Hunger Games’ Woody Harrelson Says Haymitch Is More Than A Drunk

Woody Harrelson plays Haymitch Abernathy in March’s adaptation of the Suzanne Collins novel, The Hunger Games. Haymitch is many things (some of which are not for polite conversation) but among them is someone with a serious drinking problem. The actor recently spoke about how he approached the role and what he thinks of the film’s quality. Plus, Lionsgate announces pre-sale info!

“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,” Harrelson said speaking to the L.A. Times’ Hero Complex. “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.”

Yes, that new look is certainly something fans have noticed. Haymitch from the books is normally quite disheveled, even when he’s made up not to be. Hero Complex writes, “In the books, for instance, Haymitch is described as a paunchy, gone-to-seed middle-aged man with short, dark, curly hair, but Harrelson’s version looks more like Kurt Cobain’s  fashion-conscious uncle.” An interesting way to put it.

Lionsgate announced today that tickets for The Hunger Games will go on advance sale on Wednesday, February 22. “The film takes place during the 74th Annual Hunger Games, and today marks the celebration of 74 days until the film’s release,” according to the press release. Fans can register for email or text alerts to remind them when tickets go on sale, and also RSVP for the event on THG facebook page.

As far as the film as a whole, Harrelson said, “It’s good writing and it just keeps you on the edge. And making [the movie] was a fun experience with just really cool people. I was really impressed by everybody that was associated with it.”

“The look of everything is amazing too,” he continued. “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.”

(via Hero Complex)

Previously in The Hunger Games

• Elizabeth Banks Talks About The Prim, Proper And Pink Effie Trinket
• Hunger Games Music Video Parody Totally Kills Bruno Mars’ Original
• Effie Trinket Is The Official Face Of The Hunger Games Nail Polish