Woody Harrelson’s vision for Haymitch

For avid fans of The Hunger Games books, a first look at Woody Harrelson’s depiction of Haymitch Abernathy may seem a little incongruous with the character in Suzanne Collins’ novels.  He’s described as a paunchy middle-aged man with short, dark hair – obviously not a spitting image of Harrelson’s overall look for the film.  But Harrelson wanted to bring something less than cliche’ to Haymitch’s character.

 He’s got a drinking problem and he’s got some issues and he’s damaged, but I didn’t want to do it totally like your typical version of an alcoholic in a movie.  So I tried to keep him a little put-together. I dressed him up from what you would expect, too. That was one of my things I wanted – to make him, particularly in the Capitol, a bit of a snazzy dresser — or at least a dresser with his own style.”

He also went on to rave about the sets, wardrobe, and makeup.  After seeing only one scene he says the look of the film is great.

I was really impressed by everybody that was associated with it. The look of everything is amazing too. The wardrobe is incredible and the makeup, the [stuff] they came up with is mind-blowing. The imagination behind the hair and the makeup and set decoration, it was just really impressive. It’s the work of brilliant people.”

I know there will be some purists who dislike the creative liberties Harrelson took with the character, but I appreciate his attempt to make Haymitch a touch less stereotyped.  I find something more intriguing about about a a drunk who has a problem but shows contrast in trying to be more polished, as opposed to sloppy all around.  What are your thoughts on the Haymitch we will see on the big screen?

[read the entire article here]

Category: Haymitch Abernathy, Woody Harrelson