First Footage Arrives for Hunger Games Prequel Sunrise on the Reaping
Elle Fanning, Kieran Culkin and Ralph Fiennes are among the stars of Francis Lawrence's prequel feature that Lionsgate releases later this year.
Lionsgate has unveiled the first footage from Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping, the highly anticipated prequel film directed by Francis Lawrence, offering fans their earliest look at the latest chapter in the beloved dystopian franchise.
The preview showcases an impressive ensemble cast led by Elle Fanning, Kieran Culkin, and Ralph Fiennes, signaling that the studio is doubling down on star power as it continues to expand the Panem universe beyond the original series.
Sunrise on the Reaping is based on Suzanne Collins' 2024 novel of the same name, which explores the backstory of Haymitch Abernathy, the mentor to Katniss Everdeen who was famously portrayed by Woody Harrelson in the original film series. The prequel is set during the 50th Hunger Games, also known as the Second Quarter Quell.
Director Francis Lawrence, who helmed the majority of the original Hunger Games films including Catching Fire and both Mockingjay installments, returns to the franchise, bringing with him a deep familiarity with the world Collins created.
The footage hints at the same gritty, high-stakes tone that defined the earlier entries in the series, with sweeping visuals and intense performances suggesting the production has spared little expense in bringing this pivotal period of Panem's history to life.
Lionsgate has positioned Sunrise on the Reaping as one of its flagship releases for the coming year, banking on the enduring popularity of the franchise to draw both longtime fans and a new generation of moviegoers to theaters.
No official release date has been confirmed beyond a general 2025 window, but the arrival of first footage suggests a full marketing campaign is now underway. Fans can expect trailers, cast interviews, and promotional events to ramp up in the months ahead.