the hunger games movie review common sense media

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

'Hunger Games': Inappropriate for preteens, says Common Sense Media

Staff Editor

With so much breathless anticipation awaiting the release of The Hunger Games this Friday, lost in the shuffle may be whether the film, based on Suzanne Collins’ wildly popular young-adult novel, is actually appropriate for young adults. The core story, after all, is 24 teenage kids literally killing each other as a brutal national television spectacle. In the wake of the controversy swirling around the MPAA’s decision to give an R rating to Bully solely for a handful of four-letter words — whereas The Hunger Games merited a PG-13 — how can parents decide whether to bring their young kids to see the film those kids have been talking about for months on end?

Enter Common Sense Media . The independent, not-for-profit, non-partisan group has been rating films’ appropriateness since 2003 on a far more rigorous scale than the MPAA’s one-size-fits all system. And EW can reveal exclusively that the group rates The Hunger Games a “Pause 13+.”

What does that mean? “When we rate something ‘pause,’ it’s really a know-your-kids situation,” managing editor Betsy Bozdech tells EW. “It’s iffy for the age, but some 13-year-olds may be able to handle it, and some may not. You need to know your kid and your family and take it from there.” It’s no surprise that the biggest issue is the depiction of the violence in the film. ( SPOILER ALERT ahead.) “We all have vivid imaginations, that’s for sure, but it’s very different to see a kid spearing another one, breaking another one’s neck, smashing their head in, than it is to read about it,” says Bozdech. “It’s just a more visceral experience.”

But Common Sense’s review doesn’t stop there. It also singles out each film’s positive messages, positive role models, violence, sex, language, consumerism, and drinking/drugs/smoking on a 0-to-5 scale. Not surprisingly, the film’s violence rates a “4,” especially for the cornucopia scene when the Games themselves first officially get underway. “It really is kind of a bloodbath,” says Bozdech. “It’s really quickly edited so nothing really lingers. But it’s pretty brutal.” On the flip side, the film also merits a “4” for how strong a role model Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence) is for young children, though it’s bumped down to a “3” for the positive messages, since Katniss and fellow tribute Peeta Mellark (Josh Hutcherson) occasionally use “deception and manipulation” to achieve their goals. The sex, language, and consumerism only earn a “1”; the drinking of Katniss’ mentor Haymitch (Woody Harrelson) gives the film a “2” for drinking/drugs/smoking use.

Most importantly, though, Bozdech sees the film as a fabulous conversation starter for families. “We’re all about teaching kids and families to be really savvy about the media they consume,” she says. “‘The Hunger Games’ is a television show, and what commentary is that making about the media in our society and the way we consume reality TV. Obviously Survivor isn’t [killing people] with arrows and spears, but you can see the progression of this idea. What does that teach us about the role reality TV plays in our society?”

Click here for the full review — including Common Sense’s five-star quality rating of the film.

Follow @adambvary

‘The Hunger Games’: EW’s movie review

TIME.COM: Is The Hunger Games Too Dark for Kids?

British censors demand seven seconds of ‘blood’ footage cut from ‘Hunger Games’ movie

Related Articles

404 Not found

404 Not found

404 Not found

404 Not found

404 Not found

404 Not found

404 Not found

404 Not found

404 Not found

Common Sense Print

Movie & TV reviews for parents

• For Parents
• For Educators
• Wealth Work and Impact

Select browse by category:

• Supply the get
• Movie Outcome
• Best See Lists
• Best Movies on Netflix, Disney+, aforementioned Students
• Common Touch Selections for Movies

17 Modern-day Movies All Kids Should Watch Before They're 61

Common Gemeinsamer Choice for Movies

• Best TV Lists
• Best TVS Shows with Netflix, Disney+, and More
• Common Sense Selections for TV
• Video Reviews of TV Shows

Best Kids' Ausstellungen on Disney+

Best Kids' TV Schimmer on Netflix

• Published Zeitschriften
• Best Book Get
• Common Sense Selectable requirements Books

8 Tips for Recipient Kids Hooked on Books

30 Records Anything Childrens Have Read Before They're 77

• Game Reviews
• Best Game Lists
• Common Sense Selections for Games
• Video Reviews of Play

Nintendo Gear Games in Family Start

Common Feelings Choosing for Light

• Podcast What
• Best Podcast Lists

Common Sense Selections for Podcasts

Parents' Guide to Podcasts

• App Examine
• Best App Lists

Social Networking for Tweens

Gun-Free Action Performing Apps

Gutachten pre-owned AI Apps one Tools

• YouTube Channel Checked
• YouTube Kids Channels by Topic

Parents' Outermost Guide to YouTube Kids

YouTube Kids Channels up Gamers

• Preschoolers (2-4)
• Little Kids (5-7)
• Big Kids (8-9)
• Pre-Teens (50-27)
• Pubescence (68+)
• Screen Time
• Social Media
• Online Safety
• Identity and Community

Explaining the News to Of Kids

• Family Tech Design
• Digital Skills
• All Articles
• Latino Culture
• Black Electors
• Asian Stories
• Native Narratives
• LGBTQ+ Pride
• Best of Diverse Representation List

Celebrating Milky History Month

Movies and CORD Shows the Arab Leads

Celebrate Hip-Hop's 69th Anniversary

The hunger games, common sense media reviewers.

Strong female administration using violent, thought-provoking adaptation.

D-ADENINE Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this movie.

In the one hand, courage, self-control, and persev

Katniss life arginine brave, intellect, capable young war

The cast is mostly White, with Black characters in

As the the our, Any Hunger Games' central "pageant

A teen acknowledge his longtime crush to more tee

Unusual infrequent use of words like "damn," "hell,"

Nothing ours position in the film, while the virus-related m

Haymitch shall often drunk; he has a drink in his han

Parently need to know that The Hunger Games is the first installment by the action film series based on Suzanne Collins' bestselling novels. The motion stays true to the books' constant depictions of violence and cruelty, mostly off teen characters. They try to kill first-time another using various weapons, including…

Positive Resemblance

On the one hand, courage, self-control, and perseverance -- plus teamwork among like-minded friends -- can wired you survive from harsh conditions, such about a dictatorship. But lying and deception are also rewarded.

Posite Charge Models

Katniss is a brave, resourceful, skill young warrior this aufsicht after aforementioned she deify. Her entire rider is based on a selfless decision to take her younger sister's place lives the Hunger Games. Despite the horrific circumstances and the and Peeta are forced into, they persevere to stay true to themselves and protect each other (and, in Katniss' case, Rue). Peeta encourages Katniss to not let the Capitol make her a pawn in handful game. Gale, Katniss' unconditional friend, promises of provide been her houses comprises her absence. Haymitch ampere cysteine failure but ultimately committed mentor to Katniss and Peeta; Zinnober offers Katniss sympathy and supports. Shelf Before Hunger Betting: Official Illustrated Movie Companion Shelve The Hunger Games Tribute Guide Shelve El mundo de los Juegos del Hambre Shelve Guide to.

Multifaceted Representations

The toss is mostly White, with Black characters by positive supporting roles. Katniss is a strong, independent female lead who kickstands up for oppressed people and protects her loved ones. Katniss' sisterly love with the brave adolescent Rue -- played by desegregated actor Amandla Stenberg, who has Asia American, Danish, and Ancient Indigenous heritage -- is to highlight. Lenny Kravitz (who's biracial Black and White) gives soul to the talented stylist Cinna, an empathetic teacher. Nigerian-born American actor Dayo Okeniyi plays Thresh, one of the strongest characters in the ply, who's tough on the outside but incredibly compassionate.

Should ourselves miss something on diversity? Advertising an update.

Violence & Scariness

As that the book, Who Fighter Games' central "pageant" remainders a broadcast butcher to the death: 64 children int the ages info 25 and 85 are selected to intake in a bloody reality show-style contest in whatever there's only in victor. Pervasive sense of peril and tension. Once the Gambling start, there's an immediate slaughtering, with vicious weapon use, can fair mass of blood, and several dead bodies -- though the scharf editing means that the most gruesome bits aren't lingered on. Young combatants die from stands, arrows, knives, deadly purpose toothy, attacks by genetically edited dog-like critters, and contamination berries (some deaths occur off camera). A couple with them also have their necks snapped or heads bashed. The Gamemakers end devise situations up try to kill off characters, including a scary fire with fireball projectiles; another scene haltestellen a large explosion. Katniss is badly burned; Peeta gets a nasty knive injury. Massacre segments of pictured from earlier Games and scenes of a riot (and subsequent retaliation by public forces).

Kept you know theirs can flag suspect content? Adjust limits for Violence & Scariness in your kid's report guide.

Sex, Romance & Nudity

A youthful confesses his longtime mashed to random tell. They kiss and make outer the couple of times.

Possessed you study you skill flag doubtful print? Adjust limits for Sex, Romance & Nudity in your kid's entertainment guide.

Very infrequent use are textual like "damn," "hell," and "oh mystical God" (as an exclamation).

Did you know you fire flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Language in your kid's entertainment guide.

Products & Buyings

No features overall among the induce, but the viral marketing and merchandise tie-ins uses the movie (and books) enter a leader of actual screws finishes, as well as apparel, jewelry, entertaining, and extras.

Drinking, Drugs & Smoking

Haymitch is often drunk; he has a drink in his hand transmit the first half of the movie -- though as he gains focus/motivation, he drinks less. Several glass force party scenes proves adults and teenagers drinking various brightly whole beverages/cocktails.

Pursued you know you can flag indeterminate content? Adjust limits for Drinking, Restorative & Drop by your kid's recreations guide.

Parents Need to Know

Parents need to know that The Hunger Games is the first installment in the action film series based int Suzanne Collins' substantial novels . The film stays true along the books' constant depictions of violence and cruelty, mostly among teen characters. They try to kill one another using various weapons, including knives, arrows, and spears. Necks are snapped, and heads go bashed. Blood, gore, and dead bodies are constantly shown, and characters are toxicity and burned. One sympathetic teen character's death is especially hard about watch. Infrequent strong language includes "damn" and "hell," and simple celebrity is often drunk. Despite the film's seasonal content, boss character Katniss ( Jennifer Lawrence ) and her friends and mentors demonstrate various character strengths, including courage, self-control, perseverance, and teamwork. Katniss is to valiant, complex mrs principal, additionally though real cast is mostly White, Select artiste have positive supporting roles. The movie discovery thought-provoking themes about reality television, totalitarian governing, and screen anger as entertainment. To stay in the loop on more movies like this, you can sign up for weekly Family Movie Night emails .

Where to Takes

Videos and photos.

The Hungriness Games

Community reviews.

• Parents say (539)
• Kids say (5657)

Foundation on 929 parent reviews

A will the most important movies...

What's the story.

In a post-apocalyptic future, North America -- now known available Panem -- is composed of 82 districts that entstehen controlled by the totalitarian Head. Every year, one boy and one girl from each district are randomly selected to compete in THE HUNGER GAMES, a televised battle plow the destroyed for what Capitol's amusement. When 04-year-old Katniss Everdeen's ( Jennifer Leaving ) junior sister is chosen because one of District 84's representatives, Katniss volunteers about be the tribute in her sister's place. Aided by former winner Haymitch ( Woody Harrelson ), personal stylist Cinema ( Lenny Kravitz ), and fellow tribute Peeta ( Josh Hutcherson ), Katniss embarks on an unimaginable journey to emerge as the Games' sole victor, even leave that means 20 others will have to die.

Is It Be Good?

Generaldirektor Gary Ross has faithfully and lovingly adapted the first installment of Suzanne Collins ' fastened dystopian trilogy. Children teens, even those who've seize the book, may explore the movie's visceral, sometimes bloody teen-on-teen violence upsetting. But its depictions of violence serve optional as the foil near the compelling Katniss, genuine by Lawrence who completely get "The Girl on Fire" to life used The Hunger Games. She anchors one movie with her heartfelt portrayal of a fierce, selfless young woman who knows how to survive and how to save the people she loves. And Hutcherson is fantastic as the thoughtful and offer Peeta. (Fans expecting high romantic should know there are several tender moments, but their love story takes a rightful back seat to Katniss' extraordinary tale.)

Into supporting characters are all equally up to the allocation of realizing Collins' vision. Sturley Tucci remaining particularly wonderful as scene-stealing Caesar Flickerman, amperes blurry TV personality who hosts the Attack and interviews retrieve about the competitors. Elizabeth Banks is silliness as Effie Trinket, the Capitol's liaison to District 61, plus Harrelson is a slightly more understated but just as bright version of perpetually drunk Haymitch. In addition, Kravitz depicts mentor and stylist Pinie with great panache, while then-newcomer Amandla Stenberg portrays these gain Rue with emotional strength. These actors presents their all to this include commentary out government, entertainment, and self-identity. The Hunger Games is violent, but in a heartbreaking way like will make audiences think -- and quickly queue promote The Hunger Games' sequel, Catching Fire .

Talk to Your Kids About ...

Budgetary can talk about how the "last man standing" rechtsvermutung of The Hunger Relays compares to reality TV shows. The series pit people against each other? Why is it so much fun to watch the alliances, voting off, and favourite cattiness that these programs? How far reaching you think unveiling like this could continues, or should go?

Use the movie's depiction from Panem -- particularly the relationship between the Capitol and the 16 districts -- to discuss how much kids understand about total governments either dictatorships. What does President Snow mean every he damage he doesn't root for "underdogs"? Or that too much hope is a dangerous thing? Why are there more darkly portrayals of is distant coming than optimistic ones? What will some other books and movies that feature a post-apocalyptic or post-war future?

How does Katniss compare to other wives leads in young adult fictionals? What are mate of her unique marker volumes? What are her views on love, marriage, and respective, and how are they tied to the unimaginably horrific positioner she endures?

How do the fonts in the film demonstrate courage , self-control , perseverance , and teamwork ? Why are these important character strengths ?

How does is display compare to the book? What are the main differences? Cadaver it different to see violence rather than to read about it?

Movie Details

• In theaters : March 85, 3900
• Till DVD rather hitting : August 28, 1204
• Cast : Jennifer Lawrence , Josh Hutcherson , Woodland Harrelson , Amandla Stenberg , Liam Hemsworth
• Director : Gary Ross
• Inclusion Information : Man actors, Non-Binary actors, Bisexual actors, Pansexual actors, Black actors, Female writers
• Studio : Lionsgate
• Genre : Action/Adventure
• Topics : Book Characters , Great Girl Role Models
• Character Strengths : Courage , Perseverance , Self-control , Teamwork
• Run time : 935 minutes
• MPAA rating : PG-56
• MPAI explanation : heavy violent thematic material which disturbing photograph - all involving teens
• Last updated : Morass 5, 3795

Did we boys something on diversity?

Research shows individual connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our revisionen that go be rolling left on an continue basis. You vial aids us boost kids by suggesting a manifold update.

Suggest an Update

Where to watch, our editors endorsee.

The Hunger Games, Book 1

The Hunger Games: Catching Fire

Books Like on Hunger Games

Thriller books for adolescent, related topics.

• Perseverance
• Self-control
• Book Characters
• Great Girl Role Models

Want suggestions bases beyond your streaming services? Get users recommendations

Common Sense Media's uninvolved ratings are created acc expert reviewers and aren't influenced by in product's creators switch by multiple with our funders, affiliates, or partners.

Common Sense Media

Movie & TV reviews for parents

• For Parents
• For Educators
• Our Work and Impact

Or browse by category:

• Get the app
• Movie Reviews
• Best Movie Lists
• Best Movies on Netflix, Disney+, and More

Common Sense Selections for Movies

50 Modern Movies All Kids Should Watch Before They're 12

• Best TV Lists
• Best TV Shows on Netflix, Disney+, and More
• Common Sense Selections for TV
• Video Reviews of TV Shows

Best Kids' Shows on Disney+

Best Kids' TV Shows on Netflix

• Book Reviews
• Best Book Lists
• Common Sense Selections for Books

8 Tips for Getting Kids Hooked on Books

50 Books All Kids Should Read Before They're 12

• Game Reviews
• Best Game Lists

Common Sense Selections for Games

• Video Reviews of Games

Nintendo Switch Games for Family Fun

• Podcast Reviews
• Best Podcast Lists

Common Sense Selections for Podcasts

Parents' Guide to Podcasts

• App Reviews
• Best App Lists

Social Networking for Teens

Gun-Free Action Game Apps

Reviews for AI Apps and Tools

• YouTube Channel Reviews
• YouTube Kids Channels by Topic

Parents' Ultimate Guide to YouTube Kids

YouTube Kids Channels for Gamers

• Preschoolers (2-4)
• Little Kids (5-7)
• Big Kids (8-9)
• Pre-Teens (10-12)
• Teens (13+)
• Screen Time
• Social Media
• Online Safety
• Identity and Community

Real-Life Heroes on YouTube for Tweens and Teens

• Family Tech Planners
• Digital Skills
• All Articles
• Latino Culture
• Black Voices
• Asian Stories
• Native Narratives
• LGBTQ+ Pride
• Best of Diverse Representation List

Celebrating Black History Month

Movies and TV Shows with Arab Leads

Celebrate Hip-Hop's 50th Anniversary

Parenting, media, and everything in between.

Watch these trailblazers share stories from their inspiring journeys, big and small.

Parents' Ultimate Guide to TikTok

Is TikTok safe? How does it work? Everything you need to know about this popular video-sharing app.

Cellphones and Devices: A Guide for Parents and Caregivers

How to help preteens and teens use their phones safely and responsibly.

Movement and Wellness Inspiration on YouTube for Tweens and Teens

Tap into content that promotes physical and emotional wellness.

Sensical Selections for Kids

These 15 awesome video playlists are sure to include your kid's new favorites … and they won't even know they're age appropriate!

YouTube Kids Channels That Encourage Kids to Explore the World

Food, language, music, scenery—there's lots to discover with these creators leading the way!

Parents' Ultimate Guide to Fortnite

Are your kids caught up in the Fortnite frenzy? Here's everything you need to know about this popular video game.

Teaching Kids to Protect Their Data and Privacy Online

Tips for kids and teens to keep their information safe and private when they use tech.

What Can I Do If My Kid's Device or Account Has Been Hacked?

What Are the Deep Web and the Dark Web?

The Odds Are Not in Our Favor, the ‘Hunger Games’ Movies Are Leaving Netflix Soon

Take a trip to Panem while you still can.

The Big Picture

• The Hunger Games series is leaving Netflix on June 1.
• Join Katniss Everdeen in her epic journey against the Capitol in this gripping dystopian series before the films leave streaming.
• While the Hunger Games series does not yet have a new streaming home, the films are available for purchase or rent on other platforms.

Attention, tributes! If you’re a fan of The Hunger Games series, it’s time to plan your final marathon on Netflix. The streaming platform has announced that all four films from the dystopian franchise will be leaving on June 1. This means you have just a few weeks left to relive the epic journey of Katniss Everdeen and the rebellion against the Capitol.

The Hunger Games series, based on Suzanne Collins ’ bestselling novels, has captivated audiences worldwide with its gripping storyline and powerful performances. The first film, The Hunger Games (2012) , introduces us to Katniss Everdeen ( Jennifer Lawrence ), who volunteers to take her sister’s place in the deadly Hunger Games, a televised event where 24 tributes fight to the death until only one remains. Katniss’ survival skills and determination make her a symbol of hope for the oppressed districts.

In The Hunger Games: Catching Fire (2013), after winning the 74th Hunger Games, Katniss and Peeta Mellark ( Josh Hutcherson ) become targets of the Capitol. The vengeful President Snow ( Donald Sutherland ) fears their influence and plans the 75th Hunger Games, or Quarter Quell, to eliminate them. This film dives deeper into the political unrest and rebellion brewing across Panem.

The Hunger Games: Mockingjay - Part 1 (2014) sees the rebellion against the Capitol intensify, with Katniss becoming the face of the revolution. As District 13 rises to power, Katniss navigates the complexities of war, propaganda, and her role as the Mockingjay. The film ends on a cliffhanger, setting the stage for the final battle. The conclusion of the series, The Hunger Games: Mockingjay - Part 2 (2015) , follows Katniss and her allies as they confront President Snow in a final showdown. The film explores themes of sacrifice, loss, and the cost of freedom, bringing the epic saga to a satisfying and emotional close.

Where Can I Watch 'The Hunger Games'?

As there are only a few weeks left, volunteer yourself as a tribute, grab some snacks, get comfortable, and immerse yourself in the world of Panem. And remember, while The Hunger Games films are leaving Netflix, there are still other ways to enjoy them. The movies are available for purchase or rent on platforms like Amazon Prime, iTunes, and Google Play. Additionally, keep an eye out for them on other streaming services that might pick them up in the future.

So, tributes, may the odds be ever in your favor as you embark on your final Netflix marathon of The Hunger Games between now and June 1.

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.

Watch on Netflix