The world of Panem is set to rise again—only this time, it’s darker, deadlier, and more personal. Lionsgate has officially announced The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping, a new prequel hitting theaters on November 20, 2026, and the internet is already ablaze with theories and anticipation. Unveiled at CinemaCon 2025 with striking teaser visuals and a cryptic voiceover from none other than Woody Harrelson, this next chapter dives into one of the most infamous Hunger Games in history: the 50th Hunger Games, also known as the Second Quarter Quell.
A Return to the Arena – But Not Like We Remember
Unlike the traditional 24 tributes, this special Quarter Quell doubled the horror, pitting 48 children against each other in a blood-soaked arena as a twisted punishment for a past uprising. It’s the very Games that cemented Haymitch Abernathy as a victor—and as a haunted man. Known to fans as the sharp-tongued, alcohol-fueled mentor of Katniss Everdeen, Haymitch’s backstory is finally coming to the forefront.
Based on Suzanne Collins’ upcoming novel of the same name, Sunrise on the Reaping will explore the emotional and political weight of this particular Hunger Games. The book is slated for release in March 2025, giving fans a chance to absorb the story before the big-screen adaptation arrives.
Francis Lawrence Returns, With Familiar Creative Power
Lionsgate has confirmed that Francis Lawrence, the director of four previous Hunger Games films, is returning to helm this project. He’ll be joined by Billy Ray, who previously co-wrote the screenplay for the original Hunger Games movie. The creative duo promises a fresh take, while keeping the series’ gritty, high-stakes tone intact.
A Glimpse of What’s to Come
The first teaser, revealed at CinemaCon, featured a molten snake rising from a volcanic eruption—an ominous symbol that many believe hints at the Games’ arena theme and the venomous tactics used by Haymitch in his victory. The teaser didn’t reveal any cast members, but Woody Harrelson’s voiceover has sparked rumors that he might appear in flash-forward scenes or provide narration, connecting his older self to the younger version of the character.
While casting for young Haymitch has not been officially announced, speculation is swirling. Names like Charlie Plummer and Jacob Elordi are trending among fans as possible choices to embody the future victor of District 12.
Why This Prequel Matters
Unlike The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes, which centered on Coriolanus Snow’s descent into authoritarianism, Sunrise on the Reaping will delve into the trauma of survival from a victor’s point of view. Haymitch’s cynical, battle-hardened personality makes more sense when viewers understand what he endured—and survived—during a Games designed to be even more brutal than usual.
With its political commentary, psychological depth, and visceral action, The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated films of 2026. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the series, this story promises to ignite fresh discussions about power, sacrifice, and what it really means to be a symbol of hope in a world that thrives on fear.
Key Takeaways
- “The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping” will hit theaters worldwide on November 20, 2026, featuring 48 tributes competing in the Second Quarter Quell.
- Francis Lawrence is in talks to direct while Billy Ray will write the screenplay, maintaining creative continuity with previous Hunger Games films.
- The prequel will center on teenage Haymitch Abernathy’s victory in the 50th Hunger Games, filling a significant gap in the franchise’s timeline.
Announcement and Anticipation
Lionsgate made waves at CinemaCon with their official announcement of “The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping,” slated for release on November 20, 2026. The film will build upon Suzanne Collins’ expansive dystopian universe.
CinemaCon Reveal Highlights
During Lionsgate’s presentation at CinemaCon, executives unveiled the animated logo teaser for “Sunrise on the Reaping,” generating excitement among attendees. The studio confirmed that Billy Ray, who worked on the original Hunger Games film, will return to write the screenplay.
Director Francis Lawrence, who helmed most of the previous Hunger Games films, shared new details about the production schedule. The film’s connection to Collins’ recently released novel of the same name was emphasized during the presentation.
Lionsgate’s reveal included the first visual elements from the upcoming project, giving fans a glimpse into the aesthetic direction of the prequel film.
The Hunger Games Legacy
“Sunrise on the Reaping” continues the successful franchise that has grossed over $3 billion worldwide. The film follows “The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes,” which expanded the universe by exploring President Snow’s origins.
Suzanne Collins’ dystopian world continues to resonate with audiences years after the original books and films. Her new novel, released on March 18, provides the foundation for this upcoming adaptation.
The Hunger Games franchise has maintained its cultural relevance through its exploration of themes like inequality, power, and sacrifice. This new chapter promises to delve deeper into Panem’s history and the evolution of the deadly games.
Fans can expect the film to maintain the series’ signature blend of political commentary and action-driven storytelling.
Cast and Crew
The upcoming film “The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping” will feature both familiar faces from the franchise and new talent. Director Francis Lawrence returns to helm this new chapter in the dystopian saga about the Second Quarter Quell.
Returning Talent
Francis Lawrence, who directed previous Hunger Games films, will return to direct “Sunrise on the Reaping.” His experience with the franchise makes him an ideal choice to bring Suzanne Collins’ prequel story to life.
Woody Harrelson, who portrayed Haymitch Abernathy in the original films, is expected to have some connection to the project. The new film focuses on the Second Quarter Quell – the same Games that Haymitch won as a young tribute from District 12.
Billy Ray joins the creative team again as one of the writers adapting Collins’ work. His previous experience with the franchise helps ensure continuity in storytelling style and tone.
New Additions
While official casting announcements remain limited, speculation about who will play young Haymitch continues among fans. Some fan discussions mention Cooper Hoffman as a potential candidate, though many actors might be hesitant to step into roles with strong family connections.
The production team is likely seeking young talent who can capture Haymitch’s complex character – someone capable of portraying both strength and vulnerability required for this pivotal role.
Rachel Zegler and Tom Blyth, who starred in “The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes,” are not expected to appear in this film as their characters exist in a different time period within the Hunger Games universe.
Behind the Scenes
Suzanne Collins, the creator of the Hunger Games universe, remains closely involved with the adaptation process. Her fifth book in the series, released in March, serves as the foundation for “Sunrise on the Reaping.”
The production team has already created a logo that teases a new Hunger Games arena design. This visual element hints at the unique aspects of the Second Quarter Quell, which featured twice the normal number of tributes.
The film is currently scheduled for release on November 20, 2026. Pre-production appears to be underway with filming expected to begin soon, as indicated by Francis Lawrence’s recent comments at CinemaCon where he shared new details about the project.
Frequently Asked Questions
Fans have many questions about the upcoming addition to The Hunger Games franchise. Here are answers to some of the most common questions about this exciting new film.
When is ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ scheduled to be released?
The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping is scheduled for release on November 20, 2026. Lionsgate announced this release date during their presentation at CinemaCon.
The film is currently in early production stages with the writing process underway.
What can we expect from the plot of ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’?
While specific plot details remain limited, the title “Sunrise on the Reaping” suggests the film may explore the early days of the Hunger Games.
The movie could potentially focus on the origins of the reaping ceremony or one of the earliest Hunger Games competitions in Panem’s history.
Francis Lawrence, who directed several previous Hunger Games films, is returning to direct this new chapter, which may provide some continuity in storytelling approach.
Which actors have been confirmed for the cast of ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’?
No cast members have been officially announced for The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping as of April 2025.
The film is still in early development, with Billy Ray working on the screenplay. Cast announcements will likely come later in the production process.
Are there any trailers or teasers available for ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’?
No official trailers or teasers have been released yet for the film. However, Lionsgate did reveal an animated logo for “Sunrise on the Reaping” during their CinemaCon presentation.
As the November 2026 release date is still well over a year away, promotional materials are not expected until much closer to the premiere date.
How does ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ relate to the original book series?
The exact relationship between this new film and Suzanne Collins’ original books has not been clearly defined. Based on the title, it appears the movie may explore events before the original trilogy.
This would make it a prequel, potentially expanding on the history of Panem and the Hunger Games that was only briefly touched upon in the original books.
Has the casting for ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ been completed?
No, casting for The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping does not appear to have been completed or announced publicly.
With the script still being written by Billy Ray and the release date set for late 2026, casting decisions are likely still in progress. Announcements about the cast will probably be made in the coming months as production moves forward.
