It all began with the Harry Potter series. Then came the Twilight series. These books turned into a movies enthralled everyone, all ages alike. The latest sensation in this category is The Hunter Games. The popularity of the first two series encouraged kids to read further. The Hunter Games series is already becoming a rage and is being dubbed as the Next Twilight.
For those new to The Hunger Games movie, you should know that it is based on author Suzanne Collins’ immensely popular first book of a trilogy. The theme of The Hunger Games is quite disturbing. Set in a post apocalyptic futuristic world, the storyline follows a teenage huntress Katniss Everdeen (portrayed by Jennifer Lawrence) who has to play in the Hunter Games: a televised annual contest in which one has to battle with 2 youngsters from each of the 12 districts, in an arena, until a lone survivor remains. The Hunger Games books are immensely popular with kids aged even 8 and 9 as they are eager to see their favorite characters being given life on the screen. The movie will have a lot of violent scenes involving kids.
Now the big question: Is The Hunger Games movie series appropriate for kids to view?
Hunger games movies, kids can learn from the strong-willed characters
a. The book turned to a movie formula
Following the steps of Harry Potter and Twilight, The Hunter Games movie will bring the popular characters to life: Haymitch, Effie, Cinna, Peeta and Gale; all these characters will be given a new dimension when they will be picturised on screen. And don’t we all just love the visual effects shown in today’s films? The visuals of the nation of Panem; especially the arena is also something to look forward to. From experiences of Harry Potter and the Twilight, one can expect this portrayal to be quite a delight.
b. Maturity of the kid
The books are technically intended for the Young Adult, but this can cover a really wide range of audience. It really boils down to the maturity of your kid. If he or she has read all the Harry Potter series, then The Hunter Games should be alright. As a parent, if you personally feel that your kid will be able to handle the violent scenes and a few romantic ones, then you can go ahead and let your kid read the book and watch the movie.
c. Characters of The Hunter Games
The characters of the plot, especially Katniss Everdeen have been well portrayed by the author Suzanne Collins. Katniss has to make many moral choices in her journey and she faces every hindrance using her intelligence and sometimes, her heart. Kids will be able to appreciate this strong and intelligent young woman pretty well. The characterization of Peeta has been done quite resourcefully, too.
Hunger games movie, bad influence
a. Violent content
This is the major point of the discussion. It is known that the book has incidences where teenagers kill other teenagers with weapons. Such brutal and violent scenes are bound to create a furor when filmed. The kids may not digest such scenes depicting killing of young people by their very own peers.
b. Romantic scenes
The book describes romantic encounters between Katniss and her classmate Peeta. Portrayal of the romance between these two characters on screen will be a challenge. Parents will definitely not be happy if the director decides to shoot detailed, intimate romantic scenes between the two lead characters. If the scenes are not censored, the movie might not be appropriate for the kids.
c. Over all maturity of the child
Even if the story is about youngsters, it is quite obvious by now that the content is not really suitable for kids. If the child watching the film is pretty immature and sensitive about stuff, then the movie will be quite an emotional upheaval for him. He might experience certain problems after watching the movie, his perception about things could change.
Verdict
There is no single verdict or opinion about this one. In the end, what matters is whether the kid will be able to cope with the content or not. And it’s none other than the parents who can best determine that! If the kid has read the book or more mature content or if the parent thinks that his kid is quite mature, they should let him or her see the movie. On the other hand, if the kid has a known record of not being able to handle or view violent content, then the movie is a strict no no.
