4. Katniss Kills Cato Immediately
There is a small distinction between Catos death in the novel and in the film. Despite being a small change from page to screen, however, its the spark that sets the story ablaze - in a bad way, that is. The change has implications and repercussions that vibrate throughout the rest film, and perhaps the trilogy as the films continue. In the novel, Peeta and Katniss wait for the mutts to kill Cato, ending the games. But they wait far longer than they expect. After looking in the Cornucopia, its clear to Katniss that the mutts have been torturing him without any intention to kill him. Capitol needs the Districts to kill each other in order to send the message embedded in the Hunger Games. They want the Districts pitted against each other, feeling that they did this to themselves and Capitol isnt to blame. For this to work, Capitol needs the blood on Katniss hands, not their own. The film must have been running too long, however, because Katniss doesnt hesitate to shoot Cato. As soon as he falls into the clutches of the mutts, Katniss plants an arrow between his eyes. Its no longer an act of mercy - its a sigh of relief. In the film, Katniss momentarily plays into the concept of the Hunger Games, submitting to Capitols desire for bloodshed between the Districts. This both reduces Katniss to a pawn in the games and also removes an opportunity to highlight the calculated cruelty of Capitol. This calculated cruelty, of course, continues throughout the trilogy, and it creatively reveals a parallel between the rebels and President Snow. Both parties are determined to win the war at whatever cost. But the film makers kill this opportunity without hesitation.