The Hunger Games universe expanded on November 17 with the release of The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes in theaters. Not everyone wants to revisit the tumultuous emotions that accompany such high stakes drama and romance in public. If you’re holding out for the comfort of streaming (and possibly weeping) in your living room, you might have a bit of a wait.
The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes is based on Suzanne Collins’ novel of the same, published in 2020, which focuses on the story of Coriolanus Snow, who would become the President Snow who makes Katniss Everdeen his teen nemesis. In this new adaptation, Tom Blyth stars as young Coriolanus, and Rachel Zegler plays Lucy Gray Baird, the “erased” District 12 victor of the 10th annual Hunger Games.
Coriolanus is in charge of mentoring Lucy, an assignment he’s a bit too proud for, but her charm captivates Panem audiences as she fights for her life and her District. They form an unusual alliance that just might progress to an unlikely romance. But is it doomed one, too? Anyone who has seen the original Hunger Games trilogy knows the answer, but the story of how they get there is a thrill ride.
The prequel is distributed by Lionsgate, who Collider reports has a multiyear deal with Peacock. That means the movie will most likely be broadcast from that streaming service when it is finally released. The deal goes into effect in 2024, so keep your eye out then for The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes
To prepare for the big moment, viewers can subscribe to Peacock starting at $5.99 per month or get a discount at $59.99 per year. Peacock offers big releases, but it also allows subscribers the ability to tune into live sporting events, as well as shows on NBC, Bravo, and many more popular channels.
Aimée Lutkin is the weekend editor at ELLE.com. Her writing has appeared in Jezebel, Glamour, Marie Claire and more. Her first book, The Lonely Hunter, will be released by Dial Press in February 2022.
