Yesterday we brought you our review of The Hunger Games , after seeing the film earlier this week.
Last night we asked for your questions about the film (we received lots!), and now here are the answers to ten.
Q (IRISHMIKE15): What do you feel was the biggest difference made between the book and the movie?
A: While I haven’t read the book since it first came out, I found the film to be surprisingly faithful. One noticeable absence was any mention of District 13 – which will obviously have to be rectified in Catching Fire. Otherwise, all the major changes were additions, including a stunning sequence showing the rebellion beginning in the districts.
Q (RSCAR): Are the deaths shown on screen, or are they cutaways?
A: Without giving too much away, a bit of both. There are definitely some brutal deaths, but there also are deaths that occur off screen. I don’t think any fans will really miss deaths. They show enough to emphasize the brutality of the games, and there were definitely gasps in the audience, but, at the same time, deaths do occur off screen when Katniss is not near the fight.
Q (Ellen): Were you pleased with how the mutts looked? I’m kinda nervous to see them.
A: Unfortunately, the mutts were a low-point for the film. This was an issue where the budget seemed stretched. Perhaps it’s because the mutt scene takes place at night, but the mutts didn’t seem to have the characteristics emphasized in the books. Personally, I didn’t miss this aspect in the film, but it was a shame they didn’t look more menacing or realistic.
Q (Annie): How did they handle the effect of the trackerjacker venom on katniss?
A: The post-tracker jacker scene was pretty impressive. They added a camera effect that reminded me a bit of a hyper version of what it looked like when Frodo was wearing the ring in Lord of the Rings. You could tell she was hallucinating and struggling to survive through it. They also used this time to have her have “dream-like” moments, where they sneak in some exposition. I loved this sequence; very bizarre.
Q (HPADTH33): How is the score???? Memorable like Potter or a dud like Twilight?
A: I really liked the score. It was definitely more subtle, and there were several moments of complete silence, but I thought it fit perfectly. There were fewer strings and a lot of more “modern” sounds. I’ve definitely heard some disappointed reactions to it, but I personally really dug the score.
Q (RDH014): The so-called “love triangle” between Peeta, Katniss, and Gale: is it emphasized?
A: I would say the love triangle isn’t emphasized, but hinted at. I wouldn’t say it is more prevalent than in the first book, which I was pleased with. There were clearly moments where the film could have gone a different direction to emphasize a sort of “love triangle,” but, thankfully, it didn’t.
Q (Emily): How do you feel about the ending? I heard that it differs from the book a little. Do you think it provides too much closure, so that there’s not really much excitement built for the sequels?
A: You’re correct in that the ending is different, although I wouldn’t say this is a bad thing. I think the ending does a solid job of wrapping up the story while hinting at the turmoil to come. I really think fans and non-fans will be served well by the ending.
Q (PotionWillow207): I understand the arena gifts from supporters were left out of the movie. Doesn’t that totally change the “love story” of Katniss and Peeta?
A: You are misinformed, as the arena gifts play quite a large role in the film. The parachutes are there, as is the idea of “winning over” sponsors. This subplot is very much present in the film.
Q (Megan): Not to be negative, but what was the largest disappointment?
A: I had a few issues with the movie. I found the budget was definitely stretched in places, particularly in moments of CGI, which failed to impress, at times. I also wasn’t a fan of how they handled hand-to-hand combat. The filming was a little underwhelming during those sequences. But these issues are small compared with the film as a whole.
Q (Sarah): Did Jeremy cry when he watched it?!
A: Ha! I did not, although I easily could have, had I let myself. There are some really heartbreaking moments. Perhaps when I see the film in the comfort of my own home, I will shed a tear or two.
Best question goes to:
Q (CEILIDH): WHO ORDERED THE PIG??
A: I really don’t have an answer for this, but I see that line becoming a classic one over the next few years. Pretty hilarious moment in the movie.
We want to hear your thoughts on this topic!
Write a comment below or submit an article to Hypable.