The way "President Snow" (Donald Sutherland) maintains control over his districts is unsettlingly distinctive. Each year, he organizes a lottery involving children aged 12 to 18 who are forced to battle each other to the death, broadcast for public viewing. He seems surprised by the abilities of those from District 12 – resourceful "Katniss" (Jennifer Lawrence) and her attractive but fragile friend "Peeta" (Josh Hutcherson, playing a character with a childlike quality). The most memorable aspects come from television host "Flickerman" (Stanley Tucci, in a wildly exaggerated performance) and the equally showy "Effie" (Elizabeth Banks), who transform this violent competition into something resembling "The X-Factor," complete with bows and arrows, dangerous wasps, landmines, and lucrative sponsorship deals. While the narrative does have moments of suspense, the acting is generally poor. Lawrence and Hutcherson lack any connection; Liam Hemsworth’s appearances are infrequent, and there's a distinct absence of passion! These hormonal teenagers roam through the woods, but where's any romance? They’re all good-looking, yet it feels like something that should have been "Rated 12." There is no sense of realism, excitement or danger. You can anticipate what will occur at the conclusion. As an idea, though, it works well – maybe we could replace political debates with this format? Consider how much humanity might benefit! Otherwise, it’s a rather lengthy experience.

Source on TMDB