The Hunger Games

The Hunger Games was released on DVD this week, and Jo and I were keen to see it after we missed it in the cinemas. We weren't disappointed.

The story takes place in a dystopian post-apocalyptic future in the nation of Panem, where twelve boys and twelve girls must participate in the Hunger Games, a televised annual event in which the "tributes" are required to fight to the death until there is one remaining victor. The film is both gripping and disturbing, but it is not for everyone - certainly not for young children. Suzanne Collins' The Hunger Games book trilogy has sold up to 26 million copies, highlighting its worldwide popularity.

What makes a story like this so popular, not only amongst young adults, but in wider circles also? I haven't read the novels (apologies to the purists) but here is my best guess based on the film.

First, the story is one of courage. We see young children dragged from impoverished families to participate in a horrific blood sport for the entertainment of society's elite. As viewers, we are drawn in to experience the fear of the story's hero and heroine, but also to share in their courage as they choose to act nobly in the face of death.

Secondly, the underlying plot of the story is sacrifice. The main character, Katniss Everdeen, volunteers to participate in the games in the place of her younger sister, an act likely to end in her death. Katniss continues to risk her life for her fellow competitors, not allowing her fear to conquer her conscience.

Lastly, the story points to future victory. Without spoiling the film for you, this instalment ends with the possibility that society's injustice might somehow be overcome. The Hunger Games is a trilogy after all!

It is no surprise that this story connects with us. In its characters we see both the best and worst of humanity, the depth of corruption and the fragility of life. We are reminded how easily power is abused to devastating effect. And we are also reminded that human saviours are rare, and that victory comes only with rare courage and the willingness to sacrifice oneself for the sake of another. Sounds like another story I trust you know...