Review of The Hunger Games (2012) by Jon P — 18 Nov 2014

In terms of character, plot, and action, leaving as much as possible to the imagination seems to be key in Gary Ross' opening adaptation of Suzanne Collins' book series. The funny thing is, it's a method that actually really works for a first instalment in a new film franchise.

Clever edits help mask the low age certificate from more mature viewers and the limited time spent exploring backgrounds and secondary characters ensures the exposition never feels clunky or overbearing. Ross genuinely creates a convincing, vivid world on screen and builds anticipation for the what, how, where and why to be revealed and pushed forward in future on-screen adventures.

Some say it's a watered-down Battle Royale, but no matter how far it's based on a borrowed concept, or a tween literary fad, this is still one very sophisticated, very grown-up movie.