First Look: Joseph Zada Shines On Set of ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’

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A fresh Hunger Games movie is being developed, set 40 years after “The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes” and 24 years before the initial Hunger Games story. The film will center around Panem during its 2nd Quarter Quell, starting on the morning of the reaping for the 50th Hunger Games. In this upcoming movie, viewers can expect to see a young Haymitch Abernathy among the competitors.

The film, scheduled for release on November 20, 2026, will be directed by Francis Lawrence. The script for this movie is being penned by both Billy Ray and Suzanne Collins, who are known for their work on the Hunger Games series.

This ensemble features both recognizable figures and fresh talents. Ralph Fiennes steps into the shoes previously worn by Donald Sutherland as President Snow. Meanwhile, Elle Fanning reappears in her role as Effie Trinket, while Mckenna Grace is introduced as Maysilee Donner.

In addition to Jesse Plemons portraying Plutarch Heavensbee, Kieran Culkin as Caesar Flickerman, and Joseph Zada in the role of Haymitch Abernathy, the film also features Joseph Zada in behind-the-scenes footage from “The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping,” offering a sneak peek into the movie’s production.

curious to see what goes on backstage with Joseph Zada during ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’? Definitely! 🤩

— Screen Rant (@screenrant) August 6, 2025

In addition to the main cast, the film showcases Maya Hawke as Wiress, Glenn Close as Drusilla Sickle, and Edvin Ryding as Vitus. Other notable appearances include Lili Taylor, Ben Wang, Jefferson White, Iris Apatow, Whitney Peak, Kara Tointon, Kelvin Harrison Jr., Molly McCann, Laura Marcus, and Silka Sharp.

Although the movie was conceived prior to the prequel novel’s publication in March 2025, director Francis Lawrence had an early glimpse of the manuscript by summer 2024. However, it wasn’t until after the book’s official release that the production process truly took off, with filming scheduled to commence in July.

Ralph Fiennes expressed his feelings about taking on the role of President Snow, stating, “Clearly, large footsteps to follow, but Donald Sutherland imbued the character with rich complexity. I’m portraying a younger version of him. I’m both daunted and thrilled by the prospect. I can’t wait… I won’t attempt to be like Donald Sutherland because no one can replicate him. However, I believe the character he crafted is intricate… The depth of that psychology, I aim to reflect it in some way.

In this upcoming movie, we’ll delve into an unexplored era of Panem’s past that die-hard fans haven’t witnessed yet, offering a richer perspective on the universe of “The Hunger Games.” With a talented crew and skilled director joining forces, “The Hunger Games: Dawn at the Reaping” looks set to be an enthralling extension of the series.

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2025-08-06 19:48