Jennifer Lawrence has been rumored to be the frontrunner for the lead role in Lionsgate’s adaptation of The Hunger Games since she proudly walked the red carpet at the Academy Awards. Now it appears she may have finally sealed the deal.
The Wrap is reporting that Lionsgate put an offer in front of Lawrence on Tuesday to play Katniss Everdeen in The Hunger Games movie. By late Wednesday, both parties had completed negotiations and a three-film deal was signed.
No other Hollywood trades are reporting the deal with Lawrence is done yet so The Wrap’s report must be taken with a grain of salt until confirmed.
Lawrence was tipped over the weekend to be the frontrunner for the role as Lionsgate executives are apparently high on her abilities after she won an Academy Award nomination for her gritty performance in Winter’s Bone. She reportedly was up against 10 other actresses including Hailee Steinfeld and Abigail Breslin, both of whom had also been nominated for an Academy Award. Other names being considered were Saoirse Ronan, Chloe Moretz, Lyndsy Fonseca, Emily Browning, Emma Roberts, Kaya Scodelario and Shailene Woodle.
Fans of The Hunger Games book trilogy have been outspoken with their concern about Lawrence landing the role due to her physical appearance not matching the description of Katniss in the book. Katniss is described as having olive skin, dark hair, gray eyes and underfed. Lawrence is also 20 years old, 4 years older than Katniss.
Appearances, of course, can be changed. Especially in Hollywood where on-screen magic is commonplace. The natural ability to act cannot be fabricated.
Gary Ross will direct the first film in The Hunger Games trilogy which by now should be well into pre-production and gearing up to being shooting. The release date is just over a year away on March 23, 2012.
Source: The Wrap
