Film regulators in the U.K. were poised to slap a 15-classification on the action drama, the much-anticipated adaptation of Suzanne Collins' novel, meaning viewers under the age of 15 could not see the movie.

However, chiefs at Lionsgate were keen to land a 12A-rating to open the film up to a younger audience - and as a result, seven seconds from a gory scene have been removed from the final edit.

A statement from the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) reads, ""A number of cuts were made in one scene to reduce an emphasis on blood and injury.

""These cuts, which were implemented by digitally removing sight of blood splashes and sight of blood on wounds and weapons, were made in accordance with BBFC Guidelines and policy. An uncut '15' classification was available.""

The film, starring Jennifer Lawrence, is set for release later this month (Mar12).