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Tag: the-hunger-games

Best Movies to Watch on New Year’s Day

(L to R) Maurice Compte and Gerard Butler in ‘Den of Thieves’. Photo: STXfilms.

2025 is almost over and another new year is upon us.

And there is no better way to spend New Year’s Day than by watching some movies!
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Moviefone has compiled a list of some of the most popular movies ever made, including some released just this year, for you to choose from while you are relaxing on the first day of the new year.

Let’s begin and Happy 2026!

Related Article: 35 Best Christmas Movies to Watch this Holiday Season!

30. ‘The Super Mario Bros. Movie‘ (2023)

‘The Super Mario Bros. Movie’ will open in theaters on April 7, 2023.

While working underground to fix a water main, Brooklyn plumbers—and brothers—Mario (Chris Pratt) and Luigi (Charlie Day) are transported down a mysterious pipe and wander into a magical new world. But when the brothers are separated, Mario embarks on an epic quest to find Luigi.
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29. ‘The Beekeeper‘ (2024)

In ‘The Beekeeper’, one man’s (Jason Statham) brutal campaign for vengeance takes on national stakes after he is revealed to be a former operative of a powerful and clandestine organization known as “Beekeepers”.
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28. ‘Jurassic Park‘ (1993)

A wealthy entrepreneur (Richard Attenborough) secretly creates a theme park featuring living dinosaurs drawn from prehistoric DNA. Before opening day, he invites a team of experts (Sam Neill, Laura Dern and Jeff Goldblum) and his two eager grandchildren to experience the park and help calm anxious investors. However, the park is anything but amusing as the security systems go off-line and the dinosaurs escape.
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27. ‘Bullitt‘ (1968)

Senator Walter Chalmers (Robert Vaughn) is aiming to take down mob boss Pete Ross with the help of testimony from the criminal’s hothead brother Johnny, who is in protective custody in San Francisco under the watch of police lieutenant Frank Bullitt (Steve McQueen). When a pair of mob hitmen enter the scene, Bullitt follows their trail through a maze of complications and double-crosses. This thriller includes one of the most famous car chases ever filmed.
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26. ‘Avengers: Endgame‘ (2019)

After the devastating events of ‘Avengers: Infinity War,’ the universe is in ruins due to the efforts of the Mad Titan, Thanos (Josh Brolin). With the help of remaining allies, the Avengers must assemble once more in order to undo Thanos’ actions and restore order to the universe once and for all, no matter what consequences may be in store.
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25. ‘Road House‘ (2024)

Jake Gyllenhaal stars in ‘Roadhouse.’ Photo: Laura Radford © Amazon Content Services LLC.

Ex-UFC fighter Dalton (Jake Gyllenhaal) takes a job as a bouncer at a Florida Keys roadhouse, only to discover that this paradise is not all it seems.
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24. ‘Up‘ (2009)

Carl Fredricksen (Ed Asner) spent his entire life dreaming of exploring the globe and experiencing life to its fullest. But at age 78, life seems to have passed him by, until a twist of fate (and a persistent 8-year old Wilderness Explorer named Russell) gives him a new lease on life.
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23. ‘John Wick: Chapter 4‘ (2023)

John Wick (Keanu Reeves) uncovers a path to defeating The High Table. But before he can earn his freedom, Wick must face off against a new enemy with powerful alliances across the globe and forces that turn old friends into foes.
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22. ‘Aliens‘ (1986)

When Ripley’s (Sigourney Weaver) lifepod is found by a salvage crew over 50 years later, she finds that terra-formers are on the very planet they found the alien species. When the company sends a family of colonists out to investigate her story—all contact is lost with the planet and colonists. They enlist Ripley and the colonial marines to return and search for answers.
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21. ‘Inglourious Basterds‘ (2009)

In Nazi-occupied France during World War II, a group of Jewish-American soldiers known as “The Basterds” are chosen specifically to spread fear throughout the Third Reich by scalping and brutally killing Nazis. The Basterds, lead by Lt. Aldo Raine (Brad Pitt) soon cross paths with a French-Jewish teenage girl (Mélanie Laurent), who runs a movie theater in Paris which is targeted by the soldiers.
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20. ‘F1‘ (2025)

Brad Pitt as Sonny Hayes in Apple Original Films’ ‘F1’, a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Photo by Scott Garfield. Courtesy Warner Bros Pictures / Apple Original Films. Copyright: © 2025 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Racing legend Sonny Hayes (Brad Pitt) is coaxed out of retirement to lead a struggling Formula 1 team—and mentor a young hotshot driver—while chasing one more chance at glory.
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19. ‘Black Panther‘ (2018)

King T’Challa (Chadwick Boseman) returns home to the reclusive, technologically advanced African nation of Wakanda to serve as his country’s new leader. However, T’Challa soon finds that he is challenged for the throne by factions within his own country as well as without. Using powers reserved to Wakandan kings, T’Challa assumes the Black Panther mantle to join with ex-girlfriend Nakia (Lupita Nyong’o), the queen-mother (Angela Bassett), his princess-kid sister (Letitia Wright), members of the Dora Milaje (the Wakandan ‘special forces’) and an American secret agent (Martin Freeman), to prevent Wakanda from being dragged into a world war.
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18. ‘Bridesmaids‘ (2011)

Annie’s (Kristen Wiig) life is a mess. But when she finds out her lifetime best friend is engaged, she simply must serve as Lillian’s (Maya Rudolph) maid of honor. Though lovelorn and broke, Annie bluffs her way through the expensive and bizarre rituals. With one chance to get it perfect, she’ll show Lillian and her bridesmaids just how far you’ll go for someone you love.
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17. ‘Terminator 2: Judgment Day‘ (1991)

Nearly 10 years have passed since Sarah Connor (Linda Hamilton) was targeted for termination by a cyborg from the future. Now her son, John (Edward Furlong), the future leader of the resistance, is the target for a newer, more deadly terminator (Robert Patrick). Once again, the resistance has managed to send a protector (Arnold Schwarzenegger) back to attempt to save John and his mother Sarah.
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16. ‘Den of Thieves‘ (2018)

A gritty crime saga which follows the lives of an elite unit of the LA County Sheriff’s Dept. and the state’s most successful bank robbery crew as the outlaws plan a seemingly impossible heist on the Federal Reserve Bank.
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15. ‘Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid‘ (1969)

(L to R) Robert Redford and Paul Newman in ‘Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid’. Photo: 20th Century-Fox.

In late 1890s Wyoming, Butch Cassidy (Paul Newman) is the affable, clever and talkative leader of the outlaw Hole in the Wall Gang. His closest companion is the laconic dead-shot Sundance Kid (Robert Redford). As the west rapidly becomes civilized, the law finally catches up to Butch, Sundance and their gang. Chased doggedly by a special posse, the two decide to make their way to South America in hopes of evading their pursuers once and for all.
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14. ‘Ghostbusters‘ (1984)

After losing their academic posts at a prestigious university, a team of parapsychologists (Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd and Harold Ramis) goes into business as proton-pack-toting “ghostbusters” who exterminate ghouls, hobgoblins and supernatural pests of all stripes. An ad campaign pays off when a knockout cellist (Sigourney Weaver) hires the squad to purge her swanky digs of demons that appear to be living in her refrigerator.
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13. ‘Avatar‘ (2009)

In the 22nd century, a paraplegic Marine (Sam Worthington) is dispatched to the moon Pandora on a unique mission, but becomes torn between following orders and protecting an alien civilization.
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12. ‘Oppenheimer‘ (2023)

The story of J. Robert Oppenheimer’s (Cillian Murphy) role in the development of the atomic bomb during World War II.
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11. ‘Any Given Sunday‘ (1999)

A star quarterback (Dennis Quaid) gets knocked out of the game and an unknown third stringer (Jamie Foxx) is called in to replace him. The unknown gives a stunning performance and forces the ageing coach (Al Pacino) to reevaluate his game plans and life. A new co-owner/president (Cameron Diaz) adds to the pressure of winning. The new owner must prove herself in a male dominated world.
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10. ‘Sinners‘ (2025)

Michael B. Jordan as Smoke and Stack in Warner Bros. Pictures’ ‘Sinners,’ a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures. Copyright: © 2025 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Trying to leave their troubled lives behind, twin brothers (Michael B. Jordan) return to their hometown to start again, only to discover that an even greater evil is waiting to welcome them back.
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9. ‘Top Gun‘ (1986)

For Lieutenant Pete ‘Maverick’ Mitchell (Tom Cruise) and his friend and co-pilot Nick ‘Goose’ Bradshaw (Anthony Edwards), being accepted into an elite training school for fighter pilots is a dream come true. But a tragedy, as well as personal demons, will threaten Pete’s dreams of becoming an ace pilot.
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8. ‘Batman‘ (1989)

Batman (Michael Keaton) must face his most ruthless nemesis when a deformed madman calling himself “The Joker” (Jack Nicholson) seizes control of Gotham’s criminal underworld.
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7. ‘The Empire Strikes Back‘ (1980)

The epic saga continues as Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill), in hopes of defeating the evil Galactic Empire, learns the ways of the Jedi from aging master Yoda (Frank Oz). But Darth Vader (voice of James Earl Jones) is more determined than ever to capture Luke. Meanwhile, rebel leader Princess Leia (Carrie Fisher), cocky Han Solo (Harrison Ford), Chewbacca (Peter Mayhew ), and droids C-3PO (Anthony Daniels) and R2-D2 (Kenny Baker) are thrown into various stages of capture, betrayal and despair.
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6. ‘Apocalypse Now‘ (1979)

At the height of the Vietnam war, Captain Benjamin Willard (Martin Sheen) is sent on a dangerous mission that, officially, “does not exist, nor will it ever exist.” His goal is to locate – and eliminate – a mysterious Green Beret Colonel named Walter Kurtz (Marlon Brando), who has been leading his personal army on illegal guerrilla missions into enemy territory.
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5. ‘Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood‘ (2019)

Brad Pitt as Cliff Booth in ‘Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.’ Photo: Sony Pictures.

Los Angeles, 1969. TV star Rick Dalton (Leonardo DiCaprio), a struggling actor specializing in westerns, and stuntman Cliff Booth (Brad Pitt), his best friend, try to survive in a constantly changing movie industry. Dalton is the neighbor of the young and promising actress and model Sharon Tate (Margot Robbie), who has just married the prestigious Polish director Roman Polanski (Rafał Zawierucha).
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4. ‘Back to the Future‘ (1985)

Eighties teenager Marty McFly (Michael J. Fox) is accidentally sent back in time to 1955, inadvertently disrupting his parents’ first meeting and attracting his mother’s romantic interest. Marty must repair the damage to history by rekindling his parents’ romance and, with the help of his eccentric inventor friend Doc Brown (Christopher Lloyd), return to 1985.
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3. ‘The Godfather‘ (1972)

In the years 1945 to 1955, a chronicle of the fictional Italian-American Corleone crime family. When organized crime family patriarch, Vito Corleone (Marlon Brando) barely survives an attempt on his life, his youngest son, Michael (Al Pacino) steps in to take care of the would-be killers, launching a campaign of bloody revenge.
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2. ‘Barbie‘ (2023)

Barbie (Margot Robbie) and Ken (Ryan Gosling) are having the time of their lives in the colorful and seemingly perfect world of Barbie Land. However, when they get a chance to go to the real world, they soon discover the joys and perils of living among humans.
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1. ‘Deadpool & Wolverine‘ (2024)

(L to R) Ryan Reynolds as Deadpool/Wade Wilson and Hugh Jackman as Wolverine/Logan in 20th Century Studios/Marvel Studios’ ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’. Photo by Jay Maidment. © 2024 20th Century Studios / © and ™ 2024 MARVEL.

Marvel Studios‘ ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ delivers the ultimate, iconic, cinematic team-up now streaming on Disney+ and starring Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman.
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December 31, 2025
Jennifer Lawrence to Appear in ‘Hunger Games’ Prequel
(L to R): Jennifer Lawrence and Josh Hutcherson in ‘The Hunger Games.’ Photo: Lionsgate.

Preview:
- Jennifer Lawrence and Josh Hutcherson will appear in ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping.’
- Joseph Zada and Whitney Peak are playing the lead roles.
- Francis Lawrence is again directing the movie.
Here’s some big news for ‘Hunger Games’ fans starving for any update on the next prequel movie, ‘Sunrise on the Reaping,’ directed once more by regular filmmaker Francis Lawrence.

Variety reports that Jennifer Lawrence (no, no relation) and Josh Hutcherson, who were two of the key roles in the original movies, will be back to reprise their iconic characters.
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Lawrence will be Katniss Everdeen and Hutcherson will return as Peeta Mellark. “But Moviefone,” we hear you ask, “the new movie takes place years before their films. How will this work?”

Simple: Suzanne Collins’ book includes an epilogue set during Katniss and Peeta’s time where they appear with Haymitch (which suggests Woody Harrelson, who plays the older Haymitch, will also make an appearance, although his voice does appear in the teaser trailer.)

Related Article: Ralph Fiennes, Maya Hawke and More on for Latest ‘Hunger Games’ Prequel

What’s the story of ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’?

Joseph Zada as Haymitch Abernathy in ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’. Photo Credit: Murray Close.

While the previous prequel took place 64 years before the events of the original trilogy, ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ is set 24 years before that trio of original films in the world of Panem, commencing on the morning of the reaping of the 50th Hunger Games, also known as the Second Quarter Quell.

Those games are an important event in the canon as the victor was Haymitch Abernathy, the only winner from District 12 before Lawrence’s Everdeen and Hutcherson’s Mellark’s tie win. Haymitch continues on to become a mentor, a character in the original movies played by Harrelson.

Who else has been cast in ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’?

(L to R) Joseph Zada as Haymitch Abernathy and McKenna Grace as Maysilee Donner in ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’. Photo Credit: Murray Close.

The cast already includes included Joseph Zada and Whitney Peak, who will play Haymitch Abernathy and the woman he loves, Lenore Dove Baird.

In addition to the two leads, we also now know that McKenna Grace, who has appeared in the recent ‘Ghostbusters’ movies, will be in the movie as Maysilee Donner, Haymitch’s fellow District 12 Tribute, while Jesse Plemons has the role of Plutarch Heavensbee, as brought to life by Philip Seymour Hoffman in the original movies.

Ralph Fiennes is the calculating President Snow while Kieran Culkin will be Caesar Flickerman (the eccentric host character played in the first film series by Stanley Tucci.)

Elle Fanning is on to be a younger Effie Trinket; the effusive stylist as portrayed by Elizabeth Banks in the original ‘Hunger Games’ movies.

Glenn Close is Sickle, the cruel escort to the District 12 Tributes, and Billy Porter is playing Magno Stift is her estranged husband and the Tributes’ uninspired designer.

When will ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ be in theaters?

Lionsgate will have the new movie in theaters on November 20th, 2026.

(L to R) Whitney Peak as Lenore Dove Baird and Joseph Zada as Haymitch Abernathy in ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’. Photo Credit: Murray Close.

Other Movies in ‘The Hunger Games’ Franchise:
- ‘The Hunger Games‘ (2012)
- ‘The Hunger Games: Catching Fire‘ (2013)
- ‘The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1‘ (2014)
- ‘The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 2‘ (2015)
- ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes‘ (2023)
Buy ‘The Hunger Games’ Movies On Amazon
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December 11, 2025
‘Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’: Crucial Elements
‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ is scheduled for release on November 20, 2026. Photo: Lionsgate.

Preview:
- The movie adaptation of ‘Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ is scheduled to release on November 20th, 2026.
- There are a few crucial elements that the film needs to get right in order for the movie to work.
- The casting choices are brilliant, which is a step in the right direction.
‘Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping‘ is currently filming with an incredible cast and will be hitting theaters on November 20th, 2026. Having read the book that the movie is based on, there are a few crucial elements that it needs to get right to make the fans happy and for the film to have a better chance at success.
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‘Sunrise on the Reaping’ tells the story of Haymitch Abernathy. Woody Harrelson portrays Haymitch in the original films, but this time around, fans get to learn more about his time in the Hunger Games and how that shaped the man he became. Joseph Zada is playing Haymitch in the new film. Having seen him in ‘We Were Liars‘ there is no doubt that he is the right man for the job.

Related Article: Glenn Close and Billy Porter Joining New ‘Hunger Games’ Prequel Movie

‘Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ Cannot Be Overly Predictable

(L to R) Elizabeth Banks, Woody Harrelson and Jennifer Lawrence in ‘The Hunger Games’. Photo: Lionsgate.

Most people who watch ‘Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ will know Woody Harrelson’s version of Haymitch already. While we never fully explored his background and what it was like for him in the games, we know it did a number on him as he hates to talk about it and is almost always seen with a drink in his hand.

Viewers also already know that he wins the 50th Hunger Games. This means that it will be obvious from the start that all the other children who enter the games die, and that Haymitch is never truly in danger of being killed. This is a slippery slope, as it means things can feel a bit predictable.

The book explores the story in a way that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, wondering who will die next and how. Even with the outcome of Haymitch’s story being known, it is exciting and entertaining to follow his journey. This is something the movie also needs to accomplish. It will not be easy, but with a great cast and carefully placed suspense and action, the odds will be ever in its favor.

Haymitch and Lenore Dove Need To Have Unmatched Chemistry

(Left) Joseph Zada to star as Haymitch Abernathy in ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’. Photo credit: Hugh Stewart. (Right) Whitney Peak to star as Lenore Dove Bard in ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’. Photo: Kate Whyte.

Probably the most important aspect that the movie has to get right, is the chemistry between Haymitch and Lenora Dove (who is being played by Whitney Peak). It has to be unmatched. Their love is a key part of the story and if it is not believable, the movie simply will not work.

Without audiences becoming fully invested in their relationship, things will fall apart and the movie will never reach its full potential. It has to be obvious that these two are soulmates, and that they would do absolutely anything for one another.

The book has been very well received, which is half the battle. So if Lionsgate is able to accomplish both of these things, it is the perfect set up for success.

‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ opens in theaters on November 20, 2026.

Other Movies in ‘The Hunger Games’ Franchise:
- ‘The Hunger Games‘ (2012)
- ‘The Hunger Games: Catching Fire‘ (2013)
- ‘The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1‘ (2014)
- ‘The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 2‘ (2015)
- ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes‘ (2023)
Buy ‘The Hunger Games’ Movies On Amazon
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September 14, 2025
Glenn Close and Billy Porter Join New ‘Hunger Games’ Prequel
(Left) Glenn Close arrives at the 14th Governors Awards in the Ray Dolby Ballroom at Ovation Hollywood on Tuesday, January 9, 2024. Credit/Provider: Trae Patton / @ A.M.P.A.S. Copyright: ©A.M.P.A.S. (Right) Billy Porter arrives on the red carpet of The 91st Oscars® at the Dolby® Theatre in Hollywood, CA on Sunday, February 24, 2019. Credit/Provider: Phil McCarten / ©A.M.P.A.S. Copyright: ©A.M.P.A.S.

Preview:
- Glenn Close and Billy Porter are the latest addition to the new ‘Hunger Games’ prequel.
- Jhaleil Swaby is also aboard, playing the character of Panache.
- Francis Lawrence is again directing the movie.
While the cameras are now rolling on the new ‘Hunger Games’ franchise entry, prequel offering ‘Sunrise on the Reaping’, you might think that the stream of casting would dry up. You’d be mistaken!

Two more big names and more of a rising star are the latest people to be announced, as Deadline reports that Glenn Close will be Drusilla Sickle, Billy Porter has the role of Magno Stift and Jhaleil Swaby (‘The Lake’) will play Panache.
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Here’s ‘Sunrise on the Reaping’ producer Nina Jacobson on Close’s casting:

“Glenn Close is a dream Drusilla. She brings so much of her intellect and imagination to each role, creating characters who are unforgettable and iconic. I think Glenn and Francis will have a ball bringing Drusilla from the page to the screen.”

And regarding Porter:

“Billy is one of those rare performers who can dazzle and devastate in equal measure on stage and screen. He made an indelible impression on me when we worked together on Pose, both as an actor and a human being. Casting this show has felt like winning the lottery every time one of our idols said yes to us.”

Related Article: Ralph Fiennes, Maya Hawke and More on for Latest ‘Hunger Games’ Prequel

What’s the story of ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’?

‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ is scheduled for release on November 20, 2026. Photo: Lionsgate.

While the previous prequel took place 64 years before the events of the original trilogy, ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ is set 24 years before that trio of Jennifer Lawrence films in the world of Panem, commencing on the morning of the reaping of the 50th Hunger Games, also known as the Second Quarter Quell.

Those games are an important event in the canon as the victor was Haymitch Abernathy, the only winner from District 12 before Lawrence’s Katniss Everdeen and Josh Hutcherson’s Peeta Mellark’s tie win. Haymitch continues on to become a mentor, a character in the original movies played by Woody Harrelson.

Who else has been cast in ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’?

(Left) Joseph Zada to star as Haymitch Abernathy in ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’. Photo credit: Hugh Stewart. (Right) Whitney Peak to star as Lenore Dove Bard in ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’. Photo: Kate Whyte.

The cast also includes Joseph Zada and Whitney Peak, who will play Haymitch Abernathy and the woman he loves, Lenore Dove Baird.

Ralph Fiennes is the latest actor to play the calculating Coriolanus Snow, who we meet as a younger man in previous prequel ‘The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes,’ there played by Tom Blyth and was most famously portrayed by Donald Sutherland as President Snow in the original four movies.

Maya Hawke, most recently seen in ‘Maestro’ and ‘The Kill Room’ and who provided the voice of Anxiety in ‘Inside Out 2,’ will be Wiress, former Hunger Games champion–turned–District 12 mentor.

Lili Taylor, as Deadline has learned, will be Mags, another former champion who is now a mentor for one of the District 12 tributes. And Ben Wang, who broke out in Disney+ series ‘American Born Chinese’ and will be one of the leads of ‘Karate Kid: Legends,’ has landed the role of District 12 Tribute Wyatt Callow.

In addition to the two leads, we also now know that McKenna Grace, who has appeared in the recent ‘Ghostbusters’ movies, will be in the movie as Maysilee Donner, Haymitch’s fellow District 12 Tribute, while Jesse Plemons has the role of Plutarch Heavensbee, as brought to life by Philip Seymour Hoffman in the original movies.

Kieran Culkin accepts the award for Male Supporting Actor – Motion Picture at the 82nd Annual Golden Globe Awards, airing live from the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, California on Sunday, January 5, 2025, at 8 PM ET/5 PM PT, on CBS and streaming on Paramount+. Photo: Sonja Flemming/CBS ©2025 CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Finally, recent Academy Award winner Kieran Culkin is to play Caesar Flickerman (the eccentric host character played in the first film series by Stanley Tucci).

As for the new additions?

Close’s Sickle is the cruel escort to the District 12 Tributes, while Porter’s Stift is her estranged husband and the Tributes’ uninspired designer.

Swaby’s Panache, meanwhile is a crude and aggressive career tribute from District 1, known for his arrogance and ruthlessness.

‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’: Collins and the filmmakers talk

Director Francis Lawrence in ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes.’ Photo Credit: Murray Close.

Here’s Suzanne Collins’ statement on the new book and movie:

“With ‘Sunrise on the Reaping’, I was inspired by David Hume’s idea of implicit submission and, in his words, ‘the easiness with which the many are governed by the few… The story also lent itself to a deeper dive into the use of propaganda and the power of those who control the narrative. The question ‘Real or not real?’ seems more pressing to me every day. From the beginning, Lionsgate has been a wonderful home and partner for the ‘Hunger Games’ franchise, and I’m very excited to be collaborating with Adam and the team as we bring this next story to theaters in 2026.”

And here’s Lionsgate Motion Picture Group Chair Adam Fogelson:

“Suzanne Collins is a master storyteller and our creative north star. We couldn’t be more fortunate than to be guided and trusted by a collaborator whose talent and imagination are so consistently brilliant. We know ‘Hunger Games’ fans worldwide will be spellbound by where Suzanne has focused this next extraordinary story. The Second Quarter Quell is legendary and looms large over the history of the Games, even into the time of Katniss Everdeen a quarter-century later. Like fans around the globe, we are eagerly anticipating this exciting return to Panem.”

When will ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ be in theaters?

Lionsgate will have the new movie in theaters on November 20th, 2026.

‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ opens in theaters on November 20, 2026.

Other Movies in ‘The Hunger Games’ Franchise:
- ‘The Hunger Games‘ (2012)
- ‘The Hunger Games: Catching Fire‘ (2013)
- ‘The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1‘ (2014)
- ‘The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 2‘ (2015)
- ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes‘ (2023)
Buy ‘The Hunger Games’ Movies On Amazon
Cz6dmiOg
June 20, 2025
Ralph Fiennes and More Join New ‘Hunger Games’ Prequel
(Left) Ralph Fiennes. Photo: Jeff Spicer/Getty Images. (Center) Maya Hawke. Photo: Trevor Tweeten. (Right) Lili Taylor. Photo: Michael Loccisano/Getty Images for The National Audubon Society.

Preview:
- Ralph Fiennes will be President Snow in the new ‘Hunger Games’ prequel.
- Maya Hawke, Lili Taylor and Kelvin Harrison Jr. are also joining the cast.
- The movie is set 24 years before the main movies.
Though we’ve been seeing a drip feed casting process for the new prequel to ‘The Hunger Games’ –– that would be ‘Sunrise on the Reaping,’ in case it had somehow slipped your mind –– that turned into something of a torrent this week with a slew of new announcements.
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Deadline brought the biggest news: Ralph Fiennes, who has a little bit of form playing the Big Bad in a book-based movie franchise, will become the latest actor to play the calculating Coriolanus Snow, who we meet as a younger man in previous prequel ‘The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes,’ there played by Tom Blyth and was most famously portrayed by Donald Sutherland as President Snow in the original four movies based on Suzanne Collins’ novel trilogy.

This is what producer Nina Jacobson of Color Force had to say about the new casting:

“We wanted to honor Donald Sutherland by having one of this generation’s greatest actors play President Snow 24 years before Katniss Everdeen entered the arena. Working with Ralph has been on my bucket list since he traumatized me for life in ‘Schindler’s List.’ It’s genuinely a thrill to welcome him to the Hunger Games.”

Ben Wang in Columbia Pictures ‘Karate Kid: Legends’. Photo: Sony Pictures.

And that’s not all! Maya Hawke, most recently seen in ‘Maestro’ and ‘The Kill Room’ and who provided the voice of Anxiety in ‘Inside Out 2,’ will be Wiress, former Hunger Games champion–turned–District 12 mentor.

Also on new additions list? Lili Taylor, who Deadline has learned will be Mags, another former champion who is now a mentor for one of the District 12 tributes. And Ben Wang, who broke out in Disney+ series ‘American Born Chinese’ and will be one of the leads of ‘Karate Kid: Legends,’ has landed the role of District 12 Tribute Wyatt Callow.

Last, and by no means least among the newcomers (in franchise terms) is Kelvin Harrison, Jr., last seen in ‘O’Dessa,’ who Jeff Sneider reports will be Beetee Latier, champion of the 34th Hunger Games and father of Ampert Latier, who is a Tribute in the new movie. Fun fact: Jeffrey Wright played Beetee in three of the original movies.

Franchise veteran Francis Lawrence is directing once again from a script by Billy Ray, and the cameras are now rolling.

Related Article: New ‘Hunger Games’ Prequel Finds Leads in Joseph Zada and Whitney Peak

What’s the story of ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’?

‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ is scheduled for release on November 20, 2026. Photo: Lionsgate.

While the previous prequel took place 64 years before the events of the original trilogy, ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ is set 24 years before that trio of Jennifer Lawrence films in the world of Panem, commencing on the morning of the reaping of the 50th Hunger Games, also known as the Second Quarter Quell.

Those games are an important event in the canon as the victor was Haymitch Abernathy, the only winner from District 12 before Lawrence’s Katniss Everdeen and Josh Hutcherson’s Peeta Mellark’s tie win. Haymitch continues on to become a mentor, a character in the original movies played by Woody Harrelson.

Who else has been cast in ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’?

(Left) Joseph Zada to star as Haymitch Abernathy in ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’. Photo credit: Hugh Stewart. (Right) Whitney Peak to star as Lenore Dove Bard in ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’. Photo: Kate Whyte.

These new arrivals bolster a cast that already included Joseph Zada and Whitney Peak, who will play Haymitch Abernathy and the woman he loves, Lenore Dove Baird.

In addition to the two leads, we also now know that McKenna Grace, who has appeared in the recent ‘Ghostbusters’ movies, will be in the movie as Maysilee Donner, Haymitch’s fellow District 12 Tribute, while Jesse Plemons has the role of Plutarch Heavensbee, as brought to life by Philip Seymour Hoffman in the original movies.

Kieran Culkin accepts the award for Male Supporting Actor – Motion Picture at the 82nd Annual Golden Globe Awards, airing live from the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, California on Sunday, January 5, 2025, at 8 PM ET/5 PM PT, on CBS and streaming on Paramount+. Photo: Sonja Flemming/CBS ©2025 CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Fiennes’ casting resolves one rumor –– there has still been chatter about recent Academy Award winner Kieran Culkin mulling an offer to play Caesar Flickerman (the eccentric host character played in the first film series by Stanley Tucci.) Nothing official has been announced about that yet, so we can only assume a deal is still being worked on if at all.

Elle Fanning has also been linked with the role of a younger Effie Trinket; the effusive stylist as portrayed by Elizabeth Banks in the original ‘Hunger Games’ movies. But that has yet to be confirmed.

‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’: Collins and the filmmakers talk

Director Francis Lawrence in ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes.’ Photo Credit: Murray Close.

Here’s Suzanne Collins’ statement on the new book and movie:

“With ‘Sunrise on the Reaping’, I was inspired by David Hume’s idea of implicit submission and, in his words, ‘the easiness with which the many are governed by the few… The story also lent itself to a deeper dive into the use of propaganda and the power of those who control the narrative. The question ‘Real or not real?’ seems more pressing to me every day. From the beginning, Lionsgate has been a wonderful home and partner for the ‘Hunger Games’ franchise, and I’m very excited to be collaborating with Adam and the team as we bring this next story to theaters in 2026.”

And here’s Lionsgate Motion Picture Group Chair Adam Fogelson:

“Suzanne Collins is a master storyteller and our creative north star. We couldn’t be more fortunate than to be guided and trusted by a collaborator whose talent and imagination are so consistently brilliant. We know ‘Hunger Games’ fans worldwide will be spellbound by where Suzanne has focused this next extraordinary story. The Second Quarter Quell is legendary and looms large over the history of the Games, even into the time of Katniss Everdeen a quarter-century later. Like fans around the globe, we are eagerly anticipating this exciting return to Panem.”

When will ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ be in theaters?

Lionsgate wants the new movie in theaters on November 20th, 2026.

‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ opens in theaters on November 20, 2026.

Other Movies in ‘The Hunger Games’ Franchise:
- ‘The Hunger Games‘ (2012)
- ‘The Hunger Games: Catching Fire‘ (2013)
- ‘The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1‘ (2014)
- ‘The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 2‘ (2015)
- ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes‘ (2023)
Buy ‘The Hunger Games’ Movies On Amazon
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May 19, 2025
Joseph Zada to Lead ‘Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’
(Left) Joseph Zada to star as Haymitch Abernathy in ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’. Photo credit: Hugh Stewart. (Right) Whitney Peak to star as Lenore Dove Bard in ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’. Photo: Kate Whyte.

Preview:
- Joseph Zada and Whitney Peak are playing Haymitch and Lenore in the new ‘Hunger Games’ prequel.
- Francis Lawrence will direct the movie.
- ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ will be out in November next year.
The casting news for the latest ‘Hunger Games’ prequel –– once more based on a book by Suzanne Collins, this time subtitled ‘Sunrise on the Reaping’ –– has been ramping up.
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We recently learned that Elle Fanning has been linked with the role of a younger Effie Trinket; the effusive stylist as portrayed by Elizabeth Banks in the original ‘Hunger Games’ movies. But that has yet to be confirmed.

We do know, however, who has won the lead roles: Joseph Zada and Whitney Peak will play Haymitch Abernathy and Lenore Dove Baird.

Here’s Lionsgate Motion Picture Group co-president Erin Westerman on the casting:

“ ‘The Hunger Games’ franchise has long been a launching pad for remarkable young actors, and Jo and Whitney carry that legacy forward with incredible heart, depth, and fire. After auditioning hundreds of gifted performers from around the world, these two stood out — not just for their talent, but for the emotional truth they brought to these iconic roles. Haymitch has always been a fan favorite, and his origin story is one of the most anticipated in the franchise. His relationship with Lenore Dove is deeply woven into the emotional history of Panem. We can’t wait for fans to experience the story that shaped one of the most compelling characters in the series.”

Mckenna Grace is set join the cast of ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ as Maysilee Donner. Photo credit: Gus Black.

In addition to the two leads, we also now know that McKenna Grace, who has appeared in the recent ‘Ghostbusters’ movies, will be in the movie as Maysilee Donner, Haymitch’s fellow District 12 Tribute.

Jesse Plemons in ‘Kinds of Kindness.’ Photo by Atsushi Nishijima. Courtesy of Searchlight Pictures. © 2024 Searchlight Pictures All Rights Reserved.

With more casting announcements coming in, Jesse Plemons (‘Kinds of Kindness‘) has been cast as Plutarch Heavensbee, the role played by the late Philip Seymour Hoffman in ‘The Hunger Games: Mockingjay — Part 1‘ and ‘Part 2‘.

What’s the story of ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’?

‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ is scheduled for release on November 20, 2026. Photo: Lionsgate.

While the previous prequel took place 64 years before the events of the original trilogy, ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ is set 24 years before that trio of Jennifer Lawrence films in the world of Panem, commencing on the morning of the reaping of the 50th Hunger Games, also known as the Second Quarter Quell.

Those games are an important event in the canon as the victor was Haymitch Abernathy, the only winner from District 12 before Lawrence’ Katniss Everdeen and Josh Hutcherson’s Peeta Mellark’s tie win. Haymitch continues on to become a mentor, a character in the original movies played by Woody Harrelson.

While Lenore is only briefly mentioned in the book ‘The Hunger Games: Mockingjay,’ she’s a full character in ‘Sunrise on the Reaping.’

Who else has been rumored for ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’?

Kieran Culkin accepts the award for Male Supporting Actor – Motion Picture at the 82nd Annual Golden Globe Awards, airing live from the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, California on Sunday, January 5, 2025, at 8 PM ET/5 PM PT, on CBS and streaming on Paramount+. Photo: Sonja Flemming/CBS ©2025 CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Zada’s casting puts paid to the rumors that Charlie Plummer, who appears in Lawrence’s Stephen King adaptation ‘The Long Walk,’ due in theaters on September 12th, would take Haymitch role.

That might end up throwing doubt on the idea that Ralph Fiennes will also end up in the movie, to play Coriolanus Snow, as brought to screens by Donald Sutherland in the original films and Tom Blyth in previous prequel effort ‘Songbirds and Snakes.’

And then there was word that Kieran Culkin is mulling an offer to play Caesar Flickerman (the eccentric host character played in the first film series by Stanley Tucci.) We’ll wait and see if there is an official announcement about any of them.

Related Article: Elle Fanning May be Effie Trinket in Upcoming ‘The Hunger Games’ Prequel

Where else have we seen Joseph Zada and Whitney Peak?

(L-R): Belissa Escobedo as Izzy, Whitney Peak as Becca, and Lilia Buckingham as Cassie in Disney’s live-action ‘Hocus Pocus 2,’ exclusively on Disney+. Photo courtesy of Disney Enterprises, Inc. © 2022 Disney Enterprises, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Zada will next be seen starring in the highly anticipated Prime Video series ‘We Were Liars,’ which premieres this June.

He also just completed work on Netflix‘s ‘East of Eden,’ a seven-episode limited series based on the 1952 John Steinbeck novel, written and produced by Zoe Kazan.

As for Peak, she has the lead in Sony Pictures’ upcoming shark thriller ‘Shiver’ opposite Phoebe Dynevor, and a role opposite Liam Neeson and Teresa Palmer in ‘4 Kids Walk into a Bank.’

Previously, she was seen in the ‘Gossip Girl’ reboot co-starred in ‘Hocus Pocus 2.’

‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’: Collins and the filmmakers talk

Director Francis Lawrence in ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes.’ Photo Credit: Murray Close.

Here’s Suzanne Collins’ statement on the new book and movie:

“With ‘Sunrise on the Reaping’, I was inspired by David Hume’s idea of implicit submission and, in his words, ‘the easiness with which the many are governed by the few… The story also lent itself to a deeper dive into the use of propaganda and the power of those who control the narrative. The question ‘Real or not real?’ seems more pressing to me every day. From the beginning, Lionsgate has been a wonderful home and partner for the ‘Hunger Games’ franchise, and I’m very excited to be collaborating with Adam and the team as we bring this next story to theaters in 2026.”

And here’s Lionsgate Motion Picture Group Chair Adam Fogelson:

“Suzanne Collins is a master storyteller and our creative north star. We couldn’t be more fortunate than to be guided and trusted by a collaborator whose talent and imagination are so consistently brilliant. We know ‘Hunger Games’ fans worldwide will be spellbound by where Suzanne has focused this next extraordinary story. The Second Quarter Quell is legendary and looms large over the history of the Games, even into the time of Katniss Everdeen a quarter-century later. Like fans around the globe, we are eagerly anticipating this exciting return to Panem.”

When will ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ be in theaters?

Lionsgate already has a release date in place for this one: the studio wants the new movie in theaters on November 20th, 2026.

‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ opens in theaters on November 20, 2026.

Other Movies in ‘The Hunger Games’ Franchise:
- ‘The Hunger Games‘ (2012)
- ‘The Hunger Games: Catching Fire‘ (2013)
- ‘The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1‘ (2014)
- ‘The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 2‘ (2015)
- ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes‘ (2023)
Buy ‘The Hunger Games’ Movies On Amazon
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April 24, 2025
Elle Fanning Offered Role in New ‘Hunger Games’ Prequel
(Left) Elle Fanning at the Disney presentation at CinemaCon 2025 in Las Vegas.Photo: Disney. (Right) ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ is scheduled for release on November 20, 2026. Photo: Lionsgate.

Preview:
- Elle Fanning is among the rumored cast for ‘The Hunger Games: Sunshine on the Reaping.’
- ‘The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes’ director Francis Lawrence is aboard the movie.
- It’s set 24 years before Katniss enters the arena.
We’ve known for a few months now that Lionsgate quickly snapped up the rights to adapt Suzanne Collins’ latest ‘Hunger Games’ prequel, ‘Sunshine on the Reaping.’
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In the time since the book and movie were announced, things have moved on considerably –– Billy Ray has written the adaptation and regular ‘Hunger Games’ director Francis Lawrence (who also made the previous prequel, ‘The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes’) confirmed he will handle this next outing.

With production gearing up for this July in Germany, we’ve reached the casting stage and the rumors have begun to swirl.

Nexus Point News, which has been on top of a couple of scoops about possible actors, brings word that Elle Fanning has been offered the role of a younger Effie Trinket.

Effie, of course, is the effusive stylist as portrayed by Elizabeth Banks in the original ‘Hunger Games’ movies.

What’s the story of ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’?

‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ opens in theaters on November 20, 2026.

While the previous prequel took place 64 years before the events of the original trilogy, ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ is set 24 years before that trio of Jennifer Lawrence films in the world of Panem, commencing on the morning of the reaping of the 50th Hunger Games, also known as the Second Quarter Quell.

Those games are an important event in the canon as the victor was Haymitch Abernathy, the only winner from District 12 before Lawrence’ Katniss Everdeen and Josh Hutcherson’s Peeta Mellark’s tie win. Haymitch continues on to become a mentor, a character in the original movies played by Woody Harrelson.

For ‘Sunshine on the Reaping,’ Effie serves as a stylist for the District 12 tributes in order to assist her sister, Proserpina. Although she supports the Hunger Games in principle, Effie shows genuine compassion for the tributes and treats them with kindness and care.

Who else has been rumored for ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’?

Kieran Culkin accepts the Oscar® for Actor in a Supporting Role during the live ABC Telecast of the 97th Oscars® at the Dolby® Theatre at Ovation Hollywood on Sunday, March 2, 2025.

Nexus Point news was also behind the story that Charlie Plummer is the filmmaker’s likely top candidate to play the younger Haymitch.

Plummer, who has appeared in the likes of 2019 miniseries ‘Looking for Alaska,’ has also been seen in last year’s ‘The Return’ and 2022’s ‘Moonfall.’

Perhaps most tellingly, he’s one of the leads of Francis Lawrence’s next film to be released, the Stephen King adaptation ‘The Long Walk,’ due in theaters on September 12th and hyped at the company’s recent CinemaCon presentation.

Ralph Fiennes arrives on the red carpet of the 97th Oscars® at the Dolby® Theatre at Ovation Hollywood on Sunday, March 2, 2025. Credit/Provider: Etienne Laurent / The Academy. Copyright: ©A.M.P.A.S.

And talking of ‘The Return,’ regular scooper Daniel Richtman has reported that that film’s star, Ralph Fiennes, is also being courted for the movie, this time to play Coriolanus Snow, as brought to screens by Donald Sutherland in the original films and Tom Blyth in ‘Songbirds and Snakes.’

It would mark the latest big book-based franchise that Fiennes could be joining after a slightly successful series of movies about a certain boy wizard.

And he’s not all –– Richtman also brings word that recent Oscar winner Kieran Culkin is mulling an offer to play Caesar Flickerman (the eccentric host character played in the first film series by Stanley Tucci.)

‘Hunger Games’ doesn’t scream the sort of movie that Culkin usually appears in, but Oscar wins sometimes lead to interesting choices.

‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’: Collins and the Filmmakers Talk

Director Francis Lawrence in ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes.’ Photo Credit: Murray Close.

Here’s Suzanne Collins’ statement on the new book and movie:

“With ‘Sunrise on the Reaping’, I was inspired by David Hume’s idea of implicit submission and, in his words, ‘the easiness with which the many are governed by the few… The story also lent itself to a deeper dive into the use of propaganda and the power of those who control the narrative. The question ‘Real or not real?’ seems more pressing to me every day. From the beginning, Lionsgate has been a wonderful home and partner for the ‘Hunger Games’ franchise, and I’m very excited to be collaborating with Adam and the team as we bring this next story to theaters in 2026.”

And here’s Lionsgate Motion Picture Group Chair Adam Fogelson:

“Suzanne Collins is a master storyteller and our creative north star. We couldn’t be more fortunate than to be guided and trusted by a collaborator whose talent and imagination are so consistently brilliant. We know ‘Hunger Games’ fans worldwide will be spellbound by where Suzanne has focused this next extraordinary story. The Second Quarter Quell is legendary and looms large over the history of the Games, even into the time of Katniss Everdeen a quarter-century later. Like fans around the globe, we are eagerly anticipating this exciting return to Panem.”

When will ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ be in theaters?

Lionsgate already has a release date in place for this one: the studio wants the new movie in theaters on November 20th, 2026.

‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ is scheduled for release on November 20, 2026. Photo: Lionsgate.

Other Movies in ‘The Hunger Games’ Franchise:
- ‘The Hunger Games‘ (2012)
- ‘The Hunger Games: Catching Fire‘ (2013)
- ‘The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1‘ (2014)
- ‘The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 2‘ (2015)
- ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes‘ (2023)
Buy ‘The Hunger Games’ Movies On Amazon
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April 10, 2025
‘Lonely Planet’ Interview: Liam Hemsworth and Laura Dern
(L to R) Liam Hemsworth and Laura Dern star in ‘Lonely Planet’.

Premiering on Netflix beginning October 11th is the new romantic comedy ‘Lonely Planet’, which was directed by Susannah Grant (‘Catch and Release’), and stars Liam Hemsworth and Oscar-winner Laura Dern (‘Marriage Story’, ‘Jurassic Park’) and Liam Hemsworth (‘The Hunger Games’, ‘Independence Day: Resurgence’).

Moviefone recently had the pleasure of speaking with Liam Hemsworth and Laura Dern about their work on Netflix‘s ‘Lonely Planet’, Dern’s approach to playing her character, Hemsworth’s character’s troubled relationship with his girlfriend, and how he and Dern got along working together on set.

Related Article: Milo Ventimiglia Talks ‘Land of Bad’ and Working with Liam and Luke Hemsworth

Laura Dern as Katherine Loewe in ‘Lonely Planet’. Photo: Hilary Bronwyn Gayle/Netflix © 2024.

Moviefone: To begin with, Laura, can you talk about your approach to playing Katherine and some of the aspects of this character you were excited to explore on screen?

Laura Dern: Rule number one in playing Katherine, love Liam Hemsworth! You meet him, you love him, and the rest is history. I felt like there wasn’t much research to prepare for connection. You either have it or you don’t. So, we were very blessed to have it from the moment we met. I do think, no matter how much research one can do to play a character, a novelist, understanding who she is, why her life feels broken at the time, the film is about being seen and deeply connecting to another person. It can be invented, but it will never feel the same. So, we felt the luxury of feeling the very same connection they felt from the minute we met, and that was just amazing.

(L to R) Diana Silvers as Lily Kemp and Liam Hemsworth as Owen Brophy in ‘Lonely Planet’. Photo: Hilary Bronwyn Gayle/Netflix © 2024.

MF: Liam, can you talk about Owen’s troubled relationship with his girlfriend and what happens when he meets Katherine?

Liam Hemsworth: When we meet Owen, you quickly see that things are not quite right in the relationship he’s in. He’s really at a crossroads of trying to figure out if that’s fixable or if they’re just on different journeys now, and it might be better to part ways. He’s also at the same time, dealing with who he is as an individual. Is what he’s doing really fulfilling and does it really translate to where he wants to go in life? By meeting Katherine, I think it’s a reminder and a realization that there’s more to love and love is being seen and heard and understood. He’s not exactly getting that in that relationship. But he’s also got some soul-searching to do for himself and to figure out what is important to him as an individual so that he can also be a good partner to someone else. Their relationship, as it evolves, you see that they bring out the best in each other and they really do listen, hear and are able to be vulnerable and explore these things that make love so important.

(L to R) Laura Dern and Liam Hemsworth in ‘Lonely Planet’. Photo: Hilary Bronwyn Gayle/Netflix © 2024.

MF: Finally, Liam, what was it like working with Laura on this project?

LH: The first time we met there was this instant sort of connection and trust between us. For some reason, we felt like we could tell each other everything and be seen and heard and all these things that are in the film. We had that off the bat and we didn’t have to work for that. Sometimes, you can work with another great actor and you’re still able to do that sort of thing on screen, but maybe not necessarily have that in real life. We had both and it was a real gift for us to have that.

What is the plot of ‘Lonely Planet’?

At an idyllic writers retreat in Morocco; a newly single novelist (Laura Dern) finds an unexpected connection with a younger man (Liam Hemsworth) who’s reevaluating his life choices.

Who is in the cast of ‘Lonely Planet’?
- Laura Dern as Katherine Loewe
- Liam Hemsworth as Owen Brophy
- Diana Silvers as Lily Kemp
- Younès Boucif as Rafih Abdo
- Adriano Giannini as Ugo Jaconelli
- Rachida Brakni as Fatema Benzakour
(L to R) Laura Dern as Katherine Loewe and Liam Hemsworth as Owen Brophy in ‘Lonely Planet’. Photo: Hilary Bronwyn Gayle/Netflix © 2024.

Other Liam Hemsworth Movies and TV Shows:
- ‘Neighbours‘ (1985 – 2024)
- ‘The Elephant Princess‘ (2008 – 2011)
- ‘Knowing‘ (2009)
- ‘The Last Song‘ (2010)
- ‘The Expendables 2‘ (2012)
- ‘The Hunger Games‘ (2012)
- ‘The Hunger Games: Catching Fire‘ (2013)
- ‘Paranoia‘ (2013)
- ‘Empire State‘ (2013)
- ‘The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1‘ (2014)
- ‘The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 2‘ (2015)
- ‘The Dressmaker‘ (2016)
- ‘Independence Day: Resurgence‘ (2016)
- ‘The Duel‘ (2016)
- ‘Isn’t It Romantic‘ (2019)
- ‘The Witcher‘ (2019 – 2023)
- ‘Poker Face‘ (2022)
- ‘Land of Bad‘ (2024)
Buy Liam Hemsworth Movies on Amazon
October 7, 2024
Acting Legend Donald Sutherland Dies Aged 88
Donald Sutherland for Lionsgate’s ‘The Hunger Games: Catching Fire’.

Preview:
- Donald Sutherland has died.
- He was 88.
- The actor will be remembered as a redoubtable performer and for roles both comedic and dramatic.
Donald Sutherland, a man who established himself in the firmament of stalwart, accomplished actors, has died. He was 88.

Sutherland was known for his distinctive voice and commanding screen presence. He worked with some of the most respected directors in the industry and left a lasting impact on the world of cinema and television.

Related Article: Dabney Coleman, the Actor Who Specialized in Curmudgeons, Dies Aged 92

Donald Sutherland: Early Life and Career

Donald Sutherland in ‘M*A*S*H.’ Photo: 20th Century-Fox.

Sutherland was born in St. John, Canada in 1935.

As a child, he battled various illnesses, including polio, hepatitis, and rheumatic fever. Despite his health challenges, Sutherland pursued his education at the University of Toronto, where he earned dual degrees in engineering and drama. But once the acting bug bit, he studied at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art before landing roles in British TV shows and movies such as ‘The Avengers’ and ‘The Saint.’

‘Saint’ star Roger Moore recommended him to the producers of ‘The Dirty Dozen’, taking his movie career to the next level.
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Donald Sutherland: Film Work

(L to R) Kevin Costner and Donald Sutherland in ‘JFK.’ Photo: Warner Bros.

The success of ‘The Dirty Dozen’ led to his iconic role as Hawkeye Pierce in the critically acclaimed ‘M*A*S*H’ in 1970, which cemented his status as a leading man. Throughout his career, Sutherland has showcased his versatility by taking on diverse roles in films such as 1971’s ‘Klute’, where his work and relationship with Jane Fonda sparked his activism, horror ‘Don’t Look Now’ (famous –– or perhaps infamous –– for the speculation of the reality of his sex scene with co-star Julie Christie), ‘Ordinary People’, ‘JFK’ ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’ and ‘The Italian Job‘ (2003) and the 1978 version of ‘Invasion of the Body Snatchers’.
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More recently, he garnered attention and a new generation of fans for his portrayal of the villainous President Snow in the ‘Hunger Games’ movies.

Sutherland scored Golden Globes and Emmys for his TV work, and while he was never nominated for an Oscar, he did receive an Honorary Oscar in 2017.
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Donald Sutherland Dies: Son Kiefer Sutherland’s Statement

Kiefer Sutherland in season 1 of ’24’. Photo: 20th Century Fox Television.

Sutherland had five children: sons Kiefer, Roeg, Rossif and Angus, a daughter, Rachel.

Kiefer is the best known among them, since he followed in his father’s performing footsteps. The duo starred together in projects several times throughout the years, including the movies ‘Max Dugan Returns’, ‘Forsaken’ and ‘A Time to Kill’.

Here’s what the younger Sutherland had to say about his father’s passing:

“With a heavy heart, I tell you that my father, Donald Sutherland, has passed away. I personally think one of the most important actors in the history of film. Never daunted by a role, good, bad or ugly. He loved what he did and did what he loved, and one can never ask for more than that. A life well lived.”

Sutherland was married three times, firstly to Lois Hardwick, from 1959 to 1966. His second, to actress Shirley Douglas, spanned 1966 to 1971 and produced Kiefer and Rachel. He’s survived by his third wife, Canadian actress Francine Racette, with whom he had Roeg, Rossif and Angus.

Donald Sutherland as Coriolanus Snow in Lionsgate’s ‘The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 2.’ Photo: Lionsgate.

Donald Sutherland Movies and TV Shows:
- ‘The Dirty Dozen‘ (1967)
- ‘M*A*S*H‘ (1970)
- ‘Kelly’s Heroes‘ (1970)
- ‘Klute‘ (1971)
- ‘SPYS‘ (1974)
- ‘The Eagle Has Landed‘ (1977)
- ‘The Kentucky Fried Movie‘ (1977)
- ‘Animal House‘ (1978)
- ‘Invasion of the Body Snatchers‘ (1978)
- ‘Ordinary People‘ (1980)
- ‘Max Dugan Returns‘ (1983)
- ‘A Dry White Season‘ (1989)
- ‘JFK‘ (1991)
- ‘Backdraft‘ (1991)
- ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer‘ (1992)
- ‘Six Degrees of Separation‘ (1993)
- ‘Outbreak‘ (1995)
- ‘A Time to Kill‘ (1996)
- ‘Fallen‘ (1998)
- ‘Without Limits‘ (1998)
- ‘Space Cowboys‘ (2000)
- ‘The Art of War‘ (2000)
- ‘The Italian Job‘ (2003)
- ‘Cold Mountain‘ (2003)
- ‘Lord of War‘ (2005)
- ‘Commander in Chief‘ (2005 – 2006)
- ‘Reign Over Me‘ (2007)
- ‘Dirty Sexy Money‘ (2007 – 2009)
- ‘Fool’s Gold‘ (2008)
- ‘The Mechanic‘ (2011)
- ‘The Eagle‘ (2011)
- ‘Horrible Bosses‘ (2011)
- ‘The Hunger Games‘ (2012)
- ‘Crossing Lines‘ (2013 – 2015)
- ‘The Hunger Games: Catching Fire‘ (2013)
- ‘The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1‘ (2014)
- ‘Forsaken‘ (2016)
- ‘The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 2‘ (2015)
- ‘Trust‘ (2018)
- ‘Backdraft 2‘ (2019)
- ‘Ad Astra‘ (2019)
- ‘Moonfall‘ (2022)
- ‘Mr. Harrigan’s Phone‘ (2022)
- ‘Lawmen: Bass Reeves‘ (2023)
Buy Donald Sutherland Movies On Amazon
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June 20, 2024
New ‘Hunger Games’ Prequel Movie in the Works
‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ opens in theaters on November 20, 2026.

Preview:
- ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ is in development.
- ‘The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes’ director Francis Lawrence is in talks to oversee it.
- It’s set 24 years before Katniss enters the arena.
Some things are predictable. The changing of the seasons. The tides of the sea. Elon Musk making a stupid decision. Add to that list the brief span of time between ‘Hunger Games’ author Suzanne Collins announcing a new book and Lionsgate jumping at the chance to turn it into a movie.

In this case, Collins has revealed that she’s written a second prequel novel, this one titled ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’, and it has been followed it what seems like seconds by Lionsgate confirming that a movie adaptation is in the works. The book will be out on March 18th, 2025.
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What’s the story of ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’?

Tom Blyth as Coriolanus Snow in ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes.’ Photo Credit: Courtesy of Lionsgate.

While the previous prequel, ‘The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes’, took place 64 years before the events of the original trilogy, ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ is set 24 years before that trio of Jennifer Lawrence films in the world of Panem, commencing on the morning of the reaping of the 50th Hunger Games, also known as the Second Quarter Quell.

Those games are an important event in the canon as the victor was Haymitch Abernathy, the only winner from District 12 before Lawrence’ Katniss Everdeen and Josh Hutcherson’s Peeta Mellark’s tie win. Haymitch continues on to become a mentor, a character in the original movies played by Woody Harrelson.

Who will appear in ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’

(L to R) Elizabeth Banks, Woody Harrelson and Jennifer Lawrence in ‘The Hunger Games’. Photo: Lionsgate.

No casting has been announced yet for the movie, but there’s a chance Harrelson could be called upon to provide bookend narration the way Donald Sutherland was utilized in ‘Songbirds and Snakes’.

But we do know that Francis Lawrence, who has directed four of the ‘Hunger Games’ movies to date, is in talks to handle this latest outing.

‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’: Collins and the Filmmakers Talk

(Left) ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes’ director Francis Lawrence. (Right) ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes’ producer Nina Jacobson.

Here’s Suzanne Collins’ statement on the new book and movie:

“With ‘Sunrise on the Reaping’, I was inspired by David Hume’s idea of implicit submission and, in his words, ‘the easiness with which the many are governed by the few… The story also lent itself to a deeper dive into the use of propaganda and the power of those who control the narrative. The question ‘Real or not real?’ seems more pressing to me every day. From the beginning, Lionsgate has been a wonderful home and partner for the ‘Hunger Games’ franchise, and I’m very excited to be collaborating with Adam and the team as we bring this next story to theaters in 2026.”

And here’s Lionsgate Motion Picture Group Chair Adam Fogelson:

“Suzanne Collins is a master storyteller and our creative north star. We couldn’t be more fortunate than to be guided and trusted by a collaborator whose talent and imagination are so consistently brilliant. We know ‘Hunger Games’ fans worldwide will be spellbound by where Suzanne has focused this next extraordinary story. The Second Quarter Quell is legendary and looms large over the history of the Games, even into the time of Katniss Everdeen a quarter-century later. Like fans around the globe, we are eagerly anticipating this exciting return to Panem.”

Related Article: 10 Things We Learned At ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes’ Press Conference

When will ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ be in theaters?

Lionsgate already has a release date in place for this one: the studio wants the new movie in theaters on November 20th, 2026. If he does make a deal, Lawrence will have his work cut out for him…

Rachel Zegler as Lucy Gray Baird in ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes.’ Photo Credit: Murray Close.

Other Movies in ‘The Hunger Games’ Franchise:
- ‘The Hunger Games‘ (2012)
- ‘The Hunger Games: Catching Fire‘ (2013)
- ‘The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1‘ (2014)
- ‘The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 2‘ (2015)
- ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes‘ (2023)
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June 7, 2024