The Hunger Games: Sunrise On The Reaping Trailer Shows Young Haymitch’s Deadly Journey
The new Sunrise on the Reaping trailer offers a striking first look at Joseph Zada as young Haymitch and introduces fresh versions of iconic characters.
The Hunger Games franchise is set to return with a new chapter, and fans now have their first look at the characters who will lead the story. The makers released the trailer of The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping on November 20, giving viewers a glimpse of the film’s world, cast and tone.
The clip highlights Haymitch Abernathy’s younger years, played by Joseph Zada. Haymitch, earlier played by Woody Harrelson in the original series, takes the spotlight this time as the story follows his journey during one of the most dangerous editions of the Games.
Trailer Reveals Haymitch’s Fight for Survival
The trailer takes viewers back to the time of the 50th Hunger Games, also known as the second Quarter Quell. This special edition forces double the number of tributes from each district, making the battle even deadlier. Joseph Zada’s Haymitch is chosen to represent District 12, setting the stage for a tense and emotional storyline.
The video shows Haymitch trying to survive the arena while also worrying about the people he loves, including his family and girlfriend back home. As the chaos unfolds, President Coriolanus Snow watches from a distance, reminding fans of the dark politics behind the Games.
Watch the trailer here:
Star-Studded Cast Joins the Film
The film features well-known actors playing younger versions of familiar characters. Elle Fanning steps into the role of a young Effie Trinket. Ralph Fiennes plays President Snow, while Kieran Culkin appears as Caesar Flickerman, the lively host of the Games. Jesse Plemons portrays the younger Plutarch Heavensbee.
The supporting cast includes Kelvin Harrison Jr., Glenn Close, Maya Hawke, McKenna Grace, Billy Porter, Lili Taylor, Whitney Peak, Ben Wang, Molly McCann, Iona Bell, Edvin Ryding, Kara Tointon, and Percy Daggs IV.
How This Film Connects to the Series
The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping continues the world built in The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes (2023) and leads into the events of the first Hunger Games movie from 2012. It is based on Suzanne Collins’ 2025 novel of the same name.
Director Francis Lawrence returns to helm the project, with most of the filming taking place in Spain and other international locations. The movie is scheduled to release in the United States and Canada on November 20, next year.