The big-screen adaptation of Suzanne Collins’ first novel in THE HUNGER GAMES series was a box-office smash. With sequel THE HUNGER GAMES: CATCHING FIRE currently in pre-production for an October/November shoot and a release slated for 22nd November 2013, the franchise finale has finally been confirmed…With a catch!
THE HUNGER GAMES: MOCKINGJAY will follow a full year after the first sequel. Well, the first part will at least. Lionsgate are once again milking a franchise for all its worth by splitting the finale into two. Just like they did with TWILIGHT conclusion BREAKING DAWN, and just like Warner Bros also did with the Harry Potter finale, THE DEATHLY HALLOWS. THE HUNGER GAMES: MOCKINGJAY PART 1 will invade cinemas 21st November 2014, with PART 2 scheduled for 20th November 2015.
In the past few days we’ve already confirmed Jena Malone for the pivotal role of axe-wielding tribute Johanna Mason, who features in both CATCHING FIRE and MOCKINGJAY novels. Additionally,the role of ruthless games master Plutarch Heavensbee has been taken by the brilliant Phillip Seymour Hoffman. Whether CATCHING FIRE director Francis Lawrence, who got the gig following original helmer Gary Ross departure, returns for MOCKINGJAY 1 & 2, remains to be seen.
Original stars Jennifer Lawrence, Elizabeth Banks, Woody Harrelson, Liam Hemsworth, Josh Hutcherson and Donald Sutherland are all certain to return.
Source: Deadline
