Hunger Games Prequel 'Sunrise on the Reaping' Tracks for $60M Opening Amid Acclaim
The sixth Hunger Games film, 'Sunrise on the Reaping,' is tracking for a $60M+ U.S. opening, signaling a strong turnaround for the franchise. Directed by Francis Lawrence, the prequel stars Joseph Zada as a young Haymitch Abernathy and features returning cast members Jennifer Lawrence and Josh Hutcherson. Early press reactions are overwhelmingly positive, praising the film's emotional depth and casting.
Key points
- Lionsgate projects a U.S. opening of $60M or more for 'Sunrise on the Reaping,' with some rivals predicting figures above $70M.
- The film releases on November 20, 2026, and is set 24 years before the original series, focusing on the 50th Hunger Games.
- Joseph Zada stars as young Haymitch Abernathy, while Jesse Plemons plays a young Plutarch Heavensbee.
- Jennifer Lawrence and Josh Hutcherson are confirmed to make cameo appearances, likely in a flash-forward epilogue.
- The movie's trailer garnered 109M views in its first 24 hours, the second-highest for a Lionsgate film.
Background
The Hunger Games franchise has grossed over $3.4 billion globally across five previous films. The 2023 prequel, 'The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes,' opened to $44.6M domestically. 'Sunrise on the Reaping' is based on Suzanne Collins' 2025 novel, which sold 1.5 million copies in its first week, marking the biggest debut for any book in the series.
How outlets are covering it
Deadline emphasizes the commercial potential, noting the film's strong tracking and comparison to recent hits like 'Wicked' and 'Michael.' The Hollywood Reporter and Variety focus on the critical reception, highlighting overwhelmingly positive early reviews from press attendees at the London premiere. Critics praised Joseph Zada's performance and the film's 'perfect adaptation' of the source material. Vogue focused on the fashion aspect, specifically Elle Fanning's appearance as Effie Trinket.
Why it matters
A strong opening for 'Sunrise on the Reaping' would mark a significant upward turn for the Hunger Games franchise, which saw a dip with the previous prequel. It also indicates the continued viability of major studio prequels and the enduring popularity of the Hunger Games brand.
What to watch
The film will open in U.S. theaters on November 20, 2026. Full critical reviews are expected closer to the release date. The performance of the film will likely influence future decisions regarding the franchise, potentially including further prequels or sequels.
- ‘Hunger Games: Sunrise On The Reaping’ Looks Sunny On Tracking With Opening Forecasts Starting At $60M+ Deadline
- ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ First Reactions The Hollywood Reporter
- Camila and Matthew McConaughey Have a Family Night Out with Son Levi, 18, Plus Gigi Hadid and More People.com
- 'Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping' First Reactions Praise Prequel Variety
- Elle Fanning Is Officially in Her Effie Trinket Era Vogue
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