The Hunger Games

The Hunger Games

Katniss Everdeen voluntarily takes her younger sister's place in the Hunger Games: a televised competition in which two teenagers from each of the twelve Districts of Panem are chosen at random to fight to the death.

StoryΒ·ImpactΒ·CharactersΒ·FAQ

IP Overview & Key Facts

IP Key Facts

Essential information and quick stats.
Full Name
The Hunger Games
Also Known As
The Hunger Games Saga
Format
Movie Franchise / Novel Series
Release Year
2012
Current Status
Released
Country of Origin
United States
Creator
Suzanne Collins (Books), Gary Ross (First Film)
Original Work
Movie
Genre
sci-fi, dystopian, action, adventure, young adult

Story, World & Core Themes

Explore the narrative, setting, and ideas that shape The Hunger Games.
Story
High-level synopsis and narrative focus.
In a dystopian future, the totalitarian nation of Panem is divided into 12 districts and the Capitol. Each year, two young representatives from each district are selected by lottery to participate in The Hunger Games. Part entertainment, part brutal retribution for a past rebellion, the televised games are broadcast throughout Panem. The participants are forced to eliminate their competitors while the citizens of Panem are required to watch.
World
Setting, cultures, and distinctive elements.
Panem. A post-apocalyptic nation located in North America, consisting of a wealthy Capitol and 12 poorer districts.


District 12, The Capitol, The Arena
Themes
Core ideas and recurring motifs.
The lengths one will go to stay alive.
Oppression & Rebellion: The struggle against tyranny.
Media Manipulation: How reality TV and propaganda shape public perception.

Cultural Impact Timeline

High-level milestones showing The Hunger Games's global influence.
2008
Suzanne Collins publishes 'The Hunger Games'
2012
The first movie is released, launching a global phenomenon
2015
The original film series concludes
2023
The prequel film is released

Key Characters

Meet representative characters from The Hunger Games.
Katniss Everdeen
β€œI volunteer! I volunteer as tribute!”
The Girl on Fire.View Profile
Peeta Mellark
β€œI just don't want them to change me.”
The male tribute from District 12, known for his kindness, strength, and camouflage skills.View Profile
Gale Hawthorne
β€œIt's happening! It's finally happening!”
Katniss's best friend and hunting partner, a fierce believer in the rebellion.View Profile
Haymitch Abernathy
β€œStay alive.”
The cynical, alcoholic victor of the 50th Hunger Games who mentors Katniss and Peeta.View Profile
Effie Trinket
β€œMay the odds be ever in your favor.”
The eccentric Capitol escort for District 12 tributes, known for her colorful wigs and manners.View Profile
President Snow
β€œHope. It is the only thing stronger than fear.”
The ruthless autocrat of Panem who smells of blood and roses.View Profile

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Mockingjay?β–Ό
A bird created by the accidental mating of genetically modified Jabberjays and female mockingbirds. It becomes the symbol of the rebellion.
Why did Katniss volunteer?β–Ό
She volunteered as 'Tribute' to save her younger sister, Primrose, whose name was originally drawn in the Reaping.
What is the Three Finger Salute?β–Ό
An old gesture from District 12 used to express thanks, admiration, or goodbye to someone you love. It becomes a symbol of resistance.
Who are the Careers?β–Ό
Tributes from wealthy districts (1, 2, and 4) who train their whole lives for the Games and often volunteer.
How did Katniss and Peeta both survive the first Games?β–Ό
They threatened to commit double suicide by eating poisonous Nightlock berries, forcing the Gamemakers to declare two winners.
What happened to District 13?β–Ό
It was thought to be destroyed by the Capitol during the first rebellion but actually survived underground and became the center of the second rebellion.
Who is President Snow?β–Ό
Coriolanus Snow is the tyrannical ruler of Panem who uses fear and the Hunger Games to maintain control.
What is the Quarter Quell?β–Ό
A special version of the Hunger Games held every 25 years with a unique twist. The 3rd Quarter Quell reaped existing victors.
Who is Haymitch?β–Ό
The only living victor from District 12 (before Katniss and Peeta), who serves as their drunken but cunning mentor.
What is the prequel about?β–Ό
'The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes' focuses on a young Coriolanus Snow and his mentorship of Lucy Gray Baird during the 10th Hunger Games.

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