Walmart Feeds Fans’ ‘Hunger’

On 11 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 17, Walmart stores across the United States will host more than 2,000 parties featuring special giveaways, movie trivia and other activities to mark the DVD release of the blockbuster film The Hunger Games. Along with the midnight wingdings, the Bentonville, Ark.-based mega-retailer will provide the venue for exclusive guest appearances by actors from the film in Marietta, Ga.; Dallas; Miami; Phoenix; and Santa Clarita, Calif.

Fans who buy the DVD at midnight will get a special pack of collectible “The Hunger Games” trading cards. A select number of random packs will include an autographed card from one of the movie’s cast members, among them Jennifer Lawrence, Liam Hemsworth and Josh Hutcherson. Additionally, never-before-seen interviews and behind-the-scenes footage of the film’s stars will be available on Walmart's Facebook page.

“Together with Lionsgate Entertainment, we are providing ‘Hunger Games’ fans with a unique and fun way to celebrate and purchase one of the most anticipated DVD releases of the year,” said Seong Ohm, SVP and general manager of entertainment for Walmart U.S. “When it comes to entertainment, whether it’s through our broad selection of new releases or licensed merchandise, customers can rely on Walmart to carry the items they want at a price they can afford.”

Customers who pre-order The Hunger Games 2-disc Blu-ray or DVD on Walmart’s website before its Aug. 18 release will have a chance to win a trip to Los Angeles to attend “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire” premiere or other exclusive prizes.

Walmart will also offer an exclusive “The Hunger Games” 2-disc Blu-ray or DVD movie gift set that includes a mockingjay pendant and digital UltraViolet copy -- a first for Lionsgate Entertainment. UltraViolet enables customers to upload their purchased movies to an online digital library such as VUDU, Walmart’s video streaming service. Once rights are confirmed, customers can watch the film anytime, anywhere from most Internet-connected devices, including televisions, tablets, smartphones and gaming consoles.

And, as if all that weren’t enough, Walmart and party planner extraordinaire Jen Sbranti of Hostess with the Mostess will host a live Twitter party for fans of “The Hunger Games” on Thursday, Aug. 16, beginning at 4 p.m. ET. Participants can follow @Walmart and use the hashtag #DistrictParty to join the conversation and get tips on throwing their own “The Hunger Games”-themed viewing parties to coincide with the DVD release.

The list of Walmart stores hosting the midnight events is available online.

Consumers can find further information on “The Hunger Games” merchandise and promotions at Walmart on a dedicated section of the retailer’s website.

Wal-Mart Stores Inc. operates more than 10,000 retail units under 69 banners in 27 countries, employing 2.2 million associates worldwide.