Re-release of Hunger Games films

Since the beginning of October, the Hunger Games films starring Jennifer Lawrence have been re-released in cinemas, one per week. This is intended to prepare fans of the dystopian universe for the sixth film in the franchise, Hunger Games: Sunrise Over the Harvest, scheduled for release in theaters on November 18.

New protagonist in the sixth film

Set during the 50th annual Hunger Games, the film, once again directed by Francis Lawrence, features Haymitch Abernathy as the protagonist, played by Joseph Zada (recently seen in East of Eden on Netflix), who succeeds Woody Harrelson, who portrayed the character in the original series. Selected by lottery to be one of the tributes from District 12, the young man realizes when the Games begin that he has been trapped to fail.

Initial reviews of the film

Following the London premiere of the film, which took place yesterday, initial reviews were posted on social media, and it can be said that the film convinced the audience in the room. "Hunger Games: Sunrise Over the Harvest shines with stunning technical work, an once again phenomenal cast, and a gripping narrative that strongly reminds us that nothing is inevitable and that it is possible to break a perverse system," wrote Perri Nemiroff on X.

Political themes and performances

Gavin Spoors also highlights the political significance of the film: "We have seen this many times before, but the third act [of the film] completely catches you off guard. Carried by exceptional performances (Zada is a true star), this moving thriller skillfully explores the themes of the cost of revolution and the necessity for each of us to play our role." "I was on the edge of my seat until the very end. Fans of the novel will not be disappointed, especially by the ending. Joseph Zada impressively takes on the role of a younger Haymitch – Jesse Plemmons is, as expected, another revelation. Moving and impactful!" Amelia Knust assured.

Universal acclaim for Joseph Zada

Joseph Zada's performance has indeed gained universal acclaim. Griffin Schiller even went so far as to state in his review posted on X: "Joseph Zada is a revelation. I am completely stunned by his performance. He is so charismatic, engaging, tender, and sincere; he perfectly embodies Haymitch's love for people, his suffering, and his rebellious spirit. In a series filled with incredible performances, his may be the best after Lawrence's. He is really that good."

Jennifer Lawrence returns to the franchise

It was incredible. Jennifer Lawrence has indeed reprised her role as Katniss in the film, alongside Josh Hutcherson in the role of Peeta. Invited to the podcast Call Her Daddy, the Oscar-winning actress discussed her return to this universe that made her a global star and her reunions with her former on-screen partners.

Personal reflections from Jennifer Lawrence

"It was incredible. It was completely crazy. It was the same technical team. It was the same assistant director, with whom I have worked a million times because I love him. And with Josh [Hutcherson] and Woody [Harrelson]... it was so emotional. Josh and I couldn't even go to the bathroom without holding each other. It was so beautiful. And Woody, of course, entered through the window of my hotel room without being invited. It wouldn't have been the same if he had respected the boundaries or used a door," recalled Jennifer Lawrence. Hunger Games: Sunrise Over the Harvest, in theaters on November 18.