Gary Ross Isn't Directing Catching Fire?

The Hunger Games is a great adaptation of the book, it's not perfect, but I personally believe they did a good job with it. However the departure of Gary Ross has left me worried about the sequels future. After all Gary Ross directed and helped write the script, so a good portion of why the Hunger Games did so well can definitely be attributed to him. He's leaving because of the time constraints to make the next film. It's already set to release in November 2013, which is definitely a short amount of time for a film, especially an adaptation.

Here's what Gary Ross had to say on his departure:

"Despite recent speculation in the media, and after difficult but sincere consideration, I have decided not to direct Catching Fire. As a writer and a director, I simply don’t have the time I need to write and prep the movie I would have wanted to make because of the fixed and tight production schedule.

I loved making The Hunger Games – it was the happiest experience of my professional life. Lionsgate was supportive of me in a manner that few directors ever experience in a franchise: they empowered me to make the film I wanted to make and backed the movie in a way that requires no explanation beyond the remarkable results. And contrary to what has been reported, negotiations with Lionsgate have not been problematic. They have also been very understanding of me through this difficult decision.

I also cannot say enough about the people I worked with: Producer Nina Jacobson, a great collaborator and a true friend; the brilliant Suzanne Collins, who entrusted us with her most amazing and important story; the gifted and remarkable Jennifer Lawrence whose performance exceeded my wildest expectations, and the rest of the incredible cast, whom I am proud to call my friends.

To the fans I want to say thank you for your support your faith, your enthusiasm and your trust. Hard as this may be to understand I am trying to keep that trust with you. Thank you all. It’s been a wonderful experience."

I'm definitely interested to see who'll take over the project, and also hesitant as to how this will turn out.