The sequel to The Hunger Games now has a new director, something we have expected since Gary Ross stepped down in early April. Of course, this is great news to me considering the deepest flaw in The Hunger Games was the lack of technical quality — shaky camera to the tenth degree. I’m glad to see a competent director is taking over this beloved franchise. Not that Ross isn’t competent, because his work on Seabiscuit and Pleasantville was great, but it will be refreshing to see a new artist’s take on this series. The directing could not possibly get worse than Ross’ effort on the first film. Now Franchise Lawrence will take the lead, presenting the second film set to debut on November 22nd, 2013.

Lawrence is most well-known for his directing efforts on Constantine, I Am Legend, and most recently Water for Elephants. All three of those films were pretty damn good, especially I Am Legend. The tension in this film was palpable in the absence of light – every time I watch Will Smith following Sam into the overwhelming blackness of that abandoned building, I tense up. And while Water for Elephants does have Mr. Twilight Robert Pattinson, it is definitely worth a watch with Academy Award winners Christoph Waltz and Renee Witherspoon alongside him. Seriously, the film is underrated.

Anyway, all three of these movies were well shot and feature top Hollywood talent. Lawrence can obviously hold his own. I’m excited to see what he can bring to the table — surely it’s a lot more than Gary Ross’ shaky camera and hyper editing. Catching Fire is set to begin shooting this Fall.

Are You Excited For This Addition To The Sequel? 

 

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