A first full trailer has been unveiled for 'The Hunger Games: Sunrise of the Reaping.'
Based on the new prequel novel by Suzanne Collins, the film explores a completely different chapter in the world of Panem, focusing on a young Haymitch Abernathy long before he becomes the hardened mentor seen in the original series.
The film is set for release in cinemas worldwide on November 20, 2026, with Irish audiences expected to receive it the same day as part of its global rollout.
The newly released trailer introduces a large ensemble cast, led by Joseph Zada as a young Haymitch.
He is joined by Whitney Peak as Lenore Dove Baird, Haymitch’s love interest, and McKenna Grace as fellow District 12 tribute Maysilee Donner.
The cast also includes Jesse Plemons as a younger Plutarch Heavensbee, Elle Fanning as Effie Trinket, and Ralph Fiennes stepping into the role of President Snow—distinct from previous portrayals by Donald Sutherland and Tom Blyth in earlier entries.
McKenna Grace Will Star In 'The Hunger Games: Sunrise Of The Reaping'
Further additions include Kelvin Harrison Jr. as Beetee, Maya Hawke as Wiress, Lili Taylor as Mags, and Ben Wang as tribute Wyatt Callow.
The film also features high-profile names such as Glenn Close, Billy Porter, and additional rising stars, signalling one of the most ambitious ensemble casts in the franchise to date.
The story centres on the 50th Hunger Games, also known as the Second Quarter Quell—one of the most infamous events in Panem’s history.
Unlike the standard Games, where each of the 12 districts sends two tributes, this special edition forces each district to send four competitors, doubling the total number of tributes to 48 and dramatically increasing the brutality of the arena.
This prequel is firmly focused on Haymitch’s experience inside the Games, charting how he survives one of the most punishing versions ever staged—and how that victory ultimately shapes the character later portrayed by Woody Harrelson.
The trailer leans into that darker tone, showcasing a more expansive arena, heightened Capitol spectacle, and deeper political tension.
It also teases connections to familiar elements of the franchise without retreading the stories of Katniss Everdeen and Peeta Mellark, whose journeys take place decades later.
Behind the camera, franchise veteran Francis Lawrence returns to direct, having previously helmed Catching Fire, Mockingjay Parts 1 and 2, and The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes. The screenplay is written by Billy Ray, who also penned the original Hunger Games film.
The trailer’s release has already sparked major online reaction, particularly for its fresh take on the world of Panem and its focus on a fan-favourite character whose backstory has long been one of the most talked-about in the series.
