With over 100 million copies sold worldwide, and translated into more than 54 different languages, the “Hunger Games” franchise and its novels have gained a massive amount of popularity over the past fifteen years. The franchise has since expanded into the film industry, creating movies for each of the four books, with the newest being: “The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes.”

“The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes” follows the early life of current president Coriolanus Snow, portrayed by Tom Blyth, and mentee/singer Lucy Gray Baird, portrayed by Rachel Zegler. Throughout the film, we follow Snow’s journey as well as his development into the fearsome tyrant who torments protagonist Katniss Everdeen in the other films. 

The film has been receiving mixed reviews from critics, but fans seem to enjoy its accuracy. 

Sophomore Sarah Jones describes how she thought it was good, and “it was really similar to the book, with really similar dialogue”. She also describes how she liked the soundtrack of the movie, and how “the leading actress was really good”. 

Junior Addie Whitmeyer overall agrees, however believes that “the ending was a bit rushed.”

The film has grossed more than $200 million worldwide, with international attention and praise, as well as criticisms. The movie will no doubt continue to grow in revenue, and continue to be possibly one of the most successful movies in 2023.