Last month we learned that Francis Lawrence would continue his working relationship with Lionsgate and THE HUNGER GAMES producer Nina Jacobson by helming an adaptation of The Odyssey by Homer. At that time, it was up in the air whether or not this adaptation would consist of a single film or be the start of a multi-film franchise; today we found out that it's definitely the latter.
Lionsgate CEO Jon Feltheimer revealed today that the plan is to develop at least two movies from the material saying that "our deal with Francis contemplates more than one movie," while Motion Picture Group co-chairman Rob Friedman added that "we have high goals for this one, we’re feeling very, very bullish.” Francis Lawrence will direct the film(s) from a screenplay by MOCKINGJAY writer Peter Craig.
With THE HUNGER GAMES franchise coming to a close this year, it seems as though Lionsgate is hungry to get a new franchise off the ground as soon as possible. Lionsgate has put this on a fast track with the plan is to begin production early next year, right after the filmmakers complete promotion of THE HUNGER GAMES: MOCKINGJAY – PART 2. The final installment of THE HUNGER GAMES franchise will hit theaters on November 20, 2015.