The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping keeps the buzz building for its theatrical release with new looks at one of the franchise’s most important characters. Based on the bestselling novel by Suzanne Collins, the prequel follows the early life of Haymitch Abernathy long before he became Katniss Everdeen’s mentor. Now Lionsgate has released a new featurette offering fans a better look at Joseph Zada’s spin on the young District 12 victor. 

The featurette launched just before the film’s release has already sparked conversation on social media. In honor of this auspicious date in Panem, the “Meet Haymitch” featurette was released on Saturday, July 4. It provides a look at the origin story of Zada, the star of the upcoming film The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping, which is arriving in theaters on November 20. It also teases key moments from the 50th Hunger Games, while giving a glimpse at the scale of the upcoming prequel.

Additionally, it contains scenes from the literal sunrise of his Reaping Day, to the Capitol interviews, and the Games. Moreover, it consist of production clips and interviews with cast and crew on the creation of the backstory for the now-famous character. For context, Woody Harrelson played Abernathy in the film adaptations of the original Hunger Games trilogy.

The prequel’s plot revolves around the younger versions of some familiar faces from the original films, deepening the backstories of key players in Panem. Younger iterations of the iconic characters are portrayed by Ralph Fiennes, Kieran Culkin, Jesse Plemons, Maya Hawke, and Kelvin Harrison Jr., with Elle Fanning as Effie Trinket. McKenna Grace and Glenn Close are completing the ensemble cast in new roles. 

The first extended look has already set fans talking, with reactions pouring in across social media as excitement continues to build.

Social media erupts after Joseph Zada’s Haymitch featurette

The newly launched featurette of The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping immediately received many humorous responses from the fans on social media. One fan remarked how Haymitch Abernathy had traded his traditional Capitol wine. Another fan humorously stated that Abernathy would probably be able to make it through the zombie apocalypse. Another fan quipped that Abernathy seemed unusually sober and energetic.

The featurette also managed to receive many excited responses from the fans on social media. One fan mentioned how each new update was just building up their excitement. Another fan stated how the featurette had taken their hype to another level. A third called Abernathy’s story a much awaited one. 

The latest featurette has only added to the anticipation for The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping, giving fans a glimpse behind the story of one of the franchise’s most iconic characters. The first extended footage of Joseph Zada as Haymitch Abernathy is generating excitement and the new looks at the 50th Hunger Games have sparked conversation among fans. As its November release draws closer, the prequel is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated films of the year.  

Can Joseph Zada make young Haymitch Abernathy as unforgettable as Woody Harrelson’s version? Let us know in the comments.