Though we may only have two months away from the official release, Lionsgate following their acquisition move on Summit Entertainment has certainly been busy with their own stuffs as well. We reported back a few days ago that the acquisition could mean a possible extension for the Twilight saga under the care of the new parent studio. Before that could happen at anywhere soon, Lionsgate seems to be focusing on their huge tentpole - The Hunger Games - at this moment.
Like I have said, The Hunger Game, the first film based on Suzanne Collins' novel series will be releasing in March but the sequel works have already started. The previously rumored that Lionsgate wanted Simon Beaufoy (Slumdog Millionaire, 127 Hours) to do the scripting for the sequel 'Catching Fire' has materialized. Indeed that now he is already reported on work for the sequel.
Other than that, no director has been attached to the sequel yet although The Wrap reported that Gary Ross is set to direct the sequel as he did with the first film. Let's wait for official statement from Lionsgate anytime soon about the director chair. As far as I am concerned, Gary Ross would be practically busy doing final post-production job at this moment.
Though 'Catching Fire' is not yet greenlit probably due to the watch-and-wait approach by Lionsgate to see the box office performance for 'The Hunger Games', they have already slot in November 22, 2013 for the release. It should be wise to assume that star-runners like Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth and Woody Harrelson are expected to return.
'Catching Fire' will follow the event after 'The Hunger Games'. The official plot synopsis is as follows - but I assured you that this is a spoiler, so back off from here if you can:
Against all odds, Katniss Everdeen has won the annual Hunger Games with fellow district tribute Peeta Mellark. But it was a victory won by defiance of the Capitol and their harsh rules. Katniss and Peeta should be happy. After all, they have just won for themselves and their families a life of safety and plenty. But there are rumors of rebellion among the subjects, and Katniss and Peeta, to their horror, are the faces of that rebellion. The Capitol is angry. The Capitol wants revenge.Source: Slash Film, The Wrap