Francis Lawrence returns to direct the next Hunger Games movie based on Suzanne Collins’s prequel novel. Taking the story from Michael Lesslie and Michael Arndt’s screenplay, Lawrence helms the story that began 64 years ago. It was before Katniss Everdeen volunteered as a tribute. And decades before Coriolanus Snow became the authoritarian President of Panem.

The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes follows a young Coriolanus, played by Tom Blyth. He is the last hope for his failing lineage. The once-proud Snow family has fallen from grace in a post-war Capitol. 

Snow’s need to ensure the necessities of life requires him to mentor Lucy Gray Baird, portrayed by Rachel Zegler, a tribute from the deprived District 12. But after Lucy Gray’s charm captivates the audience of Panem, Snow sees an opportunity to shift their fates. He becomes infatuated with Lucy Gray and helps her prepare for the Tenth Annual Hunger Games. He helps her develop a public image and hone her skills to win. 

Yet, all does not appear picture-perfect because Coriolanus and Lucy Gray become entangled in personal ambition and political intrigue. 

With everything he has worked for hanging in the balance, Snow unites with Lucy Gray to turn the odds in their favor. 

Battling his instincts for both good and evil, Snow sets out on a race against time to survive and reveals if he will ultimately become a songbird or a snake.

The film provides a richer look into the origins of the Hunger Games and the history of Panem. The story explores the themes of love, corruption and power. 

Other supporting actors include Peter Dinklage, Hunter Schafer, Josh Andrés, Rivera, Jason Schwartzman and Viola Davis.