Here's what I think: Let the Hunger Games Begin

It's been a few months since I finished The Hunger Games series and I've still got Hunger Games on the brain. I'm anxiously anticipating more information about the upcoming movie based on the first book in the series and have, like any obsessive fan, been scouring the Internet for any information I can find! In my searches I've seen a lot of speculation and suggestions on who should be cast in the leading roles and I decided to throw my two-cents in.

In the role of Katniss Everdean, the leading lady of The Hunger Games, I would cast Hailee Steinfeld. Hailee has enjoyed fast recognition for her role in True Grit this year and is even nominated for an academy award for her outstanding performance. Not only does Hailee have the right look, build and is an appropriate age to grow with the character of Katniss, she had already proven her "grit" and would be well able to deliver the tough-girl with a soft edge. What I like about Katniss is that she is so flawed, she is brave and strong but is guarded and can never see through to the truth of things until it smacks her right in the face; Hailee has the ability to bring this kind of complexity to life in a realistic way.

I have a feeling that no matter who lands the role of Peeta Mellark, I will be a little disappointed. It's like when Robert Pattinson was first cast as Edward in Twilight. Fans of the book were outraged because every one of them had a distinct picture in mind of this character that they had fallen in love with. But, just like with Rob, whoever plays Peeta will eventually become a heart throb and girls will fall all over themselves for him. Personally, I would like to see someone like Chord Overstreet (Glee) in this role. He is a little older than the character but can get away with playing a younger role. His blond hair, bright blue eyes and strong build are exactly what I picture when I think of Peeta.

Where it's harder for me to cast the role of Peeta, it's exactly the opposite for Gale Hawthorne. Since the first time I saw Drew Roy, I knew he would be the perfect Gale. First, he's not bad to look at. Really, really, not bad. He's got the perfect "look" for Gale - olive skin, dark hair and piercing grey eyes. He's also got that brooding, teen angst thing going for him.

Not only do these young actors have the right look and feel of the characters in The Hunger Games, they are also very talented. I would be excited to see these three actors develop into the roles of Katniss, Peeta and Gale and really make The Hunger Games stand out among other "teen" flicks with their abilities to bring the characters to life.