We got another trailer for 'The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping.' Here's everything we know about the film.
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Lionsgate released the second full-length trailer for the upcoming cinematic adaptation of The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping, scheduled for theatrical release in the United States on November 20, 2026. Directed by franchise veteran Francis Lawrence, the film is based on Suzanne Collins’ bestselling prequel novel set twenty-four years before the primary trilogy. The narrative centers on a young Haymitch Abernathy, portrayed by Joseph Zada, during the fiftieth annual Hunger Games, recognized as the Second Quarter Quell. Because of the Quell twist, the Capitol doubled the tribute count, forcing forty-eight youths into the arena. The ensemble cast includes Ralph Fiennes as a young Coriolanus Snow, Jesse Plemons, and Mckenna Grace. The promotional footage highlights the oppressive Capitol regime, the expanded scale of the deadly arena, and the systemic propaganda driving the bloodsport. Exhibitors and studio analysts anticipate significant box-office performance following the established success of previous franchise prequels.
More context
Timeline
- On May 19, 2020 Suzanne Collins published the prequel novel Sunrise on the Reaping.
- On June 6, 2024 Lionsgate announced cinematic development plans for Sunrise on the Reaping.
- On June 5, 2025 studio representatives confirmed Francis Lawrence would return to direct the film.
- On June 12, 2025 principal casting announcements confirmed Joseph Zada as young Haymitch Abernathy.
- On August 15, 2025 principal photography commenced across studio stages and select physical locations.
- On November 12, 2025 Lionsgate released the first teaser trailer during a media showcase.
- On September 10, 2026 studio executives published the second full-length trailer worldwide.
- On November 18, 2026 the official world premiere red carpet screening will occur.
- On November 20, 2026 theatrical and IMAX distribution will commence nationwide across America.
- On December 20, 2026 international theatrical rollout windows will conclude initial domestic tracking periods.
Why it matters
Immediate US impact: Boosts Q4 domestic box-office revenues and theatrical attendance. Possible long-term US impact: Expands studio franchise valuation and revitalizes dystopian cinema markets. Most affected groups: Entertainment industry investors, domestic movie theater chains, and franchise fans. Reader priority: Verify release schedules, official studio trailers, and accredited casting updates.
Coverage notes
Left: Evidence was insufficient. Center: Reports focus objectively on verified release schedules and casting details. Right: Evidence was insufficient.
Primary report
Lionsgate released second official trailer for movie on date.
Sources
- Reuters
- The Hollywood Reporter
- Entertainment Weekly
- Collider
- Screen Rant
- USA Today
- New York Times
- Washington Post
- Time
- Associated Press
- NBC News
- NPR
- Wall Street Journal
- Forbes
- Bloomberg
- Gizmodo
- Digital Spy
- Roger Ebert
- SlashFilm
- ComingSoon
- JoBlo
- The A.V. Club
- Polygon
- MTV News
- Extra TV
- People Magazine
- Hollywood Life
- The Playlist
- lionsgate.com
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