The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping – The Quarter Quell Arrives in IMAX

There’s a reason we can’t stop talking about Panem. The Hunger Games franchise didn't just define a generation of sci-fi; it completely changed how we look at dystopian survival stories. Now, Francis Lawrence is taking us back into the arena for one of the darkest chapters in Capitol history. 

Set to hit the big screen on 20 November 2026, Sunrise on the Reaping finally gives us the origin story we’ve been waiting years to see: the infamous Second Quarter Quell. If you thought you knew Haymitch Abernathy’s backstory, brace yourself. We're breaking down exactly what to expect from this brutal prequel, who’s playing who, and why you absolutely need to see this one on a massive screen at Ster-Kinekor. 

Catch a fleeting glimpse at the dark trailer now.

The Dark Lore of the Second Quarter Quell

To understand what makes the 50th Games so terrifying, you have to look at the Capitol's twisted rulebook. For this specific Quarter Quell, President Snow and the Gamemakers decided that 24 tributes weren't enough. Instead, they doubled the body count, throwing 48 kids into one of the most stunning but lethal environments ever created. It’s a ruthless setup that paves the way for Haymitch’s legendary, against-all-odds victory. But as fans already know, surviving the arena is only half the battle.

A Star-Studded Return: Meet the Ensemble

A movie this detailed needs a cast that can actually carry it, and the lineup for Sunrise on the Reaping is ridiculous in the best way possible. We’ve got rising star Joseph Zada taking on the massive challenge of playing a young, gritty Haymitch Abernathy, with Mckenna Grace joining him as fellow District 12 tribute Maysilee Donner. Jesse Plemons is stepping into the shoes of a young Plutarch Heavensbee, Elle Fanning is playing Effie Trinket, and Kieran Culkin is our new Caesar Flickerman. Throw Ralph Fiennes into the mix as the tyrannical President Snow, and you’ve got a masterclass in acting.

Experience the Games at Ster-Kinekor

Let’s get real: you don't watch a Hunger Games movie on a laptop. A film built around mind-blowing environmental traps, intense action, and a thundering soundtrack deserves the biggest screen you can find – like IMAX where you can be totally immersed in the Capitol's immense scale. Book your tickets early at Ster-Kinekor to secure the best seats for opening weekend. 

Returning to Panem is more than just another movie night—it’s a massive cinematic event. Francis Lawrence has built a breathtaking world, the cast is stacked, and the stakes have literally never been higher. 

Do yourself a favour and do justice to the sheer scale of this epic by grabbing your premium tickets at Ster-Kinekor today. 

FAQS

When is the Sunrise on the Reaping’s release date in South Africa?

The highly anticipated prequel will officially hit Ster-Kinekor cinemas nationwide on 20 November 2026.

Is the new movie based on a novel?

Yes! The film is a direct, faithful adaptation of the hit The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping book, written by the franchise's original creator, Suzanne Collins.

What is the plot of Sunrise on the Reaping?

The movie dives into the 50th Hunger Games, known as the Second Quarter Quell. As a special twist, the Capitol forces 48 tributes into the arena instead of the usual 24, setting the stage for the gruelling origin story of District 12 victor Haymitch Abernathy.

Who is in The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping cast?

The film features an incredible lineup! Rising star Joseph Zada plays Haymitch Abernathy, while Mckenna Grace joins as Maysilee Donner. The cast is rounded out by Hollywood heavyweights like Jesse Plemons (Plutarch Heavensbee), Elle Fanning (Effie Trinket), Kieran Culkin (Caesar Flickerman), and Ralph Fiennes (President Snow).

Will the movie be available in premium cinema formats? 

Absolutely. To truly feel the intensity of the arena, Ster-Kinekor will be showing the film in immersive IMAX theatres.