'Hunger Games' premieres in Boston

BOSTON (WHDH) -- The hype over the ‘Hunger Games’ reached its peak as the movie debuted in Boston Friday.

The movie premiered at midnight but hungry fans were staked out at the Loews near the Boston Common Thursday evening. The theater showed the film on 16 different screens to make sure everyone got a seat.

“I read the book this past week. Couldn’t put it down, read it in a couple hours. And I’m just super psyched to see the movie,” said Melissa Lasfargas.

“Hopefully it lives up to what I pictured in my mind,” said Andrea Lafontant.

Based on a series on novels, the film about children competing in a televised battle where only one survives, is expected to be a blockbuster.

“Last year we had the huge ‘Twilight’ opening and the huge ‘Harry Potter’ opening. It certainly feels like there’s enough enthusiasm and excitement to match those,” said Ryan Noonan, AMC Theaters.

“I think it targets more towards teenagers rather than the 10-year-old age group,” said one woman.

Loews also opened a special IMAX showing at 3:15 Friday morning.

(Copyright (c) 2012 Sunbeam Television Corp. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)