One of the most popular sagas of the 2010s was “The Hunger Games,” based on Suzanne Collins’ novels. The original franchise consisted of four movies, before the release of the prequel “The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes” in 2023, which is also coming to streaming soon.
The films helped build the careers of stars such as Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Sam Claflin and Liam Hemsworth, while also counting on the talent of established actors such as Elizabeth Banks, Woody Harrelson, Stanley Tucci and Donald Sutherland.
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An aspect that differentiates this series from other teen sagas such as Twilight, it’s the fact that the protagonists have to face a totalitarian state, thus dealing with moral dilemmas regarding power, rebellion, survival and more. If you want to revisit the whole series, check out where to watch them in the US.
How to watch ‘The Hunger Games’ movies in the US
The Hunger Games (2012)
Available to stream on: Starz, AMC+ (with AppleTV+ and Prime Video extensions), Directv
Gary Ross directed the first film, which is set in the totalitarian nation of Panem, as the government holds the annual event called the Hunger Games. In these, one boy and one girl from each of the twelve districts are selected to fight to the death in a televised spectacle.
Elizabeth Banks and Jennifer Lawrence in “The Hunger Games” (IMDb)
When her sister Prim is chosen as a tribute, Katniss Everdeen, portrayed by Lawrence, volunteers to take her place. Alongside her fellow tribute Peeta Mellark, played by Hutcherson, Katniss must navigate the deadly arena.
The Hunger Games: Catching Fire (2013)
Available to stream on: AMC+ (with AppleTV+ and Prime Video extensions), Directv
Jennifer Lawrence and Josh Hutcherson in “Catching Fire” (IMDb)
The sequel was directed by Francis Lawrence, and it follows Katniss and Peeta as they embark on their victory tour across Panem, after winning the games. However, President Snow isn’t happy with Katniss’ defiance, leading to the announcement of a new edition of the Hunger Games featuring past victors.
The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1 (2014)
Available to stream on: Starz (Apple TV channels), AMC+, Directv
Jennifer Lawrence in “Mockingjay Part I”
The penultimate installment, also directed by Lawrence, sees Katniss becoming the reluctant symbol of the rebellion, known as the Mockingjay. As the districts rise up against the Capitol, Katniss allies with the rebels led by President Alma Coin and District 13’s leader, President Coin.
The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 2 (2015)
Available to stream on: Starz (Apple TV channels), AMC+, Directv
Jennifer Lawrence in “Mockingjay Part 2”
Francis Lawrence once again returns to direct the final chapter, in which Katniss joins forces with her closest allies to infiltrate the Capitol and assassinate President Snow. As the rebels engage in a final showdown with the Capitol’s forces, Katniss confronts her inner demons and must make difficult choices to ensure a better future for Panem.
