The Hunger Games is one of the most iconic dystopian franchises in history. On November 17, 2023, Director Francis Lawrence once again transported audiences to the world of Panem through the latest installment, The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes. Like the previous movies, it tells the story of a fascinating world and conflicted characters. This highly anticipated, long-awaited reprise has had some big shoes to fill, so let’s see what size feet it has.

Our story centers around President Coriolanus Snow 65 years before the events of the first movies. He is not a powerful, heartless president at this time but a starving boy who has to convince his classmates and teachers he is one of them. In order to go to university on scholarship, he must make his assigned Tribute in the first ever televised Hunger Games a true spectacle. His Tribute is Lucy Gray Baird, a songbird beyond anyone’s expectations. In the games, through trickery and manipulation, he ventures to help Lucy become the victor. Yet, even when the Hunger Games finish, the games don’t end. 

This story is a tragic one having several things that earn this movie the PG-13 rating. We watch Snow’s journey as a powerless, hungry boy to a power hungry snake facing life-altering decisions. This movie asks us to consider the psychological dilemmas the characters face and either overcome or fall prey to. The filmography is packed with symbolism and through beautiful shots, the cinematography fiercely shows you the grim, calamitous yet perhaps redeemable country. The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes is a must see for those who want to ponder the complex story and world of The Hunger Games.