The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping Trailer Unveils Joseph Zada as Young Haymitch

Lionsgate has officially released the first trailer for “The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping,” offering fans a glimpse into the origin story of one of Panem’s most complex characters. The prequel film is set to hit theaters on November 20, 2026, and features Joseph Zada as a young Haymitch Abernathy — the role originally made famous by Woody Harrelson in the original trilogy.

Based on Suzanne Collins’ 2025 novel of the same name, the new film takes audiences back 24 years before Katniss Everdeen’s rebellion, centering on the 50th Hunger Games, also known as the Second Quarter Quell. This special edition of the Games doubles the number of tributes, forcing each district to send two boys and two girls to the Capitol — a total of 48 children fighting to the death.

Inside “Sunrise on the Reaping”: Plot, Cast, and Creative Team

The upcoming prequel follows Haymitch Abernathy as he’s thrust into the horrors of the arena, showcasing his intelligence, survival instincts, and defiance that later defined his mentorship of Katniss and Peeta. The story is expected to delve into how Haymitch’s experience in the 50th Games shaped his mistrust of the Capitol and his deep-seated trauma that persisted throughout the series.

The cast is stacked with both rising and established talent. Elle Fanning portrays a younger Effie Trinket, while Ralph Fiennes steps into the role of President Coriolanus Snow — previously portrayed by Donald Sutherland and Tom Blyth in earlier films. Kieran Culkin plays the energetic TV host Caesar Flickerman, and Jesse Plemons takes on a younger Plutarch Heavensbee. Additional stars include Kelvin Harrison Jr., Glenn Close, Maya Hawke, Mckenna Grace, Billy Porter, Whitney Peak, Ben Wang, Molly McCann, Iona Bell, and Percy Daggs IV.

The film reunites the creative minds behind much of the franchise’s success. Francis Lawrence, who directed four previous “Hunger Games” movies, returns to helm the project. The screenplay is penned by Billy Ray, known for his work on “Captain Phillips” and “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire.” Producers Brad Simpson and Nina Jacobson are also back, ensuring continuity in the franchise’s tone and visual storytelling.

What the Trailer Reveals About the Tone and Story

The first trailer sets a dark, emotional tone — capturing both the brutality of the Quarter Quell and Haymitch’s journey from innocence to defiance. Viewers catch glimpses of the Capitol’s decadent celebrations juxtaposed with the desperate survival scenes inside the arena. The visuals carry the franchise’s signature style: dystopian grandeur mixed with raw emotion and tension.

Fans have already praised Zada’s portrayal of young Haymitch for echoing Harrelson’s cynicism and wit, while offering a fresh vulnerability. Early footage suggests the film will explore the political manipulation behind the Games more deeply, revealing how the Capitol used the Quarter Quell as propaganda and punishment for past rebellions.

“Sunrise on the Reaping” is poised to expand the universe of “The Hunger Games” in ways both nostalgic and new, bringing fans back to Panem’s origins while introducing a new generation of tributes and stories.

The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping hits theaters on November 20, 2026.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Who plays young Haymitch in The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping?

Joseph Zada portrays young Haymitch Abernathy in the upcoming prequel film.

Q2: When will The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping be released?

The film will be released in theaters on November 20, 2026.

Q3: Who directs The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping?

Francis Lawrence, who directed previous Hunger Games films, returns as director for this installment.

Q4: Is the movie based on a book?

Yes. It is based on Suzanne Collins’ 2025 novel of the same name, set 24 years before the original Hunger Games.

Q5: Which actors are joining the new Hunger Games prequel cast?

Elle Fanning, Ralph Fiennes, Kieran Culkin, Jesse Plemons, and Maya Hawke are among the key cast members.