Karla Vasquez
Crimson Chronicle Reporter
The Hunger Games tetralogy (formerly a trilogy) released its anticipated fourth film, The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, on Nov. 17, 2023. Based on the novel by Suzanne Collins.
The movie is a prequel to the previous Hunger Games trilogy, set during the 10th annual Hunger Games. Starring Tom Blyth as 18-year-old Coriolanus Snow, the overarching antagonist. Alongside Blyth, is Rachel Zegler as the beloved Lucy Gray Baird. Produced by experienced American filmmaker Francis Lawerence, who produced three films from the Hunger Games trilogy. With such familiarity, Lawrence spectacularly told the story of the gut-wrenching 10th annual Hunger Games.
The outstanding cast exquisitely portrayed every single character. From Down Syndrome actress Sofia Sanchez as young Wovey to Tom Blyth as the wicked Coriolanus Snow. The chemistry between lead characters Lucy Gray and Coriolanus Snow, portrayed by Zegler and Blyth is amazing. Blyth’s portrayal of Coriolanus, nicknamed Coryo, allows us to see how the villain we hate was formed due to his admiration for both power and Lucy Gray. Zegler’s powerful vocals in the movie give us insight into the emotions Lucy Gray had felt, and how her breathtaking songs have lasted for many generations. The parallels between the beloved Katniss Everdeen and Lucy Gray can be connected in many ways. Parallels between tributes from the 10th annual Hunger Games and the 65th annual Games can be connected as well. Additionally, the parallels between Katniss and Lucy Gray allow us to better understand Coriolanus Snow in the previous movies from the trilogy.
The movie was beautifully ended with Olivia Rodrigo’s newest song Can’t Catch Me Now, playing in the credits scene. The song was a perfect way to end the movie as Lucy Gray’s destiny remains a mystery. The lyrics “You’ll see my face in every place” are the epitome of the long-lasting effect Lucy Gray had on Snow, as there were so many things that were a constant reminder of her.
The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes was fantastically produced. Though it did not top the critically acclaimed The Hunger Games: Catching Fire, it is a close second.