Let the 50th Hunger Games begin.
Fans of The Hunger Games are finally getting a deeper look into one of Panem’s most infamous victors. In Sunrise on the Reaping, Haymitch Abernathy steps out from behind the mentor role and into the spotlight as the tragic hero of his own story.
Known for guiding Katniss Everdeen and Peeta Mellark to victory years later, Haymitch’s past has always been shrouded in mystery. This new installment finally pulls back the curtain, revealing the brutal truth behind his win during the Second Quarter Quell one of the most deadly games in history. Unlike the traditional setup of 24 tributes, this version doubles the number of participants, raising the stakes to a terrifying level.
As anticipation builds for its November release, Lionsgate has dropped the official trailer, offering a gripping preview of both the chaos inside the arena and the tensions brewing behind the scenes. At the center of it all is a young, defiant Haymitch, whose rebellious streak quickly sets him apart.
One of the trailer’s standout moments is the first encounter between Haymitch and President Snow. Played by Joseph Zada and Ralph Fiennes, respectively, the scene hints at a tense and ominous dynamic. Snow coldly reminds Haymitch that he’s on his own, even as he subtly acknowledges the tribute’s personal ties back in District 12.
We also get a glimpse of Haymitch’s reaping, where he’s torn away from Lenore Dove Baird (Whitney Peak), adding an emotional weight to his story. The trailer briefly shows his family as well, underscoring what’s at stake beyond the arena.
Much of the footage focuses on the lead-up to the Games, introducing both familiar and new faces. Caesar Flickerman, played by Kieran Culkin, returns with his signature flamboyance as he announces the twist of the Second Quarter Quell. Drusilla Sickle (Glenn Close) confirms the brutal rule change: twice the tributes, twice the danger.
District 12’s four tributes Maysilee Donner (Mckenna Grace), Wyatt Callow (Ben Wang), Haymitch, and Lou Lou make a striking entrance in black outfits styled by Effie Trinket (Elle Fanning). During his interview, Haymitch doesn’t hold back, calling the Games “100% stupid as usual,” a bold move that reveals both his defiance and his strategy to win over the audience. Effie’s advice to “make them remember you” echoes loudly a lesson Haymitch will one day pass on to Katniss and Peeta.
The trailer also hints at a growing rebellion. Characters like Plutarch (Jesse Plemons), Wiress (Maya Hawke), Beetee (Kelvin Harrison Jr.), and Mags (Lili Taylor) appear, planting the seeds of resistance that will later shape Panem’s future. Beetee’s line “If we can stop the games, we can stop the Capitol” suggests that Haymitch’s story is about more than survival.
As the action intensifies, viewers see glimpses of alliances forming, training ground clashes, and warnings about the arena’s deadly mechanics. Wiress cryptically advises Haymitch that “all machines can be broken,” hinting at the possibility of outsmarting the system itself.
The final moments of the trailer are packed with dramatic imagery: the chariot parade, a devastated Lenore, and a volcanic eruption that sends Haymitch running for his life. It all culminates in a chilling voiceover from President Snow, who reminds Haymitch of the consequences of defiance before delivering his signature line, “May the odds be…” with a knowing smile.
Based on Suzanne Collins’ 2025 novel, Sunrise on the Reaping takes place 24 years before the original trilogy, exploring Haymitch’s journey from reluctant tribute to reluctant symbol of resistance. While the trailer suggests he plays an early role in challenging the Capitol, fans already know his fight won’t be fully realized for another two decades.
The film is set to complete the story of District 12’s victors, tying together past and present in the franchise. While Jennifer Lawrence and Josh Hutcherson are confirmed to return as Katniss and Peeta, it remains unclear whether Woody Harrelson will reprise his role as the older Haymitch. Previous portrayals of President Snow include Donald Sutherland and Tom Blyth.
The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping hits theaters on November 20, 2026.







