Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping Will Expand to Full IMAX Aspect Ratio

Willems said the production used high-resolution, IMAX-approved digital cameras rather than IMAX film. The cameras' taller sensors make the expanded presentation possible. He also described the arena as a colorful "poison paradise," using the beauty of a wildflower-filled landscape to contrast with what awaits the tributes. The arena footage was shot in Spain's Cantabrian Mountains.

The prequel follows young Haymitch Abernathy, played by Joseph Zada, during the Second Quarter Quell, when twice the usual number of tributes are selected. The film is scheduled to open in theaters Nov. 20.

Whitney Peak plays Lenore Dove Baird, a rebellious Covey folk singer and Haymitch's hometown sweetheart. In an interview with Who What Wear, Peak said she initially declined the audition because the role felt too large and inaccessible. She said she rarely saw women who looked like her presented as romantic leads, and the singing requirement added to her anxiety. After encouragement from friends and her agent, she submitted a tape and landed the role.