Latest news with #50thHungerGames
The South African
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- The South African
Ralph Fiennes to play President Snow in 'Sunrise on the Reaping'
Award-winning actor Ralph Fiennes is set to bring his chilling talents to the world of Panem. Fiennes will play President Coriolanus Snow in The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping . The film, adapted from Suzanne Collins's latest novel, promises a thrilling dive into the history of the Hunger Games. Fiennes steps into the shoes of the late Donald Sutherland, who masterfully portrayed the tyrannical leader in the original Hunger Games series. Tom Blyth previously played a younger Snow in The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes , according to Breaking News. Fiennes, at 62, is perfectly aged to depict Snow during the 50th Hunger Games, also known as the Second Quarter Quell. 'We wanted to honour Donald Sutherland by having one of this generation's greatest actors play President Snow. This is 24 years before Katniss Everdeen entered the arena,' said producer Nina Jacobson. She also added, 'Working with Ralph has been on my bucket list since he traumatised me for life in Schindler's List . It's genuinely a thrill to welcome him to the Hunger Games.' Sunrise on the Reaping centres on Haymitch Abernathy, the District 12 mentor, later known for his alcoholism and cynicism. Haymitch, played by Joseph Zada, finds himself a tribute in the brutal 50th Hunger Games. These games are particularly vicious, featuring double the tributes from each district. Fiennes joins a cast that includes Joseph Zada as Haymitch Abernathy, Whitney Peak as Lenore Dove Baird, and other talented actors like Maya Hawke and Jesse Plemons. Francis Lawrence, who directed Catching Fire and both Mockingjay films, returns to direct. The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping will hit cinemas on 20 November 2026. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
Buzz Feed
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
Why Kieran Culkin Is Perfect As Caesar Flickerman
Tributes! There is a new advancement in the casting for the upcoming prequel, Hunger Games: Sunrise On The Reaping casting — Kieran Culkin has been cast as Caesar Flickerman! This prequel takes viewers back 24 years before the events of the original Hunger Game series, and centres around the 50th Hunger Games — the Second Quarter Quell — where the rules were more cruel and brutal. Flickerman was previously played by the iconic Stanley Tucci. To match that level of sass, wit and energy, casting Culkin was a brilliant choice! Kieran Culkin is having his moment in Hollywood — winning an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in A Real Pain, and playing the unfiltered middle child, Roman Roy in HBO's Succession, which has a cult following. All in all, he is doing very well. We are waiting to see his own spin on this legendary character in one of the greatest franchises ever. Culkin has been cast alongside a star-studded ensemble cast — Elle Fanning as Effie Trinket, Joseph Zada as young Haymitch Abernathy, Ralph Fiennes as young President Snow, Jesse Plemmons as Plutarch Heavensbee, Maya Hawke as Wiress, Kelvin Harrison Jr. as Beetee Latier, Mckenna Grace as Maysilee Donner, Lili Taylor as Mags Flanagan, Molly McCann as Louella McCoy, and Iona Bell as Lou Lou. Behind the cameras, in November 2024, Francis Lawrence, the Hunger Games franchise director signed a first-look producing deal with Lionsgate through his company, about:blank. Francis Lawrence has directed four of the Hunger Game films: Catching Fire, Mockingjay 1 and 2, and The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes. Those films were absolute bangers, so I can't wait to see what this film holds for us. Speaking about the decision to cast Culkin, the co-president of Lionsgate Motion Picture Group, Erin Westerman said: "Kieran's scene-stealing presence and undeniable charm are perfect for Caesar Flickerman, the sickeningly watchable host of Panem's darkest spectacle. Stanley Tucci made Caesar unforgettable — and now Kieran will make the role entirely his own." Furthermore, Producer Nina Jacobson clarified the thought process behind this casting. She stated, "Kieran's magnetism, wit and unpredictability make him a perfect fit for Caesar Flickerman. A host like Caesar transforms brutality into entertainment, and an actor as layered as Kieran makes sure we don't look away." Coming back to the OG Caesar — Stanley Tucci's take on the character was to make him flamboyant, flashy, and uber charming! In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, he spoke of his involvement with the character, saying, "I'd like to try teeth. I'd like to try some noses. I want him to have a tan. We have to really make it look like he has plastic surgery." Needless to say, he delivered. Culkin has established himself as an actor with an unpredictable mindset—a blend of sarcastic and dark humour, charming wit, and bursts of vulnerability that consistently draw the viewer's attention. It's this very approach to his craft that will make his portrayal of Caesar eccentric and electric. His co-star and director of the film A Real Pain, Jesse Eisenberg revealed on the Graham Norton Show, that he had cast Kieran for the part, not having watched ANY of his past work, but simply because of his essence. Culkin's naturally chaotic demeanor in interviews and award shows is more than well-documented. Like this wholesome interaction between him and Colman Domingo on Actors on Actors which had fans envious of the contagious energy he possesses. I would say his 'controlled chaotic' mannerisms will challenge the suave and entertaining version of Tucci when playing this character. But since it is the younger version of Flickerman in one of the most brutal hunger games, chaotic is fitting for the mood of Panem. / Via Culkin has talked about his 'free-associative acting style' in the past. He said in an interview with Vulture, " It's written, and I understand the character, and then some shit comes out sometimes; that's it. And I don't force it." And it is this very energy... which is what makes me so excited to see him wear those wigs as Caesar. Kiernan's theatrical and flamboyant movements will bring a whimsical energy to this role... and I'm seated for it. And it is this very energy that excites me to see him wear those wigs. Culkin's theatrical and flamboyant movements will bring a whimsical energy to this I'm seated for it. / Via Naturally, fans are all over this casting and can't get enough of it. I will see you in the theatres on November 20th, 2026.
Yahoo
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Elle Fanning to Play Effie in ‘Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping' (Exclusive)
Elle Fanning is set to join the fray in The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping. The Emmy-nominated actress has been cast as Effie Trinket in the forthcoming Lionsgate film, The Hollywood Reporter has learned exclusively. Francis Lawrence directs the movie adaptation of Suzanne Collins' best-selling novel that will hit theaters Nov. 20, 2026. More from The Hollywood Reporter "You Can't Talk Revolution If There's No Love Involved": 'THR Frontrunners' Q&A With 'Andor' Star Diego Luna 'Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping' Finds Its Louella and Lou Lou (Exclusive) 'Sesame Street' Saved, Inks New Streaming Deal With Netflix In the feature, Effie serves as the stylist for Haymitch Abernathy (played by Joseph Zada) in the preparation for the 50th Hunger Games. Elizabeth Banks portrayed an older version of Effie in the series' first four films that kicked off with The Hunger Games hitting theaters in 2012. Previously announced castmembers include Zada, Whitney Peak, Mckenna Grace, Jesse Plemons, Kelvin Harrison Jr., Maya Hawke, Lili Taylor and Ben Wang. THR's exclusive reporting has included the recent news that Ralph Fiennes has been cast as the diabolical President Snow and that Molly McCann and Iona Bell will portray standout book characters Louella and Lou Lou, respectively. 'From the moment Suzanne released the book, one question echoed from fans around the world: Who will play Effie?' says Lionsgate Motion Picture Group co-president Erin Westerman. 'Elizabeth Banks made her iconic — so who could honor that legacy while bringing us back to Effie's early, most formative days? For us, there was only one answer. Elle Fanning's career has been transcendent. She has a rare presence — warm, sparkling and layered with extraordinary depth. She was the undeniable fan favorite from the start, and we're honored she answered the call. The odds, it turns out, were in our favor.' Lawrence helms the movie from a script by Billy Ray that adapts Collins' book. Nina Jacobson and Brad Simpson produce for Color Force, while Cameron MacConomy executive produces. Meredith Wieck and Scott O'Brien oversee Sunrise on the Reaping for Lionsgate. Robert Melnik handled the deal on behalf of the studio. The book Sunrise on the Reaping takes place in Panem on the morning of the reaping for the 50th Hunger Games, 24 years before the events in The Hunger Games, the first novel that published in 2008. The franchise's first five movies have surpassed $3.3 billion at the worldwide box office, with the initial four films led by Jennifer Lawrence as Katniss Everdeen. Fanning's recent credits include last year's Oscar-nominated feature A Complete Unknown and Joachim Trier's Sentimental Value, premiering at Cannes this week. She can be seen in such forthcoming projects as the Apple TV+ series Margo's Got Money Troubles and 20th Century's fall movie Predator: Badlands. The actress is represented by UTA, TFC Management and Hansen Jacobson. Best of The Hollywood Reporter 'The Goonies' Cast, Then and Now "A Nutless Monkey Could Do Your Job": From Abusive to Angst-Ridden, 16 Memorable Studio Exec Portrayals in Film and TV The 10 Best Baseball Movies of All Time, Ranked
Pink Villa
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Pink Villa
Oscar Winner Kieran Culkin Picks Next Role as The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping's Caesar Flickerman, See New Cast List
Kieran Culkin has joined The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping as Caesar Flickerman, the flamboyant host of Panem's Hunger Games. The role was originally played by Stanley Tucci in the first four Hunger Games films. Lionsgate confirmed the casting and praised Culkin's unique talent. 'Kieran's scene-stealing presence and undeniable charm are perfect for Caesar Flickerman, the sickeningly watchable host of Panem's darkest spectacle,' said Erin Westerman, co-president of Lionsgate Motion Picture Group. The upcoming film features a star-studded cast, including Joseph Zada as Haymitch Abernathy and Whitney Peak as Lenore Dove Baird. Mckenna Grace will play Maysilee Donner, Jesse Plemons will portray Plutarch Heavensbee, and Maya Hawke joins as Wiress, as per Variety. Kelvin Harrison Jr. plays Beetee, Lili Taylor is Mags, and Ben Wang plays Wyatt Callow. Elle Fanning takes on the role of Effie Trinket, and Ralph Fiennes will portray President Snow. Molly McCann and Iona Bell will also appear as Louella and her Capitol-assigned lookalike, Lou Lou. The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping is based on Suzanne Collins' latest novel, which takes place 24 years before the original series. The story follows a young Haymitch Abernathy during the 50th Hunger Games, also known as the Second Quarter Quell. Woody Harrelson originally played the character in the earlier films. Director Francis Lawrence returns to helm the film, working from a screenplay by Billy Ray. The movie will be produced by Nina Jacobson and Brad Simpson, with Cameron MacConomy as executive producer. The film is set to hit theaters on November 20, 2026. Culkin joins the franchise during a high point in his career. He recently won an Oscar for his role in A Real Pain and previously won an Emmy for his performance in HBO's Succession. He is currently starring in a sold-out Broadway run of Glengarry Glen Ross. 'A host like Caesar transforms brutality into entertainment, and an actor as layered as Kieran makes sure we don't look away,' said producer Nina Jacobson.
Time of India
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
The Hunger Games prequel: Elle Fanning, Kieran Culkin to join 'Sunrise on the Reaping' set for 2026 release; Check who else is on the cast
The Hunger Games prequel: Lionsgate has announced key cast additions to The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping, set for release on 20 November 2026. Kieran Culkin will portray Caesar Flickerman, while Elle Fanning joins as a younger Effie Trinket. Directed by franchise regular Francis Lawrence, the film is based on Suzanne Collins' prequel novel and set 24 years before the original series. This prequel follows the 50th Hunger Games and introduces a younger Haymitch Abernathy, played by Joseph Zada, among other characters. Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Elle Fanning to star as young Effie Trinket Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads The Hunger Games: A star-studded ensemble cast The Hunger Games: What is the plot of Sunrise on the Reaping Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Kieran Culkin has officially joined the cast of The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping , the upcoming prequel to the blockbuster franchise. The Oscar-winning actor will portray Caesar Flickerman, the theatrical and unnervingly charming host of the Capitol's infamous death match. The announcement was made by Lionsgate on 21 Westerman, co-president of Lionsgate Motion Picture Group, said, 'Kieran's scene-stealing presence and undeniable charm are perfect for Caesar Flickerman, the sickeningly watchable host of Panem's darkest spectacle. Stanley Tucci made Caesar unforgettable — and now Kieran will make the role entirely his own.'Producer Nina Jacobson also shared her thoughts on Culkin's casting: 'Kieran's magnetism, wit and unpredictability make him a perfect fit for Caesar Flickerman. A host like Caesar transforms brutality into entertainment, and an actor as layered as Kieran makes sure we don't look away.'Culkin, known for his acclaimed role in Succession and currently starring in Broadway's Glengarry Glen Ross, is expected to bring a unique blend of humour and menace to the joins as Capitol's iconic escortOn 20 May, Sunrise on the Reaping confirmed the casting of Elle Fanning as the younger version of Effie Trinket — the fashion-forward Capitol escort first brought to life by Elizabeth Banks in the original film series. The news was shared via the film's official social media Erin Westerman said, 'From the moment Suzanne released the book, one question echoed from fans around the world: Who will play Effie? Elizabeth Banks made her iconic — so who could honour that legacy while bringing us back to Effie's early, most formative days? For us, there was only one answer. Elle Fanning's career has been transcendent. She has a rare presence — warm, sparkling and layered with extraordinary depth. She was the undeniable fan favourite from the start, and we're honoured she answered the call. The odds, it turns out, were in our favour.'Effie's role in this prequel sees her guiding District 12 tribute Haymitch Abernathy, as he prepares for the brutal 50th Hunger and familiar faces fill out Panem's pastAlongside Culkin and Fanning, the prequel will introduce a range of characters—both new and familiar to longtime fans. Joseph Zada stars as a young Haymitch Abernathy, the sarcastic mentor who later helped Katniss and Peeta survive. He was originally played by Woody Harrelson in the first four Fiennes will portray a younger version of President Coriolanus Snow, the cold and calculating ruler of Panem, a role made memorable by the late Donald Sutherland. Jesse Plemons takes on the part of Plutarch Heavensbee, originally portrayed by Philip Seymour Hoffman. Other cast members include Maya Hawke as Wiress, Kelvin Harrison Jr. as Beetee Latier, Mckenna Grace as Maysilee Donner, Lili Taylor as Mags Flanagan, Ben Wang as Wyatt Callow, Whitney Peak as Lenore Dove Baird, Molly McCann as Louella McCoy, and Iona Bell as Lou film is directed by franchise veteran Francis Lawrence and written by Billy Ray, based on Suzanne Collins' recently released book of the same name.A return to Panem's darkest traditionSunrise on the Reaping takes viewers back 24 years before the events of the original Hunger Games series. The story centres on the 50th Hunger Games—infamously known as the Second Quarter Quell—where rules are made even crueler than usual. It will explore the roots of the Capitol's obsession with spectacle and control, through the lens of the tributes, mentors, and broadcasters who shaped that brutal chapter in Panem's book begins on the morning of the reaping for the 50th Games, diving deep into the politics, trauma, and manipulation surrounding the tradition. The last prequel film, The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, introduced a young Coriolanus Snow, played by Tom Blyth, and received a strong box office names, familiar faces, and a dark tale aheadWith its five previous instalments earning more than $3.3 billion globally, the Hunger Games franchise remains one of Hollywood's most bankable properties. Lionsgate appears confident that Sunrise on the Reaping will uphold that film is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release on 20 November 2026. Producers Nina Jacobson and Brad Simpson return under the Colour Force banner, with Cameron MacConomy serving as executive producer. Lionsgate executives Meredith Wieck and Scott O'Brien are overseeing the project, and Robert Melnik negotiated the deal for the seasoned actors to rising stars, and with a powerful source novel as its base, Sunrise on the Reaping is shaping up to be one of 2026's most anticipated releases.
