Hawaii Hungry for ‘Hunger Games’

The 75th annual Hunger Games are on! And the sequel to the American science fiction film will be headed to “the beaches and jungles of Hawaii before wrapping up in December,” according to a Lionsgate press release. The production began filming yesterday in Atlanta, Ga. for the much anticipated part two of the trilogy.

Executives visited Kauai, Maui, the Big Island and Oahu in search of a filming location for Hunger Games: Catching Fire, according to Tim Ryan’s Reel Hawaii. They chose Oahu despite rumors that the production would be set on Kaua’i. I’m speculating here, but if they’re looking for a “jungle” setting, the crew will probably head to Kualoa Ranch – where numerous shows and movies have been filmed in past years (including Jurassic Park) – or Waimea Valley. This is where the short-lived ABC television series The River filmed several scenes. Remember that eerie episode with those dolls hanging from the banyans? That was shot at this North Shore valley.

As for the “beaches” scene, I’m thinking somewhere on the east side of the island would be appropriate because it’s much more isolated than, say, the tourist hub of Waikiki. The beaches on the east and northeast part of Oahu are also less sandy and more rocky. But we’ll have to wait and see where they choose.

Actors Jennifer Lawrence, Liam Hemsworth, Josh Hutcherson will return to the sequel, which begins as Katniss Everdeen (Lawrence) returns home safely with fellow tribute Peeta Mellark (Hutcherson) after winning the 74th Annual Hunger Games. They embark upon a “Victor’s Tour” throughout the districts, from which Katniss gets a sense of rebellion on the brink of explosion. The movie hits theaters on Thursday, Nov. 21, 2013.

Posted by: Bruce Fisher on Sep 11, 2012