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Prepare for the highly anticipated “Hunger Games” prequel film as it goes to theaters
Based on Suzanne Collins’ novel “The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes,” this film will uncover the origin story of the viral “Hunger Games” series. Prepare to dive back into the thrilling world of the post-apocalyptic life-or-death tournament, where teen tributes battle it out, and a love triangle takes center stage.
Director Francis Lawrence returns to guide us through “The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes,” introducing a fresh batch of tributes. Accomplished screenwriter Michael Lesslie is crafting the script. We’ll also witness the untold story of Panem President Coriolanus Snow, portrayed by the talented Donald Sutherland in the original movies. The role of young Coriolanus will be brought to life by rising star Tom Blyth. Leading the cast is the incredible Rachel Ziegler. Mark your calendars for the premiere on November 17, 2023.
Discover all the details about “The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes” below.
What’s the Plot?
“The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes” occurs during the 10th annual Hunger Games. We follow an 18-year-old Coriolanus Snow (played by Tom Blyth) as he becomes the mentor for District 12 tribute Lucy Gray Baird, portrayed by Rachel Ziegler, known for her roles in “West Side Story” and “Snow White.”
Coriolanus is the last hope for his once-proud family, which has fallen from grace in a war-ravaged Capitol. However, everything changes when Lucy Gray captures Panem’s attention with her defiant singing during the reaping ceremony. Now, Snow sees a chance to shift the odds in their favor. Together, they navigate a thrilling race against time, employing their showmanship and political savvy to survive. In the end, their journey will reveal who is a songbird and who is a snake.
Meet the Cast
Prepare to be captivated by Tom Blyth, known for his roles in “Billy the Kid” and “The Gilded Age,” as he portrays a younger version of the iconic Coriolanus Snow, originally played by Donald Sutherland. Blyth was recently impressed in Terrence Davies’ Siegfried Sassoon biopic “Benediction” as theater actor and director Glen Byam Shaw.
Rachel Zegler, who made her film debut chosen by Steven Spielberg in the Oscar-winning “West Side Story,” continues to shine in her upcoming projects, including “Shazam! Fury of the Gods,” “Snow White,” and the animated feature “Spellbound.” Ziegler takes on the intriguing role of Lucy Gray Baird, a mysterious newcomer to the Hunger Games who fights for her life.
Joining the cast is Josh Andrés Rivera, Zegler’s co-star from “West Side Story,” portraying Coriolanus’ friend Sejanus Plinth. Hunter Schafer, known for her breakout role in “Euphoria,” adds her talent to the film as Tigris, Coriolanus’ cousin and confidante, who also happens to be a Capitol stylist. Eugenie Bondurant, who played Tigris in the original franchise, will reprise her role in “The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes,” shedding more light on Tigris’ connection to Coriolanus.
These Tributes (and Mentors) Mean Business
Jerome Lance takes on the role of Marcus, Lucy’s fellow tribute from District 12. Ashley Liao stars as Clemensia Dovecote, one of Coriolanus’ closest friends and mentor to a tribute from District 11. Aamer Husain portrays Felix Ravinstill, another mentor to a tribute from District 11. Knox Gibson makes an impact as Bobbin, an award from District 8, while Mackenzie Lansing, known for her role in “Mare of Easttown,” brings District 4 tribute Coral to life.
Get ready for an unforgettable journey filled with suspense, drama, and heart as “The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes” arrives in theaters soon.