Pretty big news out of the sci-fi world today as Deadline is reporting that The Hunger Games has found its two male leads. Josh Hutcherson, coming off The Kids Are Alright, has been cast as Peeta Mellark. Hutcherson’s name might also sound familiar, because he was in the running to play Peter Parker in the upcoming Spiderman reboot and made this kick ass audition tape. The role of Gale Hawthorne will be played by Liam Hemsworth, the brother of Thor star Chris Hemsworth. Liam’s perhaps best known for his work on Australian TV. Both actors will joined onscreen by Jennifer Lawrence, who will be playing the protagonist, Katniss Everdeen.
For those of you who know nothing about The Hunger Games, the film is based on the first book of a trilogy written by Suzanne Collins. Here’s the official synopsis:
“The Hunger Games chronicles a dystopic Capitol which requires its twelve subjugated districts to pay tribute in the form of a teenage boy and girl, forced to participate in the annual “Hunger Games,” a fight-to-the-death live televised event. Katniss Everdeen’s little sister is chosen in the lottery to participate and Katniss volunteers to take her place. Although persevering through hardship is commonplace for Katniss, she must start making choices that weigh survival against humanity and life against love in order to win the games and return home.”
Gary Ross, of Big, Pleasantville, and Seabiscuit fame, is set to direct. Being perfectly honest, I haven’t read any of the books. I’ve known about their plot for a little while, only because talk of the film adaptation has been circulating around. So, I’m really in no position to agree or disagree with the casting choices. But, I will say this… Jennifer Lawrence is extremely talented so I’m thinking she has to be a solid choice. Anyway, what do you all think? Do you agree with casting?
Man I hope they don't fuck this movie up
For the role of Haymitch, I want John Fawkes. He seems good for it.
i only read the first but it was rivetting. katniss is a plant she is named after, btw.
anyway, im liking all these casting choices. i was wondering why it wasnt mentioned that liam hemsworth was the kid in "the last song." i thought he did great there.
@Korne: Wasn't Gale supposed to be older than Katniss and Peeta? I thought he was a few years older. I'm sure they can make it work with make-up etc. I can't wait to see who they pick for Haymitch, plus Cinna too!
Of course the book is fairly graphic, unless they really push the 14a rating it'll probably suck and focus on the relationship