25 modern book-to-screen adaptations that didn’t let us down

The Hunger Games

Unfortunately, adaptations of young adult fantasy series tend to meet quick ends, with popular series like The Mortal Instruments and Divergent being picked up, only to have those adaptations canceled after a few seasons or right before the third film. Thankfully, this wasn’t the case with Suzanne Collins’ The Hunger Games trilogy. In fact, the film adaptations of these books were so beloved that the final film was split into two parts, both of which were successful. And with news that a prequel novel is in the works, Lionsgate has already expressed interest in a prequel film.

The extended length of the story is part of what makes The Hunger Games movies so compelling. Although Collins’ original story is wrought with political conflict and drama, the books are still somewhat short in length. The movies were able to expand upon what Collins built, allowing viewers to see more of the world Katniss grew up in and more of her friends and family. (Of course, we also get more action sequences, which in this case, is a definite plus.)

The Hunger Games films also emphasize the political conflict occurring throughout Panem, which of course is highlighted in the books as well. But seeing the devastation of the games, along with President Snow’s vengeance against District 12, is entirely different on screen. It packs more of a punch, and it makes it easier to relate to real-life politics as well.

And we can’t praise the movie adaptations of Collins’ works without mentioning the casting. Jennifer Lawrence’s Katniss is even more relatable than the Katniss we meet in the books, and Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth, and Woody Harrelson are equally impressive in their roles. Theirs are faces that will forever be associated with The Hunger Games — and we can’t say we’re complaining about it.