Finding Finnick

Jarett Wieselman

March 16, 2012

twitter

Hunger Games hasn't even hit theaters yet, but one conversation that's already catching fire amongst fans is speculating about who will play Finnick Odair in the follow-up, Catching Fire.

Hunger Games Stars Go To the Mall

Previously thought-to-be-frontrunner Kellan Lutz is out as TheInsider.com already reported that Hunger Games producers will not consider anyone from the Twilight films for roles in this dystopian trilogy. And while an answer won't be coming for some time -- first The Hunger Games needs to financially warrant a sequel (basically a given), then a director needs to be locked in (THG helmer Gary Ross threw his hat in the ring), a script needs to be finished (Suzanne Collins is hard at work as we speak) and the cast needs a short breather -- that won't stop me from speculating! 

Hunger Games - Fashion Faceoff

So let's take a look at the four fellas fanning my Finnick flames!

First things first, for the uninitiated (although why you haven't read modern literature's best trilogy by now is beyond me) Finnick Odair is a previous Hunger Games victor, having won the 65th Hunger Games by masterfully wielding a trident. Post-Games, he became a mentor to other District 4 Tributes and a man-whore for President Snow. Now 23-ish years old, he's charming, handsome and a loyal ally for Katniss in the second book.

What Will The Hunger Games Sound Like?

Possible Finnick #1: Armie Hammer
Why: The Social Network star possesses the physical prowess (a muscular 6'5") to play Finnick, as well as the disarming good looks. His acting chops have been tested in Oscar winning movies and his twin coxswain characters proved him water friendly.

Possible Finnick #2: Grant Gustin
Why: The Glee star has quickly amassed a very loyal fan-following -- they even helped him top a recent MTV.com poll asking this very question. And since he's still a relative newcomer, Grant meshes perfectly with the film's aversion to distracting A-list actors.

Possible Finnick #3: Zac Efron
Why: If everything I said above turns out to be false and they simply want to cast a "name" for the sequel.

Possible Finnick #4: Alex Pettyfer
Why: He's got the good looks and swagger down pat (plus, he's the first actor to come up when you Google Image Search "Finnick Odair"), but the Brit's public image doesn't scream "compassion" and he might be a little too pretty for the part.

Now, keep in mind that producers could totally opt for a complete unknown. However, I feel secure in them picking an actor we already know, just haven't been inundated with over the years. Plus, I'm the guy who suggested Jennifer Lawrence for the role of Katniss months before casting even begun, so clearly, I know what I'm talking about.

Although I also said Hunter Parrish would be cast as Peeta. So maybe I don't. Either way, check out my choices and weigh in below on who you think should be cast as Finnick!


WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS?
Untitled Document
Keltie Colleen Fangirl Jarett Wieselman Popinion The Insider on TV