Last week, I mentioned that I wasn’t feeling all that well and listed a few of the movies that I would like to see while curled up in my chair. Well, would anyone be surprised if I said I didn’t get around to watching any of them? I did watch something though…
I wanted to see The Hunger Games in the theater, but for whatever reason we never made it. And last Friday when I was listing all of the movies that I wanted to see while recuperating in the comfort of my home, I completely overlooked the upcoming release of The Hunger Games.
How is that possible? I don’t know… but I corrected that mistake as soon as I realized it was available via OnDemand Saturday night.
For those that still haven’t read Suzanne Collins’ trilogy or seen the film adaptation, I’ll try not to give anything away. But, honestly, I feel like my house was in this minority grouping up until this past weekend and I wouldn’t be ruining anything for a lot of people. But regardless, I’ll stay away from any spoilers.
However, what I do want to mention is the fact that I couldn’t help but compare The Hunger Games to another Young Adult franchise that has practically taken over the world these past few years—The Twilight Saga.
And let me begin with… The Hunger Games wins.
I’m not a Twilight hater; really, I’m not. I own all four books and I have seen all four movies to date. I do enjoy the love triangle, the werewolf pack, and the Cullen clan; but, I prefer my vampires to have more bite. I want to see vamps do what they’re supposed to do—feed on humans. It may be bloody, but there is something about it that is as hot as all get out. Vampires are probably the most seductive and sexy of all the supernatural, and that’s what I like to see. Even Vampire Jerry from Fright Night (2012) was one bad vamp, but what girl sitting in the theater still didn’t wish he was her neighbor?
Now, with The Hunger Games, I expected violence, and violence is exactly what I got—PG style, anyway. I never expected the tributes to survive the Games without bloodshed. But thankfully, the scenes were not gory or over-the-top; they portrayed just enough to leave the worst parts to the viewer’s imaginations and leave us clinging to the edge of our seats.
Now let’s switch to another comparison—the female protagonists.
First, there’s Bella… perhaps if anyone besides Kristen Stewart had played the beloved Bella in the movies, I’d have a different opinion. But she did, and I don’t. It’s hard to sit through a series and love it when you can’t stand the protagonist—and I’m speaking of the character here, not the actress; but because the actress lacks a certain emotional range and rarely smiles when in character, it’s hard to empathize with her. Maybe Miss Stewart played the role just as Stephenie Meyer intended, and she’s certainly earned millions because of the franchise, but for me personally, let me just say she’s not the reason I see the films.
But Katniss Everdeen (played by Jennifer Lawrence) on the other hand, now that’s a strong, female lead. Wow! I fell in love with Katniss from the very beginning. She has purpose; she’s caring; she provides; and most importantly, she volunteers herself to save another—she is amazing. Never once did I think the character of Katniss felt sorry for herself (and if anyone was allowed to feel sorry for themselves, it would be Katniss). I was ready to watch Miss Lawrence kick some serious booty when the tributes from each district joined at the Cornucopia. Heck, I was even ready to watch her take down Peeta. I was one-hundred percent enamored with Katniss Everdeen, and Jennifer Lawrence nailed the role.
I could keep going; heck, I haven’t even listed the guys/eye candy in the films or the other supporting actors yet. But I’m done. These two aspects alone launch The Hunger Games way ahead of Twilight where I’m concerned. A part of me is a bit shocked to say this… I do love the supernatural; however, this time, fantasy wins as far as I’m concerned.
What do you think? Have you watched The Hunger Games? Do you prefer it over the Twilight Saga or Katniss over Bella? I’d love to hear from you!
And while it may not be supernatural or fantasy, remember to check out my YA Mystery novel, Football Sweetheart… now available on Kindle and Nook!
Tiffany A White's Ooo Factor 