The Hunger Games (2012)

The Hunger Games is an upcoming science fiction action drama based on the novel of the same name by Suzanne Collins.

In the ruins of what was once North America, the nation Panem randomly chooses one boy and girl, ages 12-18, from each of the 12 districts to risk their lives in the Hunger Games, a ruthless competition in which each contestant, or tribute, tries to kill the others until only one remains. The winner receives honor, gifts, and enough food and supplies to never worry for anything material again. The Games, while entertainment for the Capitol's citizens, are a yearly reminder to the 12 districts of the 13th district's unsuccessful rebellion 74 years ago.

In District 12, sixteen year-old Katniss Everdeen cares for her mother and sister Primrose "Prim" since her father died in a mine accident when she was 11. Since the age of 12, Katniss has put her name in the lottery, or reaping, more than once. In return, she receives extra grain and oil for her family. In addition, Katniss has been illegally hunting for food outside the gates of District 12 with her friend Gale, whose father died in the same mining accident as Katniss' and similarly cares for his family. Prim, now age 12, has her name placed in the reaping for the first time -- only once -- and is chosen to compete in the Games. Katniss volunteers to replace her sister. She competes with other tributes, including trained "Career Tributes" who have prepared for the Games their entire lives.

The film is directed by Gary Ross starring Jennifer Lawrence as Katniss Everdeen, Josh Hutcherson as Peeta Mellark, Woody Harrelson as Haymitch Abernathy, Willow Shields as Primrose Everdeen, Liam Hemsworth as Gale Hawthorne, Elizabeth Banks as Effie Trinket, Lenny Kravitz as Cinna, Paula Malcomson as Mrs. Everdeen and Stanley Tucci as Caesar Flickerman. Scheduled to be released on March 23, 2012 by Lionsgate.