Film
New Hunger Games Prequel Reveals Young Haymitch's Path to Rebellion
Lionsgate unveils the first trailer for Sunrise on the Reaping, which takes viewers into the arena where Haymitch Abernathy becomes a catalyst for change in Panem.
Ars Technica
Lionsgate has dropped a fresh trailer for The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping, the latest installment in the franchise that traces Haymitch Abernathy's formative moment—the ruthless competition that transforms him from a young tribute into a hardened survivor and eventual mentor to Katniss Everdeen.
A Turning Point in Panem's History#
Set 24 years before the events of the original Hunger Games film, Sunrise on the Reaping follows Joseph Zada as a youthful Haymitch competing in the 50th Hunger Games, known as the Second Quarter Quell. This edition of the deadly tournament raises the stakes by requiring each district to send double the usual number of tributes to fight to the death. Alongside fellow District 12 competitor Maysilee Donner (Mckenna Grace), Haymitch forges an unexpected partnership and joins forces with other tributes determined to challenge the Capitol's iron grip on power under President Snow (Ralph Fiennes).
High Stakes in the Arena#
The trailer promises an action-driven narrative centered on how Haymitch navigates the Games and achieves victory—a feat fans already know happens, but the film explores the psychological and physical toll the journey demands. Viewers familiar with the books and films understand that Haymitch survives his Games, but the real drama unfolds through the choices he makes, the alliances he builds, and the personal sacrifices he endures along the way. His actions within the arena ultimately set the stage for the rebellion that reshapes Panem's entire future.
An Ensemble of Familiar Faces#
The cast brings to life a rich tapestry of characters who have appeared earlier or later in the Hunger Games timeline. Ralph Fiennes returns as the younger President Snow, while supporting roles feature Kieran Culkin as a youthful Caesar Flickerman, Elle Fanning as trainee stylist Effie Trinket, and Jesse Plemons as a cameraman named Plutarch. Additional cast members include Glenn Close as District 12's chaperone, Billy Porter and Maya Hawke in stylist and past-victor roles, and others who collectively flesh out the world of Panem during this pivotal moment in its history.
