PHILIP SEYMOUR HOFFMAN BECOMES HEAVENSBEE FOR 'THE HUNGER GAMES: CATCHING FIRE'

 'Boogie Nights' and 'Moneyball' actor Philip Seymour Hoffman (below) is officially Catching Fire. No, its nothing to do with his role in 2002's 'Red Dragon' but instead the actor has officially taken an offer and joined 'The Hunger Games: Catching Fire'. Last month the news arrived that  the actor was deep in negotiations to take on the role of chief gamesmaster Plutarch Heavensbee in the upcoming 2013 sequel to 'The Hunger Games' and now it finally has come to fruition and Hoffman will be slipping into that of Heavensbee's shoes. The movie is being directed by Francis Lawrence ('Constantine') and Hoffman's character is the role that succeeds Seneca Crane from the first movie (played by Wes Bentley). The sexy Jennifer Lawrence ('X-Men: First Class'), Liam Hemsworth and Josh Hutcherson are all back for the follow-up and look set to be joined by another newcomer in the form of Jena Malone ('Donnie Darko', 'The Ruins').

"THE HUNGER GAMES: CATCHING FIRE begins as Katniss Everdeen has returned home safe after winning the 74th Annual Hunger Games along with fellow tribute Peeta Mellark. Winning means that they must turn around and leave their family and close friends, embarking on a "Victor's Tour" of the districts. Along the way Katniss senses that a rebellion is simmering, but the Capitol is still very much in control as President Snow prepares the 75th Annual Hunger Games (The Quarter Quell) - a competition that could change Panem forever."

'The Hunger Games: Catching Fire' is set to hit theatres on 22 November 2013.

Philip Seymour Hoffman Catches Fire