Though much could be said about the film’s artistry, this is a movie more powered by characters, themes, and narrative. Things like cinematography, editing, music, and visual effects are secondary, though it is solid in these areas as well. Wardrobe and set design are incredibly creative. Every single performance is excellent, from an unrecognizable and darkly funny Elizabeth Banks, Woody Harrelson as a drunk with hidden virtue, Donald Sutherland as a conniving President, Stanley Tucci and Toby Jones as commentators, Josh Hutcherson and Liam Hemsworth as young men under tremendous pressure, and others. Special attention must be given, however, to Jennifer Lawrence, who evokes real humanity and grace as the main protagonist Katniss, a teen who volunteers her life to save her sister from certain death. She balances traditional “hero” traits like courage and intelligence with palpable vulnerability and fear.
CONTENT OVERVIEW: The Hunger Games is rated PG-13. It has no sexuality or nudity and only a few mild profanities. It is very violent, however, with teens killing teens in gladiator-style combat, including stabbing, shooting with arrows, breaking necks, and deaths by animal attacks. Though the camera doesn’t linger on gore, leaving much to the imagination, what is shown in quickly edited shots is brutal and fairly bloody. The violence is purposeful and not glamorized (see review), but the film is likely too much for younger teens and is definitely not for children. Parents of teens who decide to let them see it should be ready to discuss the film’s themes with them (see below).
MESSAGES TO DISCUSS: The righteous do not revel in bloodshed, violence, or cruelty (Alma 48:11-14), but in compassion and mercy (Michah 6:8). There is no greater love than to be willing to die for someone else (John 15:13). No matter how corrupt the world around us gets, we needn’t let it change us or rob us of our integrity (Moroni 1: 2-3).
Jonathan Decker is a marriage and family therapist and family life educator. He has performed in independent films, vocal competitions, and stage comedy. For more film reviews and his funny videos, please visit www.mormonmovieguy.com.