Exclusive: Behind the 'Games' scenes with Banks

By Bryan Alexander, USA TODAY

August 17, 2012

Exclusive: Behind the 'Games' scenes with Banks
Elizabeth Banks plays Effie Trinket and Jennifer Lawrence, left, is Katniss Everdeen in a scene from 'The Hunger Games.' (Credit: By Murray Close, AP)

The joys of Effie Trinket.

As The Hunger Games is released on DVD and Blu-ray at midnight tonight, it's an appropriate time to reflect on the outrageous Capitol escort for the District 12 tributes, played by Elizabeth Banks.

Banks talks about finding the memorable voice for the character in this exclusive clip, which is part of bonus material.

Earlier in the year, Banks talked to USA TODAY about preparing for the role, including the incredibly restrictive costumes which included ornate finger nails. Hey, that's just how the Capitol roles.

"I couldn't go to the bathroom or really do anything for myself," Banks said. "Those nails were outrageous. And they took a very long time to get on unfortunately."

But the outfits were needed to not just the over-the-top opulence of the capitol, but the low-key horror.

"Effie lives in an oppressive society," said Banks. "So everything she wears is tight and constricting. It was all intentional. There is nothing whimsical here. And those shoes were torturous."

Through the makeup and the crazy voice, Banks managed to give some sympathy to what could have been a simply villain.

"I love her," said Banks. "And I want the audience to love her."

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