Plot
The film chronicles the beginnings of the President of Panem, a made-up nation. It tells the story of his transformation from a young man with a kind heart to a despotic President while he trains a tribute for a death match. The game requires some time to build up, but once the action starts, players will be astounded by how polished and well-made the entire thing is.
The canvas is large, the bouts are gory, and in between, one can see glimpses of the character development of the players. The prequel’s battles aren’t as sophisticated as those in its sequels because they take place more than 60 years in the past. Nevertheless, they are just as intriguing, and Francis Lawrence, the director, does a fantastic job of building both the stadium and the suspenseful action.
Tom Blyth plays a kind, blue-blooded young man with ease, particularly in the sequences where an autocrat is being made. Rachel Zegler is a decent fiery gypsy entertainer. Her character development is uneven, though. When she is selected as a tribute, the feistiness and defiance she displays fade, and she becomes more unfortunate than brave.
With one penetrating icy blue eye, Viola Davis portrays Dr. Volumnia Gaul, the Head Game Maker. She is formidable in her wicked portrayal. Notable performances include those of Josh Andrés Rivera as Sejanus Plinth and Peter Dinklage as the Dean of the Academy, Casca Highbottom.
Rating: 3/5
The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes is broken up into three lengthy chapters that feel closer to twenty. Fans of the book or film series will enjoy the movie, but it isn’t a predecessor that can draw in new viewers. Even though it’s not the best standalone film. This movie was rated 3 out of 5 stars.
