Entertainment

Katniss Might Be The Best Female Character Ever

by Nicole Pomarico

It's something I've been dreading, but it's definitely happening: Later this month, the final Hunger Games movie will be released. It's crazy how much time has passed since Jennifer Lawrence first became Katniss, and never again will November be the same without a new movie in the series to look forward to. And at the latest press conference for the film, it sounds like our leading lady is feeling the same way. Over the last four years, the 25-year-old superstar has worked so hard it made her age "like a president" all for a very important reason: Lawrence thinks Katniss is "the greatest female character ever." And as a huge fan of the series, I'm inclined to agree with her.

OK, so Katniss definitely has her flaws, and I'm totally willing to admit it. I mean, she yanks Peeta around quite a bit, and she has, like, one hairstyle. But that doesn't take away from her seriously awesome qualities, and there are plenty. After all, very few people are able to lead an actual rebellion, especially teenagers. Most people (OK, me) can't even be bothered to get off the couch, let alone take down a corrupt government.

And because of that, Katniss will always be one of the most amazing female characters in pop culture, just like the woman who brought her to life says. But just in case you're not convinced, here are a few reasons why Lawrence is right.

She Doesn't Let Her Seriously Messed Up Life Stop Her

Let's be real: If most of us were Katniss, we would be a mess. Her father was tragically killed, her mother is still grieving his death and she's pretty much useless. Her family is seriously struggling, and the world around her is falling apart. Simply put, Katniss' life sucks, and I wouldn't blame her if she didn't want to get out of bed in the morning. But instead of letting that fact drag her down, she uses it as fuel to make change, even when it means she has to do a lot of scary things. Like, you know, being hunted by other kids.

She's Incredibly Brave

And it starts from the beginning of her story. She steps in for Prim when she's called up for the Hunger Games, and everything she does from then on is because of her courage. If everyone just had an ounce of Katniss' bravery, the world would be a way better place.

She's The Hero

Not Peeta, not Gale, Katniss. In a world where basically every superhero movie stars a male lead, this is really important!

She's Relatable

Remember those flaws I was talking about earlier? They make her a better character, because they make her real. Heroes who perfect also aren't interesting, and all of her failings make her more human. And best of all, she keeps that humanity when she's in the arena, especially when she forms an alliance with Rue and cares for her until her death — something the other tributes didn't do.

When November 20 rolls around, I'm going to be truly sad to say goodbye to a character I've grown to love so much through the books and the films. And even though she only has one hairstyle, I'll admit it — that braid is flawless.

Images: Giphy (4)