knows nature, has 100% accuracy with the bow and arrow, and traps extremely well. With the will to survive combined with her talents, she is a fierce competitor.
What do you think Peeta was thinking when he heard Katniss volunteer as tribute? What about when his name was read?
ReplyDeleteI agree seeing her in that situation really showed how truly string she was and is.
ReplyDeleteOk this is my own question. How do you think Haymitch won the games?? Because I am on the second book (Not giving away anything!) And He sort of lets it be seen that he is still not over them. He never sleeps in the dark, he always sleeps with a knife! he is a drunk who hates the capitol. He clearly got shaken up during the games and it traumatized him! Like without telling me the second book lol what do you think happened??
No clue and it doesn't say.
ReplyDeleteI think it was very intense and he must have done a lot of hiding and waiting. Regardless of who wins, I think you would be scarred for life emotionally. And anyone who isn't is lying.
Ah good question!
ReplyDeleteI think his heart sank. he obviously loves her. He had to watch the person he loves go up there and pretty much die. That is a sad fate. And when his name was called oh my he must of freaked! Now he has to kill the person he loves. What a struggle inside himself. I think that's why him and Haymitch came up with the plan for the lovers situation because that is what made the capitol change their minds on having two winners. however you see that actually wasn't the plan at all.. but it changed! So deep this book!
Yes, I think he was devastated to see her volunteer. Obviously she demonstrates great love for her sister and a willingness to give her life for those she loves. And when Peeta heard his name?? Well first there is the "OH crap!" and then knowing he has to kill her in order to survive...whoa. Intense for a teen. I agree that he and Haymitch played the "lovers" card. And if it didn't work, Peeta was willing to die, but he would decide how it would happen. He wasn't going to let the Capitol take that away from him.
DeleteThe Capitol doesn't believe in agency. They are very controlling. I agree with Peeta. If I knew my death was in the hands of others, I would fight to go out on my terms.
Exactly I think it really messes with the tributes. The Capitol goes back to the tributes after but again that is still manipulated to make people see another story. They don't actually see that this screws kids up! It just would! I would need serious therapy after that!
ReplyDeleteKatniss hasn't really shown anything to say that the games have mentally traumatized her but I haven't gotten far.
And how sick is the Capitol too, they think that money and fame is going to ease the tributes who won! Like Oh good job nothing happened sort of thing! That is disturbing! I mean People killed peoples CHILDREN. And they act like it is nothing? Again barbaric.
Well Katniss, Peeta, and Haymitch are obviously dealing with PTSD. With the vivid nightmares they haven't been able to put the games behind them. And we have no idea how the other participants have dealt with their ordeal.
DeleteOh another question popped up when you mentioned Peeta saying he would fight. When Katniss found Peeta he was covered in mud and hiding. I always wondered would the capitol let that happen if Katniss died? I mean people hiding? Like Fox face. She would run and hide and nothing wold happen to her. I know the Gamemakers would eventually do something. But with Peeta it seems like they didn't mind. Like they would of let him stay there for however long. I mean is it better to hide in the arena and let everyone die off or to fight at first? Do you think the Gamemakers would eventually killed Peeta or made his whereabouts been known??
ReplyDeleteYes, i think they would have smoked him out. I hate that the Gamemakers manipulate the games. If they aren't entertained enough, then POOF! Make something happen! Set the forrest on fire! Sick, sick, sick. They seriously get off on control and watching others die.
DeleteOk, my last question for the night and then I need to call it quits. I will be back tomorrow to answer the earlier questions.
ReplyDeleteWhat do you think of Cinna? What do you think his background is regarding getting into the games? Do you think he was forced to be involved with the games? He has a quiet anger regarding the Capitol. Why do you think that is?
Cinna I love him as a character and actually really wish there was more on him. he seemed so caring and above the games and willing to out smart the Capitol. Since it is his first year though I think maybe he still has the newness of the games. And hopefully won't go through a million games and change into what everyone else is in the Capitol,
DeleteI am not sure what his background is but clearly he is a caring person.He has compassion no matter what district you are from which is encoraging. I love that he is not like the artificial people in the capitol. And of course when you first start out in anything you tend to become attached to the firsts in your job. Katniss is his first Tribute to style he clearly becomes attached to her. It is only natural. But I think they will forever be attached.
He seemed like he was willing to get in and help with the games. But knowing the Capitol it really could of been forced. But he didn't come across that way to me. He does have problems with the Capitol but who doesn't really? They are the big brother alot like 1984. They watch your every move and control people that doesn't make you liked. that makes you hated and resented by everyone! Must be a hard existence. Which also parallels with Animal farm. George Orwell's books really fit into how the Author wrote her world of Panem. IMO You push and push and force people to do what YOU want all the time you will have resistance eventually. There are alot more of them then the capitol and they could very easily break and fight. The Capitol knows this. But are very very stupid when handling it but at the same time very smart. Does that make sense?
Thats TOTALLY reality tv though! Thats why I love what Suzanne did with that. If a show has bad ratings or people are getting bored with it POOF something DRASTIC happens. Like Jersey Shore (I know I am using that show alot) It got boring same crap different day. Then POOF now Snooki May be pregnant! Now look at the ratings! Or Bachelor same crap different day.. people got bored then POOF girls start using stories and backstabbing the others even though those things are private! it is ridiculous but that is what entertains us now?? And the bar keeps getting higher and higher! To where one day you know maybe a survival game to the death might happen!! We are that hard to please and that is scary!
ReplyDeleteabsolutely 100% and I will talk more about this tomorrow.
DeleteGoodnight!
Hi! I can't believe I missed the discussion but I have to read the book before I feel I can discuss it throughly. I haven't forgotten about you guys, I promise. Anyhow, can't wait to read the book and see the film. It looks good.
ReplyDeleteHi Paris! Don't worry. You know we are always here. I am excited for you to read the book. It will be a quick read for you. I still have to go back and answer all the questions. haha!
DeleteHope you are well!
OHHH you so should read the book! It is really great! :-)
ReplyDeleteI have tons of questions I thought we would cover, but I am late and nobody is here.
ReplyDeleteI wanted to talk about the Muttations! that part was horrible. I thought that maybe they would actually take the bodies and give them back to the families. Or did they but just take blood or DNA from the kids and make the muttations?? What are your thoughts LB? Because when I read that part I was so shocked!
Ok last night I could NOT put the book down, catching fire that is! OH MY GOD that book is incredible and sooo much better then the first one! WOW! Just wow!
I think the Gamemakers wanted Katniss and the others to think it was the dead tributes , but it wasn't. Remember they were always altering things. You see it more in book 2.
DeleteI often wondered what Prim, her mom, and Gale were doing during the games. Were they watching them? Did they refuse? I can only imagine they were dying inside hoping she would survive. Also, what do you think was going through Gale's mind when watching Katniss and Peeta express affection? Do you think he believed it?
I am sure the watched her. But how horrible that would be to see. To watch your children try and survive. I would be so tore up!
ReplyDeleteWell Gale did believe it. But AHH I can't say. I don't even know what to think about anyone with Katniss at the moment!
I was talking to my friend earlier about the Capitol and concept of THG. And if America could really turn into a controlled almost communistic country where everyone's watched all the time.
ReplyDeleteHe at first started to say that not at first because we as American's have a lot and I mean a lot of guns personally. As citizens more then the military. I told him that the Capitol took all weapons away and no violence is aloud. He said that if anyone tried to take some of his friends guns the capitol would lose! All kidding aside I started thinking I could happen. My friend that the only reason a capitol would lose is because of the amount of people in the country that would fight. Which would be a huge amount of people.
But I told him that the country was split up into districts and have less people in all. It makes me think that in the "dark days" when the capitol did try to take over in "our time" I am guessing. They had to kill off quiet a few people just to split them up. I mean in a mass amount! And I wonder if they actually don't allow foods in and hunting in the districts to sort of always keep the small amount of people at bay. So that there is no chance of another revolt. *Hint Hint*
Like they monitor the amount of people born and dead. Because Katniss talks about how there are not a lot of people in District 12. That 1-4 have the most amount of people. I know it is something totally not in the book or anything just makes you think about how the dark days were and how the capitol actually took over completely!
That is why I love this book it leaves that open in your mind! You can literally take it anywhere! I love that!
Just finished Catching fire! OH WOWWOWOW! Soo amazing! I am going to start MockingJay tonight. Super excited about that book as well. But I really want to talk about Catching fire! OH man the stuff that happened in THAT one!
ReplyDeleteAMAZEBALLS!!!!!! Just got back from seeing it! Heck yeah!!!! Go HUNGER GAMES!!! Oh man! Stayed extremely true to the book, so thank you Suzanne for being one of the screen writers. :)
ReplyDeleteWill post tomorrow my review! :)
Holy MOLY!!! I just got back from the movie! It was great! Really good movie! I can't WAIT till the sequel like for reals. I figured I would do my review now. Cause I am amped up YO!
ReplyDeleteThings I liked:
When it first started all the way until the games it was seriously just amazing. The effects, the capitol and how that looked. The scenery for district 12 how harsh they had it seeing it like for reals was gut wrenching. I loved the little quirks they added to make the future world more real. Seeing it on screen was better then I imagined at times. Such as the Reaping.
That part truly got to me. Like deeply. Seeing how dark it truly was. In the book they rush that part. But seeing how all those poor children are waiting to be picked is horrific. I almost cried. Seeing Peeta go up there UGH I wanted to hold him! He looked so scared! I liked that they added Buttercup he was still a moody cat! LOL I also loved that they put certain sayings from the book in such as little duck with Prim, or Catnip with Gale. It was nice.
Then seeing the train and meeting Haymitch and Effie who I think was and wasn't the same so she was sort of disappointing me. Haymitch was a little more into Katniss then he was in the book. But I liked the condescending way he says "sweetheart" that was who Haymitch was and Woody did that well however I don't think he was as prick like as Haymitch he could have gone worse. Then Lenny who basically was Cinna who was great. The looks of the capitol were amazing! I loved the way they made the scenery and the people! Oh wow the people were great! I really liked the devices they had. Such as the TV in Kat's room how the clicker was touch sensor. Just certain things you see that tell you yes most of the districts don't have anything but it is still the future! I liked that they showed the outside when the games were going on to show you how people are basically pretty comfy while kids are dying! Seeing the training was great since I imagined it different too. The fire suits could of been..Better. Yes they were cool but meh. However I LOVED her dress for the interviews. LOVED Caesar the interviewer! He was beyond perfect.
The games were BEYOND what I imagined. Since that was my fave part in the book my expectations were high. I liked how they stuck pretty close to them. There were some changes but I liked how they worked them out. When the killings actually started to see them was brutal not as bad as I thought but even so the less made it more of a impact. To see how these children were dying for real was so sick. In the book yes they described it but seeing it ugh it made me stir up emotions. I LOVED how it showed the Gamekeepers! I mean seeing them effecting the games and manipulating what happens was great! You don't know much about it in the book. So seeing it was cool. They had really cool devices that made the future realistic! The Cannons. That was sooo real! When I heard it it made me shudder. Just a haunting realization that those kids died! The Careers when they chased Katniss was perfect. The actual way they taunted showed just how sick they really were. It was disturbing I mean really.The tracker jackers that part was great! Just like I imagined it! And I really did like that Caesar and Claudius would tell the "audience" what certain things were. Such as the Tracker Jackers. I think that part was really played out well. Since again THG is Katniss's POV. I thought I would cry on the Rue part, and I wanted to since it was really a sad part. But I held it in. But it was really beautiful. The explosion for the careers stuff was perfect. I think that was played well.
Josh as Peeta and Jennifer and Katniss were PERFECTION. I was not seeing actors up there. I was seeing my visions of two characters I fell in love with playing out what I read. They were the characters. THAT was what made the movie amazing. Not once did I think "oh that is JL and JH!" No I saw ONLY Peeta and Katniss. And let me tell you I LOVE when that happens.
DeleteThe Parachutes were so cool! Way better then what I imagined. I didn't like that they beeped since wouldn't that give them away? The messages were pretty cool too.
The kisses with Peeta. Real chemistry, again I didn't see the actors I saw the actual characters. I loved it. I will say what I didn't like below.
Katniss going to the feast. That clove girl did her part! I hated Clove in the book and that little girl made me hate her more. That girl who played the Orphan a creepy bz, played Clove to a Tee. Thresh was great too. When Peeta goes off and Kat is hunting and she hears the Cannon and runs for Peeta. WOW! I loved that. She grabs for him and looks so desperate that she may have lost him. That was a great moment from a GREAT actress.
The Muttations were hmm different. They didn't look like the tributes or do I think that the movie implied that they were. So it was like rapid dogs were hunting them. So ya. When Cato died I was happy. Sorry but he bugged me.
I loved Katniss's dress she wore at the winners interview. She looked very pretty. Showing how Seneca Crane dies I thought that was a great add! I mean you never hear how he dies. But by the same berries that started it genius! Fact is I liked that they added certain parts that you knew about in the book but didn't have details on. Snow was creepy as ever. I liked Donald's edge he brought to the part. He still can play a eerie person.
What I didn't like:
DeleteThere wasn't alot. Because I loved the first half of the movie. However some stuff bugged me.
Some of the changes such as Madge was gone who gave her the Mockingjay. But putting it more into Prim was nice.
The Goodbyes I didn't care for. They were rushed. I mean of course they would be. But I hated that they didn't add what Gales says. "Katniss remember that I-" It is obvious he meant love you!!! That part was really crucial to the love story angle. Instead they just show shots of Gale looking pissy whenever Katniss and Peeta Kissed. But people may or may not know Gale loves her. And Liam hmm as Gale, I imagined he looked like him but the way he acted was ok so far. I shall see in the second movie since there is more Gale.
Again Effie she was very "Be proper!!! Manners!!!" She wasn't so strict in the book, I mean at first yes but eventually she loosened up. The avox that Katniss knew. I wish they had that part in. Wish they went more into Rue's story to connect Katniss and her together more. After Rue died the riot in District 11. That was interesting. Seeing as 11 was the more harsh of the districts.The Mockingjays could have been.. more. In the book they talk like copy every mannerism. But the ones in the movie just whistled. Which will be weird since the 2nd one needs them to talk. The hallucinations. In the book it seemed more like a acid trip. Melting away of flesh. Again it was pg 13 so that would make sense to not add that.
The fact that the Hover Crafts didn't pick up the bodies.
The Peeta and Katniss love story. They sort of made that rushed. I mean Peeta showed his side, but by the time the cave happened and ALOT happened in the cave (in the book) it just didn't seem very convincing to me. I mean yes I saw the chemistry of Peeta and Kat. But it didn't develop well enough. Like the kissing, Or how he talks more to her and she to him. It just sort of was and then snapped back to something else. Idk. I wish they went into it more. The medicine for Peeta. It made his leg better! He didn't lose it. So alrighty then.
DeleteThe berries. When they find out they both can't win. Katniss was waaaaay to quick to be like "Ok lets eat these trust me!" It was way too rushed. I loved in the book she was like "I can't live without you!" And crying. But in this she was so ready to die real fast without thinking why.
I really disliked the end. In fact I disliked it so much it left me unsatisfied. Like legit made me have to rethink the movie and go back through to what I loved to try and stop feeling jipped.
They rushed the end so badly that I almost got whiplash! I wish they showed the hovercraft picking them up and she is freaking out. I wish they showed her in rehab just to show more.
The talk between Haymitch was holy mo again whiplash. The winners interview was botched. So rushed I wish she showed more towards Peeta! Like how she tucked her feet up to him and laid her head on his shoulder. Instead there was still this indifference. The train and getting home again whiplash. I didn't like the exchange between Peeta and her. They should of added the fact that Peeta finds out she was faking for the camaras and he gets upset. Instead it just goes into this meh maybe half sort of thing. I really disliked that. I did like how they showed Snow being pissed! That was cool. But seriously it was so rushed and holes that the end did not do it for me. I wish it ended different. Or at least better.
But overall I loved it. Besides the end it was perfect. I liked some added scenes. I still find Peeta to be my favorite character. Josh played him so much more then I could ever ask for. JL was so perfect as Katniss. The casting is just so amazing in this movie and I can't wait till the 2nd one. Which has WAY more in it. But I want to see Finnick since he was my 2nd fave besides Cinna.
I really did love seeing most of the things I tried to imagine come alive! This movie is def made a spark I can't contain! And pretty much is my new fave thing! Loved it! And I seriously love Peeta! I know I said that but I DO! :-)
I wrote WAY too much! I am SO sorry!
Great review Jess! Before I get to mine, I have a question for OB:
ReplyDeleteOB: I know you may have not read the book yet, but I wanted to know your opinion of the costume design for the film? Did it work? Did it add to the story line and characters? What would you like to have seen done differently, if there was anything?
I truly loved the movie. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and purposely did not allow myself to get spoiled by too many clips, promo, etc...My expectations were hopeful. I knew there would be some changes, but I expected that, therefore I wasn't too sad if something was lacking or had been added.
DeleteJess, I agree with most of your pro/con POV. I thought the reaping scene was very well done. I thought (using character names, not actors) Prim, Katniss, and Peeta gave very real responses to their names being called. And the silence. You could feel the tension from the seats. Very well played and I must congratulate the cinematographer for his/her work. It makes a difference the angles the camera is used, along with close ups and far away shots. I know you didn't like how rushed the goodbyes were, but I think that is how they wanted you to feel. It's not supposed to be drawn out and even the hubs was like, "What the hell?"
I agree that the distinction of the Capitol and district 12 was perfect. I'm curious about the style of those in the Capitol. For a futuristic story, I found it interesting how Collins saw fashion. So you think it has any significance?
I know you didn't like the flame suit, but I did. :) Perhaps there could have been more flames but then they would have been in their faces. I think it was still effective but I totally can understand your disappointment.
I friggin' love Stanley Tucci! I love him in every role. He was creeptacular in "The Lovely Bones", darling in "Julia & Julia" and I loved him as Emma Stone's dad in "Easy A". I thought he was a fantastic Ceasar and his smile and overtness freaked the hubs out. He was like, "Dude, he's creepy!" hahahahaha!!!!!
I'm not one for violence, particularly when it's children killing children, naturally, but I thought the director did a fantastic job in how the killing scenes were executed and filmed: fast without seeing too much. Very well done imo.
I thought the training scenes were great as well and gave more information as far as visuals. I agree with your assessment Jess. Sometimes there are things that are better played out on film than in a book. It was nice to actually see Cato and the others training and seeing their strengths.
Ok, I will have to come back to this. :)
Hi LB-
DeleteI liked the costumes for THG. I thought they defined the two worlds well. Judianna Makovsky was the costume designer for the film. Makovsky said he was inspired by Alexander McQueen and Jean Paul Gautier. To me u could see Jean Paul Gautier influence in Effie's clothes and McQueen's influence in her shoes. The 1930's wavy big bob hairdo was wonderful for this character because she was so much into embellishing situations so her clothes and hair reflected that even more. Umm! I loved Stanley Tucci and his false white teeth. Loved it!
Yay I can't wait to hear more of your review. The fashion was amazing. When you saw some of the people and the over usage of makeup it was really dark in its own way by deluded the Capitol is. The book or SC really painted this picture for how people dressed and acted in the Capitol. Some of it was downright disturbing. Including one of Katniss's prep teammates who had a design imbedded in her skin to make her more "pretty" or how Katniss saw people with whiskers. Or strange skin color like pink or green.
ReplyDeleteThat really stuck out in my mind. In the movie they showed it to a point. But never the less the people were strange. And very futuristic. I am sure though the next movie will show more on the fashion of the Capitol side. Considering there is more Capitol involvement.
Review part 2:
ReplyDeleteThere were some consistency problems with the booms and showing who had died at night on the seal. Isn't that what they called it. Also the muttations didn't look any different really from rabid dog. I expected something...more?
Yes the ending did feel a bit rushed and I wish there had been more conversation between katniss and Peeta about what would happen next and how she felt about him. I like it ended with Mr. Snow. He is one creepy dude.
Hey now is it true that JL really will not be doing the other films????
ReplyDeleteOh man, that's gonna stink because she was fantastic and now she is my "Katniss". I hope whomever they cast can do an excellent job and make us continue to love Katniss.
What No.. I heard that she is signed on for the sequel. JL said she is going to start training for the sequel so pretty sure she is in it! That was a horrible rumor. Don't scare me like that! LOL
ReplyDeleteOk I wrote something UGH!
ReplyDeleteI said No that is just a nasty rumor. JL is signed on for the next movie. She was talking about training for the next movie soon. So I am super happy that she is coming back because nobody will ever play Katniss the same as her!
so apparently THG is still in the Box office lead!!!!
ReplyDeleteYes and unfortunately the director Gary Ross backed out of the sequel I am so upset about this. That is the same thing that happened with lets say Twilight and Harry Potter. Every one of those movies were so night and day different with effects to lighting to characters and so on. It is what imo made the movies look cheap and just totally a joke. Harry Potter not so much but def Twilight. I really loved the way Gary did THG the angles of the camera to the direction of the characters. The scenery and look to the film were amazing and really brought Panem to life. And Catching Fire is my favorite book of the series.
ReplyDeleteAnd that movie has TONS more detail then the first. I just really hope that whoever ends up directing the movie doesn't pull a complete 360 and change everything. Because again that is what makes the films look cheap. Ugh. I hate how HW is only about money when it comes to entertainment. And who ends up suffering in the end? The fans because they are looking to be entertained. Where as HW doesn't care about quality but quantity. It is sick how that happens.