Shannon in Kansas City YT: Shannon's Bible Study IG:@showmeshannon

SPOILER ALERT!

I went to see the film “Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes” last week. This film is a prequel to the “Hunger Games” series. If you enjoyed “Hunger Games” I think you will enjoy “Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes”. The story is similar but this film is set a few generations earlier than “Hunger Games”. The character known as President Snow was a young man. “Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes” Coriolanus Snow’s villain origin story.

“Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes” was well written, had the right amount of tension with an intriguing love story with surprises, twists and turns and a surprise ending. The tributes were compelling characters. We learned a bit more about the history, culture and conditions of Panem. The film cleverly left an opportunity for a sequel to this prequel. This movie is long but it’s good enough to make up for it.

Viola Davis played the game maker Dr. Volumnia Gaul. Dr. Gaul was a mad scientist with the challenge of making the games exciting and increasing viewership. Public interest was low and some citizens of Panem were outspoken in their opposition to the games. Dr. Gaul was also a mentor to young Coriolanus.

You’ll enjoy “The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes” if you enjoyed “The Hunger Games” and maybe if you’re new to the franchise. I recommend watching it with a friend so you can discuss the social commentary and subtleties of the film.