New movie, “The Hunger Games” is taking the nation by storm following its release on March 23rd. Thousands have flocked to the theatres this weekend for this much anticipated movie. But for one local actor the draw was much closer to home. Judd Lormand first became involved with “The Hunger Games” during an audition for an unnamed character. Following that audition, the casting directors offered the Baton Rouge actor the role of Peacekeeper No. 3 in the film. This role, which is featured in some of the most iconic scenes in the picture, required wearing a 30 lb costume in the 100 degree heat during filming. Despite the extreme circumstances, Lormand adopted the role with true professionalism.

The Louisiana resident is no stranger to the entertainment industry. He can previously be seen in “Memphis Beat”, “Wild Card”, and “Joyful Noise” before appearing in “The Hunger Games”.  Lormand studied Mass Communications at Louisiana State University before moving to Baton Rouge with his family. He began seriously pursuing acting in the 2000’s, but attributes his true beginnings back in high school. He participated in drama club, and the Forensic Leagues where he competed at various speech and debate tournaments. The success of “The Hunger Games” is certain to catapult his career, making him just another one of the celebrities here in the Hollywood South.

Following the trend of TV smash series, “Glee” and the “High School Musical” movies, a new movie is filming here that focuses on the lives and times of a cappella groups. "Pitch Perfect" comically showcases an all-female a cappella group’s triumph over the more popular all-male group. Now… if the song and dance numbers aren’t quite your thing, than you may at least find it of interest that this new movie is being filmed right here in Baton Rouge!

 That’s right, throughout the month camera crews rolled onto the LSU campus, featuring the Quad and much of the student union as settings for this picture- which awarded the University an estimated $22,100 for use of their property. This figure is pretty low for a Hollywood production and has caused a bit of controversy in the community. But according to a University official, Ashley Territo, "It's a good movie for the University to be associated with. We're not playing ourselves, but that's OK."

That is true, these harmonizing undergrads are not students of LSU, but that doesn’t mean they can’t enjoy themselves on campus just the same! Director, Jason Moore (of Broadway’s “Avenue Q”) couldn’t be happier with the choice of setting.  A representative of the Baton Rouge Film Commission commented that “filming in Baton Rouge adds a sense of creativity” that you can’t replicate. The cast and crew are thrilled to be using LSU as their make-belief university, and the real-life University is excited to have so much attention from Hollywood. So even if it didn’t earn a great deal of money, this picture is still a wonderful opportunity for the school to stay active in the Hollywood of the South.

For more about this movie you can read the casting news.

      The Century Council is an organizational initiative designed to keep college kids from binge drinking. This is definitely a cause that hits close to home here in a city that centers socially on festivals and sporting events. We see the stereotypical scenes of wild college parties on television and movies, and often hear about the tragedies that result from these activities on the news. But one notable LSU Alum is doing his part to make sure that students are using their heads when it comes to alcohol! Louisiana State Hall of Famer, Shaquille O’Neal has recently become the spokesman for the Century Council, using his celebrity to keep college students safe.  

     Substance abuse is nothing new to the NBA superstar, whose own biological father battled with addictions and was imprisoned for possession charges. As a result the athlete was raised by his mother and step-father, who supported him through school and his professional career in the NBA. In addition to his Most Valuable Playing on the L.A. Lakers, Shaquille O’Neal has gone through the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Reserve Academy and also became an officer in the city of Miami. In Florida, he worked for only $1 a year- his idea!

    Between his incredible celebrity, admirable law enforcement background, and intimidating stature… what college student could dare to disagree with this NBA All Star? The University of Alabama chapter of the Century Council is currently campaigning to get the athlete to make an appearance at their campus to gain awareness for their mission. If you are interested in joining the petition tweet your thoughts to @SHAQ or read this article for more information about involvement.