Two Directors In Running For 'The Hunger Games' Sequel, Catching Fire

The rumor mill is at full tilt as the race to find the new director for the sequel of what's already one of the most commercially successful films of all time begins in earnest. 'The Hunger Games' has been a phenomenal success Stateside, as well as picking up tidy earnings worldwide, and topped the US Box Office for a fourth week in a row recently. The film has soared to over $530 million in takings worldwide and though the highest grossing movie of all time - 'Avatar' - might be out of its reach, it certainly looks to be having a good go at it.

The Los Angeles Times reports that Lionsgate are expected to offer the job to either Francis Lawrence or Bennett Miller by the end of the week. Both have fine credentials, and the decision surely won't be coming down to much. Lawrence past films include 'I Am Legend' and 'Water For Elephants' whilst Miller can boast 'Moneyball' and 'Capote' in his past director's credits.

There was a broader group of directors considered but it's these two who they've apparently whittled it down to. Lawrence may have the advantage because he currently has an open schedule. Miller on the other hand would have to delay plans to direct forthcoming film 'The Foxcatcher.'