The Hunger Games stands as one of the most enduring dystopian sci-fi franchises, built upon the critically acclaimed writing of author Suzanne Collins and compelling performances from its original stars. Flourishing into a billion-dollar enterprise in the early 2010s with four consecutive film releases, the world of Panem recently re-emerged in 2023 with the prequel, The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes. Starring Rachel Zegler and Tom Blyth, this film successfully grossed over $360 million globally, reigniting interest in the series.

The franchise continues its expansion with another highly anticipated prequel, Sunrise on the Reaping, set to explore events 24 years prior to the saga of Katniss Everdeen. This upcoming film centers on a young Haymitch Abernathy as he prepares to participate in the brutal Hunger Games. Long-time series director Francis Lawrence returns to helm the project, with Michael Lesslie and Billy Ray adapting Collins’ latest novel for the screen. The film is slated for release on November 20, 2026.

Sunrise on the Reaping boasts an impressive ensemble cast. Joseph Zada takes on the lead role of Haymitch Abernathy, supported by Mckenna Grace as Maysilee Donner, Jesse Plemons as Plutarch Heavensbee, Elle Fanning as Effie Trinket, Ralph Fiennes as President Snow, Jefferson White as Mr. McCoy, Maya Hawke as Wiress, Glenn Close as Drusilla Sickle, Kieran Culkin as Cesar Flickerman, Iris Apatow as Prosperina Trinket, and Ben Wang as Wyatt Callow. Notably, the film's timeline is strictly 24 years before Katniss Everdeen's era, ensuring a fresh narrative perspective.

Actress Iris Apatow, who portrays Prosperina Trinket in the upcoming prequel, recently shared her experiences at SXSW while discussing her new Prime Video original movie, Pretty Lethal. Apatow expressed her awe and excitement about working alongside Elle Fanning, whom she has admired since childhood. She highlighted the unique opportunity to prepare for their roles concurrently, sharing the same accent coach. Apatow also praised the welcoming atmosphere on set, noting that everyone was incredibly kind and supportive of nervous newcomers like herself. She specifically mentioned her positive experience collaborating with Maya Hawke, calling it one of her favorite experiences ever.

Beyond her role in Sunrise on the Reaping, Iris Apatow's action thriller, Pretty Lethal, is scheduled for release exclusively on Prime Video on March 25. Written by Kate Freund and directed by Vicky Jewson, the film features a notable cast including Uma Thurman, Millicent Simmons, Lana Condor, and Maddie Ziegler alongside Apatow. Pretty Lethal follows a group of ballerinas who find themselves in a desperate situation, attempting to escape from a remote inn after their bus unexpectedly breaks down en route to a competition.