Catching Fire sees Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence), winner of the 74th annual Hunger Games, returning to her home of District 12 as part of the Victors Tour. The trailer gives us a look at Philip Seymour Hoffman, who joins the cast as Plutarch Heavensbee, Head Game Maker, who will no doubt be instrumental in the creation of the Quarter Quell, which has all previous Hunger Games victors battling it out against each other. Any time an actor of his calibre joins a film there is something to be optimistic about.
The Hunger Games: Catching Fire is directed by Francis Lawrence (I Am Legend), and also stars Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth, Elizabeth Banks, Sam Claflin, Jena Malone, Alan Ritchson, Woody Harrelson, Stanley Tucci, Willow Shields, Donald Sutherland, Toby Jones, Amanda Plummer and Jeffrey Wright.
The Hunger Games was a much enjoyed film for me; certainly not perfect but an enjoyable watch with an independent female lead that deserved respect. Any chance to see Jenifer Lawrence in action again is a welcome opportunity too, as she is developing into one of the best actresses working today. I’m looking forward to this one, as I think what the film represents (powerful, independent female leads earning big box office) outweighs some of the first films flaws. Intrigued and eager to see more.
The Hunger Games: Catching Fire is set for release on November 22nd.