The Hunger Games Films in Order

Lionsgate’s recent decision to unveil “The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes,” a prequel to the Hunger Games saga, has left avid fans eagerly anticipating the foundational narrative that delves into the origins of the series’ infamous antagonist, Coriolanus Snow. This forthcoming prequel boasts an impressive ensemble cast, featuring Tom Blyth in the role of young Coriolanus Snow and Rachel Zegler as Lucy Gray Baird. The screenplay is crafted by Michael Lesslie, building upon an initial draft by Michael Arndt, with the acclaimed Francis Lawrence returning to the director’s chair.

Table of Contents

Before diving into the new movie, it’s an opportune moment to refresh our memories and acquaint ourselves once more with the dystopian realm of Panem. This guide seeks to provide clarity in navigating this intricate world. Whether you are planning a Hunger Games movie marathon or simply wish to explore the series, we present two popular viewing orders: by release date and chronological timeline.

Introduction

The Hunger Games novels by Suzanne Collins have captivated readers worldwide, culminating in a series of successful cinematic adaptations. The latest addition to this universe, “The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes,” a prequel novel, was unveiled in May 2020. It extends the saga, offering a prelude to the events we have come to know and love. On November 17, 2023, “The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes” will grace the silver screen, heightening anticipation among fans. This prequel delves into the rise of Coriolanus Snow, a character who ultimately evolves into the tyrannical President of Panem. The cast includes Tom Blyth as young Coriolanus Snow and Rachel Zegler as Lucy Gray Baird, among other talented actors.

The Hunger Games Movies in Order of Release

Let’s embark on a journey through the Hunger Games movie franchise in the order of their release.

1. “The Hunger Games” (2012)

The inaugural movie, “The Hunger Games,” was released on March 23, 2012. The plot centers around Katniss Everdeen, portrayed by Jennifer Lawrence, who voluntarily takes her younger sister’s place in the Hunger Games, a televised competition where teenagers from the twelve Districts of Panem are selected randomly to battle to the death.

Director: Gary Ross
Notable Cast: Stanley Tucci, Wes Bentley, Willow Shields, Liam Hemsworth, Elizabeth Banks

2. “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire” (2013)

Continuing the saga, “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire” hit theaters on November 20, 2013. In this installment, Katniss Everdeen and Peeta Mellark, played by Jennifer Lawrence and Josh Hutcherson, become targets of the Capitol following their victory in the 74th Hunger Games, which sparks a rebellion in the Districts of Panem.

Director: Francis Lawrence
Notable Cast: Liam Hemsworth, Jack Quaid, Taylor St. Clair, Sandra Ellis Lafferty, Woody Harrelson

3. “The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1” (2014)

Next in line is “The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1,” released on November 21, 2014. It continues Katniss Everdeen’s story in District 13, where she becomes the symbol of the rebellion against the Capitol, facing the challenges of leading the fight to save Peeta and a nation inspired by her courage.

Director: Francis Lawrence
Notable Cast: Josh Hutcherson, Woody Harrelson, Elizabeth Banks, Julianne Moore

4. “The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2” (2015)

Concluding the series, “The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2” graced theaters on November 20, 2015. As Katniss and a group of rebels from District 13 prepare for the final battle that will determine the fate of Panem, the story reaches its climax.

Director: Francis Lawrence
Notable Cast: Philip Seymour Hoffman, Natalie Dormer

“The Hunger Games” Movies in Chronological Order

Now, let’s explore the narrative timeline of the movies, including the upcoming prequel.

1. “The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes” (2023)

Our journey begins with the earliest point in the timeline of the movies. “The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes” unfolds 64 years before Katniss Everdeen volunteered as a tribute and decades before Coriolanus Snow ascended to the tyrannical presidency of Panem. The story revolves around a young Coriolanus (Tom Blyth), who is the last hope for his deteriorating Snow family. Once an illustrious lineage, the Snows have fallen from grace in a post-war Capitol. Snow reluctantly takes on the role of mentoring Lucy Gray Baird (Rachel Zegler), a tribute from the impoverished District 12. However, Lucy Gray’s charm captivates the Panem audience, and Snow sees an opportunity to alter their destinies. With everything at stake, Snow joins forces with Lucy Gray to tip the scales in their favor, embarking on a perilous journey that will determine whether he becomes a songbird or a snake.

Release Date: November 17, 2023
Director: Francis Lawrence
Notable Cast: Rachel Zegler, Hunter Schafer, Viola Davis, Tom Blyth, Peter Dinklage, Jason Schwartzman, Burn Gorman, Fionnula Flanagan

While the film is yet to be released, it promises a captivating exploration of Coriolanus Snow’s influence on the mentor system and his path toward becoming the formidable President depicted in “The Hunger Games.” This prequel illuminates the significance of District 12’s female tribute, Lucy Gray Baird, in shaping Snow’s destiny and how they collaboratively alter the course of the Games. It’s a riveting opportunity to delve into the origins of a character marked by cunning and ruthlessness, shedding light on his transformation from innocence to malevolence.

2. “The Hunger Games” (2012)

Moving forward in the timeline, we encounter the iconic “The Hunger Games” in which Katniss Everdeen embarks on her journey as a tribute in the 74th annual Hunger Games. With Peeta Mellark as her ally, they confront adversaries from other districts while exposing the Capitol’s ruthless control over the districts.

Release Date: March 12, 2012
Director: Gary Ross
Notable Cast: Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson

3. “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire” (2013)

The saga continues with “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire.” In this installment, Katniss and Peeta once again find themselves thrust into the Hunger Games, this time alongside former victors. Their victory in the 74th Games fuels a rebellion that challenges the Capitol’s dominion.

Release Date: November 22, 2013
Director: Francis Lawrence
Notable Cast: Jennifer Lawrence, Liam Hemsworth, Woody Harrelson

4. “The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1” (2014)

“The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1” delves into Katniss Everdeen’s struggles as she attempts to rally the districts against the Capitol’s oppression. Her journey unfolds in the underground world of District 13, while the Capitol resorts to sinister tactics, including the psychological reprogramming of Peeta.

Release Date: November 19, 2014
Director: Francis Lawrence
Notable Cast: Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Julianne Moore

5. “The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2” (2015)

Concluding the timeline, “The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2” portrays the rebellion’s climactic battle against the Capitol. As Katniss and her allies attempt to overthrow President Snow, sacrifices are made, and the fate of the entire nation hangs in the balance.

Release Date: November 18, 2015
Director: Francis Lawrence
Notable Cast: Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Julianne Moore

6. The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and snakes (2023)

Read the The Hunger Games The Ballad of Songbirds and snakes review

In conclusion, the Hunger Games franchise invites us to contemplate the costs of victory, even in the pursuit of freedom, and continues to captivate audiences with its compelling narratives and morally complex characters.