Lionsgate has confirmed that "I Am Legend" and "Water For Elephants" helmer Francis Lawrence will take over in the next edition of the "Hunger Games" franchise. Earlier this month "Hunger Games" director Gary Ross confirmed that he would not return for the next film in the series "Catching Fire."
The film is set to hit theatres on November 22, 2012 and, according to hollywoodgossip.com, features even more impressive sets and production than "The Hunger Games." Thus far the first film in the series has been a box office smash, raking in $530 million at box offices world wide.
Ross reportedly butted heads with the studio over contract negotiations, but was also interested in pursuing other opportunities. Ross, who is also successful as a screenwriter, is rumored to have a new project in development that is worth more than Lionsgate's contract for "Catching Fire."
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June 05, 2026 16:18 ET A busy week for economic news flow saw a slew of reports being released that reflected the trends in the U.S. labor market. In Europe, economic growth and inflation data gained attention as the European Central Bank and Bank of England head for policy session later in the month. In Asia, the monetary policy session of the Indian central bank was in focus as the country, a major oil importer, reels under the pressures of a weaker rupee and rising inflation.