The rumor mill kicked into high gear when it was announced Gary Ross was not going to return for the sequel to The Hunger Games, Catching Fire. Plenty of named were bandied about, and we did our best to stay out of the fray until something official came in. Well, tonight, it appears Lionsgate has found its helmer.
According to Deadline, Francis Lawrence (I Am Legend) will direct.
Shooting is expected to begin in August so Jennifer Lawrence makes her commitment to Fox for the sequel to X-Men: First Class, said to begin shooting in early 2013.
Lawrence also helmed Water for Elephants and Constantine. The Hunger Games, to date, has made an estimated $534 million worldwide.
Lionsgate has slotted Catching Fire for a November 22, 2013 release.
