Movies are never as good as the books, but this movie was very good. Of course the characters don't look like you imagined, but I liked all the actors and thought they did a convincing job of portraying the essence of what Suzanne Collins wrote. The movie can be enjoyed by everyone, but it is probably better if you have read the books. I would not take small children because of the violence, but it was not gratuitous and is appropriate for teenagers. The scenery was beautiful. I will definitely see it again and will recommend it to friends.