In November of 2015, the last book-based movie of the series The Hunger Games, Mockingjay part two, was released concluding the series as a whole. The movie adaptations were both praised and criticized by the media and fans. None the less, the Hunger Games remains a multi-million dollar franchise today. Stars such as Jennifer Lawrence, Liam Hemsworth, Woody Harrelson, and Josh Hutcherson shined as the leading castmates. Each actor and actress, after previously admiring the books themselves, captured their characters in touch with both Collins’s perception along with their own. The series all together touched the hearts of millions by shining a light on the strength of an anti-hero, the imperfections of every dystopia, and more than anything, the power of one to spark a revolution.
The biggest criticisms of the movies, most fans would agree, are the distinct differences and changes that were made to produce the movies such as how Katniss got the mockingjay pin. Although the movie industry has increased its technological capabilities tremendously in the last few decades, there is always a difficulty when it comes to including every detail and event written in a book. According to screenrant.com, Collins’ initial reaction to viewing the first movie was this; “Director Gary Ross has created an adaptation that is faithful in both narrative and theme, but he’s also brought a rich and powerful vision of Panem, its brutality and excesses, to the film as well.” Although opinions may vary, the creator of the novels’ opinion respectfully overshadows any others. Collins’ continues by saying, “It’s amazing to see things that are suggested in the book fully developed and so brilliantly realized through the artistry of the designers.” So, whether you were a fan, a critic, or simply a movie viewer, it is evident that the odds were in Collins’ favor when creating this series that not only paved the way for dystopian story writes everywhere, but revived storytelling all together.