The Hunger Games (2012)

The Hunger Games (2012) is anAmerican dystopian action film, directed by Gary Ross and co-written by Suzanne Collins and Billy Ray. It is based on the 2008 novel of the same name by Collins. The story takes place in a dystopian nation called Panem, which is divided into twelve districts and ruled by the Capitol. As punishment for a previous rebellion, each district must send two tributes – one boy and one girl between the ages of twelve and eighteen – to participate in the annual Hunger Games. The goal? Fight to the death until only one victor remains. This horrific event is broadcasted across all districts and forced upon its citizens to watch. When her younger sister Primrose is chosen, sixteen-year-old Katniss Everdeen from District 12 volunteers to take her place in the 74th Hunger Games. Along with fellow tribute Peeta Mellark, they are accompanied by chaperone Effie Trinket and mentor Haymitch Abernathy – the sole living victor from District 12.

While discussing sponsorships with Haymitch, it becomes clear that they could be crucial to survival in the Games. In a conversation with Caesar Flickerman, Peeta openly expresses his love for Katniss, which she initially sees as a ploy to attract sponsors. However, she eventually realizes his emotions are genuine. During the start of the Games at the Cornucopia, Katniss quickly grabs supplies before escaping into the surrounding forests, narrowly avoiding death. Despite trying to keep her distance from other tributes, Head Gamemaker Seneca Crane triggers a forest fire that forces her back towards them. In a tense moment, Katniss encounters the Careers – consisting of Marvel and Glimmer from District 1 and Cato and Clove from District 2 – and frantically climbs a nearby tree.