The Japanese Origins of Hunger Games and Fortnite: A Battle Royale Revisited

The 1999 Japanese novel "Battle Royale" and its subsequent film adaptation, directed by Kinji Fukasaku, are being revisited as part of a "High School Horror" series on the Criterion Channel. The story follows a class of 15-year-old students who are forced to participate in a battle to the death on a remote island. The film, known for its provocative and violent nature, has had a lasting influence on the genre, inspiring works like "The Hunger Games," "Fortnite," and "Squid Game." Despite its cult status, "Battle Royale" is praised for its fast-paced, darkly humorous, and vicious storytelling, making it a compelling watch even after 20 years.