First real trailer for Hunger Games is here

Lionsgate has released a stunning, full-length trailer for its upcoming Hunger Games film adaptation.

Although the studio launched an initial teaser trailer this summer, it made the film look like trite crap. I’m honestly not sure why Lionsgate teaser trailers are always so bad – but I reserved judgement in wait for a real look at the movie, and here we have it. As you can see, the full-length trailer actually makes the film something to look forward to.

If you’re not familiar with The Hunger Games, it’s a popular young adult novel which covers the story of a young woman who volunteers to fight in a televised gladiatorial game

in place of her sister, who was originally chosen for the dubious honor.

Lionsgate is planning four film series to based on the franchise, though the books only form a trilogy. The official synopsis is thus:

Every year in the ruins of what was once North America, the nation of Panem forces each of its twelve districts to send a teenage boy and girl to compete in the Hunger Games. Part twisted entertainment, part government intimidation tactic, the Hunger Games are a nationally televised event in which “Tributes” must fight with one another until one survivor remains.

Pitted against highly-trained Tributes who have prepared for these Games their entire lives, Katniss is forced to rely upon her sharp instincts as well as the mentorship of drunken former victor Haymitch Abernathy. If she’s ever to return home to District 12, Katniss must make impossible choices in the arena that weigh survival against humanity and life against love.

The Film stars Jennifer Lawrence as Katniss. Other cast members include Josh Hutcherson, Elizabeth Banks, Liam Hemsworth, Woody Harrelson, Stanley Tucci, Donald Sutherland and Lenny Kravitz. The story was adapted to screenplay by Gary Ross, who is also directing.

The Hunger Games is slated to hit theaters on March 23, 2012.