Movie

Hunger Games Prequel Ending Explained And How To Watch Online

Dean Highbottom’s fate in the Hunger Games prequel may be confusing if you haven’t read the book of the same name.

Published November 17, 2023

So, you’ve seen “The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes,” but that ending left you scratching your head? The closing moments of the Hunger Games prequel show Dean Casca Highbottom’s demise after drinking from a small vial. If you’re not familiar with the book, it might seem like Highbottom took his own life out of guilt. But things are not as they seem. In a surprising twist, it’s revealed that Highbottom was actually murdered, and Coriolanus Snow played a sinister role.

Dean Highbottom’s fate in the Hunger Games prequel may be confusing if you haven’t read the prequel book of the same name.

Hunger Games Prequel Ending Explained And How To Watch Online — Lionsgate

During a visit to Highbottom in the Hunger Games prequel, Snow subtly reveals vials of morphling, a drug the dean abuses. However, the book reveals that Snow secretly poisoned the vial Highbottom consumed. But why would Snow go to such lengths to kill Highbottom? Well, it turns out that Snow harbors deep-seated resentment towards the dean for various reasons. In the Hunger Games prequel, Snow blames Highbottom for his unfortunate mentorship match in the games and his subsequent assignment as a district peacekeeper.

Additionally, Highbottom’s constant reminders of Snow’s family’s poverty and his unfair grudge towards Snow due to his father’s actions only fuel Snow’s animosity towards the dean. As the movie progresses, subtle hints foreshadow Highbottom’s impending demise, adding an eerie layer of anticipation to the plot. The presence of rat poison in Snow’s bedroom and his acquisition of the poison from an alley all contribute to the shocking revelation of Highbottom’s fate. To top it all off, Highbottom’s death serves as a nod to President Snow’s signature modus operandi, poison.

Where To Watch “The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes”

The Hunger Games prequel, “The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes,” hits theaters on November 17. To discover when and where you can view the movie in your area, consult the local showtime listings on the following main theater websites:

Fandango
AMC Theaters
Cinemark Theaters
Regal Theaters

Streaming Release Date

Distributor Lionsgate has not officially announced the streaming date for the Hunger Games prequel. Reportedly, it is anticipated to debut on Starz before making its way to Peacock as part of Lionsgate’s streaming agreement with Universal. Drawing from Lionsgate’s previous streaming release pattern, such as the case with John Wick 4, which landed on Starz 175 days (almost six months) post-theatrical release, it’s projected that “The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes” will likely premiere on Starz around mid-May 2024. If this holds true, a subsequent Peacock release may follow 18 months later, around late 2025.

How to Watch Previous Hunger Games Movies

All four Hunger Games movies are available to stream on Peacock. If you don’t have that subscription service, you can rent or buy the movies on Prime Video or YouTube.

The Hunger Games (2012)

Peacock (Stream)
Prime Video (Rent/Buy)
YouTube (Rent/Buy)

The Hunger Games: Catching Fire (2013)

Peacock (Stream)
Prime Video (Rent/Buy)
YouTube (Rent/Buy)

The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1 (2014)

Peacock (Stream)
Prime Video (Rent/Buy)
YouTube (Rent/Buy)

The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 2 (2015)

Peacock (Stream)
Prime Video (Rent/Buy)
YouTube (Rent/Buy)

FAQs

What is the significance of Highbottom’s death?

Highbottom’s death is a shocking revelation in the Hunger Games Prequel, showcasing the dark and calculated nature of Coriolanus Snow and setting the stage for his future as a ruthless leader in Panem.

Why did Snow kill Highbottom in “The Hunger Games” prequel?

Snow’s murder of Highbottom stems from his deep-seated resentment towards the dean for various reasons, including his role in Snow’s unfortunate mentorship match and his constant reminders of Snow’s family’s poverty.

How does Highbottom’s death tie into President Snow’s character in “The Hunger Games” series?

Highbottom’s death serves as a chilling precursor to President Snow’s future actions, showcasing his penchant for using poison as a means of retribution and control.