5 Essential Ways To Watch The Hunger Games Franchise In 2025: Streaming, Order, And New Releases

The Hunger Games franchise is back in the spotlight for 2025, making this the perfect time to either revisit the dystopian world of Panem or experience the epic saga for the first time. The cinematic universe, based on the internationally acclaimed novels by author Suzanne Collins, has seen a major resurgence following the success of the prequel, and the streaming landscape has finally settled, offering a consolidated home for the entire series. As of December 18, 2025, finding all five films is easier than it has been in years, but there are also brand-new ways to engage with the story, including an upcoming film adaptation, a new novel, and a major theatrical production.

Whether you are a seasoned fan eager to watch Katniss Everdeen's journey again or a newcomer looking to understand the rise of President Snow, knowing the correct viewing order and the current streaming homes is essential. This guide provides the definitive, up-to-date information on where to watch every film, the chronological order of the story, and the exciting new projects—like the 2026 film Sunrise on the Reaping—that are keeping the flame of the Mockingjay alive.

The Complete Hunger Games Movie List and Chronological Viewing Order

The Hunger Games franchise consists of five major film releases, with a sixth already announced. While the films were released in a specific order, the internal timeline of Panem’s history means the chronological story order is different. For the most complete narrative experience, especially for first-time viewers, the chronological order is recommended. However, for a classic experience, follow the release order.

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Viewing Order by Cinematic Release Date

This is the order in which the films were released, which is ideal for those who want to experience the story as the original audience did, building suspense toward the prequel’s context.

• 1. The Hunger Games (2012): Directed by Gary Ross, introducing Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence) and the 74th Hunger Games.
• 2. The Hunger Games: Catching Fire (2013): Directed by Francis Lawrence, featuring the Quarter Quell.
• 3. The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1 (2014): Directed by Francis Lawrence, focusing on the beginning of the rebellion in District 13.
• 4. The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 2 (2015): Directed by Francis Lawrence, the final chapter of Katniss’s rebellion against the Capitol.
• 5. The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes (2023): Directed by Francis Lawrence, the prequel set 64 years before the first film, focusing on a young Coriolanus Snow.

Viewing Order by Panem's Chronology

For a deep dive into the political history of Panem and the origins of the sinister games, start with the prequel to understand the dark roots of the Capitol and the Snow family lineage.

• 1. The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes (2023): The origin story of the 10th Hunger Games and Coriolanus Snow.
• 2. The Hunger Games (2012)
• 3. The Hunger Games: Catching Fire (2013)
• 4. The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1 (2014)
• 5. The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 2 (2015)

Where to Stream The Hunger Games Franchise in 2025

The streaming rights for the original four films have historically moved between platforms, but a major consolidation has occurred in 2025. This makes watching the entire saga significantly easier than it was previously, as the franchise is now largely unified under one primary service.

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The Primary Streaming Home: Max

As of June 2025, the entire core film series is available to stream on Max (formerly HBO Max). This is the most convenient and cost-effective way to watch all five movies, including both the original Katniss Everdeen saga and the prequel. This return to Max for the original films—The Hunger Games, Catching Fire, Mockingjay – Part 1, and Mockingjay – Part 2—alongside the prequel, The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes, creates a definitive one-stop shop for fans.

Alternative Viewing Options (VOD and Rental)

If you do not subscribe to Max, all five films are permanently available across major Video On Demand (VOD) platforms. This option is perfect for those who prefer to own a digital copy or simply rent a single film.

• Digital Purchase/Rental: All titles are available to buy or rent on services such as Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play, and Vudu. This is a reliable option, especially if streaming rights shift again.
• Other Platforms: Select films from the original series may still rotate onto other subscription services like Amazon Prime Video or MovieSphere+ Amazon Channel, but Max remains the most consistent home for the full collection in 2025.

The Future of Panem: New Film, New Book, and a Stage Play

The world of Panem is not only available for re-watching but is also rapidly expanding with new content in 2025 and beyond. This influx of fresh material provides significant topical authority to the franchise, proving its enduring cultural relevance.

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The Next Film: Sunrise on the Reaping (2026)

The biggest news for fans is the confirmed development of a sixth film, The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping. This film is an adaptation of a new novel by Suzanne Collins, also titled Sunrise on the Reaping, which is set for release in 2025. The story will serve as the second prequel, taking place 40 years after The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes and 24 years before the original The Hunger Games. The film will focus on the 50th Hunger Games, also known as the Second Quarter Quell, which was famously won by Katniss’s mentor, Haymitch Abernathy (originally played by Woody Harrelson). Lionsgate has slated the movie for a 2026 theatrical release, with Francis Lawrence expected to return as director.

The Hunger Games: On Stage (London Premiere 2025)

In a unique expansion of the franchise, a live theatrical adaptation is set to premiere in London. The Hunger Games: On Stage, adapted by playwright Conor McPherson, will begin performances at the Troubadour Canary Wharf Theatre in Autumn 2025, with a premiere date set for October 20, 2025. This marks the first-ever stage production based on the novel and film, offering fans a completely new way to experience the story of Katniss, Peeta Mellark, and the dystopian world of the Games.

Essential Entities and Topical Authority of the Franchise

The longevity of The Hunger Games is built on its rich world-building and memorable characters. Understanding the key entities, from the creators to the cast, deepens the viewing experience and provides a comprehensive topical framework for the franchise.

Key Cast and Characters

The success of the original films hinges on the compelling performances of its core cast, who brought the residents of District 12 and the Capitol to life:

• Jennifer Lawrence: Katniss Everdeen (The Mockingjay)
• Josh Hutcherson: Peeta Mellark (The Baker’s Son)
• Liam Hemsworth: Gale Hawthorne (Katniss’s childhood friend)
• Woody Harrelson: Haymitch Abernathy (Victor of the 50th Games)
• Elizabeth Banks: Effie Trinket (District 12 Escort)
• Donald Sutherland: President Coriolanus Snow
• Julianne Moore: President Alma Coin (District 13 Leader)

The prequel introduced a new generation of talent, focusing on the early days of the Capitol’s tyranny:

• Tom Blyth: Young Coriolanus Snow
• Rachel Zegler: Lucy Gray Baird (Tribute from District 12)
• Peter Dinklage: Casca Highbottom (Creator of the Games)

Creators and Directors

The continuity and vision of the films are largely due to a consistent creative team:

• Suzanne Collins: Author of the entire book series and co-screenwriter for the first film.
• Francis Lawrence: Director of Catching Fire, both Mockingjay films, and The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes, making him the central cinematic visionary.
• Gary Ross: Director of the first film, The Hunger Games (2012).

Key World Entities

To truly appreciate the saga, one must understand the political and geographical entities:

• Panem: The post-apocalyptic nation containing the Capitol and its 12 subjugated districts.
• The Capitol: The wealthy, technologically advanced, and tyrannical ruling city.
• District 12: The poorest district, specializing in coal mining, and home to Katniss and Peeta.
• The Reaping: The annual ceremony where two tributes are selected from each district to participate in the Games.
• The Quarter Quell: Special editions of the Games held every 25 years with unique, often more brutal, rules.

With the entire film library consolidated on Max and the promise of a new book, a new movie, and a stage play in 2025 and 2026, the world of The Hunger Games is more vibrant and accessible than ever before. Whether you choose to watch the films in release order or chronological order, the experience of watching the Mockingjay lead a revolution remains a powerful and captivating cinematic event.