By: Noor Abdullah, Opinions Editor
The Hunger Games series, authored by Suzanne Collins, was the beginning of literary and cinematic creations that have captured the interest of millions worldwide. With the first book released in 2008, The Hunger Games trilogy rapidly gained a fanbase, resonating with readers and then with movie goers through blockbuster movie adaptations. The heroic tale of main character Katniss Everdeen surviving the dangers of her home district, the Games in which she had to fight to the death, the tense political scenes of her home country of Panem, and her relatability and humor as she navigates these events, grabbed the attention of people around the world. The popularity of the series first peaked in the 2010s, but the recent resurgence in interest has proved to be the revival of Hunger Games mania.
The series popularity has been reignited amongst a nostalgic past audience and a new generation of readers and viewers with the release of The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes film adaptation. This book, released in 2020 as a prequel to the original trilogy, provided new details and context on the creation of Panem and the Games as we know them. As it took to the big screens this month, it brought forth the story of the unordinary Lucy Gray Baird. With plot twists, ill-timed jokes, and heart wrenching scenes, the film draws the viewer’s attention and holds it.
The series has earned its spot in literary and cinematic history, with well-written books, well-directed movies, and enlightening plots.
From the first books release in 2008, to this month of November 2023 when the latest movie aired, the story of the world of Panem has stood the test of time. Author Suzanne Collins’ included real world issues in her fictional work. The themes of tyranny, class divide, and oppression of the dystopian Panem are present throughout human history and modern times. These themes allow for creates discussions on social justice, inequality, and liberation movements that are always relevant.
It is also important to consider the cultural impact of the series when addressing its popularity.
The fan fever that arose during the releases of the trilogy’s books and movies reached further than book pages and movie screens. Following popular trends of its time, The Hunger Games fans had a significant presence on Tumblr and Instagram, posting everything from memes and fanfics to Panem inspired makeup looks and costumes. Cosplay events were also a popular forum for fans to recreate the costumes seen on screen, bringing the innovative creations of Panem into our world. There was a hunger for Hunger Games-themed everything, including merchandise. Replica costumes, collectible book prints, and graphic apparel were sold around the world.
The second wave of fan fevor is also apparent in an array of creative and materialistic things. Both book and movie enthusiasts used platforms like TikTok and Instagram to create new edits and memes with scenes from the movie and quotes from the book. There has also been newfound recognition for new actors thrown into the limelight. Jennifer Lawrence’s acting career took off after her role in The Hunger Games and a handful of the actors in the latest movie may likely follow suit. The characters of the series have again come to life through fan merchandise, with an array of themed products becoming available, from symbolic Mockingjay pins to apparel adorned with District emblems. These multifaceted creations have allowed the love for the series to take form in new ways and serve as proof of the fandom’s love for the story and characters.
Mills student Alissa Angeles Vasques (12), was introduced to the series just this year. Having both read the books and watched the first four movies, she shared “I would prefer the books because I think they expand more on what the characters are feeling and you can be really immersed in the story. But I would definitely recommend people watch and read the story because there’s so much you can gain from both.”
Alissa (12) provided a final thought saying, “I think everyone should be reading this series, especially considering the times we’re in now. I think Suzanne Collins explores the message of war, peace, oppression and human control in these books in such a digestible way that it’s a series that anyone at any age can read and fully comprehend what she means. you will fall in love with the characters and truly feel their pain and learn so much. If people can feel empathy for these characters, I think they should be feeling empathy for the situation that many people in this world are living in right now.”
The Mills library currently has a copy of The Hunger Games and a copy of The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes is expected to arrive shortly for anyone interested in delving into the series.
