Nicholas Dease: The Hunger Games

The hunger games Of the various themes presented in The Hunger Games, I found its portrayal of Katniss and Peeta's developing relationship to be the most intriguing. While most certainly a statement on human nature and survival, this reinvention of the generic 'star-crossed lovers' motif is presented in a wholly unique way which carries with it an infinite number of interpretations. Quite simply, their blossoming love is arguably sincere but is also inherently synthetic given the turn of events in the narrative. This interesting plot device creates a palpable tension and ambiguity throughout which leaves the viewer to ultimately decide the sincerity of their love.

On the one hand, Peeta's flashback's of his first meeting with Katniss suggests a realistic origin to his romantic interest. Showing a sincere concern for her well-being, he made an effort to feed her bread while she was starving. Further, his confirmation that this event was the beginning of his 'crush' during the interview in the capital corroborates this view. Even after the games began, the viewer sees his daring act of self-sacrifice by taking a wound to allow her an escape. Ultimately, romantic dialogue, frequent public displays of affection, and Katniss nursing him back to health all serve to suggest their relationship is a true one.

All this aside, one must consider that the large part of the narrative takes place during a 'reality tv show' and as is frequently the case, sustains an entertaining facsimile of reality rather than a legitimate unadulterated view. To this extent, Peeta's admission of love may be seen as a tactical choice in order to facilitate adoration from the viewers. The scene on the train moving toward the capital further illustrates Peeta's vested interest in appealing to the audience. Interestingly, this view makes his actions during the games to appear less than altruistic. His sacrificial wound may then be understood as a ploy to acquire attention. To this extent, his temporary alliance to find Katniss may have been a true effort to find her and eliminate her, but his suggestion to leave her in the tree may imply otherwise. Imagery that further supports this interpretation lies in Peeta's only discernible ability, camouflage. On two separate occasions Peeta's shown painting himself the colors of the environment--this quality may suggest that Peeta's personality is that of a chameleon; one that is hard grasp. Peeta himself is an enigma, he never shows his true colors.

 Many readers/viewers have interpreted the film to display Christian allegory as both Peeta and Katniss illustrate similar sacrifices to Christ's. While these sentiments may be true according to the author, I found the dynamic relationship between the two as ambiguous to be far more interesting as it describes human nature in a way that few popular films have done.