Casting Decisions: Should fans have a say?

With the recent casting news hitting the internet, I've seen a lot of debate over the choices Hollywood makes when adapting a book to movie.

Fans of the Hunger Games series by Suzanne Collins have been eagerly awaiting the announcement of the protagonist Katniss Everdeen, and today they're facing excitement or disappointment at the news. Many are excited that Jennifer Lawrence has been chosen to play the strong, vibrant protagonist, while others complain that she's all wrong. Jennifer has blond hair, not brown. Blue eyes, not gray. And the 20 year old clearly gives Hollywood an advantage in filming, but results in a much more mature looking 16 year old.

Time and again we've seen Hollywood adapt books to movies in their own way, going for talent and name versus "true to the book" and perhaps a new face. But what is "true" when it comes to book adaptations?

I've often thought that no movie could possibly cast someone that can meet everyone's expectations, because we all picture our hero or heroine in our own way. The protagonist's actions as well as their looks create the image we have and feel for them, making it difficult for the reader to relate when someone else tries to paint their own picture.

But here's a question? With book readers making up a large portion of the movie-going fanbase (my own thoughts-mind you), would it be wise to take a poll ahead of time to ask fans what they think the most important thing is to readers when casting someone? Or is there no good solution, and readers should just accept the fact that the movie is just one person's viewpoint of the book and enjoy it for what it is?

Thoughts? Suggestions? Rants? :)

As for me...I can't wait to find out who is playing her two male counterparts. Mmmmmm.