The Hunger Games (2012): cast, story & where to watch

Released in 2012, The Hunger Games is a fantasy, adventure and science fiction film directed by Gary Ross, running about 142 minutes. “May the odds be ever in your favor.” — that tagline sets the tone.

What it’s about. Every year in the ruins of what was once North America, the nation of Panem forces each of its twelve districts to send a teenage boy and girl to compete in the Hunger Games. Part twisted entertainment, part government intimidation tactic, the Hunger Games are a nationally televised event in which “Tributes” must fight with one another until one survivor remains. Pitted against highly-trained Tributes who have prepared for these Games their entire lives, Katniss is forced to rely upon her sharp instincts as well as the mentorship of drunken former victor Haymitch Abernathy. If she’s ever to return home to District 12, Katniss must make impossible choices in the arena that weigh survival against humanity and life against love. The world will be watching.

Who’s in it. The Hunger Games stars Jennifer Lawrence as Katniss Everdeen, Josh Hutcherson as Peeta Mellark, Liam Hemsworth as Gale Hawthorne and Woody Harrelson as Haymitch Abernathy, among others.

How it landed. With an audience score of 7.2/10, The Hunger Games has been warmly received by audiences. It went on to earn $694.4M at the box office.

Where to watch. In US you can stream it on Netflix and Netflix Standard with Ads and rent or buy it from Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies and YouTube. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch The Hunger Games page.

If you liked it. Fans of The Hunger Games tend to enjoy The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King, The Green Mile, Spirited Away and The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring.