‘Toy Story 3’ writer Michael Arndt is in negotiations to rewrite the script for ‘Catching Fire,’ the anticipated sequel to ‘The Hunter Games,’ Slashfilm is reporting. The news comes after director Francis Lawrence signed on to replace Gary Ross, who helmed the $600-million grossing first entry in the film franchise based on Suzanne Collin’s popular book series.

If Arndt, who won an Academy Award for his work on ‘Little Miss Sunshine,’ signs on for the rewrite of ‘Catching Fire,’ he will be replacing ‘Slumdog Millionaire’ scribe Simon Beaufoy. After Ross decided to leave the film series, Lionsgate, the franchise’s studio, decided to look for new writers as well.

Arndt will only have a short period of time to finish the rewrite for ‘Catching Fire,’ as the film is on track to be released in November 2013. it’s set to start filming late this summer, as star Jennifer Lawrence is also committed to shoot Fox’s ‘X-Men: First Class’ this year. The tight schedule is one of the reasons why Ross declined to return to the series.

‘Catching Fire’ follows (Jennifer) Lawrence’s character, Katniss Everdeen, after she won the annual Hunger Games with fellow district tribute Peeta Mellark, played by Josh Hutcherson. While the two should be happy, their victory came after defying the Capitol and their harsh rules. Katniss and Peeta are horrified to learn that they’re the new faces of the rebellion among the subjects, and that the Capitol wants revenge.

Written by: Karen Benardello