Lionsgate Splits Hunger Games: Mockingjay Into Two Parts

Following in the footsteps of Harry Potterand Twilight, Lionsgate has announced plans to split the final chapter of the Hunger Games movie franchise into two films.

The first part of Hunger Games: Mockingjayis slated to premiere Nov. 21, 2014, while Part 2 will hit theaters on Nov. 20, 2015. As previously announced, the second film in the franchise, Catching Fire, will debut Nov. 22, 2013.

Jena Malone in negotiations for Hunger Games sequel Catching Fire

The series stars Jennifer Lawrence as Katniss Everdeen, who was pit against 23 other tributes in a televised fight to the death during the first film. The second film will see her return home with fellow tribute Peeta Mellark (Josh Hutcherson) — but a rebellion is brewing, and the upcoming 75th Hunger Games could have a serious effect on the country of Panem.

In other Games news, Lionsgate announced Monday that Philip Seymour Hoffman has officially been cast in the role of Plutarch Heavensbee, Head Gamemaker for The Hunger Games, in Catching Fire.

What do you think of the decision to split the final book into two films?