“The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes,” a prequel to the infamous “Hunger Games” book and movie series by Suzane Collins, did not disappoint. Eight years after the “Hunger Games” original cinematic series concluded and thirteen years after the release of the last book, “The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes” is the ultimate villain origin story.
“Songbirds and Snakes” takes the story back to Panem for the 10th annual “Hunger Games,” where two children from each of the twelve districts are forced to fight to the death while the capital citizens watch. However, the people in the capital aren’t nearly as wealthy and glamorous as they appear in the other movies. At the time, the “Hunger Games” were just a bunch of dirty untrained children fighting so game makers were looking for ways to boost viewers. At the time, Coriolinus Snow, the future president of Panem, is challenged, along with his classmates, to mentor a tribute, boost ratings, and win a cash prize. Chosen as the mentor for Lucy Gray, a singer from District 12, Snow befriends her and puts her in the spotlight to gain the support of the public, which is able to place bets on the tributes.
Despite the brutal and violence-filled scenes, I can confidently say I have a new favorite from the “Hunger Games” series. The newly released prequel seamlessly weaves in new characters and ideas. Snow, played by Tom Blyth, has the internet in a such a frenzy, that the edits might never end. Similarly, Rachel Zegler, who plays Lucy Gray, continues to build a name for herself, not just as an acclaimed actress, but a talented singer as well. Honorable mention goes to Viola Davis, as she perfectly captures the evil and mysterious demeanor of Doctor Volumnia Gaul.
Per usual, the movie is never quite as good as the book. Although the cast was spot on, there were pieces I was looking forward to, that were missing from the movie. I was disappointed that portions of dialogue between Snow and Doctor Gaul were not included in the film. For the sake of spoilers, I will leave this to the reader’s interpretation.
The soundtrack was impeccable. Zegler performed many of the songs as Lucy Gray, a talented musician from District 12. The strategic timing that went into her performances made scenes all the more personal. I can’t quite say what genre her music would fall into, but her poetic lyrics appeal to those beyond the Covey.
