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Ever since Gary Ross bowed out as the director for “The Hunger Games” sequel, Lionsgate has been sifting through their options. The short list was rumored earlier this week to include Bennett Miller (“Moneyball,” “Capote”) and Francis Lawrence (“Water For Elephants,” “I Am Legend,” and “Constantine”).

Now the word is out that the two directors both had meetings with Lionsgate yesterday and that the studio has made its decision. While there have been no papers signed yet, Lionsgate is ready to offer the job to Francis Lawrence. Given the fact that Miller is already working on another project (“Foxcatcher”), this would mean that “Catching Fire” could begin production sooner rather than later.
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What do you think about Lawrence directing the next “Hunger Games” movie? Given his previous work, especially “I Am Legend,” I think he’s a great choice.