THE HUNGER GAMES

As I stood in line with Terry for the movie, I felt somewhat uncomfortable. The crowd of young people ahead of us, all wearing pocket tees with matching iphones, made me think that it might have been a better idea to see The Three Stooges.

“I think I’m too old for this movie,” I whispered to Terry.

A pretty twenty something girl just ahead of us turned and said, “I think you’re just fine sir.” She must like the aged Mark Messier look.

The Hunger Games surprised me. Despite being replete with violence and treachery, the epic tale’s underlying themes of humanity and love make for a captivating story.

Though not made of the same stuff as Xena, the movie’s heroine is both brave and resourceful. Volunteering to take her younger sister’s place in a fight to the death survivor competition, Katniss shows how a person with courage and determination can make a world of difference. The fact that she is willing to surrender her life for her sister and later for the good of her oppressed people reminds me of a real story of self-sacrifice that took place about two thousand years ago; one that will surely outlast the notoriety of this futuristic narrative.

Go see it. It’s a compelling 133 minutes of suspense, romance and adventure. No one is ever too old for a good story.

Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,

for they will be filled.

Matthew 5:6