20 Greatest Movie Blockbusters Of The 21st Century (So Far)

This franchise brought Winter’s Bone star Jennifer Lawrence to international prominence and it, along with Silver Linings Playbook, ensured that 2012 was the year of this phenomenal star.

But make no mistake—as superb as Lawrence’s turn in the role of tough protagonist Katniss Everdeen is, there’s not a weak link in this propulsive blockbuster’s presentation of a familiar story wherein the rich watch randomly selected competitors duke it out in glorified gladiatorial combat for their amusement.

Surprisingly dark and mature, this flick marries constant ramping tension with a sharp satirical edge and manage to sneak some subversive anti-authoritarian ideas into its intense, adrenaline-fuelled runtime.