Lionsgate unveiled a new logo for the upcoming Hunger Games prequel, Sunrise on the Reaping. However, the studio refrained from sharing significant details, such as casting announcements or first-look footage. The film will focus on Haymitch Abernathy, originally portrayed by Woody Harrelson, and is set to begin filming this summer.
A brief, dramatic clip showcased flames engulfing a mockingjay — a symbol of resistance in the dystopian world of Panem — transforming into a snake, another key emblem from the franchise. Harrelson's voiceover ominously stated,
“I think these games are going to be different.”
Billy Ray, who co-wrote the original Hunger Games and the iconic AMC ad featuring Nicole Kidman, has been chosen to pen the screenplay for Sunrise on the Reaping. Francis Lawrence, who has directed every Hunger Games film since 2012’s Catching Fire, will helm this prequel sequel. The film is slated for release in theatres on 20 November 2026.
Lawrence mentioned at CinemaCon that they are just beginning the casting process and expressed excitement about working on the draft for a year. Based on Suzanne Collins’ novel published earlier this March, Sunrise on the Reaping will explore events nearly 25 years before the original saga, starting with the reaping of the 50th Hunger Games.
