By Aurora Dominguez
Some stories stay with us long after we turn the final page or leave the movie theater, and for me, The Hunger Games has always been one of those stories. Suzanne Collins created a world that goes far beyond survival and spectacle, exploring courage, sacrifice, identity, injustice and the extraordinary power of standing up for what matters. As a lifelong reader, educator and storyteller, this series holds a special place in my heart because it reminds us that even in the darkest circumstances, our voices matter. So, when I received an invitation to experience Lionsgate’s The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping immersive activation during New York Comic Con 2026’s 20th anniversary celebration, I could hardly contain my excitement. Getting to share the experience with my dear friend and talented photographer Sharma Rodriguez made the afternoon even more meaningful.
Located just across from the Javits Center in New York City, the free immersive pop-up transported fans directly into Panem, offering a fascinating preview of the world awaiting audiences in the upcoming film. Created in collaboration with Experiential Supply Co., the experience began in District 12, where propaganda-inspired artwork, rebellious markings and carefully designed environments captured the tension between the Capitol’s control and the growing spirit of resistance. From there, visitors stepped into a striking floral environment inspired by the 50th Hunger Games, complete with greenery, butterflies and sensory details that contrasted beauty with the danger lurking beneath the surface. Larger-than-life movie artwork, a Caesar Flickerman-inspired stage and interactive photo opportunities added to the excitement, while a display celebrating fan-created artwork reminded me how deeply this franchise continues to inspire creativity and connection.
One of the most unforgettable highlights of my New York Comic Con experience was meeting five members of the cast of The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping: Joseph Zada, who portrays Haymitch Abernathy; Mckenna Grace, who plays Maysilee Donner; Whitney Peak, who brings Lenore Dove Baird to life; Ben Wang, who portrays Wyatt Callow; and Iris Apatow. Even better, I had the opportunity to have them sign my movie poster, creating a keepsake I will treasure for years to come. As someone who has loved The Hunger Games books and films for so long, I cannot begin to explain how exciting it was to meet some of the talented young actors bringing this next chapter of Panem to the screen. There is something wonderful about being a journalist and educator who spends so much time celebrating storytelling, yet still getting to experience those moments of pure fan excitement. Sharing the afternoon with Sharma made it even more special. I left with a signed poster, wonderful memories and an even greater appreciation for a series that has always held such a special place in my heart.
The upcoming film, The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping, takes audiences back 24 years before the events of the original Hunger Games story and follows 16-year-old Haymitch Abernathy as he is selected to participate in the 50th Hunger Games, also known as the Second Quarter Quell. With twice the usual number of tributes entering the arena, the stakes are higher than ever as Haymitch forms an unexpected alliance with fellow tribute Maysilee Donner and becomes involved in a dangerous effort to challenge the Capitol’s authority. Directed by Francis Lawrence and based on Collins’ bestselling novel, the film features an impressive ensemble including Ralph Fiennes, Jesse Plemons, Glenn Close, Kieran Culkin, Elle Fanning, Maya Hawke, Whitney Peak and Kelvin Harrison Jr. For longtime fans, the story promises a deeper understanding of one of the franchise’s most fascinating characters while introducing another generation to the complicated choices, relationships and acts of resistance that define this universe.
What I have always appreciated about The Hunger Games is its ability to entertain while encouraging meaningful conversations about humanity, compassion and the importance of questioning the world around us. These are themes I often find myself returning to in my own work as an educator and journalist, and they are part of why I continue recommending stories like these to readers of different generations. Seeing Panem brought to life during NYCC was a reminder of how powerful immersive storytelling can be, allowing us to experience fictional worlds beyond the pages of a book or the screen of a theater. I am incredibly thankful to Josh Grijalva and the team at THE MRKT, Lionsgate and everyone involved in creating and welcoming us to this extraordinary experience. From exploring District 12 to meeting cast members and leaving with my signed poster, this was a Comic Con memory I will carry with me for a very long time. And as we prepare to return to Panem this November, I am more excited than ever to discover how Haymitch’s story unfolds on the big screen.
If You Go: The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping arrives in theaters nationwide on November 20, 2026. The film’s companion album arrives November 13, featuring music inspired by the world of Panem, including Noah Kahan’s “Draw You Out.” For trailers, movie updates and additional information, visit https://www.hungergames.movie.
May the odds be ever in your favor!
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