After their recent acquisition of Summit Entertainment, Lionsgate looks to be stamping their authority on the film world by announcing plans for a sequel to its yet-to-be released THE HUNGER GAMES. The film is adapted from Suzanne Collins best-seller, which was the first part of a trilogy. That being the case, the news may not have come as a surprise but it is strange that an announcement has been made well ahead of the films release.
The novel’s follow-up is entitled CATCHING FIRE, and confirmation of the sequel has also brought news that director Gary Ross will return along with the films four main actors, Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth and Woody Harrelson. Replacing Ross on scripting duties will be Oscar-winning SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE writer Simon Beaufoy.
THE HUNGER GAMES is actually a very violent book considering it was aimed at the teen crowd. It tells the story of a future-set world where fighting for your life is the global sport and one watched by billions on television. The focus is on Katniss Everdeen, who offers to take the place of her sister in the ‘game of death’. The story has often been described as a cross between BATTLE ROYALE and THE RUNNING MAN.
THE HUNGER GAMES is released 23rd March 2012 and sequel CATCHING FIRE set for 22nd November 2013.
Source: The Wrap
