Gary Ross Officially Withdraws from Hunger Games Sequel

 

All the speculation around Gary Ross’ return to direct The Hunger Games sequel, Catching Fire, has now come to an end as Ross has officially withdrawn from the project, Deadline reports. Ross is leaving despite the fact that he would have had a chance to direct a high-anticipated sequel that will surely become a box-office hit (considering The Hunger Games’ current success) and the fact that he and Suzanne Collins, author of the original trilogy of novels, have been working on the film adaptation of Catching Fire since November last year. Lionsgate are said to be shocked about the decision. Both Ross and Lionsgate have released official statements:

Gary Ross’ statement:

“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.

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. And contrary to what has been reported, negotiations with Lionsgate have not been problematic. They have also been very understanding of me through this difficult decision.

I also cannot say enough about the people I worked with: Producer Nina Jacobson, a great collaborator and a true friend; the brilliant Suzanne Collins, who entrusted us with her most amazing and important story; the gifted and remarkable Jennifer Lawrence whose performance exceeded my wildest expectations, and the rest of the incredible cast, whom I am proud to call my friends.

To the fans I want to say thank you for your support your faith, your enthusiasm and your trust. Hard as this may be to understand I am trying to keep that trust with you. Thank you all. It’s been a wonderful experience.”

Lionsgate’s statement:

“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.”

While some viewers may be glad to be rid of his shaky-cam action sequences, many lament his departure as he managed to create a film that was cleared aimed at and worked for the teenage demographic, but formed it into the anti-Twilight – hinting at a love triangle but not letting it overwhelm the film to just follow the popular trends, letting there be a strong heroine who is able to take care of herself without needing a boyfriend. The Hunger Games luckily focused more on the issues surrounding the emotions of the teenagers being put through the tournament. But what would have improved the film would have been to focus more on the ethics and social issues surrounding the Districts (there seems to be a clear comparison between rich and poor between the Capitol and the 12 Districts, but this wasn’t explored in much depth) and the Hunger Games. Perhaps as a new director is chosen and the sequel is being penned, these issues can come into more prominence.

So now, inevitably, the speculation begins as to who is going to replace Ross as director for Catching Fire. Perhaps Harry Potter directors Alfonso Cuarón or David Yates, as I suggested in my previous report regarding Ross’ possible departure from the sequel?

News source – Deadline