‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes’ and Every Other Movie Coming to Peacock This Week

Peacock’s schedule for the week of January 12 through January 18 is anchored by a massive expansion of its film library, featuring several of the highest-grossing franchises in modern cinema. Subscribing viewers can anticipate a deep dive into the dystopian world of Panem followed by a trip to the dinosaur-filled Isla Nublar. These additions provide a comprehensive look at one of the most successful young adult adaptations and a revitalization of a classic sci-fi series. All titles listed for Wednesday arrive simultaneously, making it a significant day for franchise fans.

‘The Hunger Games’ (2012)

Arriving on Wednesday, January 14, ‘The Hunger Games’ introduces Katniss Everdeen as she volunteers to take her sister’s place in a televised fight to the death. Set in the dystopian nation of Panem, the story follows two tributes from each of the twelve districts who must compete until only one survivor remains. Katniss must rely on her hunting skills and sharp instincts to navigate the brutal arena designed by the oppressive Capitol. This adaptation of Suzanne Collins’ novel launched a global cinematic phenomenon and stars Jennifer Lawrence in her breakout role.

‘The Hunger Games: Catching Fire’ (2013)

This sequel joins the Peacock library on Wednesday, January 14, continuing the journey of Katniss Everdeen and Peeta Mellark after their unprecedented victory. The victors embark on a Victory Tour of the districts, only to find that their act of defiance has sparked the beginnings of a rebellion. President Snow announces the 75th Hunger Games, known as the Quarter Quell, which forces past victors back into the arena to compete once again. The stakes escalate as the protagonists face deadlier environmental obstacles and a growing political conspiracy.

‘The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1’ (2014)

Landing on the platform on Wednesday, January 14, the first half of the series’ conclusion shifts the focus from the arena to open warfare. Katniss Everdeen finds herself in District 13, the hidden heart of the rebellion led by President Alma Coin. She reluctantly becomes the Mockingjay, the symbolic face of the revolution, to unite the districts against the Capitol’s tyranny. The narrative explores themes of propaganda and the psychological toll of war as Katniss fights to rescue a brainwashed Peeta from enemy hands.

‘The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 2’ (2015)

The final installment of the original quartet becomes available on Wednesday, January 14, concluding the total war for the future of Panem. Katniss Everdeen leads a specialized squad into the heart of the Capitol to assassinate President Snow and end his reign of terror. The city is filled with lethal traps and “pods” that turn the urban streets into a new, more dangerous kind of Hunger Games arena. As the revolution reaches its climax, Katniss must make a final choice that will determine the moral foundation of her nation.

‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes’ (2023)

Premiering on Peacock on Wednesday, January 14, this prequel explores the origins of the series’ primary antagonist, Coriolanus Snow. Set sixty-four years before the first film, a young Snow is assigned to mentor Lucy Gray Baird, the female tribute from District 12. The story depicts the early years of the Hunger Games and the internal power struggles within the Capitol after the first rebellion. It provides historical context for the evolution of the games and the rise of a future dictator.

‘Jurassic World’ (2015)

Scheduled for release on Friday, January 16, ‘Jurassic World’ revitalizes the prehistoric franchise with a fully operational theme park on Isla Nublar. Disaster strikes when the Indominus rex, a genetically modified hybrid dinosaur, escapes its enclosure and begins a rampage across the island. Owen Grady, a dinosaur researcher and trainer, must team up with park manager Claire Dearing to save the visitors and stop the creature. The movie features high-octane action sequences and explores the consequences of scientific overreach and corporate greed.

Which of these blockbuster titles are you planning to stream first this week? Share your thoughts in the comments.