Everything You Wanted to Know About The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes
Since Suzanne Collins published the prequel, The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, to her iconic bestselling novel, The Hunger Games, we instantly hoped it would receive a film adaptation. Of course, it did, and it's been in the works for nearly as long as the book has been in development. In exactly 10 days, the movie will finally hit the silver screen.
Whether you're new to the franchise or a childhood fan of the series like us, here is everything you need to know about the newest Hunger Games release.
When Does It Premiere?
The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes will premiere in theaters on Nov. 17. Earlier screenings will show on Nov. 16. You can buy a ticket now through Fandango or your local theater.
Also read about: 15 Can't-Miss Movies for Fall 2023
Who Stars in It?
Tom Blyth will star as the young Coriolanus Snow, who was brought to life by Donald Sutherland in the original trilogy. The story follows Coriolanus's life before becoming the president of Panem and mentoring a tribute from District 12, Lucy Gray Baird.
Rachel Zegler will play Lucy Gray. After only two years in on-screen acting, she has an impressive resume of blockbuster movies, debuting with West Side Story in 2021 and an upcoming titular role as Disney's live-action Snow White.
Hunter Schafer (Tigris Snow, the cousin of Coriolanus) will also appear alongside Peter Dinklage (Dean Casa Highbottom, who invented The Hunger Games), Viola Davis (Dr. Volumnia Gaul), Jason Schwartzman (Lucretius "Lucky" Flickerman) and Josh Andrés Rivera (Sejanus Plinth), who is Rachel's boyfriend and co-star from West Side Story.
Who's on the Soundtrack?
Olivia Rodrigo received the torch last week from Taylor Swift and Lorde, two of her previously proclaimed idols who sang the lead singles from the original trilogy, "Safe & Sound" and "Yellow Flicker Beat," respectively. Olivia's "Can't Catch Me Now" maintains all the folk vibes we heard and loved in the first films.
The 17-track album also features performances from Americana musicians Molly Tuttle, Flatland Cavalry, Sierra Ferrell and more. Rachel will sing eight songs on the soundtrack.
How Does It Connect to the Original Trilogy?
While the story of Katniss Everdeen and Peeta Mellark takes place during the 74th and 75th Hunger Games, The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes is during the 10th Annual Games.
Despite Songbirds and Snakes being about President Snow, it doesn't seem like there will be any cameos from The Hunger Games cast and characters. However, there are a few other ties, like Lucky Flickerman, a direct ancestor of Caesar Flickerman, the host during Katniss's Games.
Also read about: The Best Dystopian Books for Teens
How Can I Show My Love for the Franchise?
Before you watch Songbird and Snakes later this month, revisit The Hunger Games, Catching Fire and Mockingjay. For even more fun, we suggest checking to see if a theater near you will be playing any of the movies. Otherwise, you can stream it now on Peacock and Apple TV. You can also reread the books—purchase a copy Amazon.
On The Hunger Games' website, you can shop exclusive merchandise for every book in the series. Go wild!
And while you continue to count down the days until the anticipated prequel film hits the big screen, re-watch the official trailer on YouTube.
Do you still have strong opinions about The Hunger Games? Us, too. Read HERE for our definitive ranking of the most important characters from the series, based off likability.