The Hunger Games is a media franchise centering on a series of science fiction dystopian adventure films , based on the novel series of the same name by Suzanne Collins. The films are distributed by Lionsgate. The first three films set various box office records. The Hunger Games set records for biggest opening day and biggest opening weekend for a non-sequel. Catching Fire set the record for biggest opening weekend of November. Mockingjay — Part 1 had the largest opening day and weekend of The films, including Mockingjay — Part 2 , were praised for their themes and Lawrence's performance.
Following the release of Suzanne Collins 's novel The Hunger Games , on September 14, , Hollywood film studios began looking to adapt the book into film.
In March , Color Force , an independent studio founded by producer Nina Jacobson , bought the film rights to the book. The search for a director began in with three directors in the running; David Slade , Sam Mendes , and Gary Ross.
In October , scripts were sent to the actors, and casting occurred between March and May The first role cast was of the protagonist, Katniss Everdeen. Casting for the roles of Peeta Mellark , Katniss' fellow tribute, and Gale Hawthorne , her best friend, began later that month. Every year, in the ruins of what was once North America, the Capitol of the nation of Panem forces each of the 12 districts to send a boy and girl tribute between the ages of 12 and 18 to compete in the Hunger Games: a nationally televised event in which the 'tributes' fight each other to the death until one survivor remains.
When Primrose Everdeen is "reaped," her older sister Katniss volunteers in her place as tribute to enter the games and is forced to rely upon her sharp instincts and knowledge when she's pitted against highly trained and fierce "tributes" from all of the other districts. Winning means that they must leave their loved ones behind and embark on a Victory Tour throughout the districts for a couple of days.
