Is there a Hunger Games prequel in the works?

Hunger Games director Francis Lawrence says a prequel movie could be a possibility. Photo / Getty

A Hunger Games prequel might be in the works, according to series' director Francis Lawrence.

Lawrence says a prequel series would focus on the world of Panem before the creation of the barbaric Hunger Games.

"The interesting part of the story for me is to go back 75 years earlier and see how everything became the way it is," he told Entertainment Weekly.

"I'm sure if [author] Suzanne [Collins] were to get inspired and decide there's another story that's important for her to tell that exists with the world of Panem and whether about the Dark Days, another character, or another set of Games, whatever that could be, I'm sure it would be great. And I'd love to be involved, absolutely."

Lawrence also said a prequel series wouldn't feature lead character Katniss Everdeen, played by Jennifer Lawrence, because her story was finished.

"I just think with the end of this story, we've reached the end of Katniss' story," he said.

"I think that Suzanne created such an iconic character, and I think she's the main reason why everyone comes back to these stories. Now, that's come to an end."

The final film based on the book franchise, The Hunger Games - Mockingjay Part 2, opened to a lower than expected box office.

-AAP