10 Movies & Shows Like The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes (2023)

Description: This is the first installment in the Hunger Games series, setting the foundation for the dystopian world and themes of survival, rebellion, and political oppression that are central to 'The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes'. Both films explore the origins and consequences of the Hunger Games, with a focus on the Capitol's manipulation and control.

Fact: Jennifer Lawrence was not the first choice for Katniss Everdeen; other actresses considered included Hailee Steinfeld and Abigail Breslin. The film was shot in 86 days, a relatively short schedule for a blockbuster. The book's author, Suzanne Collins, has a cameo as a Game Maker in the film.

Description: This film shares the dystopian setting and survival themes with 'The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes'. Both feature young protagonists navigating dangerous, controlled environments and uncovering the truth behind their circumstances.

Fact: Dylan O'Brien performed most of his own stunts, including the intense running sequences. The maze set was built in a Louisiana warehouse and was fully functional. The film's success led to a franchise, though the sequels diverged significantly from the books.

Description: Like 'The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes', 'Divergent' is set in a dystopian society with a rigid class system and explores themes of rebellion and identity. Both films feature young protagonists who challenge the status quo and uncover dark truths about their societies.

Fact: Shailene Woodley was initially hesitant to take the role of Tris, fearing typecasting after 'The Fault in Our Stars'. The film's futuristic Chicago setting required extensive visual effects to create the dystopian landscape. The faction initiation scenes were inspired by military boot camps.

Description: This sequel delves deeper into the political intrigue and rebellion against the Capitol, themes that are also prominent in 'The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes'. Both films highlight the psychological and physical toll of the Games on their participants, as well as the Capitol's ruthless tactics to maintain power.

Fact: Philip Seymour Hoffman joined the cast as Plutarch Heavensbee, a role he would reprise in the next two films before his untimely death. The film was the highest-grossing installment in the series in North America. The arena's jungle setting was inspired by the Hawaiian island of Kauai, where much of the film was shot.

Description: This film focuses on the full-scale rebellion against the Capitol, a theme that resonates with the origins of the rebellion explored in 'The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes'. Both films examine the propaganda and psychological warfare used by both sides in the conflict.

Fact: The film features the song 'The Hanging Tree', performed by Jennifer Lawrence, which became a surprise hit. It was the first Hunger Games film not to feature the actual Games. The production built an entire underground bunker set for District

Description: The final installment concludes the rebellion storyline, mirroring the revolutionary themes in 'The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes'. Both films explore the moral complexities of war and the personal costs of leadership in times of upheaval.

Fact: The film's release was delayed by a year to allow for proper marketing after the split of 'Mockingjay' into two parts. The sewer scene with the Mutts took 10 nights to film. It marked the final film appearance of Philip Seymour Hoffman, who passed away during production.

Description: This sequel to 'Divergent' continues the rebellion narrative, similar to the revolutionary themes in 'The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes'. Both films depict the escalating conflict between the oppressed and their rulers, with high-stakes consequences.

Fact: The film features a dream-like simulation sequence that required extensive CGI. Naomi Watts joined the cast as Evelyn Johnson, a key figure in the rebellion. The production used a 3D camera rig that weighed over 100 pounds for certain scenes.

Description: The third film in the Divergent series explores the characters' journey beyond their known world, much like the expansion of the Hunger Games universe in 'The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes'. Both films deal with the discovery of new societies and the continuation of the fight against oppression.

Fact: The film was originally planned to be the first part of a two-part finale, but the second part was canceled due to poor box office performance. The futuristic city scenes were shot in Atlanta, Georgia. The film introduced a new factionless society outside the city walls.

Description: This sequel expands the dystopian world and introduces new threats, similar to the world-building in 'The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes'. Both films explore the consequences of scientific experimentation and the struggle for survival in a hostile environment.

Fact: The film was shot in the deserts of New Mexico, where temperatures often exceeded 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The Cranks, the infected humans in the film, were inspired by zombie lore. The production built an entire abandoned city set for the Scorch scenes.

Description: The final film in the Maze Runner series concludes the rebellion against WCKD, mirroring the revolutionary themes in 'The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes'. Both films depict the culmination of long-standing conflicts and the sacrifices made for freedom.

Fact: Production was delayed for a year after Dylan O'Brien was seriously injured during a stunt. The film features a high-speed train heist sequence that took weeks to film. It marked the end of the Maze Runner trilogy, though the books have a prequel that has not been adapted.