"The Hanging Tree" is a song featured on the soundtrack for "The Hunger Games: Mockingjay - Part 1," and it's an important piece of music within the film's storyline. Here are some interesting facts about this iconic song:
Origins: "The Hanging Tree" is based on a folk song from the 19th century, and the lyrics were adapted for the film by The Lumineers, who also performed the song. The melody and lyrics draw from Appalachian folk traditions.
Jennifer Lawrence's Performance: In the movie, Katniss Everdeen, played by Jennifer Lawrence, sings "The Hanging Tree." Jennifer Lawrence actually performed the song herself, and her rendition is both haunting and poignant. This added a personal touch to the character's emotional journey in the film.
Chart Success: The song's popularity extended beyond the movie. After its release, "The Hanging Tree" charted on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming one of the rare songs from a movie soundtrack to achieve such mainstream success.
Hidden Rebellion: The lyrics of the song contain hidden messages of rebellion against the Capitol, which is a central theme in "The Hunger Games" series. The song serves as a rallying cry for the resistance movement.
Traditional Folk Influence: The choice to use a traditional folk song for such a crucial moment in the film was a deliberate one. It added depth to the dystopian world created in the movie and connected it to the past, emphasizing the idea of history repeating itself.
Cultural Impact: "The Hanging Tree" became a cultural phenomenon, and fans of the series often sing or reference it as a symbol of resistance. It's a prime example of how music can be used to convey powerful themes in cinema.
"The Hanging Tree" is not just a song on a soundtrack but an integral part of "The Hunger Games" narrative, with deep roots in folk music traditions and a significant impact on both the film and its audience.