While "Hunger Games" still reigns supreme at the box office, "Catching Fire" is already heating up.

A few weeks ago, "Hunger Games" director Gary Ross shocked the world when he officially bowed out from directing the blockbuster's sequel, "Catching Fire." But now, according to the Hollywood Reporter, the odds are in Francis Lawrence's favor.

Lionsgate has been scrambling to fill the captain's seat of its hit-to-be; the selection had been narrowed to Lawrence (whose films include "I Am Legend" and "Water for Elephants"), and Bennett Miller ("Moneyball"). According to insiders, both directors met with Lionsgate Thursday and the studio is said to favor Lawrence.

The other directors who were considered include Tomas Alfredson ("Tinker Tailer Soldier Spy"), Alejandro Gonzalez Innaritu ("Babel"), Cary Fukunaga ("Jane Eyre") and Duncan Jones ("Source Code").

Looks like it's reaping day for "Hunger Games" directors! (Really trying to get the most mileage out of these terms.)

"Catching Fire" will hit theaters November 22, 2013.

[via THR]