LOS ANGELES  - Jennifer Lawrence, the Oscar-nominated star of "Winter's Bone," has been officially cast as plucky protagonist Katniss Everdeen in "Hunger Games," the film adaptation of the Suzanne Collins young adult novel.

Gary Ross is directing the Lionsgate project, which is being produced by Nina Jacobson and her Color Force banner.

Collins said of Lawrence's casting, "Jennifer's just an incredible actress. So powerful, vulnerable, beautiful, unforgiving and brave. I never though we'd find somebody this perfect for the role."

Ross said, "Katniss requires a young actress with strength, depth, complexity, tenderness and power. There are very few people alive who can bring that to a role. Jen brings it in spades."

"True Grit's" Hailee Steinfeld and Abigail Breslin were among the other actresses being considered for the role.

Rumors of Lawrence's casting floated around Hollywood late last week, though no offer nor negotiations had taken place.