It’s been ten years since the first film in The Hunger Games series hit theaters, enthralling viewers with its thrilling dystopian tale. The films’ success brought Jennifer Lawrence and Josh Hutcherson to prominence and solidified their friendship.
A memorable on-set accident that left Hutcherson nursing a concussion occurred amidst the teamwork and adrenaline-fueled action, and Jennifer Lawrence had no idea that it would unleash her monstrous strength.
When Lawrence Channeled Jackie Chan
There were plenty of laughs for the cast and crew to share during the making of The Hunger Games: Catching Fire. Jennifer Lawrence, known for her gregarious nature and vivacious humor, frequently injected a lighthearted atmosphere during transitions between takes.
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On one such occasion, Lawrence decided to show off her karate chops by attempting a high kick over the head of Josh Hutcherson, who played Peeta. Lawrence, sure of her speed and power, dared Hutcherson that she could kick him over his head.
“She was being a real show-off, thinking that she was Jackie Chan or something. [She was] throwing these air kicks and was like, ‘Josh, I can kick over your head!’ And then crack! She clipped me in the temple. … I don’t really remember, because I got knocked out.”
She kicked with tremendous force, but she had no idea. She intended to show off her martial arts skills with a slick leg swing, but fate had other ideas. Her foot’s impact on Hutcherson’s temple was much more severe than predicted.
Lawrence was stunned, and Hutcherson was briefly rendered unconscious as their co-star was knocked out in seconds. When Hutcherson came to again, Lawrence was there, her eyes welling up with tears. Lawrence’s distress over what had happened to her co-star was palpable.
It was an accident, but she still felt terrible about what her kick had caused. The incident served as a sobering reminder that physicality and stunts can have unintended consequences, even in make-believe.
Jennifer Lawrence and Josh Hutcherson: An Enduring Friendship
Hutcherson’s experience was likely painful and disorienting at the time, but now it’s viewed as a funny anecdote shared between the two actors. Josh Hutcherson finds solace in the fact that the incident has become a great story to tell to friends and fans, and he often does so with a good sense of humor.
Despite the accidental blow, Jennifer Lawrence and Josh Hutcherson’s friendship continues strong even after the series finale. The two actors could get together during the worldwide quarantine and have dinner while reminiscing about their time filming The Hunger Games.
The franchise had such a profound effect on their lives and careers that it even sparked a lifelong friendship. Since filming wrapped on The Hunger Games, Lawrence and Hutcherson have moved on to new projects.
Until Lawrence and Hutcherson’s next movie together, in the meantime, fans can watch all of The Hunger Games franchise on Hulu and relive the thrills and tears all over again.
Source: Yahoo Entertainment
