The story follows Coriolanus Snow, an 18-year-old student trying to restore his family's reputation after their fall from grace. He is assigned to mentor Lucy Gray Baird, a tribune from District 12. Lucy Gray manages to impress with her charm and musical talent, offering Coriolanus opportunities to restore his status.

As the Hunger Games unfolds, moral conflicts arise and it becomes clear how far Coriolanus is willing to go for power and survival. The film explores themes of manipulation, social inequality and the origins of the Hunger Games. Ultimately, it lays the groundwork for Snow's transformation into the ruthless leader we know from the original series.