Lenny Kravitz, best known for his music, but who has also ventured into acting recently (small, but nice role as a male nurse in 2009’s Precious), was rumored to be in the running for a role in The Hunger Games a few weeks back, but no specifics were given. My immediete hunch was Cinna, Katniss’ stylist, friend and confidant, and the man responsible for the whole “girl on fire” concept. Looks like my hunch was right, as Lionsgate tweeted that Mr. Kravitz will indeed be Cinna, the very normal looking Capitol citizen, whose only real flair is the gold eyeliner he wears, which, according to Katniss, brings out the gold flecks in his green eyes. It’s interesting to note the name Cinna  is used twice in William Shakespeare’s play Julius Caesar. In the play, Cinna is both a conspirator against Julius Caesar, but also a poet who is murdered. For those who have read The Hunger Games trilogy, this should strike a chord. I love the note he leaves for Katniss in the design book, almost knowing she would see it, that reads: “I’m still betting on you.”

What say ye of this casting? I like it. I think Kravitz fits the mood of Cinna and his charisma and charm should factor mightily in what we see on the big screen in March 2012.