The Hunger Games by Gary Ross – Film Study Essay

The Hunger Games is a fictional movie produced in the year 2012. The movie’s plot is based on a novel written by Suzanne Collins in the year 2008. The movie features Jennifer Lawrence as Katniss Everdeen, Josh Hutcherson as Peeta Mellark, and Liam Hemsworth as Gale Hawthorne (The Hunger Games) . The story occurs in a post-apocalyptic age in the country named Panem. In the country, children between the ages of twelve and eighteen years are required to participate in The Hunger Games.

The games are carried out yearly and are televised (The Hunger Games) . The events require the contestants to wrestle to the death until one competitor becomes a winner. The remaining contestant is then celebrated in a large ceremony. In the movie, Katniss agrees to take her sister’s positions in the events. Together with her friend Peeta, Katniss takes a trip to the city to prepare for the coming events under the supervision of past winner Haymitch (The Hunger Games) . In the article, the above movie is reviewed through the lens of conflict analysis and resolution.

Based on the movie, Panem is led by an affluent Capitol (The Hunger Games) . The Capitol oversees 12 shoddier districts. For the last few years, conflicts have been witnessed between the Capitol and the smaller districts. The conflicts have led to successive rebellions. Owing to the increase in rebellions and social unrests, the president requires each district to offer two teenagers to participate in the annual Hunger Games. The teenagers must be a boy and a girl aged between twelve and eighteen years. The two teenagers are selected through a lottery. The winner of the events is rewarded with a distinction and riches.

In one of the districts, Katniss’ sister is chosen to represent the region in the annual events (The Hunger Games) . In a bid to save her younger sibling, Katniss volunteers to take her position in the games. Thereafter, Katniss together with her friends leaves the rural community and sets off for the city to prepare for the fight. Those who accompany her are Peeta and Haymitch. Peeta is Katniss’ age mate and comes from the same neighborhood.

On the other hand, Haymitch is a past champion of the event who currently suffers from severe alcoholisms. On their way, Haymitch informs them about the significance of having promoters. Haymitch believes that promoters have the ability to offer gifts and necessities required during the games. The above illustrations portray the conflict of men verses the society (Chigas 27). The society expects the contestants to participate and win in the games. In this respect, Peeta and Katniss are expected to uphold the dignity of their district by winning the games (The Hunger Games) .

When the three teenagers arrive in the city, they have a number of interviews with the media personnel (The Hunger Games) . During some of the interviews, Peeta claims that he is in love with Katniss. Katniss confirms the claims with the aim of attracting sponsors’ favor. In this episode, Katniss and Peeta have to tackle with the conflict in romance (Gwartney, Lynne, & Gayle 54).

For instance, Katniss has to select between Peeta and Gale. The situation forces her to acknowledge that Peeta and Gale are her best friends. Nevertheless, she has to decide whom she actually loves. By confirming that the two are in love, the contestants depict the theme of resolution. With regard to the game’s rules, the two contestants are required to fight one another to death until one contestant is left.

However, Katniss and Peeta resolve to work together with the aim of attracting more promoters. Later, during one of their training sessions Katniss learns about Marvel, Glimmer, Cato, and Clove. The four individuals are representatives of District 1 and District 2. Katniss notes that the four individuals have been unlawfully working out in the training arena from their younger ages.

Another conflict depicted the film occurs between Katniss and other contestants (Gwartney, Lynne, & Gayle 54). Before the start of the games, Haymitch advises Katniss about the rules of the game. During the advising session, Haymitch informs her that she should not try to acquire materials from the centre of the arena. When the games start, Katniss does not obey the rule. As a result, she is nearly killed. Notably, more than a half of the contestants are killed for ignoring the rule.

Thereafter, she tries to stay away from the centre of the arena as far as possible where most of the contestants are situated. In a bid to keep away from the other contestants, the event director uses other contestants to trigger events that force her to be exposed to other participants. Owing to this, Katniss runs into other contestants who are siding with her friend Peeta. In the crowd, she is forced to run up a tree. On the top of the tree, she meets another contestant from District 11 who is trying to hide from other contestants.

Later, the two work together in fighting against other contestants. With their courage, they kill a number of contestants and force others to flee. District 11’s contestant aids Katniss in treating her wounds. Because of this, they develop a mutual friendship. They later come up with a plan to secretly demolish a store of supplies relied on by their competitors.

The initiative forces their competitors to doubt each other. A contestant named Marvel later identifies their plan. The friendship between Katniss and her friend depicts the theme of resolution. Although they are rivals, the situation forces them to resolve their differences and work together to outdo their competitors. By doing so, the two managed to achieve a lot of success that they could not achieve without their union.

Later, Marvel murders Katniss’ friend (The Hunger Games) .In revenge, Katniss murders Marvel using an arrow. Katniss spends several days mourning for the loss of her friend. Her moments of sorrow are captured by the media personnel and broadcast them to the public. On receiving the information about how dangerous the game was, the members of the public engage in riots in a bid to force the government to end the games.

The public initiative to condemn the games is a sign of resolution. The media show them the harmful effects of the game. In return, the public wants the government to move with haste and end the events. To control the conflicts, the president summons the games’ coordinator and tells him that the turn of proceedings does not augur well for the games.

After the games’ coordinator returns from the summons, Haymitch convinces him to alter the rules of the game so that two survivors would be left as the winners. The sports coordinator agrees to the suggestion. When the changes are made public, Katniss seeks out for Peeta. She finds Peeta injured after fleeing from the other contestants. She moves him to a safer place and goes to get medication from the centre of the arena where Clove tries to kill her. She escapes from being killed after District 11’s contestant kills her enemy.

She returns and gives Peeta the medicine. Thereafter, the two prepare for the final session of the game. As the two are training, the games coordinator sends out wild animals that kill District 11’s contestant. Owing to this, Cato, Katniss, and Peeta are left as the only contestants. Later, Katniss and Peeta move to the centre of the arena where Cato is positioned. Cato tries to kill them before the wild animals arrive at the arena. Cato’s plans are thwarted by the arrival of the wild animals that eat him up.

After Cato’s demise, Katniss and Peeta wait to be announced as the winners of the competition the following day (The Hunger Games) . As the two await for their distinction, the game’s coordinator attempts to invalidate the new rule in order to recognize one winner only. When Katniss and Peeta learn about the plan, they threaten to ingest some lethal fruits forcing the coordinator to uphold the new rule.

The following morning, the two champions are crowned victors. With their victory, resolution occurs because the two contestants have outsmarted the game. Thereafter, they return to their homeland. On their way, Haymitch informs Katniss that she has attracted a number of rivals ever since she joined the game. Finally, the president kills the games’ coordinator for failing to advance the games.

In conclusion, it should be noted that the chief conflict affecting the characters in the above film is the conflict between men and the society. The society expects the contestants to participate and win in the games. In this respect, people from the district where Peeta and Katniss come from expect them to win the games not to disgrace their home place.

Another conflict in the film is the conflict between men and feelings. For instance, Katniss has to select between Peeta and Gale. The situation forces her to acknowledge that Peeta and Gale are her best friends. Nevertheless, she is obliged to choose that person she is really in love with. Another conflict in the film occurs between Katniss and other contestants. When the game starts, Katniss does not want to follow the rules set. As a result, she is nearly killed. Notably, more than a half of the contestants are killed for ignoring the rule.

Resolutions are depicted when Katniss and her friends come up with drastic measures that allow them to proceed with the game. For instance, Peeta and Katniss inform the media that they are in love to win sponsors. Equally, the friendship between Katniss and some of her friend depicts the theme of resolution. Although they are rivals, the situation forces them to resolve their differences and work together to outdo their competitors. Eventually, their victory symbolizes resolution because with the help of it the two contestants outsmarted the game.

Works Cited

Chigas, Diana. “24 common sources of community conflict.” Communities Journal 128.1 (2005): 25-35. Print.

Gwartney, Patricia, Lynne Fessenden, and Gayle Landt. “Measuring the Long-Term Impact of a Community Conflict Resolution Process: A Case Study Using Content Analysis of Public Documents.” Negotiation Journal 18.1 (2002): 51-74. Print.

The Hunger Games . Dir. Gary Ross. Perf. Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth. Lions Gate Home Entertainment, 2012. HD-DVD.

  • Chicago (A-D)
  • Chicago (N-B)

IvyPanda. (2020, May 1). The Hunger Games by Gary Ross - Film Study. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-hunger-games-by-gary-ross-film-study/

"The Hunger Games by Gary Ross - Film Study." IvyPanda , 1 May 2020, ivypanda.com/essays/the-hunger-games-by-gary-ross-film-study/.

IvyPanda . (2020) 'The Hunger Games by Gary Ross - Film Study'. 1 May.

IvyPanda . 2020. "The Hunger Games by Gary Ross - Film Study." May 1, 2020. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-hunger-games-by-gary-ross-film-study/.

1. IvyPanda . "The Hunger Games by Gary Ross - Film Study." May 1, 2020. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-hunger-games-by-gary-ross-film-study/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "The Hunger Games by Gary Ross - Film Study." May 1, 2020. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-hunger-games-by-gary-ross-film-study/.

  • The Hunger Games: Katniss Everdeen's Character
  • The Hunger Games: Book Versus Movie
  • "Wild Peeta" Restaurant in the UAE
  • Suzanne Collins: Inequality and Meritocracy in "The Hunger Games"
  • Class Inequality in "The Hunger Games"
  • Cato and Marius: Similarities and Differences
  • Women Objectification in Films: "The Hunger Games" and "Wonder Woman"
  • Cato's "On Farming", a Translated Part of Famous Treatise “De Agri Cultura” Review
  • Joseph Addison’s Tragedy Cato as an Example of Self-sacrificing for the Ideals
  • Panem' Social Contracts: The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
  • Great Expectations Film Analysis
  • Throne of Blood by Akira Kurosawa - Film Analysis
  • The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo - Film Analysis
  • The Cinderella Story Film Analysis
  • Rain Main by Barry Levinson Film Analysis

Enlightnotes

The Hunger Games

Table of contents, important characters, the hunger games film analysis.

Screen Shot 2019-08-07 at 1.36.26 PM.png

The movie begins with non-diegetic text to provide prefacing comments explaining the social context and purpose for the Hunger Games. This serves the purpose of immersing viewers into the make believe world of Panem – viewers immediately know of the social unrest and brutal oppression of the Capitol.

Screen Shot 2019-08-07 at 1.34.43 PM.png

“It’s the way we’ve been able to heal… it’s something that knits us all together”

The opening scene features Seneca Crane (game master) and Caesar Flickerman (master of ceremonies). As the two characters discuss the significance of the Hunger Games, the director predominantly uses the reverse shot . This shot is typical of modern talk shows or TV news interviews – viewers are encouraged to feel a sense of familiarity with this type of media. This point of view emphasises the central theme of social theatre , and highlights the see and be seen culture that pervades the logic of the Capitol. The use of costume, hair, and make up to dress these two influential media personalities also demonstrates the Capitol’s extreme obsession with public image and appearances .

Screen Shot 2019-08-07 at 1.54.31 PM.png

The movie’s dystopian flavor is delivered through the juxtaposition on two levels. Firstly, in the movies opening scene. The contrast between the flashy stage decorations and carefully stage-managed optimistic comments and the brutal reality that children are randomly selected to participate and must kill other children to win the game is likely to be considered deeply disturbing to normal viewers.

Secondly, the contrast between scenes in the Capitol depicting immense wealth, luxury, and comfort , and scenes of District 12 depicting abject poverty, hardship, and a backward way of life .

Screen Shot 2019-08-07 at 1.46.01 PM.png

Sound: Prim’s piercing scream of terror. She has nightmares about being randomly selected to participate in the Hunger Games.

The director uses a close up to depict Katniss and Prim’s intimate, sisterly love for each other. Katniss being the older sister takes it upon herself to comfort and protect Willow. This scene contextualizes Katniss’ brave sacrifice when she volunteers to be a tribute in place of her little sister on Reaping Day.

Screen Shot 2019-08-07 at 1.55.53 PM.png

Katniss goes beyond District 12 to hunt for food. Driven by physical hunger, lack of money, and scarcity of food, she is forced to put herself at risk by transgressing the boundary set out by the authorities. This scene, featuring dangerous electrified barbed wire and an ominous sign, is a visual metaphor for how Katniss’ character develops to become a symbol of rebellion , fighting for justice against brutal oppression from the Capitol.

Screen Shot 2019-08-07 at 2.01.13 PM.png

The use of professional lights, large screens, and a dedicated set-up crew reinforce the idea of social theatre in the world of Panem. It echoes the idea of scrutiny and the need to keep up appearances, to look obedient.

Screen Shot 2019-08-07 at 2.04.24 PM.png

“Oh my god, is this real?”

The state of poverty is evident through Katniss’ interaction with this humble bread roll . When Gale produces this, she immediately sits up in surprise. Before breaking it into half to share with Gale, she inhales the smell as if to savor this precious commodity. This highlights how much District 12 is deprived of food. Moreover, that Gale traded a squirrel for the food clues viewers in to the economy of District 12. It flourishes on the underground, black market bartering system away from the official purview of the Capitol.

Screen Shot 2019-08-07 at 2.09.33 PM.png

The use of colors emphasizes the difference between those in District 12 and those from the Capitol, separating the poor from the rich. The predominant color associated with District 12 are dull, muted, faded colors as seen in the costumes. On the other hand, Effie Trinket (a representative from the Capitol) wears bright, happy pink. The different colors correspond to the different attitudes to the Hunger Games too. While Effie celebrates the Games wholeheartedly, the other children from District 12 have grim facial expressions.

hunger games film analysis essay

Leave a Reply Cancel Reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

The Hunger Games (2012 Film) Essay Questions

By gary ross, essay questions.

These notes were contributed by members of the GradeSaver community. We are thankful for their contributions and encourage you to make your own.

Written by people who wish to remain anonymous

What does Katniss' three finger hand gesture mean?

Katniss is in a fight to the death with other participants of the Hunger Games. So when Rue dies and Katniss puts flowers on her, this is no small gesture. When Katniss holds up three fingers to the cameras for all districts to see, her sign is impactful. The reason is that the symbol is one of respect and love for the one who has died. It represents unity as Katniss is displaying the reality that Rue's life mattered and will be honored. She wasn't just some random victim of violence in Katniss' pursuit of victory in the Games. Katniss is rebelling agains President Snow and the Hunger Games by doing what is right and honoring Rue's life, making it have great meaning to all the districts.

How does Katniss get into the Hunger Games?

Initially Primrose, Katniss' younger sister, is chosen to participate in the Hunger Games which chooses two participants from each district between the ages of 12-18. But Katniss voluntarily takes the place of her sister as she cannot allow her younger sibling to be subject to death which will be imminent if the little girl is sent into a combat zone of violence. Thus, Katniss goes into the Game by her own will and not by that of some random selection. And her choosing this is vital to her becoming the face of the rebellion.

Why does the Hunger Games event exist, and what does it represent?

The Hunger Games exists in this story as a means for President Snow to remind all of the districts which he rules of the rebellion that was once brought against him and the aristocracies of the world. Every year the Hunger Games is a reminder of Snow's victory over the rebellion and it is a public gesture of Snow's false mercy, as though he is sparing the lives of the rebellious districts by only having two lives potentially sacrificed from each.

It also serves to turn the districts against one another as each district will certainly root for their own to come home, and to do so they must murder members from other districts. This represents a strategy of disunity that Snow has implemented in order to weaken the potential for rebellion as none of the districts will easily unite against him when they are focused on defeating one another.

Update this section!

You can help us out by revising, improving and updating this section.

After you claim a section you’ll have 24 hours to send in a draft. An editor will review the submission and either publish your submission or provide feedback.

GradeSaver will pay $15 for your literature essays

The Hunger Games (2012 Film) Questions and Answers

The Question and Answer section for The Hunger Games (2012 Film) is a great resource to ask questions, find answers, and discuss the novel.

What film making devices are employed to suggest that life is rough in District 12?

The movie starts by showing us two men, wearing lavish and expensive clothes, discussing the importance of hunger games. Later on, we see capital personnel, Effie Trinket, who has come to announce the tributes and again we see her dressed in...

How is Peeta characterized? How do you know?

Peeta Mellark is the male tribute chosen to represent District 12 in the Hunger Games, and Katniss's closest companion during the event. The son of a baker, Peeta belongs to the merchant class of the district. Peeta is an extremely kind boy, and...

How long do the tributes have to wait on the metal circles in the arena?

They must wait sixty seconds before they are released.

Study Guide for The Hunger Games (2012 Film)

The Hunger Games (2012 Film) study guide contains a biography of director Gary Ross, literature essays, quiz questions, major themes, characters, and a full summary and analysis.

  • About The Hunger Games (2012 Film)
  • The Hunger Games (2012 Film) Summary
  • Character List
  • Director's Influence

Essays for The Hunger Games (2012 Film)

The Hunger Games (2012 Film) essays are academic essays for citation. These papers were written primarily by students and provide critical analysis of The Hunger Games (2012 Film), directed by Gary Ross.

  • Media, Trauma, and Survival: Psychological Strategies in the Hunger Games
  • Applying Hallie and Hobbes to “The Hunger Games": Philosophical Analysis

Wikipedia Entries for The Hunger Games (2012 Film)

  • Introduction

hunger games film analysis essay

Themes and Analysis

The hunger games, by suzanne collins.

As a post-apocalyptic dystopian novel, 'The Hunger Games' captures several intriguing themes including oppression and societal inequality.

About the Book

Neesha Thunga K

Article written by Neesha Thunga K

B.A. in English Literature, and M.A. in English Language and Literature.

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins has risen in popularity ever since its release in 2008. Part of the reason for its fame is the riveting themes that it captures, all of which are central to the post-apocalyptic and dystopian nature of the novel. Some of the themes that can be gleaned from the novel include the theme of oppression, inequality, appearances, celebrity culture, as well as violence.

The Hunger Games Themes

Oppression and inequality.

The authorities in the Capitol maintain their positions of power through wealth, fear, and rivalry. All districts in the totalitarian nation of Panem are kept under varying degrees of poverty and are routinely pitted against each other in the form of the Hunger Games. The wealthier districts have a distinct advantage over the poorer ones in the Games. For instance, the tributes from Districts 1, 2, and 4 make it their mission to train specifically for the Games – and are even known as “ Career tributes .”

The status quo is maintained by “Peacemakers,” who, hypocritically, ensure that the control remains in the hands of the capital by any means necessary, including violence. Those who rebel are either obliterated or silenced to become Avox , i.e., people who have had their tongues cut off and are now acting as servants at the Capitol .

The censorship of the media is another way to maintain control. The districts are not allowed to contact one another, and they have no access to information other than what is provided to them by the authorities. 

Appearances and Celebrity Culture

Appearances are extremely important in Panem. Those who live at the Capitol show off their wealth and power through their appearances. They wear gaudy clothes, ostentatious accessories, and bright colors to demonstrate their money, power, and influence at the Capitol.

Appearances are vital in the Hunger Games. To gain sponsors for life-saving gifts during the Games, each tribute must make himself/herself appealing to the public. Thus, the tributes are all provided with a bevy of stylists and advisors who dress them up in fashionable costumes and teach them the ways of the wealthy. The better the appearances of the tribute, the larger the chances of sponsors. This is similar to celebrity culture in real life – who need to keep up appearances for the sake of lucrative deals and sponsors. 

Katniss understands the importance of appearances and decides to play the part of a star-crossed lover for the cameras. Peeta complies, having always been perceptive about the significance of appearances and making lasting impressions. Although Peeta genuinely harbored feelings for Katniss, he decides to reveal his feelings at a strategic moment – only to gain sympathy and affection from the public.

Violence 

Violence is a recurring theme in The Hunger Games . The authorities of the Capitol are not averse to using violence to maintain the illusion of “peace” in the nation. The Peacemakers routinely punish those who rebel and do not hesitate to exert their power over the people from the 12 districts.

Moreover, the very notion of the Hunger Games is violent. Children are dehumanized from an extremely young age – and are taught to maim and kill other children to survive.

Analysis of Key Moments in The Hunger Games

  • Katniss’s sister, Primrose Everdeen is picked as the female tribute from District 12 for the Hunger Games. 
  • Katniss volunteers herself instead and is joined by the male tribute, Peeta Mellark as they head to the Capitol.
  • Katniss and Peeta convince their drunk mentor , Haymitch Abernathy , to take his duties seriously.
  • The duo wins the affections of the public during the opening ceremony, with the help of the flaming costumes designed by Cinna .
  • Peeta reveals that he is in love with Katniss during the pre-Games interview.
  • The Games begin, and Katniss flees the Cornucopia . She finds out that Peeta has teamed up with the “Career” tributes.
  • An artificial fire is created to push Katniss towards the Careers. She hides from them in a tree.
  • Katniss and Rue drop a nest of tracker jackers to escape from the Careers. Peeta comes back to help Katniss escape.
  • Katniss and Rue blow up the supplies of the Career tributes. Rue is killed by another tribute.
  • A rule change is announced, allowing two tributes from the same district to emerge as victors . Katniss and Peeta team up.
  • The duo becomes romantically attached, and emerge as the two remaining survivors.
  • Another rule change is announced, stating that there can only be one victor for the Games.
  • Katniss and Peeta decide to kill themselves together when the Games are hurriedly ended and they both emerge victorious.
  • Katniss recuperates for days at the Training Centre, after which she is informed by Haymitch that she’s in danger for her acts of rebellion.

Writing Style and Tone

The writing style employed by the author is simple and precise – easy for young adults to comprehend. The tone is blunt, dark, and often horrifying, reflecting the seriousness of the novel. The novel is written from the point of view of the heroine, Katniss Everdeen , who acts as an unreliable narrator.

I can’t win. Prim must know that in her heart. The competition will be far beyond my abilities. Kids from wealthier districts, where winning is a huge honor, who’ve been trained their whole lives for this.

Symbols, Motifs, and Allegory

Families are given tesserae (food rations) each year by the Capitol. This is one of the most important ways in which the Capitol maintains control over the districts. Families are also given extra tesserae for entering the names of their children more than once in the annual reaping for the Hunger Games – an act that increases their chances of being picked for the Hunger Games.

The Mockingjay Pin

The Mockingjay Pin symbolizes Katniss’s individuality and free spirit. The pin captures the Mockingjay bird, i.e., a hybrid between a Jabberjay (a bird that was genetically modified to act as spies for the government) and a Mockingbird. The symbol of the Mockingjay is used to represent rebellion and assertion of identity by several people, including Katniss, Madge, and Rue.

Entertainment and Reality Television

The novel showcases an extremely twisted form of mass entertainment – which comes in the form of suffering. Parallels can be drawn to the reality television of this world, where people are pitted against each other for the entertainment of viewers. Just like the people in reality television are required to appeal to the public to gain votes, the tributes in the Hunger Games are also required to appeal to gain sponsors. 

This kind of entertainment is voyeuristic, and the people from the Capitol revel in the violent nature of the Games. It is highly sadistic, and it does not matter whether the suffering is physical or psychological. For instance, there is a huge fascination behind the romance between Katniss and Peeta. The main appeal for this romance is the fact that it is doomed no matter what, because of the tragic ending that awaits the lovers.

The Hunger Games also resembles reality television in the fact that it is widely televised and constantly talked about in the media at Panem. It objectifies the tributes much like reality television objectifies contestants. 

Is rebellion a theme in The Hunger Games ?

Yes, rebellion is a theme in The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins. There are several instances in the novel when Katniss, and sometimes even Peeta, rebel against the oppressive Capitol. However, this theme is not as prevalent in the first novel as it is in the next two novels in the trilogy, Catching Fire and Mockingjay .

What skill is Gale better at than Katniss?

Gale and Katniss are both highly skilled at survival. While Katniss is exceptionally skilled with a bow and arrow (routinely using it for hunting and killing animals), Gale is better at setting snares for prey.

How is Katniss a rebel?

Katniss’s rebellion starts from the very beginning when she volunteers herself as a tribute in the Hunger Games. Instead of willingly going through every oppressive act that the capital makes her do, she defies the authorities and rebels whenever she can. Her ultimate act of rebellion, however, is seen at the end of the novel when she decides to poison herself along with Peeta – to leave the Games without a victor.

What is Katniss’s sister’s full name?

Katniss’s sister’s full name in The Hunger Games is Primrose Everdeen. Her name is often shortened to Prim. She is a 12-year-old girl whose name is drawn at the reaping of the 74th edition of the Hunger Games. However, she is saved from participating in the game by her sister Katniss, who volunteers herself instead.

Neesha Thunga K

About Neesha Thunga K

Neesha, born to a family of avid readers, has devoted several years to teaching English and writing for various organizations, making an impact on the literary community.

Cite This Page

K, NeeshaThunga " The Hunger Games Themes and Analysis 🏹 " Book Analysis , https://bookanalysis.com/suzanne-collins/the-hunger-games/themes-analysis/ . Accessed 5 April 2024.

It'll change your perspective on books forever.

Discover 5 Secrets to the Greatest Literature

There was a problem reporting this post.

Block Member?

Please confirm you want to block this member.

You will no longer be able to:

  • See blocked member's posts
  • Mention this member in posts
  • Invite this member to groups

Please allow a few minutes for this process to complete.

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

FREEBookNotes

  • 168,891 literary resources
  • 172 content providers
  • 53,470 books

The Hunger Games Thesis Statements and Essay Topics

Below you will find four outstanding thesis statements / paper topics for “The Hunger Games” by Suzanne Collins that can be used as essay starters. All four incorporate at least one of the themes found in “The Hunger Games” and are broad enough so that it will be easy to find textual support, yet narrow enough to provide a focused clear thesis statement. These thesis statements offer a short summary of “The Hunger Games” in terms of different elements that could be important in an essay. You are, of course, free to add your own analysis and understanding of the plot or themes to them. Using the essay topics below in conjunction with the list of  important quotes from “The Hunger Games”  on our quotes page, you should have no trouble connecting with the text and writing an excellent essay.

Topic #1: Morality in  The Hunger Games

In the novel, there is a very clear sense of right and wrong. The Capital killing children and growing rich of the toil of the people is obviously wrong. Katniss does what she must to survive and does kill other competitors. Morality is defined as personal or cultural values, codes of conduct or social mores; it has neither a good or bad connotation on its own. For this essay argue the role that morality plays in the novel. How does Katniss’ sense of morality affect the way that she plays the game? Is there a clear representation of Good and Evil in the novel?

Topic #2: Setting in  The Hunger Games

The Hunger Games  is set in a dystopian future for North America, a world called Panem. The use of setting is used to not only give a sense of the dismal world that Katniss finds herself but also to give history into how North America became so vastly different from the world we know today. Give examples of how descriptions of the setting set the tone for the novel. What are we told about the history of Panem that gives a sense of North America’s dystopian future? A dystopia is a repressive and controlled state. In what ways is Panem a dystopia? Are there any ways that Panem is not a dystopia? Use examples from the novel to support your assertions.

Topic #3:  The Hunger Games  and Beauty

  There are two different perceptions of beauty presented in the novel, those of the people of Seam and those of the people in the Capitol. The Capitol prides the beauty that people tend to pride today, youth, a lean figure and facial beauty. Seam finds attractiveness in what shows survival and wealth, such as a large belly showing an abundance of food or old age showing strength and longevity. What do you think the novel is trying to say about today’s perceptions of beauty? Do you think the novel favors one version of beauty over the other? Use examples from the novel to support your conclusions.

Topic #4:  The Hunger Games  and Relationships

In the novel, Katniss forms strong relationships with Gale and Peeta. Gale is a symbol of strength that is born out of a lifetime in poverty. Peeta is an example of selfless kindness. Throughout the novel, Katniss finds herself confused about her feelings for both of them. What do Gale and Peeta signify for Katniss? What do they have in common with Katniss? How do Gale and Peeta shape Katniss’ participation in the games? Does the novel stress one quality or relationship over the other? Why? Use examples from the novel to support your conclusions.

Banner

  • Bradfield Senior College Library
  • The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
  • Text and analysis

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins:Text and analysis

Books and downloadable chapters, bloom's literature online, journal articles, journal articles - dystopian novels, online videos, related texts.

  • Referencing

Bradfield links

  • Google Classroom

Library links

  • Library hours and contact details
  • Essay writing skills

Education links

  • NESA HSC English Syllabus This site includes past HSC exam papers, the subject syllabus and notes from the marking centre.

hunger games film analysis essay

  • Bloom's literature : Suzanne Collins The biographic entry for Suzanne Collins from the Encyclopedia of Fantasy and Horror Fiction. more... less... TAFE NSW username and password required
  • Love Among the Ruins : How our awful future became the next big thing. By Lev Grossman. Time, 3/12/2012
  • Dystopian novels : have you read one lately? Library Media Connection, Aug/Sep 2012
  • Wikipedia : The Hunger Games A short summary of the books in The Hunger Games trilogy.
  • The Hunger Games : Wikia A fan created community wiki site devoted to books and film adaptions of The Hunger Games trilogy. It includes sections on characters and plot.
  • Cliff notes : The Hunger Games With sections on characters, chapter summaries and analysis, this site provides a useful overview of the novel.
  • Time : PANEM's rebel : The star of the 74th annual Hunger Games A mock propaganda issue of Time Magazine promoting the 74th Hunger Games. It usefully demonstrates the manipulation of image and information in the world of Panem.
  • The New York Times : Scary new world (book review). By John Green. 7/11/2008 A review of The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins and The dead and the gone by Susan Beth Pfeffer.
  • The Artifice: The political message of The Hunger Games This article examines the political, social, cultural, and environmental messages contained in The Hunger Games.
  • Revisiting Dystopia: the Reality Show Biopolitics of "The Hunger Games" (Academic article) This paper explores the dystopian imaginaries of the trilogy The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins and its film adaptations. It places the narrative into a genealogy of dystopian fiction concerned with the historical nation-state totalitarianism.
  • The Hunger Games: An ecocritical reading (Academic article) This academic paper argues The Hunger Games "Recognises that the degradation of non-human nature through human action" as a major theme. It suggests a deep reading of this multilayered text "can broaden as well as change perspectives and trigger engaged debate". The paper also covers the critical issues of "consumer manipulation, media and celebrity culture".
  • “In hunger for bread, not in thirst for revenge”: Belly, bellum and rebellion in Coriolanus and The Hunger Games trilogy (Academic article). By Sara Soncini. Essays No. 15 05/2015 This article examines the link between Shakespeare’s Coriolanus and the shortage of food as ferment for rebellion in the districts of Panem.

hunger games film analysis essay

  • Science Fiction Films in the library Click here for a full list of Sci-Fi films on DVD available for loan to TAFENSW students.

Material on the shelf

On the shelf at 813.6/COLL

Bradfield textbooks

  • The hunger games

Related guides

Share this guide.

QR code for Hunger Games topic guide

Scan to view on your phone.

  • Next: Referencing >>
  • Last Updated: Nov 6, 2023 5:49 PM
  • URL: https://bradfield-nsw.libguides.com/collins

Home — Essay Samples — Entertainment — The Hunger Games — The Hunger Games Character Analysis

test_template

The Hunger Games Character Analysis

  • Categories: The Hunger Games

About this sample

close

Words: 864 |

Published: Mar 5, 2024

Words: 864 | Pages: 2 | 5 min read

Image of Dr. Charlotte Jacobson

Cite this Essay

Let us write you an essay from scratch

  • 450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
  • Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours

Get high-quality help

author

Prof Ernest (PhD)

Verified writer

  • Expert in: Entertainment

writer

+ 120 experts online

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy . We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

No need to pay just yet!

Related Essays

2 pages / 1017 words

2 pages / 914 words

1 pages / 441 words

5.5 pages / 2615 words

Remember! This is just a sample.

You can get your custom paper by one of our expert writers.

121 writers online

Still can’t find what you need?

Browse our vast selection of original essay samples, each expertly formatted and styled

Related Essays on The Hunger Games

The Hunger Games, written by Suzanne Collins, is a widely popular book that falls within the dystopian genre. Collins, S. (2008). The Hunger Games. Scholastic Press. Mendlesohn, F. (2008). Rhetorics of fantasy. [...]

In conclusion, "The Hunger Games" highlights the themes of inequality and meritocracy through the conflict between the Capitol and the Districts. The Hunger Games exemplify the inequality between the tributes and the conflict [...]

The Hunger Games has captivated audiences with its intricate characters and compelling storyline. One of the most fascinating aspects of the series is the diverse range of personality traits exhibited by the characters. From [...]

The Hunger Games has sparked controversy for its depiction of violence. The story is set in a dystopian future where children are forced to fight to the death in a televised event. The violence in The Hunger Games raises [...]

The point of analysis, archetypes can be related to the novel, “Hunger Games” through many ways. In the novel, Katniss, joined in the alliance with Rue, a young girl from district 11. When Rue was faced with near death, Katniss [...]

Society’s antagonism towards individuals and certain groups can be demonstrated through oppression, immoral regulations, and the misuse of law enforcement. Suzanne Collins’ 2008 novel, The Hunger Games is set in a [...]

Related Topics

By clicking “Send”, you agree to our Terms of service and Privacy statement . We will occasionally send you account related emails.

Where do you want us to send this sample?

By clicking “Continue”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy.

Be careful. This essay is not unique

This essay was donated by a student and is likely to have been used and submitted before

Download this Sample

Free samples may contain mistakes and not unique parts

Sorry, we could not paraphrase this essay. Our professional writers can rewrite it and get you a unique paper.

Please check your inbox.

We can write you a custom essay that will follow your exact instructions and meet the deadlines. Let's fix your grades together!

Get Your Personalized Essay in 3 Hours or Less!

We use cookies to personalyze your web-site experience. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

  • Instructions Followed To The Letter
  • Deadlines Met At Every Stage
  • Unique And Plagiarism Free

hunger games film analysis essay

IMAGES

  1. The Hunger Games & The Amzing Spiderman Character Analysis Essay

    hunger games film analysis essay

  2. The Hunger Games Film Analysis Prep 2020-3.docx

    hunger games film analysis essay

  3. Hunger Games Analysis.docx

    hunger games film analysis essay

  4. Surviving Adversity: An Analysis of "The Hunger Games" Free Essay Example

    hunger games film analysis essay

  5. ≫ The Hunger Games: Book vs Movie Free Essay Sample on Samploon.com

    hunger games film analysis essay

  6. Hunger games dystopia essay

    hunger games film analysis essay

VIDEO

  1. First Time Watching *THE HUNGER GAMES*

  2. The Hunger Games Reaction/Commentary

  3. Hunger Games Saga

  4. Filmmaking Techniques

  5. Watching Every Hunger Games Film

  6. The Hunger Games (2012) Reaction & Breakdown

COMMENTS

  1. The Hunger Games by Gary Ross

    The Hunger Games is a fictional movie produced in the year 2012. The movie's plot is based on a novel written by Suzanne Collins in the year 2008. The movie features Jennifer Lawrence as Katniss Everdeen, Josh Hutcherson as Peeta Mellark, and Liam Hemsworth as Gale Hawthorne (The Hunger Games).The story occurs in a post-apocalyptic age in the country named Panem.

  2. The Hunger Games Film Theory Analysis

    The film I chose to analyze for this paper is The Hunger Games.Based on the popular novel by Suzanne Collins, The Hunger Games is a sci-fi adventure film directed by Gary Ross that takes place in a dystopian world. In the remains of what was once North America, the Capitol of Panem maintains control over its twelve districts by forcing each of them to select a male and female "tribute" at ...

  3. The Hunger Games (2012 Film) Analysis

    The Hunger Games (2012 Film) study guide contains a biography of director Gary Ross, literature essays, quiz questions, major themes, characters, and a full summary and analysis. The Hunger Games (2012 Film) essays are academic essays for citation. These papers were written primarily by students and provide critical analysis of The Hunger Games ...

  4. An In-Depth Look at The Hunger Games: Film Analysis

    Views: 5109. Grade: 5. Download. This Hunger Games film analysis essay offers a unique perspective on the popular movie by delving into the role of mise-en-scene. By examining the specific use of lighting, color, setting, and costumes in both District 12 and the Capitol, readers will gain a deeper understanding of the story's intricacies.

  5. The Hunger Games Essays

    2 pages / 873 words. Prompt Examples for "The Hunger Games" Essay Government Control: Examine the theme of government control and the totalitarian regime in "The Hunger Games," and discuss how the Capitol exercises its authority over the districts. Resistance and Rebellion: Analyze the theme of resistance and rebellion in...

  6. PDF A Feminist Analysis of The Film the Hunger Games

    LITERATURE REVIEW OF THE HUNGER GAMES "[A] book that reads like crack on paper, The Hunger Games is a complicated story, with many layers and lots of sharply drawn characters" (Pollitt, 2012). Suzanne Collin's first book in the Hunger Games trilogy, aptly titled The Hunger Games, was released by Scholastic Press on September 14, 2008.

  7. The Hunger Games Study Guides & Sample Essays

    The Hunger Games Film Analysis. The movie begins with non-diegetic text to provide prefacing comments explaining the social context and purpose for the Hunger Games. This serves the purpose of immersing viewers into the make believe world of Panem - viewers immediately know of the social unrest and brutal oppression of the Capitol.

  8. Hunger Games, Film Essay

    Mikyla Pene-Bavastro. The movie 'The Hunger Games' directed by Gary Ross is an extraordinary fictional tale. A tale set in a futuristic dystopia society called 'Panem'. This nation is divided into 12 districts and a capitol. Every year each district must offer two tributes a male and a female that must fight to the death until there is ...

  9. The Hunger Games movie review (2012)

    Like many science-fiction stories, "The Hunger Games" portrays a future that we're invited to read as a parable for the present. After the existing nations of North America are destroyed by catastrophe, a civilization named Panem rises from the ruins. It's ruled by a vast, wealthy Capitol inspired by the covers of countless sci-fi magazines and surrounded by 12 "districts" that are ...

  10. The Hunger Games (2012 Film) Summary

    Essays for The Hunger Games (2012 Film) The Hunger Games (2012 Film) essays are academic essays for citation. These papers were written primarily by students and provide critical analysis of The Hunger Games (2012 Film), directed by Gary Ross. Media, Trauma, and Survival: Psychological Strategies in the Hunger Games

  11. The Hunger Games (2012 Film) Essay Questions

    The Hunger Games (2012 Film) study guide contains a biography of director Gary Ross, literature essays, quiz questions, major themes, characters, and a full summary and analysis. The Hunger Games (2012 Film) essays are academic essays for citation. These papers were written primarily by students and provide critical analysis of The Hunger Games ...

  12. The Hunger Games: Study Guide

    The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins, published in 2008, is a dystopian young adult novel set in the post-apocalyptic nation of Panem. Katniss Everdeen, the protagonist, volunteers for the annual Hunger Games, where children from each district must fight to the death in a televised spectacle. The novel explores themes of survival, sacrifice, and ...

  13. Hunger Games Humanity Analysis: [Essay Example], 766 words

    In conclusion, the Hunger Games series offers a profound analysis of humanity, exploring the complexities of power, sacrifice, and resilience. Through a captivating narrative that engages both the heart and the mind, Suzanne Collins transports us into a dystopian world that mirrors our own in many ways. As we follow the characters on their ...

  14. REVIEW ESSAY The Hunger Games Trilogy as a Text for Education HJEAS

    the totalitarian state of Panem, using Umberto Eco s essay, "Ur-Fascism" (Pharr and Clark 30-38), and also confirmed by the visual imagery of the first The Hunger Games movie, directed by Gary Ross (Limpár). Examining all four books of criticism more closely reveals a ubiquitous effort to identify the various meeting points between the

  15. The Hunger Games Theme: Social Injustice and Survival

    The Hunger Games Book Analysis Essay. The Hunger Games, written by Suzanne Collins, is a widely popular book that falls within the dystopian genre. Collins, S. (2008). The Hunger Games. ... a series of novels by Suzanne Collins and a successful film franchise, has garnered widespread acclaim for its portrayal of emotions and their impact on the ...

  16. The Hunger Games Themes and Analysis

    The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins has risen in popularity ever since its release in 2008. Part of the reason for its fame is the riveting themes that it captures, all of which are central to the post-apocalyptic and dystopian nature of the novel. Some of the themes that can be gleaned from the novel include the theme of oppression, inequality ...

  17. The Hunger Games Thesis Statements and Essay Topics

    Topic #1: Morality in The Hunger Games. In the novel, there is a very clear sense of right and wrong. The Capital killing children and growing rich of the toil of the people is obviously wrong. Katniss does what she must to survive and does kill other competitors. Morality is defined as personal or cultural values, codes of conduct or social ...

  18. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins:Text and analysis

    A philosophical exploration of The Hunger Games which draws on philosophical thinkers to analyse the story and its themes, such as sacrifice, altruism, moral choice, and gender. It gives the reader insights into The Hunger Games series and its key characters, plot lines, and ideas. The text examines important themes such as the state of nature ...

  19. The Hunger Games: Movie Analysis

    In the Hunger Games, the main character and narrator is 16 year old Katniss Everdeen. Katniss is strong, resourceful, and very mature. Katniss is the backbone of her family which consists of, her mother, and her younger sister, Prim. Katniss is extremely protective of her younger sister, and she volunteers as tribute to….

  20. The Hunger Games: Mini Essays

    Debt, not of the financial sort necessarily but in the form of owing someone for their help, comes up multiple times in the novel. The most significant instance concerns Katniss's first encounter with Peeta. Katniss was starving at the time, and Peeta essentially saved her life by giving her bread from his family's bakery.

  21. The Hunger Games Character Analysis: [Essay Example], 864 words

    The protagonist, Katniss Everdeen, is a complex and compelling character who undergoes significant development as she confronts the challenges of the Hunger Games. This essay will explore the character of Katniss Everdeen, examining her motivations, relationships, and growth throughout the novel. By delving into her background, personality, and ...