The Hunger Games Producer Nina Jacobson Talks About The End of The Franchise, Women in Hollywood & More With FilmInk

Nina, Liam, Jen, Josh and Francis at the Catching Fire premiere in Madrid Nov 2013

FilmInk just posted a great new interview with Nina Jacobson on the end of The Hunger Games films, how Jen Josh and Liam have changed over the course of filming and some of the challenges facing women in the movie industry today. She also reiterates how she feels about more Hunger Games films. Same here, Nina!

Nina Jacobson was named one of Forbes most “100 Powerful Women” in 2005, and that was before the savvy producer had even broken out on her own and helped launch a franchise known as The Hunger Games. Jacobson began her career with brief stints at Universal Pictures and Dreamworks before she moved to Walt Disney in 1988 where she worked as studio executive on such blockbuster works as the first Pirates of the Caribbean film, Remember the Titans and the first Chronicles of Narnia film. However, in 2006, Jacobson was one of the causalities in a restructuring at Disney and she was let go from the company. Her termination at Disney, however, pushed Jacobson to start her own production company, Color Force, in 2007. The company secured the rights to Jeff Kinney’s Diary of a Wimpy Kid books, which proved a hit franchise. But the next series of novels she would acquire would do ever better. They were The Hunger Games, and with the series coming to an end in November, Jacobson reflected on production, and talked female protagonists and directors and the push for change. 

It’s a good investment that you made…

It turned out ok!

What sparked this for you?

I just found that it was a book where once I picked it up I couldn’t put it down. I couldn’t stop thinking about it. It just felt really powerful, really relevant. And I thought that it managed to be provocative and to talk about violence, entertainment, and the gap between the 1% and the 99%, but to do it all through the prism of a character who you felt deeply for. It just felt like something you had never seen before, and something that I wanted to see on screen, and a character that was unforgettable.

In what ways have you seen Jennifer, Liam and Josh change over the course of filming?

I think the most heartening thing has been to see how close they have become with each other. Often times fame divides people and makes people individuate or be competitive with each other. They never turned that way. They became a family, they became incredibly close, they grew up together. Other people of that age are going to college, and they instead had this experience. Certainly their freedom of movement has been impacted, but they have had a good role model in someone like Woody. Everywhere you go people recognise him, and he’s really gracious about it, and really appreciative. It’s not like you appreciate it when people bother you at dinner, but appreciate that success of that kind is nothing to be taken for granted. They all come from good families, of people who have their head on straight, and are surrounded by good people and not yes people.

In terms of franchises and offshoots, is there another life for any of this Hunger Games mania?

I don’t know. Right now it’s hard for me to picture that. Right now it feels complete. If Suzanne Collins has an inspiration I’d be psyched, but at this point I don’t know how to do that.

In your career, you’ve gone through so many incarnations. Would you ever want to step back into the studio reigns again or do you like the independence you have now?

At this point, I love the feeling of being one of the people who makes the thing. That you really feel a sense of connection and being on the team, and being the advocate. At this point it’s hard for me to imagine going back. I loved being an executive and never thought I’d want to be a producer, and now I love being a producer and it’s hard to imagine putting the suit back on. But never say never.

In terms of having female characters as protagonists, and proving that can be successful, how important was The Hunger Games?

I think The Hunger Games is part of a larger story, that thankfully has included some other big titles that have shown it not to be an anomaly. Whether it’s Frozen, Inside Out, Bridesmaids, Spy, The Heat… there are so many great, entertaining and successful films that have been made and driven by great actresses. Something like the latest Ghostbusters is something that you wouldn’t have imagined happening five or ten years ago, and now it makes perfect sense. It’s part of a larger story in which some of these strides are being made, and the obvious is becoming apparent – which is that as 50% of the population, and with probably more than 50% of consumer decisions being made by women, we should also be able to star and drive commercially successful films. I think it has been happening for a long time, but people just keep not getting the point. Something like Titanic was driven by Kate Winslet and by female audiences who saw it again and again and again. And people still need to be reminded about the obvious. Hello!

Jennifer Lawrence has her production company. Did she pick your brains about it?

Yeah, we definitely talked about it a bit. I’m really proud and excited to see her take that next step. She actually said one of the nicest things to me that anybody ever said, which was that on set that I don’t say that much, but what I do say she always wants to hear. The idea that it’s better to create an environment in which people can do their best work, and to only speak up when you have something meaningful to say, and not just to impose your presence as a producer. To let other people’s voices emerge instead of your own.

Be sure to check out the full post at FilmInk.

No Surprise To Us! 'Mockingjay Part 2' Is This Fall's Most Anticipated Film

According to Variety, and no surprise to anyone reading this website, Mockingjay Part 2 tops the list of this Fall's most anticipated films. Fandango conducted a survey of 1,000 moviegoers on the films they’re most excited to see between September and November and MJ2 won by a pretty big margin. 

Here are Fandango user’s top autumn picks:

Most anticipated fall movie:
1. “The Hunger Games: Mockingjay, Part 2”: 36%
2. “Spectre”: 21%
3. “The Martian”: 11%
4. “Bridge of Spies”: 10%
5. “Black Mass”: 9%

This list doesn't include expected biggies like Star Wars: The Force Awakens or Jennifer Lawrence's highly anticipated Joy as those films will be released in December. This is the third consecutive year a Hunger Games film has topped the annual survey. 

The Hunger Games Inspires One Tribute To Reveal Her Inner Cinna

In 2011, I was first introduced to The Hunger Games by my friend. She kept telling me that she believed that I would really like it but I continually pushed it aside because she loved Twilight and I couldn't care less about it. At that time I had also decided I was intensely against popular books because I didn't want to be incredibly mainstream (lame, I know).

At the end of 2011, we had to read any book of our choice in English class so I gave in and chose The Hunger Games. During that hour in class I instantly became hooked. I read from the second I got home from school until around 7pm and finished the entire book. I couldn't wait to get Catching Fire and Mockingjay so I begged my dad to take me to the bookstore. Luckily it was a Friday so the entirety of Saturday was spent finishing Catching Fire and Sunday on Mockingjay straight through.

The Hunger Games reignited my love of reading and got me through my difficult freshman year. To me, Katniss meant strength and getting through whatever obstacles are thrown your way. The Hunger Games showed me that no matter what you should keep fighting because hope is stronger than fear. 

Not only did The Hunger Games reignite my love for reading, but at the start of high school I was beginning to realize my true passion was fashion and costume design. Looking through The Hunger Games, Cinna and the clothing he created undoubtedly made a large impact. Without him, Katniss wouldn't have been able to capture the large amount of attention she received. 

This past year, my senior year of high school, I drew up a ton of costume ideas for Katniss throughout the trilogy and even made one of the dresses I designed. I was inspired by the phrase 'Girl on Fire' as well as Katniss' fiery personality and illustrated an entire collection for it. By thinking of different objects associated with fire like sparks, embers, coal, smoke and of course flames, I was able to envision numerous possible outfits Katniss may have worn throughout her journey.

 

For the dress I created, I used my design for Katniss' dress in Catching Fire where she spins in her wedding dress and becomes the Mockingjay. I channeled bird like qualities in the dress using feathers and lace and by giving the illusion of wings with sheer gold fabric. Of course to match the pin itself, I added gold accents in the skirt. 




The Hunger Games has not only made me a greater, stronger person, but assisted in helping me try and become better at what I love to do. 

You can say hello to Sarita on twitter @SaritaRoseS  and instagram at @saritarose.

This week in our 100 Days of Mockingjay celebration we're talking about Hunger Games cosplay, tattoos, make-up, hair and nail art. Find out how you can participate on social media and enter our giveaway for a Katniss cowl and black Mockingjay pin HERE.  

The Hunger Games Cosplay: More Than Costumes - It's Community

Kayla Dixon wrote such a moving story on cosplay for our #MyTHGStory Week that we wanted to share it with everyone! Here she talks about finding much more than just a new skill in creating a costume from Catching Fire.

If it wasn’t for the Hunger Games franchise I never would have gotten into cosplay or rediscovered the community in which I belong. I had been feeling quite lost after a medical discharge from the Navy. In the 10 years I was in, I had lost who I was and didn’t know how to define myself. Prior to the Navy there were no real "fandoms" or cosplay, just kids in school that liked shows, and were considered ‘weird’ for wearing costumes any time other than Halloween. I didn’t like the other students making fun of me, but I was determined to stay true to myself because that is what my other ‘weird’ friends had taught me to do. They were a massive support system to me that said ‘hey, you are awesome the way you are.’  The Navy didn’t have that kind of community. I tried to bring up my favorite show when I was in, and I was laughed at for being a ‘dork and a loser’. 

So I hid that part of myself away until after I had gotten out, and someone mentioned a series called The Hunger Games. The books had already been out and the first movie had made its rounds in the theatre.  I quickly read the books (in 3 days) and then watched the first movie. I was hooked immediately.  

 
What really blew me away was the costuming. Catching Fire is what really started to spark my interest in cosplay and led me back to being who I was. I started out with probably one of the hardest costumes to replicate, the beautiful wedding dress Katniss wears. I had never created a costume before but for some reason knew exactly where to start.  At the same time, I was filled with doubt when it came to completing the costume; what if it didn’t come out the way I had envisioned it? What if I didn’t have the money to complete it? How would I even create something so extravagant? I worked hard, gluing foil to pipe cleaners, shaping the metal work on the bust, adding 50 yards of tulle. Three months later I was finished. It wasn’t exactly like the dress in the movie (since the film wasn't out yet), but I worked within my budget and was blown away by what I was able to make.   

 

I was excited about what I created but hesitant to share it because the internet can be a cruel place. I decided to do it anyways to push my comfort level. The first page I submitted it to I was relentlessly torn apart. I figured it was the just that page though and decided to keep sending it out there. I submitted the final product to The Official Hunger Games Halloween costume contest in 2013 and was chosen as one of the eight winners. I got compliments from everyone anytime I wore it. I couldn't walk a few feet at Comic-Con without getting my photo taken. I had never felt more at home in my life. These people understood me and supported me and encouraged my creative processes. I wasn’t made fun of nor was I alienated because I had a passion for my chosen fandom. It was an absolutely amazing feeling. I honestly wish that kind of encouragement would have been around when I was younger. 

I love the Hunger Games fandom and am sad to see the movies come to an end. But I am so thankful that there was even a Hunger Games to speak of. It has introduced me to so many amazing people that I now consider my friends and brought me back to where I belonged. 

Be sure to say hello to Kayla on her facebook page The Girl On Fire Cosplay.

This week in our 100 Days of Mockingjay celebration we're talking about Hunger Games cosplay, tattoos, make-up, hair and nail art. Find out how you can participate on social media and enter our giveaway for a Katniss cowl and black Mockingjay pin HERE. 

100 Days of Mockingjay Week 4 - Hunger Games Cosplay & More #CCTHG

The Hunger Games obviously isn’t a series about fashion, yet fashion definitely plays a part in the narrative. Consider the role that Katniss’ Mockingjay suit plays in the rebel propaganda, the fact that one of the most beloved characters (Cinna) is a stylist, and another (Effie) is one of the most sartorially original characters ever seen on-screen. The Capitol’s obsession with the ever-changing latest styles and body modification are a reoccuring theme throughout the trilogy, visually illustrating the divide between the districts and The Capitol.

 

Katniss cosplay by starbit cosplay



Effie cosplay by FLovett.

The Hunger Games books and movie franchise provide a rich spectrum of opportunity for the cosplayer, from District 12's spare and vintage looks to the full-on opulence of Capitol Couture. Over the years, we've seen every iteration of Katniss, oodles of Effies, a profusion of Peetas, they've all come to life in your cosplay.

 

Rhiannon's tattoo thanks to appraisingpages.com

The desire to adorn yourself in the spirit of The Hunger Games goes way beyond costumes. We've seen a multitude of gorgeous Hunger Games tattoos, beautiful nail art, amazing hairstyles and stunning Hunger Games-inspired make-up. There are so many different ways to creatively express your love of the series.

Mockingjay Nail art by NailedItInNZ


This week - Wed, Sept  2 - Tues, Sept 7 - is all about your version of Capitol Couture: Hunger Games cosplay, hair, make-up, nail art, tattoos, etc. Show us your cosplay pics! Or have you gone totally Capitol and modified your body with a Hunger Games tattoo? We’d love to see photos! Have you done crazy Capitol make-up, Hunger Games nails, or even a Katniss braid? This is the week to share those pics with us on social media with the hashtag #CCTHG.

With every new weekly theme comes a new GIVEAWAY. This week, in keeping with our cosplay theme we're giving you the chance to win a handknit Katniss cowl made by ChubbyChubs and a black Mockingjay pin. 

Enter the giveaway through the widget below this post ONLY. Giveaway ends Tuesday, Sept 8 at 8pm EST sharp. Good luck! 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Netflix Losing 'The Hunger Games' - Why it's No Big Deal

Netflix is parting ways with Epix, which means they'll be losing some of their titles including The Hunger Games films. But never fear tributes, the films will be moving over to premium subscription service Hulu after October 1st. Hulu will also be getting Mockingjay Part 1 in the coming months, a title that's never been available on a subscription streaming VOD service. FYI, Hulu and Netflix are both $7.99 per month.

We know this wasn't a huge deal top most of you, especially since a lot of you have multiple home entertainment versions of EACH MOVIE (same here). What can we say, we must have all the special features and extras that you just can't get on Netflix. Yes, I have watched the BTS documentaries 400 times. Don't judge me. 

But if you're bummed about the simple convenience of losing the titles from Netflix , consider that nearly every other weekend is The Hunger Games weekend on ABC Family (unless it's Harry Potter weekend) and Catching Fire will be landing there soon as well. You'll also be able to catch The Hunger Games and Catching Fire on TNT starting this winter, with Mockingjay Part 1 airing on the network in 2017, and Mockingjay Part 2 following in 2018. Seems like a long way off, but suffice it to say you'll be able get your Hunger Games fix for a long time to come.  

DIY Mockingjay Pin Hanging Chandelier

The finished product

We’re three weeks into our "100 Days of Mockingjay" Countdown to Mockingjay: Part 2, and this week is all about Hunger Games parties and celebrations. If you’re planning a HG-themed bash and don’t know where to start, have no fear – you know PP has you covered! Here's an awesome how-to by our friend and follower, Stefan, for a beautiful Mockingjay Chandelier that can serve as the centerpiece for a Hunger Games gathering that even Effie would be proud to attend! 

DIY Mockingjay Pin Hanging Chandelier

By: Stefan Marin

So you want to throw a Hunger Games party, but need some ideas? Well here is one that will blow away your guests! As the Mockingjay is one of the most important symbols of the Hunger Games (well, arguably the most important), why not make it the centerpiece of your next party? You can find most of the items you'll need for this project at stores like Wal-Mart or Target. You can also acquire them from art stores such as Jo-Ann’s and Michael’s (Which usually have great coupons!). 

Here’s what you’re going to need:

1x Large Foam Graphic Board

2x Styrofoam Pool Noodles

1x Exacto Knife or Box Cutter

2x Cans Metallic Gold Spray Paint (such as Krylon or Rust-OLeum)

1x Roll of White (or Color of Your Choice) Cloth, Ribbon or String

1x Hot Glue Gun w/ Glue Sticks

1x Roll of Duct Tape

1x Pencil w/Eraser

The Steps: 

1) The first step might be the hardest, but it’s definitely where you want to start. First, take your two pool noodles (one is fine too if you want it a little smaller) and hot glue the ends together to make one large circle. There are plenty of ways to help it stick, like putting a wooden dowel rod into the hole, but I’ve found it just as easy to use hot glue and duct tape! This will be your foundation for the ring of the Mockingjay pin.

2) Take the large foam board out. You’ll outline the Mockingjay for the pin on the foam board in pencil. I'm including a few different mockingjay outlines that you can enlarge and use as your template, but you could also draw your own. Remember, the Mockingjay is going to get spray painted, so you don’t have to worry too much about erasing your marks.

3) After you have made the outline of your giant Mockingjay, take the Exacto Knife or Box Cutter and carefully cut out the outline of it. 

4) Next, hot glue your Mockingjay cut out to the ring that you made from your foam noodles. Let dry.

5) After it is nice and dry, you’re going to want to glitz and glam it up! Take it outside and spray it with your gold spray paint. Make sure you get it front and back and everywhere in between! You will need a few coats with drying time in-between.

6) You’re almost done! Take your cloth, ribbon or string and tie it around each side of the pool noodle. Make sure that it is balanced so that when it hangs it isn’t lopsided. You could also hang it with one string from the top of the ring - just be careful where you joined the pool noodles together. 

7) You’re done! All you need to do now is hang it up. I hung it using the ceiling tiles but you could also use 3M Command hooks on the ceiling to hang this. The finished product should look something like this!

 

Some other things that you could add to your finished product would be red and yellow tissue paper to make it seem as if it’s on fire! Though we don’t suggest you actually light it on fire (we’ll leave the realistic flames to Cinna). You could add glitter, use a different paint color, the possibilities are endless.

Whatever celebration you’re planning on having, whether it’s a huge HG themed birthday bash or an intimate viewing party, this huge Mockingjay will make the perfect centerpiece. Plus, your friends will be amazed at your creative abilities, because there’s no need to tell them how easy it was! ;)

If you feel up to the challenge of making your own Mockingjay Chandelier, we’d love to see how you bring it to life! Share your pics on social media using #MockinjayChandelier and be sure to let us know if you think of any cool additions or adjustments to the steps!

Also, don’t forget to enter this week’s giveaway through the widget here. The giveaway ends tomorrow at 8pmEST.

 

You can follow Stefan on Twitter @Alexandermarin9 and on Instagram @Stefanarchuleta.

Liam Hemsworth Will Join ABC's 'The Muppets' This Fall

Image via @liamhemsworth on instagram

According to EW, ABC’s The Muppets is adding another big guest star. Liam Hemsworth is coming to the new fall comedy series. 

Hemsworth will play himself on the show, slated to be a more grown-up take on the beloved Muppet characters that goes “behind the scenes” as Kermit, Miss Piggy and the rest stage a new prime-time series. Liam will join his Hunger Games co-star, Elizabeth Banks on the show. No word on how many episodes either will appear in. 

The Muppets premieres Tuesday, Sept. 22. And in case you haven’t already seen it, here's the full pilot presentation that Muppets executive producers Bill Prady and Bob Kushell made to convince ABC to pick up the series. Elizabeth Banks appears in the spot: 

Be sure to follow Liam's new official instagram account @liamhemsworth.