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'The Hunger Games' Josh Hutcherson and Liam Hemsworth: Lionsgate defends casting
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When the-powers-that-be behind "The Hunger Games" announced the casting of Josh Hutcherson as Peeta and Liam Hemsworth as Gale, fans of the book series had a mixed reaction. We saw people lamenting everything from their acting abilities to their hair colors to their heights to their potential chemistry with lead Jennifer Lawrence.Lionsgate Films clearly felt the backlash, as they've now released a defensive statement about the surprising choices. It features quotes from director Gary Ross, novel author Suzanne Collins, and producer Nina Jacobson.
Here's what they had to say --
Director Gary Ross: "When I read the book, I thought Peeta would be the hardest role to cast, and I feel so lucky that we found someone who embodies every aspect of such a complex character. I can't wait to work with Josh."
"Hunger Games" author Suzanne Collins: "I was fortunate enough to be in the room with Gary Ross when Josh came in to audition. Three lines into the read I knew he'd be fantastic. Josh totally captured Peeta's temperament, his sense of humor and his facility for language. I'm thrilled to have him aboard."
Producer Nina Jacobson: "Gale is a young man who uses words very sparingly, so the onus was on the actor we cast to capture him by showing, not telling. This was accomplished so beautifully in Suzanne's writing, and Liam was able to translate it so naturally to the screen. At the same time Gale's journey across the three books transforms him, and Liam's performance left no doubt that he would take us there."
What do you think, "Hunger Games" fans? Are your fears eased?
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i see nothing wrong with the casting in fact i think it is PERFECT! especially Liam because remember lots of girls liked him and he was big and strong looking! totally see it in Josh too! he is strong looking but most of all he looks sensative which is perfect for peeta!
For me the fears are not eased. When I read the books I saw Peeta as totally different person...that is not the way the author described him in my opinion. I am really disappointed and now I'm seeing how they are ruining another movie that could have been great. They are doing the same thing as how in the Twilight movie they gave Robert the role to play Edward. COMPLETE DISASTER. That is what I see happening to this trilogy now and it is very upsetting. As for gale and katness ...they are good casting. But Peeta was for the second most important character
No. I think the actors are too old and I think the Peeta character has been miscast.
To be honest I imagined Peeta to look a little different-but that's just LOOKS. What's really important is if the actor capture's Peeta's personality, and if he has chemistry with Katniss's actress. Then I'm going to have faith in Collins' choice.
as for the Twilight commenter I sense you are mad because he's not the super hot love interest you wanted? If you haven't seen him act as Peeta yet you have no reason to dismiss him.
I think the casting is PERFECT! I absolutely love the trilogy and I'm super excited to see it on screen. I think these actors will play there roles how they are meant to be played.