The Hunger Games sequel already has a release date

The first movie based on Suzanne Collins’ THE HUNGER GAMES books won’t hit theaters until next March, but considering the popularity of the novels, it’s already poised for blockbuster status with its target demographic and probably beyond.

Lionsgate is certainly prepared for that, already planning a release date for the sequel CATCHING FIRE — the studio has staked out November 22, 2013 for the second chapter of Katniss Everdeen’s post-apocalyptic survival tale.

A cornucopia for Thanksgiving weekend does seem fitting. Even it it’s filled with deadly weaponry (which might actually come in handy for some of your family gatherings).

THE HUNGER GAMES is directed by Gary Ross (although his return for the sequel has not been announced) and stars Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth, Woody Harrelson, Wes Bentley, Elizabeth Banks, Stanley Tucci, Donald Sutherland, Toby Jones and Lenny Kravitz.

The synopsis: “”Every year in the ruins of what was once North America, the nation of Panem forces each of its twelve districts to send a teenage boy and girl to compete in the Hunger Games. Part twisted entertainment, part government intimidation tactic, the Hunger Games are a nationally televised event in which “Tributes” must fight with one another until one survivor remains.

Pitted against highly-trained Tributes who have prepared for these Games their entire lives, Katniss is forced to rely upon her sharp instincts as well as the mentorship of drunken former victor Haymitch Abernathy. If she’s ever to return home to District 12, Katniss must make impossible choices in the arena that weigh survival against humanity and life against love.”