Liam Hemsworth 'auditions for Hunger Games'

Lionsgate has reportedly begun auditioning actors for the two male lead roles in its upcoming adaptation of Suzanne Collins's The Hunger Games.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, indie actor and star of The Kids Are All Right Josh Hutcherson is in the running for the role of Peeta, alongside Weeds regular Hunter Parrish.

Also in contention for the part is Escape To Witch Mountain star Alexander Ludwig, X-Men: First Class actor Lukas Till and One Tree Hill guest star Evan Peters.

Meanwhile, Liam Hemsworth is believed to have auditioned for the other male lead role of Gale, as has How I Met Your Mother regular David Henrie.

The report notes that Alex Pettyfer was not still under consideration for the film, despite having previously admitted that the studio had approached him.

Whichever two actors are eventually cast will join Jennifer Lawrence, who will portray the film's lead character and heroine Katniss.

The Hunger Games is currently scheduled for release on March 23, 2012.