# The Hunger Games franchise expansion

> Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/the-hunger-games-franchise-expansion
> Updated: 2026-11-02T21:10:00.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 3.

The Hunger Games franchise announced plans for a new prequel, ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise in the Harvest’, set 24 years before the original series. The film focuses on the 50th Hunger Games, also known as the Second Quarter Quell, and features Joseph Zada as a young Haymitch Abernathy. To build anticipation, the four original films were scheduled for theatrical re-releases starting October 15.

Following the announcement, early critical reception for the prequel has been positive. Critics have highlighted the film’s emotional depth and the portrayal of the rebellion. Joseph Zada’s performance has been described by some reviewers as a “revelation”. In Poland, the film has seen significant interest, with over 16,500 pre-sale tickets sold ahead of its scheduled November 20 release.

Further details regarding the prequel, titled ‘Sunrise on the Reaping’, confirm that Joseph Zada portrays the 16-year-old version of the character previously played by Woody Harrelson. Reviewers have noted Zada’s ability to establish a distinct personality through specific voice and body language rather than imitating Harrelson. The cast includes Elle Fanning, Ralph Fiennes, and Glenn Close.

To promote the theatrical release on November 19, 2026, which includes premium formats such as IMAX, UCI Cinemas has announced fan events involving cosplay, quizzes, and exclusive collectible posters.

## Timeline

### 2026-11-02: Joseph Zada stars in Hunger Games prequel Sunrise on the Reaping

Actor Joseph Zada stars as a young Haymitch Abernathy in the Hunger Games prequel Sunrise on the Reaping, set for release in November 2026.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/joseph-zada-to-play-young-haymitch-in-hunger-games-prequel

### 2026-11-01: Hunger Games prequel receives positive critical reception

Critics praise the new Hunger Games prequel, “Sunrise at the Harvest,” for its performances and narrative, while Polish pre-sales exceed 16,500 tickets.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/hunger-games-prequel-receives-positive-critical-reception

### 2026-10-04: The Hunger Games franchise announces prequel and theatrical re-releases

The Hunger Games prequel, ‘Sunrise in the Harvest’, arrives November 19, starring Joseph Zada as a young Haymitch Abernathy. Original films will return to theaters on October 15.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/the-hunger-games-franchise-announces-prequel-and-theatrical-re-releases

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Cite as: The Hunger Games franchise expansion. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/the-hunger-games-franchise-expansion