The Hunger Games: Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes Digital Release Date Confirmed
The prequel film, The Hunger Games: Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes, has been confirmed for digital release just in time for the holidays. This article provides an overview of the film, its performance in theaters, and the significance of its digital release.
Overview of The Hunger Games: Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes
The Hunger Games: Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes is a prequel film based on a book by Suzanne Collins. It follows the relationship between a young Coriolanus Snow (Tom Blyth) and District 12 tribute Lucy Gray Baird (Rachel Zegler) during the 10th annual games. The cast and characters also include Peter Dinklage as Casca Highbottom, Jason Schwartzman as Lucky Flickerman, Hunter Schafer as Tigris Snow, and Viola Davis as Dr. Volumnia Gaul.
A young Coriolanus Snow with a rose pinned to his vest in The Hunger Games The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes
After its theatrical release, Lionsgate has officially announced that the prequel movie will arrive on premium video-on-demand on December 19. The film will be available to buy for $24.99 and to rent for $19.99 on digital platforms, including Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, Vudu, and more.
Performance in Theaters
The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes was released in theaters on November 17 and initially had a slow start, setting a franchise-low opening despite topping the box office for that weekend. However, the film held up well in its second weekend, coinciding with Thanksgiving, and finished ahead of new releases like Ridley Scott's Napoleon and Disney's Wish.
Fast-forward to its fifth weekend in theaters, Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes finished second at the domestic box office while passing the $300 million mark worldwide, a feat achieved by just 15 movies in 2023. With a budget of $100 million, the film has been a box office success with real legs, which is why it's surprising that it's releasing on digital after only one month in theaters.
Lionsgate is attempting to capitalize on the holiday rush and Christmas viewing at home by debuting the film on December 19 on digital platforms. This move aligns with the release strategy of other films, such as Trolls Band Together, Eli Roth's Thanksgiving, and John Woo's Silent Night.
Significance of Digital Release
The digital release of The Hunger Games: Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes on December 19 is strategically timed to coincide with the holiday season, allowing audiences to enjoy the film from the comfort of their homes. Lionsgate is aiming to attract viewers who prefer the convenience of digital platforms and capitalize on the holiday rush for at-home entertainment.
