First Reactions to 'Sunrise on the Reaping' Praise Joseph Zada and Call Prequel a Franchise Highlight

"The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping" has premiered, and early reactions from members of the film press are strongly positive. Several critics have called the sixth film in the franchise a "perfect adaptation" that brings "new life" to the series. It is the second prequel, following 2023's "The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes."

Film critic Griffin Schiller compared the movie to "Rogue One" and "Andor" in relation to the franchise. He described it as a "sobering, yet powerful story of devastating loss and the necessary cost of rebellion for a sunrise we may never see." As a big fan of the series and of this book in particular, he said he could not have asked for a better adaptation.

Gavin Spoors, editor-in-chief of Filmhounds Magazine and a Tomatometer critic, singled out the third act as "stellar," saying it "pulls the rug out underneath you." Writing on X, he called the film an emotional thriller that handles its themes of revolution's cost and of everyone needing to play a part. He added that "Zada is a star."

Matt Neglia, editor-in-chief of Next Best Picture, said the film has "some of the best casting of the year." He praised Glenn Close as a scene-stealer and said Jesse Plemons captures the spirit of the late Philip Seymour Hoffman. Neglia called Zada "beyond impressive" in a role that pushes him physically and emotionally, and said he captures the sympathy, charm and bitterness that Woody Harrelson brought to Haymitch. He also credited director Francis Lawrence with finding new layers in a familiar structure, and noted the production and costume design as standouts.

Lauren LaMagna, another Next Best Picture editor, wrote that "the rebellion is sparking" and called Zada "heartbreakingly radiant" in what she described as a "star is born role." Collider's Perri Nemiroff said Zada was one of the biggest highlights, noting that he had high hopes after seeing him in "We Were Liars." She said his blend of warmth and charm with the rage and heartbreak sparked by the Games is superb, and that much of the film rests on his shoulders.

Nemiroff added that "Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes" encouraged her to rewatch the original films and that she expects the same from this one. Nina Starner of Static Media said Zada's casting "couldn't be better" and called the movie a worthy addition that "looks and feels terrifyingly real" and bridges the gap between the original stories and "Ballad."

Based on Suzanne Collins' 2025 novel, the film follows a young Haymitch, played by Zada, who takes over the role from Harrelson, as he fights to survive in the 50th Hunger Games. Plemons plays Plutarch, Ralph Fiennes is President Snow, Kieran Culkin is Caesar Flickerman, Maya Hawke is Wiress and Kelvin Harrison Jr. is Beetee. Mckenna Grace, Glenn Close and Whitney Peak are among those playing new characters to the franchise. The story is set 24 years before the first "Hunger Games" film.

Francis Lawrence, who has directed every installment except the first, which was directed by Gary Ross, returns to lead the prequel. Much of the pre-release buzz has focused on the return of Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson and Harrelson as Katniss, Peeta and Haymitch. Readers know the novel ends with a flash-forward epilogue featuring the trio, and the film appears to follow that approach.

Speaking on the "Call Her Daddy" podcast, Jennifer Lawrence called reprising Katniss "unbelievable." She said the same crew was back, including an assistant director she has worked with many times, and described the reunion with Hutcherson and Harrelson as "so emotional." "The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping" opens in theaters Nov. 20 from Lionsgate.