In a dystopian future, the totalitarian nation of Panem is divided into 12 districts and the wealthy Capitol. Each year a girl and a boy from each district are selected by lottery to participate in The Hunger Games. Part entertainment, part brutal retribution for a past rebellion, the televised games are broadcast throughout Panem. The 24 participants are forced to eliminate their competitors in a macabre reality show while the citizens of Panem are required to watch. When 16-year-old Katniss's young sister, Prim, is selected as District 12's representative, Katniss volunteers to take her place. She and her male counterpart Peeta, are pitted against bigger, stronger representatives who have trained for this their whole lives.