Last month we reported rumors that Stanley Tucci was in talks to join Gary Ross’s much-anticipated adaptation of the YA sensation The Hunger Games. Now Deadline has reported Tucci is indeed joining the cast – but not in the role many expected.
That’s right! While many (myself included) felt Tucci was a lock for the role of saavy fashion designer Cinna, who will serve as a sassy confidante to Jennifer Lawrence’s Katniss, casting directors have surprised one and all by giving Tucci the role of the debonair MC of The Hunger Games, Caesar Flickerman. For those unfamiliar with the books, he’s basically the equivalent of Survivor’s Jeff Probst but with the chutzpa of Regis Philbin and a wild sense of style.
Despite the fact I was far from calling this one, I like this casting selection. Flickerman is a figure that introduces the tributes to the TV viewing audiences of the brutal nationally televised battle royale. An unmitigated showman he aims to shape the tribute’s life stories into heartstring pulling (and thereby audience drawing) narratives while avoiding the politics that fuel this evil game. Tucci with his booming screen presence and killer comedic timing is an inspired choice for this supporting player, and further proof that while these teased out announcements can be frustrating, the cast they are (ever so slowly) unveiling is astonishing.
Of course, now we’re left to wonder anew – who will play Cinna?
What do you think of this latest casting call?