My wife enjoyed John Carter... she doesn't read (except for medical manuals) but had no problems "getting" it... my ex-wife took my 'tween daughters to the midnite opening of Hunger Games, they all loved it (and have all read the book.)

I admit to being not overly impressed with "Hunger Games" advertisements. Hadn't read the book or otherwise being at all familiar with it. It was not on my "Must See" list; I was actually giving it a 'pass (by)'. But my gal-pal talked me into seeing it with her Sunday... I must say that I was thoroughly surprised! It far exceeded my expectations, and I really enjoyed it. The supporting star appearances of Woody Harrelson and Donald Sutherland added and did not detract from the main character storyline. It's now on my "buy" list when the DVD comes out.

So for those of you that are balking at viewing this dysfunctional utopia flick - I say "Have at it!" (You will note that I included no plot spoilers here!)