‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ First Reactions
Francis Lawrence's sequel to 'The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes' hits theaters on Nov. 30.
Initial reactions to the new "Hunger Games" prequel, "The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping," are overwhelmingly positive, with many praising it as "easily the best film" in the franchise. Actor Joseph Zada, who plays a younger version of Haymitch Abernathy, is receiving particular acclaim, with several reviewers hailing his performance as "electrifying" and "revelatory."
Critics, including Griffin Schiller, have compared the film to "Rogue One/Andor" of the series, while others have called it a "sobering yet powerful" and "depressing yet triumphant" story. The film, which explores Panem 24 years before Katniss' saga, is set to release in theaters on November 20, 2026.
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- ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ Is ‘Easily the Best’ in the Franchise, First Reactions Say thewrap.com
- ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ First Reactions Call Prequel the ‘Rogue One’ of the Franchise and Praise Joseph Zada as Haymitch variety.com
- Jennifer Lawrence On Reprising ‘Hunger Games’ Role For ‘Sunrise On The Reaping’: “It Was So Emotional” deadline.com
