From franchise finales engineered to blow the doors off theaters to wild reboots and bold original swings, 2026 is shaping up to be a make-or-break year for moviegoing. Studios are doubling down on spectacle, nostalgia, and fresh world-building, stacking the calendar with films designed to dominate conversation and command the big screen. It’s a lineup that fuses blockbuster muscle with daring, audience-first storytelling — the kind of year where every major genre is coming in loud, confident, and ready to compete.
People We Meet on Vacation (January 9)
A romantic comedy following travel-loving Poppy and her reserved best friend Alex as they reunite for a summer trip and confront growing feelings amid laughs and past misunderstandings. It stars Emily Bader as Poppy and Tom Blyth as Alex, with Jameela Jamil, Lukas Gage, and Molly Shannon.
Greenland 2: Migration (January 9)
In this post-apocalyptic sequel, the Garrity family leaves a safe bunker to traverse a devastated Europe seeking a new home after a comet’s devastation. Gerard Butler and Morena Baccarin reprise their roles, joined by Roman Griffin Davis and William Abadie, in a survival-drama setting.
28 Years Later: The Bone Temple (January 16)
Set after 28 Years Later, survivors in a virus-ravaged Britain face new horrors: Spike joins a violent gang while Dr. Kelson’s discoveries may reshape their world. Ralph Fiennes, Jack O’Connell, Alfie Williams, and Erin Kellyman headline this post-apocalyptic horror sequel.
Mercy (January 23)
In near-future Los Angeles, a detective accused of murdering his wife has only 90 minutes to convince an advanced AI judge—one he helped create—that he’s innocent. The sci-fi thriller stars Chris Pratt and Rebecca Ferguson, with Annabelle Wallis and Kali Reis supporting.
Send Help (January 30)
A darkly comedic survival thriller by Sam Raimi in which two coworkers become stranded on a deserted island after a plane crash. Rachel McAdams and Dylan O’Brien lead as the uneasy pair fighting nature and rising tensions while trying to survive.
The Moment (January 30)
A mockumentary-style drama charting a rising pop star’s struggle with fame, industry pressure, and personal identity as she prepares for her arena tour debut. Charli XCX stars, joined by Rosanna Arquette, Rachel Sennott, Alexander Skarsgård, and Kate Berlant in an ensemble cast.
GOAT (February 13)
Animated sports comedy about a small goat named Will who earns a chance to play “roarball,” a high-intensity, full-contact sport in an all-animal world. Will must prove himself to skeptical teammates. Voices include Caleb McLaughlin, Gabrielle Union, Stephen Curry, Nick Kroll, Nicola Coughlan, David Harbour, and Jennifer Hudson.
Wuthering Heights (February 13)
A gothic romantic drama adaptation of Emily Brontë’s classic. Intense, destructive love ignites between Catherine Earnshaw and foundling Heathcliff on the Yorkshire moors. Stars Margot Robbie as Catherine and Jacob Elordi as Heathcliff, with Hong Chau, Shazad Latif, and Alison Oliver in supporting roles.
Crime 101 (February 13)
Crime 101 should absolutely be on your radar in 2026. Adapted from Don Winslow’s acclaimed novella and written and directed by American Animals filmmaker Bart Layton, the film is a sleek, high-stakes heist thriller powered by an A-list ensemble that includes Halle Berry, Chris Hemsworth, Mark Ruffalo, Barry Keoghan, Monica Barbaro, Corey Hawkins, and Nick Nolte. Set against the ticking clock of one last job, the story follows an elusive thief planning his final score, a disillusioned insurance broker at a personal crossroads, and a relentless detective closing in on both. As their lives collide, the film builds toward a multi-million-dollar heist where motive, morality, and fate blur.
Scream 7 (February 27)
Seventh installment of the Scream franchise finds Sidney Prescott’s daughter targeted by a new Ghostface in Pine Grove, forcing Sidney to confront her past. Features returning cast Neve Campbell, Courteney Cox, Jasmin Savoy Brown, Mason Gooding, David Arquette, and newcomers including Isabel May and Joel McHale.
Hoppers (March 6)
Pixar’s animated sci-fi comedy: an animal lover named Mabel’s mind is transferred into a robotic beaver so she can communicate with animals and save their habitat from destruction. Voice cast includes Piper Curda, Bobby Moynihan, Jon Hamm, Meryl Streep, Dave Franco, and Sam Richardson.
The Bride (March 6)
Monster film inspired by Bride of Frankenstein: in 1930s Chicago, Frankenstein’s creature commissions Dr. Euphronious to create a companion, reviving a murdered woman. The Bride’s existence sparks romance, chaos, and cultural upheaval. Stars Jessie Buckley, Christian Bale, Annette Bening, Penélope Cruz, Peter Sarsgaard, and Jake Gyllenhaal.
Reminders of Him (March 13)
Romantic drama adapted from Colleen Hoover’s novel about ex-convict Kenna Rowan striving to reconnect with her young daughter and rebuild her life, finding unexpected love along the way. The film stars Maika Monroe, Tyriq Withers, Rudy Pankow, Lainey Wilson, Lauren Graham, and Bradley Whitford.
Project Hail Mary (March 20)
This is a sci-fi adventure based on Andy Weir’s novel. Astronaut Ryland Grace wakes alone aboard a spacecraft without memory of his mission, realizing he must save Earth from an existential threat. Leads include Ryan Gosling as Grace and Sandra Hüller as his project supervisor in a high-stakes interstellar journey.
Ready or Not 2: Here I Come (March 27)
Sequel to Ready or Not: survivor Grace MacCaullay discovers powerful families want her dead as part of a murderous new game. To protect her younger sister, she must fight back. Stars Samara Weaving, Kathryn Newton, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Elijah Wood, Shawn Hatosy, Néstor Carbonell, and Kevin Durand.
The Drama (April 3)
Romantic comedy-drama about an engaged couple whose relationship unravels when unexpected revelations threaten their wedding week. Features Zendaya as Emma and Robert Pattinson as Charlie, with Mamoudou Athie and Alana Haim in supporting roles. Directed by Kristoffer Borgli for A24.
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie (April 3)
Animated sequel following Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach and friends as they journey across the cosmos to thwart Bowser Jr.’s plot and recover cosmic Power Stars. Returning voices include Chris Pratt (Mario), Anya Taylor-Joy (Peach), Charlie Day (Luigi), Jack Black (Bowser), with Brie Larson as Rosalina.
Michael (April 24)
Biographical musical drama tracing Michael Jackson’s rise from Jackson 5 prodigy to global King of Pop. Jaafar Jackson stars as Michael, with Colman Domingo, Nia Long, Miles Teller, Laura Harrier and Kat Graham portraying influential figures in his personal and professional life.
Apex (April 24)
Survival action thriller about an adrenaline seeker whose wilderness expedition turns into a deadly fight for survival when hunted by a relentless predator. The Netflix cast includes Charlize Theron, Taron Egerton, and Eric Bana.
The Devil Wears Prada 2 (May 1)
Sequel to the 2006 comedy-drama: Miranda Priestly and Andy Sachs confront new fashion world upheavals and generational change in publishing. Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt and Stanley Tucci return, blending witty industry satire with personal growth themes.
Mortal Kombat II (May 15)
Martial arts action sequel sees Earthrealm warriors return to face escalating supernatural threats and deadly tournament battles. Franchise staples like Lewis Tan (Cole Young), Ludi Lin (Liu Kang), Mehcad Brooks (Jax) and Jessica McNamee (Sonya Blade) reprise roles.
The Mandalorian and Grogu (May 22)
Star Wars adventure reuniting bounty hunter Din Djarin (Pedro Pascal) and Grogu as they navigate intergalactic dangers, forge alliances and confront evolving threats beyond the original TV series, expanding the saga’s cinematic narrative. Sigourney Weaver and Jeremy Allen White also star.
Masters of the Universe (June 5)
Epic fantasy reboot of the classic franchise following Prince Adam/He-Man as he battles Skeletor to reclaim the power of Castle Grayskull and save Eternia. The ensemble includes Kyle Allen, Naomi Scott, Hugh Grant, Simu Liu and Emma Mackey, blending sword-and-sorcery spectacle with emotional stakes.
Disclosure Day (June 12)
Political thriller centered on a journalist uncovering a powerful cover-up with national security implications, testing ethics, loyalty and truth-telling in modern media. The cast and detailed plot remain under wraps, but the film promises high tension and societal commentary.
Toy Story 5 (June 19)
Animated sequel following Woody, Buzz and their toy family confronting a new technologically empowered antagonist while exploring evolving definitions of friendship and purpose in a digital age. Voices include Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Annie Potts and Bonnie Hunt.
Scary Movie 6 (June 26)
A reboot of the parody franchise, Scary Movie 6 skewers horror-film tropes with returning characters like Cindy and Brenda combating outrageous scares and slapstick absurdities. Stars Anna Faris, Regina Hall, Marlon Wayans, Shawn Wayans, Jon Abrahams and more in a comedic horror send-up.
Minions 3 (July 3)
The third standalone Minions film follows the lovable yellow hench-beings on a new chaotic adventure tied to the Despicable Me universe. Directed by Pierre Coffin with voices from Pierre Coffin and others; plot specifics are currently under wraps beyond the Minions’ trademark mayhem.
Moana (July 10)
A live-action adaptation of Disney’s animated classic. Moana (Catherine Laga‘aia) sets sail beyond her island’s reef to restore her people’s future, aided by demigod Maui (Dwayne Johnson) in a musical adventure full of ocean magic and self-discovery.
Supergirl (July 10)
In the DC Universe’s Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow, Kara Zor-El (Milly Alcock) embarks on an interstellar quest with super-dog Krypto and young ally Ruthye to avenge her family’s downfall, confronting cosmic threats and inner turmoil. Co-stars include Eve Ridley and Jason Momoa.
Cut Off (July 17)
A comedic story about two spoiled siblings cut off from their family’s wealth, forcing them to navigate real-world challenges and adult responsibilities. Directed by and starring Jonah Hill, with Kristen Wiig, Bette Midler and Nathan Lane in supporting roles.
The Odyssey (July 17)
Christopher Nolan’s epic adaptation of Homer’s Odyssey chronicles Odysseus’s ten-year journey home after the Trojan War, facing monsters, gods, and sea tempests, while his family battles suitors in Ithaca. Stars Matt Damon, Tom Holland, Zendaya, Anne Hathaway and Robert Pattinson.
Spider-Man: Brand New Day (July 31)
Marvel’s next Spider-Man chapter stars Tom Holland as Peter Parker in a “fresh start” after past multiverse turmoil, joined by Zendaya, Jacob Batalon, Mark Ruffalo and Jon Bernthal facing new threats and challenges in the MCU.
Super Troopers 3 (August 7)
The Broken Lizard gang returns as quirky Vermont State Police troopers who bumble through another comedic crime caper filled with absurd antics and roadside hijinks. The ensemble includes Jay Chandrasekhar, Kevin Heffernan, Steve Lemme and Erik Stolhanske.
Paw Patrol: The Dino Movie (August 14)
The Paw Patrol pups crash on a mysterious island of dinosaurs where they befriend Rex and must stop rival Humdinger’s reckless mining from triggering a volcanic disaster. Voice cast includes Mckenna Grace, Jennifer Hudson, Fortune Feimster, Jameela Jamil, Snoop Dogg and Terry Crews.
Flowervale Street (August 14)
In this sci-fi drama by David Robert Mitchell, a suburban family notices increasingly bizarre phenomena on their street, prompting unsettling questions about reality and hidden forces at work. The cast includes Anne Hathaway, Ewan McGregor, Maisy Stella and Christian Convery.
Clayface (September 11)
A body-horror take on the DC villain: struggling actor Matt Hagen suffers a disfiguring attack and enlists a controversial scientist to transform him into living clay, unleashing monstrous consequences. Stars Tom Rhys Harries, Naomi Ackie and Max Minghella.
Sense and Sensibility (September 11)
A new adaptation of Jane Austen’s classic romantic drama following the Dashwood sisters’ contrasting approaches to love, duty and social expectation. Daisy Edgar-Jones, Esmé Creed-Miles, George MacKay and Caitríona Balfe lead.
The Dog Stars (September 18)
A post-apocalyptic sci-fi from Ridley Scott. After a devastating pandemic, pilot Hig and a hardened ex-marine journey beyond their isolated base following a mysterious radio signal, seeking hope amid desolation. Jacob Elordi, Margaret Qualley and Josh Brolin star.
Practical Magic 2 (September 18)
Sequel to the 1998 cult favorite. The Owens witch sisters Sally (Sandra Bullock) and Gillian (Nicole Kidman) reunite with family magic, facing new mystical challenges across generations. New cast includes Joey King, Lee Pace, Maisie Williams and Xolo Maridueña.
Just Picture It (September 25)
Just Picture It marks Millie Bobby Brown’s first-ever romantic comedy, and Netflix is betting big on the genre shift. The film, co-starring The Fabelmans breakout Gabriel LaBelle, was greenlit last summer and comes with a high-concept twist: two strangers discover their phones glitching and flashing photos and videos of them ten years in the future — married with kids.
The cast expanded in September with Idina Menzel (Frozen) and Margo Martindale (The Americans) joining the ensemble. Production officially kicked off on September 25, confirmed in a Netflix Instagram announcement. The only question now is whether the team can wrap post-production in time for a late-2026 release.
Verity (October 2)
Romantic drama exploring intense interpersonal relationships as characters confront deep emotional truths and difficult decisions. Principal stars include Anne Hathaway, Dakota Johnson, Josh Hartnett and Ismael Cruz Córdova.
Digger (October 2)
A tense, character-driven thriller following a reclusive prospector whose isolated life is disrupted when strangers arrive seeking what he’s buried—both literally and emotionally. As paranoia mounts, buried secrets surface, forcing violent reckonings. The film stars Tom Cruise, Jesse Plemons, and Sandra Hüller.
The Social Reckoning (October 9)
A sharp political drama examining the human cost of unchecked tech power, as journalists, whistleblowers, and executives collide over truth, accountability, and influence. Past decisions ignite present consequences in a battle for public trust. Stars Jeremy Strong, Jeremy Allen White, Mikey Madison, and Bill Burr.
The Legend of Aang: The Last Airbender (October 9)
Set after the Hundred Year War, Aang confronts ancient forces threatening fragile global peace. Alongside Katara, Sokka, and Toph, he must redefine balance in a changing world. An epic animated continuation blending spirituality, action, and legacy. Voices include Eric Nam and Steven Yeun.
Street Fighter (October 16)
Elite warriors from around the world are drawn into a brutal underground tournament orchestrated by Shadaloo’s tyrant leader. Honor, vengeance, and survival collide as fighters test their limits. Stars Andrew Koji, Noah Centineo, Jason Momoa, and Roman Reigns.
Whalefall (November 6)
After a diving accident, a young man is swallowed by a massive whale and trapped alive in total darkness. With oxygen fading, he confronts fear, regret, and survival itself. A claustrophobic thriller starring Austin Abrams and Josh Brolin.
The Cat in the Hat (November 13)
A mischievous outsider turns one dull afternoon into escalating chaos, forcing two children to confront rules, responsibility, and imagination. This modern animated reimagining balances anarchic humor with heart. Bill Hader voices the Cat, joined by Quinta Brunson and Bowen Yang.
The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping (November 20)
During the brutal 50th Hunger Games, a young Haymitch Abernathy fights overwhelming odds as the Capitol doubles its cruelty. This dark prequel explores survival, sacrifice, and the roots of rebellion. Stars Joseph Zada, Elle Fanning, Ralph Fiennes, and Viola Davis.
Hexed (November 25)
This Disney film follows an awkward teenager and his Type-A, go-getter mother, accidentally unleashing magic that warps everyday life. To reverse the spell, they must confront the source of the curse before it permanently changes their family and the world around them.
Focker in Law (November 25)
Greg Focker faces his most intimidating challenge yet when his family collides with a new set of impossibly judgmental in-laws. Old rivalries reignite in a comedy of escalating humiliation and love. Ben Stiller, Robert De Niro, Owen Wilson, and Teri Polo return.
Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew (November 26)
A bold reimagining of C. S. Lewis’s fantasy world introduces new children to Narnia, where myth, faith, and sacrifice shape destiny. Directed by Greta Gerwig, the film launches a sweeping, emotionally grounded vision of the beloved universe.
Violent Night 2 (December 4)
Santa Claus returns to brutal action when a new criminal conspiracy threatens families during Christmas Eve. Expanding the mythology behind the legend, the sequel blends savage combat with dark holiday cheer. David Harbour reprises his ferocious, battle-worn Santa.
Jumani 4 (December 11)
The game evolves again, trapping players in a transformed world where the rules are deadlier and alliances fragile. Old avatars return alongside new challengers in a race to escape. Stars Dwayne Johnson, Kevin Hart, Jack Black, and Karen Gillan.
Avengers: Doomsday (December 18)
When Doctor Doom’s actions threaten total multiversal collapse, heroes across franchises unite despite deep ideological fractures. The ultimate Marvel crossover tests sacrifice, power, and legacy. Stars include Robert Downey Jr., Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Anthony Mackie, and Letitia Wright.
Dune: Part Three (December 18)
As Emperor Paul Atreides rules an empire consumed by holy war, destiny tightens its grip. Faced with catastrophic consequences, Paul must confront the cost of prophecy and power. Denis Villeneuve’s conclusion stars Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, Florence Pugh, and Rebecca Ferguson.
Angry Birds 3 (December 23)
Birds and pigs form an uneasy alliance when a powerful new threat endangers their islands. Expanding the franchise’s world, the film blends slapstick chaos with themes of unity. Voices include Jason Sudeikis, Josh Gad, Rachel Bloom, and Danny McBride.
Werewulf (December 25)
In medieval England, a remote village descends into terror as a savage beast stalks the winter night. Paranoia, faith, and brutality collide in this atmospheric horror. Directed by Robert Eggers, starring Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Lily-Rose Depp, Willem Dafoe, and Barry Keoghan.
The Most Anticipated Movies of 2026 Are Worth the Watch
By the time the year wraps, the most anticipated movies of 2026 will reflect why people still line up for opening nights: curiosity, attachment to characters, and the pull of stories that feel worth leaving the couch for. Some will surprise, some will divide audiences, and a few will likely define how this era of blockbuster filmmaking is remembered.