Glenn Close shocks fans in new The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping teaser! Get the full cast list, character details, and November release window.
Academy Award nominee Glenn Close has left moviegoers stunned with a dramatic transformation in the latest teaser trailer for The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping. Produced by Lionsgate and directed by franchise veteran Francis Lawrence, the upcoming sci-fi dystopian prequel arrives exclusively in theaters on November 20, 2026. Close plays Drusilla Sickle, a cruel, extravagant Capitol chaperone assigned to District 12. Sporting an elaborate red wig, heavy makeup, and prosthetic teeth, Close's jaw-dropping look has quickly become the main talking point for the 50th Hunger Games adaptation.
Key Information
- Movie Title: The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping
- Studio / Distributor: Lionsgate Official Site
- Director & Screenwriter: Francis Lawrence (Director), Billy Ray (Screenplay)
- Lead Cast: Joseph Zada (Haymitch Abernathy), Glenn Close (Drusilla Sickle), Mckenna Grace (Maysilee Donner), Ralph Fiennes (President Snow), Kieran Culkin (Caesar Flickerman)
- Genre: Dystopian Sci-Fi, Action Drama, Young Adult Thriller
- Theatrical Release Date: November 20, 2026
- Official Social Platforms: The Hunger Games Official X Account, Lionsgate Official Instagram
Who Is Drusilla Sickle in Sunrise on the Reaping?
Drusilla Sickle serves as the primary Capitol chaperone for District 12 during the Second Quarter Quell, filling a position similar to Effie Trinket from the original trilogy.
- Capitol Cruelty: Unlike Effie Trinket's eventual affection for her tributes, Drusilla is depicted as a strict, cold Capitol handler who enforces high standards of vanity and obedience.
- Striking Transformation: In the new "Message from the Capitol" viral teaser, Close wears a red gown with a blue sash, addressing viewers with the tagline: "Elegance is authority. Break free from imperfection".
- Pairing with Billy Porter: Close stars alongside Emmy winner Billy Porter, who plays Magno Stift, Drusilla's estranged husband and District 12's uninspired stylist.
What Is the Plot of The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping?
Based on Suzanne Collins' 2025 bestselling novel, Sunrise on the Reaping takes place 24 years before the events of Katniss Everdeen's story, focusing on the 50th Hunger Games.
- Young Haymitch Abernathy: Actor Joseph Zada takes over the role originated by Woody Harrelson, portraying a 16-year-old Haymitch as his name is called during the reaping.
- The Second Quarter Quell Rule Twist: To mark the 50th anniversary of the Games, the Capitol doubles the tribute count from 24 to 48, forcing four young people from each district into the arena.
- District 12 Allies: Mckenna Grace plays Maysilee Donner, Haymitch's fellow District 12 tribute and original owner of the famous Mockingjay pin.
Who Else Stars in the Ensemble Cast?
Lionsgate has assembled an impressive ensemble cast to populate the Capitol and districts.
- Ralph Fiennes as a younger President Coriolanus Snow
- Kieran Culkin as flamboyant interviewer Caesar Flickerman
- Jesse Plemons as Gamemaker Plutarch Heavensbee
- Elle Fanning as a young Effie Trinket
- Maya Hawke, Whitney Peak, and Kelvin Harrison Jr. in supporting roles
Fans can stream original Hunger Games movies on Lionsgate Play or rent the complete collection on Amazon Prime Video before Sunrise on the Reaping arrives in theaters on November 20, 2026.