Willow Shields, then thirteen, secured the coveted role of Primrose Everdeen when the film adaptation of The Hunger Games began production. She returns to the character in Catching Fire, which is in theatres now.
This feature explores Willow’s thoughts on the new movie, her view of Prim, and working with Jennifer Lawrence and the rest of the cast across North America, including the United States and Canada.
The Hunger Games: Catching Fire drops audiences into a world where Katniss and Peeta enjoy life in the Victor’s Village until President Snow orders a new, larger Hunger Games that pits past champions against one another, stirring whispers of rebellion among the districts.
The plot brings Katniss and the other victors back into a dangerous arena, where Katniss’s cleverness begins to unsettle the Capitol and hint at a broader resistance that resonates with viewers in North America and beyond.
The close bond between Katniss and Primrose remains a driving force, illustrating a sisterly connection that fuels Katniss’s resolve in the face of terrifying challenges.
Primrose Everdeen is Katniss’s younger sister, who was kept safe when Katniss volunteered for the first Games. In Catching Fire, she grows braver and becomes a healer like her mother, embodying hope and compassion while standing beside Katniss through difficult times.
Willow notes that Primrose has matured significantly since the first film, adopting many of Katniss’s defining traits — a willingness to help others and a steady, protective spirit — while shedding some of the vulnerability she showed earlier.
She began reading the first book during auditions and, by the callback, had already worked her way through the trilogy, deepening her understanding of Prim’s arc and the world she inhabits.
Her impression of Primrose and her enthusiasm for the character grew as she read, and she recalls loving the character without ever imagining herself portraying her until the opportunity arose.
On the red carpet in Los Angeles for the Catching Fire premiere, the atmosphere was electric as the full cast connected with fans and celebrated the film’s release in North America, including Canada.
When asked about her favourite scene, she hints at a climactic moment that stands out for its emotional resonance, without spoiling the experience for future viewers.
The premiere in Los Angeles was a dazzling occasion, with the entire cast present. Willow cherishes the memory of sharing the moment with friends and family who could be there to support her.
Filming Catching Fire felt more comfortable for Willow after the familiarity of the first film had grown; she found it easier to step into her role and enjoy the on-set atmosphere with longtime colleagues.
Working alongside Jennifer Lawrence and the rest of the cast was a highlight, described as a warm, collaborative, and genuinely enjoyable experience. The ensemble, including Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth, and Jena Malone, contributed to a positive, creative dynamic on set.
Liam Hemsworth, Willow Shields, Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, and Jena Malone promote Catching Fire at Comic-Con, bringing energy and humor to fans around the world.
If placed in the Hunger Games scenario, Willow believes she would likely hide rather than fight, acknowledging she isn’t adept at climbing trees and would probably struggle with weapons in a real contest.
Given the chance to swap roles, she would pick Johanna Mason for her dark, quirky humor and the chance to play a bold, unconventional character within the series.
She emphasizes that Catching Fire offers something for every viewer, blending romance, action, and strong performances while staying true to the spirit of the books, which resonates with both longtime fans and newcomers in the United States and Canada.
Willow also highlights appearances in London and other international markets, where audiences shared in the excitement and supported the film in new ways compared to its North American launch.
Her interest in acting started with her brother’s desire to act and a love for local filming in New Mexico, which led to auditions and a developing passion for the craft that continues to grow with every project.
Beyond The Hunger Games, her favorite authors include John Green and Markus Zusak, whose books she adores and often revisits for inspiration and imagination.
Her fashion inspiration comes from brands like Urban Outfitters, Brandy Melville, and Free People, reflecting a casual, approachable style that suits her on-screen presence and personal taste.
At just thirteen, Willow looks forward to continuing her acting career, with Mockingjay Part 1 and Part 2 ahead and the possibility of new roles afterward, always ready for fresh adventures on screen.
Fans can catch Catching Fire in theatres now, joining Willow Shields as she continues to grow her presence in North American cinema and beyond.