When Does “Sunrise on the Reaping” Come Out? All About the Next “Hunger Games” Movie

**New Film ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ Set for 2026 Release**

A new chapter in the Hunger Games narrative is set to unfold with the much-anticipated film, ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’. Scheduled to hit cinemas on 20 November 2026, this adaptation of Suzanne Collins’ latest book promises to immerse viewers once more in the perilous world of Panem.

The upcoming film will centre around a younger version of Haymitch Abernathy, a character familiar to audiences as Katniss Everdeen’s mentor in the original trilogy. Joseph Zada has been cast in the lead role, taking over from Woody Harrelson, who portrayed Haymitch in previous iterations. Alongside Zada, Whitney Peak will portray Lenore Dove Baird, Haymitch’s love interest.

Announced even before the completion of Collins’ manuscript, which was published in March 2025, the film solidified its production plans through Lionsgate. Adam Fogelson, Chair of the Lionsgate Motion Picture Group, expressed his admiration for Collins in a press release, highlighting her remarkable storytelling abilities. “We couldn’t be more fortunate to collaborate with a talent whose imagination is consistently brilliant,” Fogelson remarked.

Set 24 years prior to the events of the original 2008 film, ‘Sunrise on the Reaping’ will plunge audiences into the 50th Hunger Games, a crucial moment marked as the second Quarter Quell. The event is noted for its increased brutality, requiring four tributes—two boys and two girls—from each district. This particular reaping heralded unprecedented violence, establishing itself as one of the bloodiest games in the history of Panem.

In this gripping tale, Haymitch is joined by a close friend, described in promotional material as a “sister-like” companion and a gifted oddsmaker. Book excerpts introduce themes of propaganda and the manipulation of narratives, which Collins believes resonate strongly in today’s world. “The question ‘Real or not real?’ seems more pressing to me every day,” she commented, showcasing the relevance of the storyline.

The cast assembled for ‘Sunrise on the Reaping’ boasts remarkable talent, including McKenna Grace as Maysilee Donner, Haymitch’s companion from District 12, alongside celebrated actors such as Maya Hawke, Ralph Fiennes, Elle Fanning, Glenn Close, and Kieran Culkin. Erin Westerman, co-president of Lionsgate Motion Picture Group, praised Zada and Peak for their performances, acknowledging the film’s legacy of propelling young actors into the spotlight.

Teasers for the film have already been made available, with the first official trailer launching on 20 November 2025. The two-minute preview opens with Glenn Close’s character, Drusilla, welcoming viewers to the reaping of District 12. The second trailer released in April 2026 featured Zada, alongside glimpses of familiar faces from the franchise.

The directing responsibilities for ‘Sunrise on the Reaping’ will be undertaken by Francis Lawrence, a veteran of the franchise, known for his work on ‘Catching Fire’ and the ‘Mockingjay’ films. Lawrence’s return is met with anticipation, especially as he adapts a younger Haymitch—an interesting challenge that mirrors the casting of Tom Blythe as a young President Snow in ‘The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes’.

Contributing to the screenplay is Billy Ray, who penned the original ‘The Hunger Games’, ensuring continuity for fans of the series. As the release date approaches, excitement surrounding the film is poised to escalate, particularly among dedicated followers of the franchise.

For those wishing to revisit the existing films, the entire Hunger Games collection is available for digital rental or purchase, and fans can also stream various titles through platforms such as Amazon Prime. With the landscape of Panem ready for another exploration, ‘Sunrise on the Reaping’ invites audiences to witness the genesis of a character who has greatly influenced the saga’s heroes and villains alike.