What springs to mind when you hear “books that made it to the big screen?” Are you thinking of classic chick flicks amongst the likes of the comically embarrassing but obsessively enjoyable Bridget Jones’s Diary? A controversial cult classic favourite like Stephanie Meyer’s Twilight? Regardless, I think you’d have to agree that it was the era of YA Dystopia that left its mark.
I can bet that you’ve definitely heard of the widely beloved franchise that is soon to make a thrilling comeback with its prequel The Ballad of Songbird and Snakes. That’s right, the one and only The Hunger Games series. A prime example of how the dystopian genre redefined book to movie adaptations. With a star-studded cast doing the characters justice, like the legendary Jennifer Lawrence as ‘Girl on Fire’ Katniss Everdeen, this move from book to screen could not have wowed audiences more. Although you may be disappointed by omissions from the book, say Haymitch’s Hunger Games (you will be missed), it would still be a challenge to find a book to movie adaptation that did not raise standards as high. With a loyal fanbase, thrilling premise, and a jaw dropping sequel, The Hunger Games’ significance outlives its circa 2010 release date and might I say, has aged like fine wine.
On the other end of the spectrum, we’ve got the controversial Divergent. With worldbuilding stirring conversation comparable to Harry Potter houses (we all wanted to be Dauntless) and sharing the similarity of having a fierce, independent heroine (Tris), Divergent had potential. But, what about when we consider its disappointing sequels (or lack thereof. RIP Four.)? What about the problematic nature of romanticising a groomer-esque age gap relationship? What about its audience reception being so poor that the saga couldn’t even finish its book to screen move? In contrast to The Hunger Games, Divergent hardly offers the same satisfaction of a highly anticipated series done right. The same could also be said for The Maze Runner. Albeit fast-paced, action packed and brimming with mystery; while The Maze Runner succeeds in tension, it lacks direction. Ironic, I know. But really, there’s no point in exciting your audience to the edge of their seat, just to let them down with rushed moments and poorly developed narratives.
Ultimately, The Hunger Games exemplifies what books that make it to the big screen have to offer. Amongst its dystopian competitors, while also possessing flaws, it largely demonstrates the best of the genre. The gut punching factors, heart gripping elements, adrenaline rush inducing feats. All of it. The Hunger Games has seemingly revolutionised adaptations and set a precedent for the future. The series’ message of warning against the dangers of power in the wrong hands and showcasing the importance of having strength and courage in a corrupt world – will live on in the hearts of viewers and readers alike.
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