Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping – UK Release Date, Runtime, Cast and First Reactions

Updated 14 Nov 2026, 12:23 · First published 14 Nov 2026

The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping arrives in UK cinemas on Friday 20 November – and with tickets already on sale, fans are counting down to the prequel telling the story of a young Haymitch Abernathy. The film runs for two hours and 38 minutes and has been rated 12A, with early reactions from the London premiere singling out newcomer Joseph Zada.

What is Sunrise on the Reaping about?

Set 24 years before the original Hunger Games, the film follows 16-year-old Haymitch Abernathy from District 12 – the hard-drinking mentor played by Woody Harrelson in the first films – when he is chosen for the 50th Hunger Games. Because it is a Quarter Quell, each district has to send twice as many tributes as usual.

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Who is in the cast?

• Joseph Zada – Haymitch Abernathy
• Ralph Fiennes – President Coriolanus Snow
• Jesse Plemons – Plutarch Heavensbee
• Elle Fanning – Effie Trinket
• Kieran Culkin – Caesar Flickerman
• Glenn Close – Drusilla Sickle
• Mckenna Grace – Maysilee Donner
• Maya Hawke – Wiress
• Kelvin Harrison Jr – Beetee
• Whitney Peak – Lenore Dove Baird

What are the first reactions saying?

Early reactions after the London premiere screenings at the end of October were positive, with most praise for Zada, who carries much of the film. Critics also highlighted the ensemble cast, the third act and Francis Lawrence’s direction – he also made Catching Fire, Mockingjay and The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes. Full reviews are expected closer to release.

How long is Sunrise on the Reaping?

According to the British Board of Film Classification, the film runs for 158 minutes, making it one of the longest films in the franchise – so plan your snacks accordingly. Tickets are on sale now at UK cinemas, including IMAX screenings.

Sources: Lionsgate; British Board of Film Classification (BBFC).