Lionsgate has officially launched global excitement with the release of the first teaser trailer, teaser poster, and exclusive images for The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping. Arriving one year ahead of the film’s highly anticipated premiere, the first look offers a powerful glimpse into the next chapter of the iconic franchise—one that promises gripping emotion, political intensity, and a return to the brutal spectacle of the arena.
Set for release on November 20, 2026, the upcoming film adapts the bestselling novel by Suzanne Collins and takes viewers back into the world of Panem—decades before Katniss Everdeen became the symbol of rebellion. This time, the story centers on a young Haymitch Abernathy, portrayed by Joseph Zada, exploring the events leading up to—and inside—the Fiftieth Hunger Games, better known as the Second Quarter Quell. Fans of the original saga will finally witness the Games that defined Haymitch’s trauma, strategies, and complicated legacy.
The film begins on the morning of the reaping, capturing the raw fear, tension, and injustice that shaped Haymitch’s youth. As the narrative unfolds, audiences will experience the brutality of the Capitol’s power, the emotional stakes of survival, and the early seeds of defiance that later influence Katniss’ rebellion. With a story built on political pressure and personal resilience, this installment promises to deepen the mythology of Panem while delivering the signature tension and spectacle the franchise is known for.
Director Francis Lawrence, who helmed several previous Hunger Games films, returns to shape this new cinematic chapter. The screenplay—adapted by acclaimed writer Billy Ray—translates Collins’ vivid world with emotional authenticity and dramatic precision. Producers Nina Jacobson and Brad Simpson of Color Force continue their stewardship of the franchise, while Cameron MacConomy joins as executive producer. Their proven track record has been instrumental in building a series that has earned more than $3.3 billion worldwide.
Fan enthusiasm for the newest prequel has already proven monumental. The novel Sunrise on the Reaping sold 1.5 million copies within its first week across major English-speaking countries—doubling the U.S. first-week sales of The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes and tripling those of Mockingjay. This massive response signals an immense appetite for Haymitch’s origin story and the ongoing exploration of Panem’s political corruption and symbolic resistance.
The teaser reveals emotional intensity, chilling imagery, and hints of the arena’s deadly challenges, all while setting the tone for a story rooted in tragedy, survival, and history repeating itself. With Lawrence’s direction, a strong production team, and a gripping narrative foundation, Sunrise on the Reaping is positioned to become one of 2026’s biggest cinematic events.
Key Highlights from Sunrise on the Reaping:
• First teaser, poster, and images released ahead of the 2026 premiere
• Story follows young Haymitch Abernathy during the deadly Second Quarter Quell
• Directed by franchise veteran Francis Lawrence
• Screenplay by Billy Ray, with production from Nina Jacobson and Brad Simpson
• The Hunger Games franchise has earned over $3.3 billion globally
• Novel sold 1.5 million copies in its first week across six countries
A new era of Panem is rising. The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping is poised to deliver a powerful, emotional, and unforgettable journey when it arrives in theaters on November 20, 2026.
Report Lela Christine
