25 Catching Fire Facts That All Hunger Games Fans Will Love

Helga Khumanthem
Jan 17, 2023 By Helga Khumanthem
Originally Published on Apr 05, 2022
Edited by Naomi Carr
Fact-checked by Pratiti Nath
Liam Hemsworth, Jennifer Lawrence and Sam Claflin

'The Hunger Games' series is a science fiction dystopian adventure trilogy written by American author Suzanne Collins.

The series tells the story of a future society in which the rich and powerful rule over the poor, who regularly go hungry. In this dark world, young people are chosen to compete in an annual televised battle called the Hunger Games.

The Games are designed in a way that results in only one person surviving at the end.

The first book in the series was published in 2008 and since then it has become one of the most popular pieces of pop culture around the world. Read on to learn more interesting facts about the trilogy and the making of the blockbuster movie series!

Characters Of 'Catching Fire'

'The Hunger Games' series has been adapted into a successful film franchise, starring some of Hollywood's biggest stars, including Jennifer Lawrence and Josh Hutcherson. Here are just a few of the most important characters:

Katniss Everdeen is the brave and determined protagonist of the series. She is a strong young woman who has faced many challenges in her life, including growing up in a society where hunger is rampant.

Peeta Mellark is Katniss' fellow competitor, and later on her love interest in 'The Hunger Games'. Peeta is a kind-hearted boy who cares about others, especially Katniss, more than himself.

Gale Hawthorne, played by Liam Hemsworth, is Katniss' best friend and hunting partner who has always been there for her as a loyal friend, even when things were at their darkest.

Prim Everdeen is Katniss' younger sister who looks up to her older sister for guidance and protection and is a sweet innocent girl.

President Snow, played by Donald Sutherland, is the ruthless leader of Panem, the society in which 'The Hunger Games' is set. He is a cruel and demanding man who will stop at nothing to maintain control over his people.

Haymitch Abernathy is a mentor to the protagonist and is one of the few people who know the true nature of the Hunger Games. He has competed in the games himself and as a result, he is haunted by his own past.

Film Adaptation

'The Hunger Games' was adapted from the novel trilogy into a highly successful film franchise, directed by Francis Lawrence. Here's a look at the impact made by the trilogy on screen.

'The Hunger Games' is one of the most successful movie franchises in history, with a combined box office total of over $690 million! It was also one of the highest-grossing films of 2012 and the domestic box office highest-grossing film in 2013.

'The Hunger Games' currently ranks as the 21st-highest-grossing film franchise of all time.

Francis Lawrence had already begun working on the final two films while he was involved with 'The Hunger Games: Catching Fire'.

Cary Fukunaga, Duncan Jones, and Joe Cornish were a few names that were considered before Francis was cast as director.

Jennifer Lawrence had to undergo intense physical training to prepare for her role as Katniss Everdeen. This included learning how to use a bow and arrow, as well as doing stunt training.

Jennifer's archery instructor was none other than Olympic athlete, Khatuna Lorig. The training was so rigorous that it actually affected her body structure, making her shoulders broader and her right arm longer.

In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Jennifer Lawrence revealed that she and co-stars, Josh Hutcherson and Sam Claflin, were very clumsy during the filming. Sam Claflin was especially, as he fell at least once in every scene!

In one particular instance, Claflin ended up dropping Lynn Cohen (Mags) into the water by accident.

Josh Hutcherson revealed that the scene that scared him the most was when Peeta has an unfortunate run-in with an electric force field, causing his heart to actually stop for a few scary moments. As an actor, he found it difficult to portray Peeta coming back to life.

The extraordinary fashion statements of Effie Trinket, who was played by Elizabeth Banks, featured quite a few glamourous pieces from luxury designer Alexander McQueen.

Symbols Of 'Catching Fire'

'The Hunger Games: Catching Fire' is full of powerful symbols that are important to the story. Here are just a few examples.

Katniss Everdeen's signature weapon, the bow and arrow, is a source of security to Katniss. Both in the sense that the weapons help her protect herself and her family, but also that they give her something with which she can launch an attack.

Fire is, of course, a major symbol in the novel, used both literally and figuratively throughout the story. Fire is used as a tool and weapon. Katniss uses it to help her survive in the wilderness and to fight against her enemies.

On a figurative level, fire represents hope, rage, and rebellion.

The mockingjay is a symbol of hope and resistance for the people of Panem. The bird itself is not real, but it represents the idea of hope that Katniss brings to the people, especially at the end of 'The Hunger Games: Catching Fire' when Katniss realizes just how important her role is.

The mockingjay also represents the fight against oppression and tyranny.

Reviews Of 'Catching Fire'

'The Hunger Games: Catching Fire' was met with critical acclaim upon its release, with many reviewers praising Collins' writing, the characters, and the story.

Many fans of both the book and the movie seemed to agree that 'Catching Fire' was even more of an emotional roller coaster ride than the first part, constantly leaving fans on the edge of their seats.

Tensions arise in the political fabric of the 'Hunger Games' universe, with Katniss and Peeta in the middle of it all.

Some reviewers found the love triangle to be a bit too much, while others thought it was just the right amount of romance.

As it usually is with a sequel, some people found 'Catching Fire' to be lacking in a lot of aspects.

Compared to the first part, the second novel, for many, felt like it was written with less passion and frenzy.

We hope you enjoyed reading our compilation of 'Catching Fire' facts, as there’s something for everyone! Whether you are a diehard fan of the books or just saw the movie, we think you will find these facts interesting.

From symbols and references, to characters and behind-the-scenes trivia, we have covered it all. Be sure to check out our other posts for more fun facts and information about your favorite movies.

In the meantime, may the odds be ever in your favor!

FAQs

Why is it called 'Catching Fire'?

The second part of the thrilling trilogy gets its name because it marks the point where Katniss really starts to rebel against the Capitol. Symbolically, she is inciting a spark and starting the fire of revolution.

Did they eat raw fish in 'Catching Fire'?

Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, and Sam Claflin did in fact eat real fish that was not just raw but also covered in sand. It was all part of the movie-making process to make things look as real as possible!

When was 'Catching Fire' published?

'Catching Fire' was originally published on 1 September 2009 by Scholastic Publications.

What is the main message in 'Catching Fire'? 

The main message of 'Catching Fire' appears to be a plea against oppression and a rallying cry for the power of hope in the face of adversity. Both unity and independence are indispensable in the fight against tyranny.

Who survived in 'Catching Fire'?

Spoiler Alert!

The survivors of the 75th Hunger Games are Katniss, Peeta, Finnick, Beetee, Johanna, and Enobaria. All five of them made it through the Quarter Quell.

 

Main image credit: Featureflash Photo Agency / Shutterstock.com
Article image credit: meunierd / Shutterstock.com

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Sources

https://www.cheatsheet.com/entertainment/the-hunger-games-jennifer-lawrence-reveals-the-movies-permanently-changed-her-body.html/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Hunger_Games_(film_series)

https://www.brighthubeducation.com/homework-help-literature/52826-theme-of-catching-fire/

https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/the_hunger_games_catching_fire

https://www.mtv.com/news/1710959/catching-fire-josh-hutcherson-death-scene/

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-2239607/Jennifer-Lawrence-tucks-fresh-fish-set-The-Hunger-Games-Catching-Fire.html

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1951264/trivia/

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6148028-catching-fire

https://www.sparknotes.com/lit/catching-fire/symbols/

https://www.fandango.com/movie-photos/the-looks-of-effie-trinket-1058

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Written by Helga Khumanthem

Bachelor of Arts specializing in English Language and Literature

Helga Khumanthem picture

Helga KhumanthemBachelor of Arts specializing in English Language and Literature

A dedicated and passionate writer, Helga brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the team. She holds a Bachelor's degree in English Literature and Language from Lady Shri Ram College For Womenand has a keen interest in charitable work, particularly in animal welfare, which drives her commitment to making a positive impact. Previously, she volunteered for the Friendicoes National Service Scheme, managing their social media platforms and organizing charity events for animals in need.

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Fact-checked by Pratiti Nath

Bachelor of Science specializing in Microbiology, Masters of Science specializing in Biotechnology

Pratiti Nath picture

Pratiti NathBachelor of Science specializing in Microbiology, Masters of Science specializing in Biotechnology

A Master's in Biotechnology from Presidency University and a Bachelor's in Microbiology from Calcutta University. Pratiti holds expertise in writing science and healthcare articles, and their inputs and feedback help writers create insightful content. They have interests in heritage, history, and climate change issues and have written articles for various websites across multiple subjects. Their experience also includes working with eco-friendly startups and climate-related NGOs.

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