Josh Hutcherson says filming 'The Hunger Games' was his version of college
Washington DC, June 13
Actor Josh Hutcherson has reflected on his years filming 'The Hunger Games' franchise, saying the blockbuster series became his version of college as he grew up alongside his castmates, according to People.
During a conversation with former co-star Elizabeth Banks for Variety's Actors on Actors series, Hutcherson looked back on joining the franchise as a teenager and the lasting impact it had on his life.
"Well, I mean, I think I was like 19," Hutcherson said while discussing the start of filming. "Like it was like that was my -- I didn't do college and so like college for me was shooting those movies," according to People.
The actor added that the experience helped shape his early adult years.
"And kind of growing up with them, but that was so long ago," he said.
Banks, who played Effie Trinket in the franchise, recalled the lively atmosphere among the younger cast members during production.
"I remember coming back and you guys were like this feral gang of young people," Banks said. "That's what it felt like."
The four-film franchise, released between 2012 and 2015 and based on the bestselling novels by Suzanne Collins, became a global phenomenon.
Hutcherson starred as Peeta Mellark opposite Jennifer Lawrence's Katniss Everdeen, while Banks portrayed the colourful Capitol escort Effie Trinket. The ensemble cast also featured Liam Hemsworth, Woody Harrelson, Stanley Tucci and Donald Sutherland, according to People.
Reflecting on her time with the cast, Banks said she often felt protective of the younger actors.
"I felt like your auntie," she recalled, before adding, "I was everyone's auntie."
As the franchise continued, Banks said she became more comfortable on set.
"And then we really, I really got to like relax and have fun on the second one," she said. "There were a lot more adults my age."
In December 2025, multiple outlets reported that Lawrence, 35, and Hutcherson are expected to reprise their roles in the upcoming 2026 prequel Sunrise on the Reaping, which will debut in theatres on Nov. 20. However, specifics behind their potential appearance in the movie are under wraps, according to People.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Josh is right—college is overrated anyway. Some of the best learning happens when you're thrown into real-world challenges. That said, I wish the Indian education system would focus more on practical skills like filmmaking and less on rote memorization. At least these Hollywood actors get to grow up with purpose.
"Feral gang of young people" 😂 That's exactly what it must have felt like! The chemistry between Jennifer, Josh, and Liam was unmatched. I still rewatch the movies every year. So excited for Sunrise on the Reaping!
I never thought of it that way—his college was literally a dystopian movie set. 😅 But honestly, the franchise taught us all about rebellion and standing up for what's right. That's more valuable than any degree. And Elizabeth Banks as the auntie figure is just perfect!
As someone who studied film in the US, I can see how this experience was more formative than any classroom. Working with such a talented cast at a young age is priceless. But I do wonder—what about the pressure? Kudos to him for handling it well.
In India, we'd never let a 19-year-old have that kind of freedom, haha. But maybe that's why Western cinema produces such raw talent. Loved the analogy though—college is just a phase, but The Hunger Games? That's a legacy. Peeta forever! 🍞
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