My Take on the movie HUNGER GAMES
We finally went and saw THE HUNGER GAMES. I've been reading out loud a chapter of the novel to my 10 year old so we could discuss any issues that might be too much for him. Let's face it, the premise of teens killing teens is very disturbing. But if you have tweens, you've probably also know how much the media has hyped this movie up. I mean, it's everywhere. Just yesterday the group of homeschooling kids we associate with were playing Duck, Duck, Goose but said Katniss instead. **I thought this was interesting as most of those parents have been very vocal on how their kids WERE NOT seeing or reading the book. It just goes to show that no matter how sheltered you think your kids are? They still will hear about things.
Anyway, the movie.
What worked:
First off I didn't see this as being a story with the usual YA love triangle. No rather it's about the love a girl--Katniss--has for her family and how she'll do anything to save her little sister. That, to me, is very refreshing and totally worked. The opening shows this love between the sisters right before the reaping.
I know some are saying that the actor who played Peeta was wrong for the part. I disagree. I thought he was perfect in his interaction with Katniss and his emotions.
Rue:
Let's just say I love this character and it really frosts my cupcakes when I heard that some were 'upset' when they found out the actress was black. I'm like, hello. Read the book.
The one scene with Katniss is so touching, that I got teary eyed. When I first read the book I sobbed. It was that powerful.
And finally, Katniss. Yes, I love this character too. She's a strong protagonist that isn't at all like Bella but rather uses her strength to survive.
What didn't work:
Seriously, during the movie when Katniss is with Peeta toward the end? Well, there were these women sitting in front of us that laughed when the camera zoomed in on Gale and then Katniss and Peeta. I'm like, that's not funny. Husband turned to me and said, "They just aren't as invested in the story as you are." Apparently not.
Also I wanted some more of Gale. I didn't think there was enough to show how close Katniss and Gale were.
There's also added scenes and a lot that isn't in the movie. For example, husband asked me what was so important about the mockingjay pin. They didn't really go over that.
In conclusion, I do think this movie is okay for 10-11 year olds to see but I highly recommend either they read the book first or read it together so you can discuss any parts that might be too intense. I did think the book was more graphic then the movie. But that's just me. In all it was well worth the price of the ticket. Can't wait to see the second movie in the series.
Anyway, the movie.
What worked:
First off I didn't see this as being a story with the usual YA love triangle. No rather it's about the love a girl--Katniss--has for her family and how she'll do anything to save her little sister. That, to me, is very refreshing and totally worked. The opening shows this love between the sisters right before the reaping.
I know some are saying that the actor who played Peeta was wrong for the part. I disagree. I thought he was perfect in his interaction with Katniss and his emotions.
Rue:
Let's just say I love this character and it really frosts my cupcakes when I heard that some were 'upset' when they found out the actress was black. I'm like, hello. Read the book.
The one scene with Katniss is so touching, that I got teary eyed. When I first read the book I sobbed. It was that powerful.
And finally, Katniss. Yes, I love this character too. She's a strong protagonist that isn't at all like Bella but rather uses her strength to survive.
What didn't work:
Seriously, during the movie when Katniss is with Peeta toward the end? Well, there were these women sitting in front of us that laughed when the camera zoomed in on Gale and then Katniss and Peeta. I'm like, that's not funny. Husband turned to me and said, "They just aren't as invested in the story as you are." Apparently not.
Also I wanted some more of Gale. I didn't think there was enough to show how close Katniss and Gale were.
There's also added scenes and a lot that isn't in the movie. For example, husband asked me what was so important about the mockingjay pin. They didn't really go over that.
In conclusion, I do think this movie is okay for 10-11 year olds to see but I highly recommend either they read the book first or read it together so you can discuss any parts that might be too intense. I did think the book was more graphic then the movie. But that's just me. In all it was well worth the price of the ticket. Can't wait to see the second movie in the series.
Published on April 01, 2012 00:48
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