Unlike the film’s stars, “The Hunger Games” director Gary Ross is not signed on for the sequel says The Hollywood Reporter. This has lead to discussions about a significant raise for the helmer to take the reins of the next film in the trilogy – “Catching Fire”.
Despite making over $360 million thus far worldwide, ‘Games’ was not without its issues. Negotiations for Ross to do the first film were decidedly tough and he took a relatively low salary to co-write and direct the film – though he will collect a very nice 5% of the backend.
Ross didn’t begin negotiations until early last month and now there’s questions over whether he will return to begin filming the project this Fall. While he may have a lot of balls in his corner, major franchises from “Twilight” to “Harry Potter” have shown studios are more willing than ever to replace directors if needs be.
Lionsgate reportedly has a script from Simon Beaufoy which Ross has yet to revise. Another complication is Fox could exercise its option on Jennifer Lawrence for a “X-Men First Class” sequel which could cause issues with filming schedules and Lionsgate’s already targeted November 22nd 2013 release date for ‘Fire’.
More as it develops.
