64 years before Katniss Everdeen volunteered as tribute, a young Corilanus Snow (Tom Blyth) whom later becomes the autocratic president of Panem is assigned to mentor Lucy Gray Baird (Rachel Zeglar), a tribute from District 12. Snow and Gray who develop an interesting connection must face the wicked ways of Dr. Volumnia Gaul (Viola Davis) when both need each other to survive the traps and the scheme of the Hunger Games. Lucy and Snow reveal in their journey the true meaning of consequences, lies, and truth. Who is a songbird and a snake?

Director Francis Lawrence, who directed “The Hunger Games” franchise returns to direct the prequel. Francis decides to dedicate his time to expanding on the ideology of this universe by committing to lay beguile roots to introduce the film’s characters. The film is divided into three parts, which makes the film feel lengthy and then offers the opportunity to overlook some parts more than others. The film begins a bit slow, but then moves into a more smooth pace once the games begin, which sets up heatwaves for its main two leads. What also works here is how Lawrence finds a more witty meaning in the source material to establish a more profound tone and fascinating bond, which ends in an allure screen adaption.

The film includes a star-studded cast that feeds from each other’s talents to captivate. Stand-outs include Viola Davis who gives a performance that won’t be easily forgotten. She plays Dr. Volumnia wickedly good, showcasing a centered, altruistic, consistent, and daring leader that is also grand and jovial. Rachel Zegler who plays Lucy Gray gives a marvelous performance where she uses all her strong talents, to showcase a smart, sympathetic, transparent, and unique Lucy. Lastly, Tom Blyth as Coriolanus Snow transforms from beginning to end, showcasing a wholesome performance shown through feelings and zesty that offers a spicy flavor to Coriolanus Snow.

“The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes” is a vibrant adaptation based on the popular novel by Suzanne Collins which fans and moviegoers will celebrate. The film offers a youthful and warm tone, establishing a more playful universe since we last saw it. The film is its own song which is sung beautifully, clearly, and magnetic, giving it the title of the best film prequel of 2023.

The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes hits theaters on November 17, 2023