When you've got a franchise as lucrative as The Hunger Games, with a star as popular as Jennifer Lawrence, you don't simply let it go away. Lionsgate aren't stupid, and with The Hunger Games: Mockingjay wrapping things up later this year, they're already taking steps to keep the cash cow flowing.
First up, Lionsgate is launching The Hunger Games: The Exhibition, which will debut on July 1st at Discovery Times Square in New York City. Here's a quick rundown of what the traveling exhibition will feature:
"The Hunger Games: The Exhibition
invites visitors to step inside and explore the world of Panem as
created
by the films. Hundreds of authentic costumes and props, high-tech and
hands-on interactives and detailed set recreations reveal the amazing
artistry and technology that brought these incredible books to life.
Visitors will follow Katniss Everdeen's inspirational
journey, from her humble beginnings in District 12 to her emergence as
the Mockingjay, sparking curiosity and excitement. The exhibit will
feature seven galleries including District 12, Tribute Train, The
Capitol, Making the Games, District 13, Fan Gallery
and Katniss’s Journey.
Highlights
include iconic costumes from the films such as the Girl on Fire dress,
the Mockingjay dress and the Mockingjay armor; key artifacts including
the Mockingjay pin, Cinna’s
sketchbook and Katniss’s bow; and interactives including an explorable
map of Panem, gamemaker’s control table and a stunt choreography
interactive."
The Hunger Games: Mockingjay part 2 will also get a boost by being remastered for IMAX 3D, which should go a long way in making the finale the highest grossing of the franchise. Plus, Lionsgate CEO John Feltheimer says the studio is “actively looking at some development and thinking about prequel and sequel possibilities”. What does that mean, exactly? He doesn't go into detail but, would he be able to bring the busy Jennifer Lawrence back for more adventures in Panem? And would audiences turn out in the same numbers if she's not involved?
Only time will tell where this goes, but The Hunger Games may be sticking around longer than expected.