Gary Ross Goes out on Top, Says NO to Directing the Hunger Games Sequel. Money is Not the Issue!

The Hunger Games director Gary Ross has confirmed reports that he won’t be directing the movie’s sequel Catching Fire.  He also addresses the rumors that it was a money thang’, it’s not.  Ross stated,

‘Despite recent speculation in the media, and after difficult but sincere consideration, I have decided not to direct Catching Fire.

‘As a writer and a director, I simply don’t have the time I need to write and prep the movie I : ‘I loved making The Hunger Games – it was the happiest experience of my professional life. Lionsgate was supportive of me in a manner that few directors ever experience in a franchise: they empowered me to make the film I wanted to make and backed the movie in a way that requires no explanation beyond the remarkable results.

And contrary to what has been reported, negotiations with Lionsgate have not been problematic. They have also been very understanding of me through this difficult decision.’

There you have it.

Lionsgate’s response was equally as politically correct and non-revealing to any other issues that might have caused Ross to backout,

‘He did an incredible job on the first film and we are grateful for his work. This will not be the end of our relationship, as we consider Ross to be part of the Lionsgate family and look forward to working with him in the future.’

HOW MUCH WAS GARY ROSS PAID FOR “HUNGER GAMES”?

I know that everyone always wants to know how much money is on the table.  Ross was paid $3 million which initially seemed like a lot until Hunger Games begin crushing the box office.  Ross is no dummy, he negotiated 5% of the film’s profit, making Ross a very wealthy and happy man right about now.  That wealth continues to grow with every passing week, and should be downright obese by the DVD release.

Ross is basically taking Jerry Seinfeld’s advice to George,

Showmanship, George. When you hit that high note, you say goodnight and walk off.

Ross has shattered box office records and is still on track to break more. He’s killed it and left some really hard shoes to fill. He is now saying goodnight and walking off.  Legacy cemented.  When there is no place to go but down….that’s the perfect time to quit.

Good for him!