The Bernard Charles Show

 If you are a girl, go see the ‘Games’

by Bernard-Charles

You live in a society that kills it’s children annually as a reminder of a long ago rebellion through what’s called The Hunger Games.

One boy and one girl are randomly chosen from 12 districts to fight to the death in a digital arena, but this year the traditions are put to the test as “the girl on fire” leaves a scorching mark on The Capitol by the power of love.

I don’t know about you– but that in itself makes me want to clap my gay little hands and fight for love, even if we don’t know if it’s real love or not (Read the books to find out).

Credit: Lionsgate

The opening weekend for The Hunger Games (2012) directed by Gary Ross hit $155 million dollars and that alone should influence your decision somewhat. The buzz around a film like that is too hard to ignore.

Overall, the filmmakers accurately captured the essence of  The Hunger Games in relation to the book. There are elements that are different, but you can discover those differences yourself.

Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence) was a huge role being “the girl on fire” and Lawrence perfected it by bringing her own tom-boy flair out. The boy tribute from District 12, Peeta Mellark (Josh Hutcherson) also saw instant approval by heartfelt fans just for being “the boy with the bread.” However, the acting elevated itself as love was presented and Hutcherson had a goal to work towards besides saving his life in the arena. Gale Hawthorne (Liam Hemsworth) suppose to be rugged hunter and Katniss’ best friend was too pretty and clean for my taste which blended the distinction between Peeta and Gale as Katniss’ conflicting love interests.

This might be a reverse spin off of Twilight’s love triangle, but the conflict within Katniss to long for Gale while being in the arena and fall for Peeta to make an impression was lost. The film has the viewer (who has not read the books) witnessing the ‘Games’ from a Capitol perspective and this waters down the complexity of the characters thus simplifying the dynamics of the film.

Yet, the story has a strong-female lead and balances on the topics of rebellion and justice that piques the interest for gender equality. Today, women essentially are still struggling to solidify their role in the world and Katniss Everdeen acts out as a role model for young females to become independent and brave. The Hunger Games suggests that it just might take a coal miner’s daughter to light a few matches in the process, but equality is bound to come.

May the odds be ever in your favor, ladies.

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