First Reactions to 'Sunrise on the Reaping' Declare It a Franchise High

Initial social media reactions for The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping have flooded in following its London premiere, and the buzz is scorching hot. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Lionsgate allowed attendees of early screenings to post their thoughts, with many declaring the new prequel a standout.

Several reactions compiled by outlets like TheWrap and /Film lavished praise on star Joseph Zada as a young Haymitch Abernathy. Griffin Schiller called Zada "a revelation," per /Film, while TheWrap noted Nikita Francois claimed the film is "easily the best" in the series and a must see.

The story follows a teenage Haymitch during the infamous 50th Hunger Games, a special edition with double the competitors. He forms an alliance with fellow tribute Maysilee Donner, played by Mckenna Grace, within the arena.

Director Francis Lawrence returns to helm this adaptation of Suzanne Collins's novel. The cast also includes Jesse Plemons, Ralph Fiennes, Glenn Close, and Kieran Culkin.

The film is scheduled to arrive in theaters on November 20, 2026.