Film inspired by Suzanne Collins’ eponymous book, released in 2020
The new installment of the ‘Hunger Games’ saga, ‘The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes’, recently hit theaters, reigniting the flames left by the then-last film of the franchise, ‘Mockingjay – Part 2′, in 2015. The new production is based on Suzanne Collins’ eponymous book, released in 2020.
It tells part of the journey of Panem’s President, Coriolanus Snow, to power – it takes place 64 years before the events of the first film.
Since its release on November 15th, the film has already grossed over $240 million and received an audience acceptance rate of 89%, according to Rotten Tomatoes.
Official Trailer
OFFICIAL SYNOPSIS
“In this prequel to The Hunger Games, young Coriolanus Snow – decades before becoming the tyrannical President of Panem – struggles with his instincts between good and evil while mentoring Lucy Gray Baird in the 10th Hunger Games.”
ORIGIN AND INSPIRATION
The film is inspired by the book of the same name, released in 2020 by Suzanne Collins, the franchise’s creator.
The writer surprised fans in 2019 when she announced the release of the new book. This makes us wonder if others might come – especially when considering the loose ends left in the story.
It is worth noting that the book was released after the premiere of the four ‘Hunger Games’ films in theaters.
CAST
The production stars Tom Blyth and Rachel Zegler and features names like Viola Davis, Hunter Schafer, Jason Schwartzman, and Peter Dinklage in the cast.
ABOUT THE FILM
The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes is a masterpiece that portrays a dark origin, highlighting the downfall of a crucial character. The adaptation from book to film is exceptional and of high quality.
Rachel Zegler deserves praise for her portrayal of Lucy Gray, capturing the essence of the role. Many fans consider this her most notable performance to date.
Tom Blyth also stands out for his portrayal of Snow, blending charm and psychotic behavior, especially in the forest scene with Lucy Gray.
In addition to impressive performances, the film features exceptional soundtracks and stunning costumes.
For many fans, this is the best film in the franchise since the original in 2012, and it is highly recommended for all cinephiles.
Will Suzanne Collins Continue ‘The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes’?
So far, Suzanne Collins has not hinted at working on a new book. However, people involved in the film production have expressed interest in continuing the plot or starting new stories in the Hunger Games universe.
Producer Nina Jacobson mentioned how the evolution of the relationship between Snow and his cousin Tigris after the events of ‘The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes’ could be a potential storyline for a film.
“I would love to see Snow’s rise to power because he’s a great character – but Tigris, and understanding how this girl who loves him so much and takes care of him becomes the woman we saw in ‘Mockingjay,’ is something that truly intrigues me,” Jacobson expressed in an interview with People.
In another interview, this time with Polygon, the producer stated that a sequel would only happen if it’s what the author of the saga wants.
“If [Collins] has a story in this world with something she wants to talk about and something to explore, then great. But if not, it’s better to leave a franchise as something people cherish, rather than forcing a sequel just for the sake of it.”
Director Francis Lawrence followed a similar train of thought to Jacobson’s:
“If Suzanne has another thematic idea that she feels fits into the world of Panem – whether with new people [or] familiar characters [like] Finnick, Haymitch, whoever… – I would be really interested in looking at that and participating. But I don’t have the authority to simply say, ‘I’d love to do Finnick’s games,'” he told EW.
If you haven’t watched it yet, you can’t miss it, as it’s already available on Prime Video !
