First reactions to The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping are calling it the franchise’s best entry yet. Early reviews from the London premiere spotlight one breakout performance that has critics stunned.
The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’s first reactions are in
The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping received glowing first reactions after its London premiere on Wednesday. Critics praised it as the strongest entry in the franchise. Joseph Zada’s performance as young Haymitch Abernathy drew particular acclaim from early viewers.
Critic Griffin Schiller dubbed Sunrise on the Reaping “the Rogue One/Andor of the franchise.” He described it as “a sobering, yet powerful story of devastating loss.” Schiller called Zada “a revelation,” praising him as “so charismatic, lovable, tender, and honest.” He also applauded director Francis Lawrence for beautifully capturing “the invigorating spark of revolution.” Schiller called the film’s ending “a resounding gut punch” for audiences.
Collider’s Perri Nemiroff highlighted the film’s technical achievements and cast. She wrote that the movie “rocks a ton of stunning craftsmanship” and “an exhilarating narrative.” She singled out Zada, saying he “had my jaw on the floor time and time again.” Nemiroff added that his ability to capture “Haymitch’s warmth and charm” alongside “the rage and heartbreak” was “superb.”
Nerds of Color author Nikita Francois called the film “easily the best film in the Hunger Games franchise.” Francois added that Zada “is electrifying as Haymitch” and that the cast “is true to the characters we’re introduced to in the book.” Francois described it as “a MUST-SEE in theaters.”
The prequel explores Panem 24 years before Katniss Everdeen’s story. It follows a young Haymitch Abernathy during the 50th Hunger Games, known as the Quarter Quell. The film also stars Mckenna Grace, Jesse Plemons, Ralph Fiennes, Glenn Close, Kieran Culkin, and Elle Fanning.
Sunrise on the Reaping hits theaters on Nov. 20, 2026.
