Maya Hawke is set to captivate audiences once more as she takes on a pivotal role in *The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping*, scheduled for release on 20 November. The film serves as a prequel to the iconic *Hunger Games* series, of which the original inspiration played a significant role in shaping her career ambitions.
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In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, the 28-year-old actress reflected on how the original *Hunger Games* movie profoundly influenced her desire to pursue acting. She remarked, “I credit the original Hunger Games movie a lot with inspiring me to want to be an actor, honestly.” This sentiment highlights the enduring impact of the franchise, which has left an indelible mark on numerous aspiring performers.
Hawke portrays a younger version of Wiress, a character initially brought to life by Amanda Plummer in *Catching Fire*. In expressing her enthusiasm for this role, Hawke shared, “My part is very small, but I’m excited. I love my character.” Her excitement is palpable, especially as she looks forward to experiencing the film from a viewer’s perspective as well.
The actress did not shy away from acknowledging the challenges of delivering a strong performance in action-heavy films. She emphasised, “It’s so hard to give a good performance in a big action movie,” citing the complex nature of such productions. Hawke praised Jennifer Lawrence, who portrayed the series’ iconic protagonist Katniss Everdeen, describing her as an inspiration for managing to deliver a unique performance that stood out even within a genre often characterised by formulaic tropes.
*The Hunger Games* series, adapted from Suzanne Collins’ cherished trilogy, unfolded a gripping narrative set in the dystopian realm of Panem. The story revolves around a brutal yearly event in which two children from each of the twelve districts are selected to compete in a televised battle to the death. The franchise has been celebrated for its compelling themes and strong character development, showcased through an impressive array of talent including Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth, and Woody Harrelson among others, who have contributed to the rich tapestry of the story over its four films.
Following the success of the main trilogy, Collins expanded the universe with *The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes*—a prequel novel that has recently been adapted into film format featuring Rachel Zegler in the lead role. This film serves as a bridge between the original trilogy and the forthcoming *Sunrise on the Reaping*, which Hawke describes as a continuation of the compelling saga.
Alongside Hawke’s portrayal of Wiress, the new film features a star-studded ensemble cast that includes Ralph Fiennes, Elle Fanning, and Jesse Plemons—all playing younger versions of pivotal characters from the franchise. The extensive cast creates an atmosphere of collaboration and camaraderie, yet it also brings a sense of pressure. “There are so many incredible actors in it,” Hawke confessed, adding with a laugh, “I hope I didn’t ruin it.”
Directing the film is Francis Lawrence, who has helmed previous entries in the franchise. Hawke expressed her admiration for his work and her appreciation for the opportunity to engage in what she referred to as “anti-fascist populist art.” She conveyed a sense of honour in being part of a project that resonates with important societal themes while still being rooted in the realm of entertainment.
As anticipation builds for *The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping*, audiences are poised to delve back into the world of Panem, highlighting both individual stories and the broader socio-political implications inherent within the narrative. For Hawke, this project is not just another acting role but a meaningful contribution to a beloved franchise that originally ignited her passion for performance.
As it stands, the return to this universe promises to rekindle excitement among fans of the original series while introducing new characters and stories that enliven the rich legacy of the *Hunger Games*. With the film’s release just around the corner, the collective curiosity about how it will expand upon the existing lore continues to grow, marking yet another chapter in a story that has captivated audiences worldwide.