Dinner and a Movie: 'The Hunger Games' Leaves You Hungry for More

Editor's Note — Dinner and a Movie is our newest feature on Roseville Patch. Every week, we'll give you a quick review of a new movie, where and when it plays and a dinner idea to go along with it.

Dinner: Our suggestion is see the movie first, then head to AJ's Casual Eatery to talk about the film over large plates of carved meat and potatoes. At AJ's, take your pick from their signature smoked meatloaf, carved tri-tip, a plate of two carved meats, potatoes with gravy and their famous chili cornbread or another of their meaty dishes. Ask for a comfy booth so you can stay a while to discuss the film. Here's one question to get the conversation started: How similar was it to the book?

Showtimes: "The Hunger Games" shows at on Eureka Road at 9:45 a.m., 10:25 a.m., 11 a.m., 11:30 a.m., noon, 1:05 p.m., 1:40 p.m., 2:15 p.m., 2:45 p.m., 3:15 p.m., 4:20 p.m., 4:55 p.m., 5:30 p.m., 6 p.m., 6:30 p.m., 7:45 p.m., 8:10 p.m., 8:45 p.m., 9:15 p.m., 9:45 p.m. and 11 p.m. It also shows in Cinemark XD, Extreme Digital Experience, at 12:35 p.m., 3:50 p.m., 7:05 p.m. and 10:20 p.m.

Review: It's one of the most anticipated movies to hit the big screen in some time, and we have the scoop right here. It has all the elements of a big hit -- teen romance, violence, and action. Mix in some rising young stars and you have "The Hunger Games."

Jennifer Lawrence isn't a household name yet, but she will be. Known to this point for her critically acclaimed role in the film "Winter's Bone," Lawrence plays Katniss, one of two people from her district who must play a nationally televised game, in which there can be just one winner -- the last one living. Equipped with knives, swords, bows, arrows, and other weapons, the massacre begins.

This futurist tale takes place in the country of Panem, after an apocalyptic war. The country is split into 12 districts, with two contestants (ages 12 to 18) being sent to compete in this reality show. Lawrence's partner is Peeta, played by Josh Hutcherson. While becoming warriors they fall in love, complicating matters and elevating the story line in the film. This movie has romance, action, danger, expensive CGI, teenage carnage and attractive young leads. With ingredients from Greek mythology, George Orwell, and Stephen King, this will be a popular film for people of all ages.

There will be more movies. The franchise is expected to be compared to such brands as "Twilight" and "Harry Potter." I am confident that mainstream audiences will respond to the moral challenges in the film which churn under the pop-culture razzle-dazzle and CGI. 

"The Hunger Games" gets five out of five on the flick-o-meter, for no other reason than Jennifer Lawrence. She turns the movie into a hit by presenting a heroine propelled by principle instead of hooking up with the cutest boy. A great message and a winner in my book.

—Roseville Patch staff contributed to this story.

Film critic Brett Martin gives his take on a new release. See all Brett's reviews at www.flickedup.com, or follow him on Facebook at www.facebook.com/brettervideo.

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