14 DAY TRIAL // “The Hunger Games” is confirming early reports that it's poised to make a killing at the box office. Because of the phenomenal success, speculation on a sequel has already begun. One thing is a given: director Gary Ross won't be back at the helm.
The first film, which still sits atop of the US box office as we speak, is based on the first novel by Suzanne Collins. Two more installments will follow, each based on the other novels in the trilogy.
Because of how successful “Hunger Games” turned out to be and because of the very warm fan and critical reception, many assumed that Ross would also direct the sequel, “Catching Fire.”
It won't happen, the director says in a statement cited by IGN. However, contrary to online speculation, it's not because of money issues but rather because of scheduling differences.
“Despite recent speculation in the media, and after difficult but sincere consideration, I have decided not to direct Catching Fire. As a writer and a director, I simply don't have the time I need to write and prep the movie I would have wanted to make because of the fixed and tight production schedule,” Ross says.
“Catching Fire” is already scheduled to go into production no later than November this year, which means Ross would have to put pretty much everything else on hold to meet the deadline.
“ I loved making The Hunger Games – it was the happiest experience of my professional life. Lionsgate was supportive of me in a manner that few directors ever experience in a franchise: they empowered me to make the film I wanted to make and backed the movie in a way that requires no explanation beyond the remarkable results,” the director goes on to say.
He also shoots down reports of difficult negotiations over money, and notes that the movie studio has been very supportive and understanding throughout the whole thing – as also have the cast and everyone else involved in the first film.
Ross remembers to thank the fans as well.
In a separate statement, Lionsgate confirms that Ross is out of the picture but, at the same time, makes it very clear that the decision was all his and they had no hand in it.
“We're very sorry that Gary Ross has chosen not to direct Catching Fire. We were really looking forward to making the movie with him. He did an incredible job on the first film and we are grateful for his work. This will not be the end of our relationship, as we consider Ross to be part of the Lionsgate family and look forward to working with him in the future,” the movie studio notes.