‘The Hunger Games‘ franchise set records at the box office during its release. This commercially and critically acclaimed franchise announced its prequel ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes’, based on Suzanne Collins’ #1 New York Times bestselling novel of the same name.
Just a couple of hours ago, the female lead of this upcoming film was announced and it’s none other than Rachel Zegler! She was seen in Steven Spielberg’s ‘West Side Story’ and currently has big Hollywood projects in her kitty – ‘Shazam: Fury of the Gods’ and Disney’s live-action ‘Snow White’. Prior to this official announcement, Rachel posted a cryptic tweet that said, “Listen up….. can y’all grow restfully? Are you becoming an individual resting decisively?” The hidden meaning behind this tweet was soon revealed!
https://t.co/CCjQ7DIncN pic.twitter.com/EXKXqnzLne
— rachel zegler (she/her/hers) (@rachelzegler) May 31, 2022
The initial of each word, when put together, formed the word ‘Lucy Gray Baird’ lead character of ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes’. Talking about casting Rachel, director Francis Lawrence said that Rachel is a perfect fit for the character of Lucy who is bold and independent but also emotional and loving. He is convinced that Zegler will make this an unforgettable character. Also, Lucy has a vocal talent and Rachel, as seen in ‘West Side Story’ is blessed in that arena!
She’ll play singer & District 12 tribute Lucy Gray Baird, mentored by Coriolanus Snow. Coriolanus Snow is an ambitious young man who grows up to be the dictatorial ruler of Panem, a dystopian society. This movie will show Snow as a young man and his character will be played by Tom Blyth, known for ‘Billy the Kid’. The character was originally played by Hollywood veteran Donald Sutherland in the franchise.
The story takes place decades before the adventures of Jennifer Lawrence’s Katniss Everdeen. Katniss played in the 74th Hunger Games. Baird will be a part of the 10th Hunger Games. It will tell the story of President Coriolanus Snow and his involvement in the 10th Hunger Games.
All other cast members are not disclosed yet. Audience is hoping to see some of the actors from previous movies. This prequel will be written by Michael Lesslie. Francis Lawrence, who previously directed ‘Catching Fire’ and both parts of ‘Mockingjay’ will return in the director’s seat. ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes’ is scheduled for a November 17, 2023 release. A year and a half to go!!
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