The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping star Joseph Zada describes the young Haymitch Abernathy as playful, loving, and hopeful as the film begins, which sets up a dramatic transformation once he truly understands what’s going on. Lionsgate’s new behind-the-scenes featurette also features interview clips with Elle Fanning, Jesse Plemmons, Ben Wang, Maya Hawke, and Ralph Fiennes, along with returning Hunger Games director Francis Lawrence.
The cast also includes Glenn Close, Kieran Culkin, Whitney Peak, Mckenna Grace, and Kelvin Harrison Jr.
Lionsgate’s synopsis reads: “From acclaimed director Francis Lawrence, The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping follows sixteen-year-old Haymitch Abernathy (Zada) from District 12, beginning on the morning of the reaping for the 50th Annual Hunger Games, also known as the Second Quarter Quell, the biggest Games yet with twice as many tributes.
Set in the world of Panem 24 years before the events of The Hunger Games, the story follows Haymitch into the arena, where he forms an unlikely alliance with fellow tribute Maysilee Donner (Grace) and joins a coalition determined to challenge the Capitol’s control under President Snow (Fiennes). As the competition unfolds, Haymitch risks everything to take down the Games from within the arena — setting in motion the rebellion that will change Panem forever.”
Billy Ray and Michael Lesslie adapted Suzanne Collins’ novel and Lawrence directs. Producers include Lawrence, Nina Jacobson, and Brad Simpson.
The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping opens in theaters on November 20, 2026.
