Philip Seymour Hoffman cast in “The Hunger Games” sequel

Let the games continue: None other than acting heavyweight Philip Seymour Hoffman has been cast as head gamemaker Plutarch Heavensbee in the film adaptation of Suzanne Collins's best-selling novel "The Hunger Games: Catching Fire."

Heavensbee is the head gamemaker of the 75th annual Hunger Games -- a role left open in the first story by the gamemaker Seneca Crane (played by Wes Bentley), who came to an unfortunate end.

As fans will remember from "The Hunger Games," the gamemaker controls the fate of the characters -- as in who lives and who dies -- in the televised death match.

The role is a complicated and important one. Heavensbee seems to have a secret agenda, and it's not clear until the end whose side he will take. In short, it's a complex role perfect for a star who's equally comfortable onstage ("Death of a Salesman") as he is in independent films ("Ides of March") and blockbusters ("Mission:Impossible III").

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And -- spoiler alert -- Heavensbee's character also appears in the final installment of the triology "Mockingjay," so prepare for a healthy, or at least crafty, dose of the 44-year-old.

The "Moneyball" star will join returning cast members Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, and Liam Hemsworth, as well as a new director, Francis Lawrence. The film opens November 2013.

See the trailer for 'Hunger Games':