‘Hunger Games’ Sequel ‘Catching Fire’ Nabs Director Francis Lawrence

“The Hunger Games” sequel, “Catching Fire,” has offered the coveted director’s spot to Francis Lawrence.

The filmmaker, whose past credits include “Water for Elephants” and “I Am Legend” – along with slew of music videos for artist like Lady Gaga, Justin Timberlake, Britney Spears, Jennifer Lopez and Beyonce – has been offered the job by Lionsgate, according to Variety and The Hollywood Reporter.

The Austrian-born Lawrence beat out fellow directors Bennett Miller (“Moneyball”), Stephen Daldry (“Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close”), Tony Scott (“Unstoppable”) and Tomas Alfredson (“Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy”) to take over the coveted reigns left by exiting director Gary Ross.

The second chapter of “The Hunger Games Trilogy” sees (*SPOLIER ALERT!*) Katniss and Peeta back at the mercy of the Capital in a special edition of the games, called The Quarter Quell, which happens every 25 years and includes new twists to the deadly competition. In this edition of the games, past victors of all ages from the various districts are assembled to fight to the end.

“Catching Fire” is slated to begin filming in August and will hit theaters on November 22, 2013.