I have heard good things about Suzanne Collins’ “The Hunger Games” and now it appears early reports saying Seabiscuit helmer Gary Ross was in talks to direct the feature adaptation have turned into him securing the position. Ross was reportedly in contention for the role with the likes of Sam Mendes, Francis Lawrence, David Slade, Andrew Adamson, Rupert Sanders and Susanna White.
Collins penned the adaptation, which was then rewritten by Billy Ray (Breach). The story for The Hunger Games is the first in a trilogy and I’ve heard from people that have read the book that it’s great and the second installment, “Catching Fire,” was published last year and part three, “Mockingjay,” hit stands in August. Here’s the synopsis as provided by the publisher (Scholastic Press):
In the ruins of a place once known as North America lies the nation of Panem, a shining Capitol surrounded by twelve outlaying districts. The Capitol is harsh and cruel and keeps the districts in line by forcing them all to send one girl and one boy between the ages of twelve and eighteen to participate in the annual Hunger Games, a fight to the death on live TV. Sixteen-year-old Katniss Everdeen, who lives alone with her mother and younger sister, regards it as a death sentence when she is forced to represent her district in the Games. But Katniss has also resolved to outwit the creators of the games. To do that she will have to be the last person standing at the end of the deadly ordeal, and that will take every ounce of strength and cunning she has.
The first report on the film said Lionsgate hoped to turn this into a Twilight-esque franchise, which would kill the Running Man and Battle Royale comparisons. Of course, these are considered young adult novels and the fact the lead role is that of a 16-year-old girl leaves the door wide open. Will they make an edgy futuristic thriller or a more toned-down PG-13 ordeal?
Variety‘s report doesn’t detail any kind of casting intentions. Is there anyone you’d prefer to see in the lead?
If you’re interested in purchasing the books, click here for a look at Amazon, the hardcover trilogy is marked at only $28.90.
