The biggest upcoming movies to expect in 2026

The year ahead promises to reshape the cinematic calendar with a mixture of excitement, suspense, and surprises that will engage audiences from start to finish.

Every season seems poised to bring something unexpected, whether it is a familiar story retold or a new project from renowned creators.

Anticipation is building for both large-scale blockbusters and smaller films that could quietly capture attention. Moviegoers may find themselves planning months in advance to ensure they don’t miss the most talked-about titles.

January​

Soulm8te

Soulm8te begins the year as a chilling entry from Blumhouse, centered on a humanlike AI doll who unexpectedly forms a connection with a lonely widower. Lily Sullivan takes on the role of the doll, while David Rysdahl portrays the man navigating grief and loneliness. Director Kate Dolan helms the project, with James Wan lending his expertise as co-producer. Claudia Doumit joins the cast, though her role is being kept a secret.

Greenland 2: Migration

Greenland 2: Migration continues the survival saga of the Garrity family as they emerge from their bunker into a world devastated by a comet strike. Gerard Butler and Morena Baccarin return to reprise their roles, navigating peril and uncertainty in a society struggling to rebuild. Ric Roman Waugh directs the sequel, with a screenplay from Mitchell LaFortune and Chris Sparling. The story explores human resilience and the fight to find safety in a changed world.

28 Years Later

28 Years Later: The Bone Temple revisits the aftermath of the original zombie outbreak decades later, with Nia DaCosta taking the director’s seat. Cillian Murphy, original star and producer, may appear in a surprise cameo, adding intrigue to the narrative. The film promises tension and mystery as it expands the franchise’s mythology. Fans of the original series are eagerly awaiting how this new chapter will unfold.

The Rip

The Rip delivers a gritty crime thriller set in Miami, where a team of cops discovers a hidden stash of cash that tests their trust and loyalty. Matt Damon and Ben Affleck star in a story of ambition, temptation, and betrayal. Director Joe Carnahan orchestrates the tension as external threats and internal conflicts collide. Netflix is expected to promote it as one of its standout releases of 2026.

Send Help

Send Help presents a survival drama with Rachel McAdams and Dylan O’Brien as colleagues stranded on a deserted island following a plane crash. Their characters must navigate their strained relationship while finding ways to endure the elements. Director Sam Raimi combines tension and character development to create a gripping story. The film explores human perseverance under extreme conditions.

february​

GOAT

GOAT celebrates the world of sports with an animated underdog story featuring the Golden State Warriors’ Stephen Curry. Tyree Dillihay and Adam Rosette direct the film, which blends humor and heart for audiences of all ages. Sony Pictures has timed the release to coincide with the 2026 All-Star Weekend. Rachna Vasavada leads the voice cast, bringing charm and energy to the project.

Wuthering Heights

Wuthering Heights presents a new adaptation of Emily Bronte’s classic tale, starring Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi. The story explores the tumultuous relationship between Catherine Earnshaw and Heathcliff, emphasizing passion and revenge. Emerald Fennell directs the project, ensuring a contemporary yet faithful approach. Viewers can expect an emotionally charged performance from the leading actors.

The Sheep Detectives

The Sheep Detectives follows Hugh Jackman as a shepherd whose nighttime readings spark unexpected adventures among his flock. The sheep secretly discuss murder mysteries and other intrigues, adding a whimsical twist to the narrative. Joining Jackman are Emma Thompson, Nicholas Galitzine, and Nicholas Braun, expanding the ensemble cast. Director Kyla Balda brings charm and humor to this family-friendly comedy.

Scream 7

Scream 7 returns Sidney Prescott, portrayed by Neve Campbell, as she confronts Ghostface once more without the Carpenter sisters. Kevin Williamson steps in as director, writing and guiding the latest installment with attention to suspense and legacy. Courteney Cox returns as Gale, maintaining continuity for fans. The film promises new scares while honoring the franchise’s long-running tradition.

March​

The Bride!

The Bride! reimagines the classic Frankenstein story through a female perspective, with Christian Bale, Jessie Buckley, and Maggie Gyllenhaal shaping a bold new narrative. The plot follows a murdered young woman who is resurrected and becomes entwined with Frankenstein and Dr. Euphronius. The film balances horror, romance, and social commentary, offering a fresh take on the familiar story. Audiences can anticipate a cinematic blend of suspense and character-driven drama.

Hoppers

Hoppers from Pixar introduces Mabel, an animal enthusiast who transfers her consciousness into a robot to communicate with animals. Jon Hamm and Bobby Moynihan join the voice cast, enhancing the film’s comedic and emotional depth. Director Daniel Chong combines innovative animation with heartfelt storytelling. The project promises a unique family-friendly experience in early 2026.

Reminders of Him

Reminders of Him brings another Colleen Hoover adaptation to life, exploring themes of love, loss, and redemption. Tyriq Withers, Rudy Pankow, and Maika Monroe lead the cast, delivering performances grounded in emotional realism. Vanessa Caswill directs, collaborating with Hoover, who co-wrote the screenplay and serves as producer. The film is designed to resonate with audiences seeking heartfelt drama and narrative depth.

The Breadwinner

The Breadwinner marks Nate Bargatze’s feature film debut, offering a comedic and dramatic exploration of personal ambition. Mandy Moore, Will Forte, and Colin Jost round out the ensemble, providing diverse perspectives. Bargatze collaborated on the screenplay with Eric Appel and Dan Lagana, ensuring a balance of humor and story. The movie promises insight into a performer’s transition from stage to screen.

Project Hail Mary

Project Hail Mary adapts Andy Weir’s bestselling sci-fi story with Ryan Gosling as an astronaut waking on a mysterious space station. Sandra Hüller and Lionel Boyce join the cast, amplifying the tension and stakes of the mission. Phil Lord and Christopher Miller direct, blending suspense with a sense of cosmic wonder. The film examines memory, courage, and the weight of a mission that could save humanity.

April​

The Super Mario Galaxy

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie brings beloved characters back to the big screen, with Chris Pratt, Anya Taylor-Joy, and Jack Black reprising their roles. Directors Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic oversee the adventure, promising a playful cosmic journey. The film draws inspiration from the Nintendo Wii game, delivering both nostalgia and fresh storytelling. Fans can expect vibrant visuals and signature humor.

Ready or Not 2

Ready or Not 2 returns Samara Weaving’s Grace in a sequel full of chaos, suspense, and new surprises. Directors Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett maintain the tone of dark humor established in the first film. The new installment introduces additional twists, keeping audiences engaged from start to finish. The film balances tension with sharp comedic timing, promising a thrilling experience.

Michael

Michael, directed by Antoine Fuqua, revisits the life of Michael Jackson through a cinematic lens, featuring Jaafar Jackson in the lead role. Supporting performances from Nia Long, Colman Domingo, Laura Harrier, and Larenz Tate enrich the narrative. The story explores both the legend and the personal challenges behind the global icon. The film promises to combine music, drama, and biography into a compelling presentation.

May​

Animal Friends

Animal Friends blends live-action and animation to create a whimsical story with Ryan Reynolds, Aubrey Plaza, Jason Momoa, and Vince Vaughn. The film features talking animals interacting with humans in unexpected ways, bringing humor and heart to the adventure. Director Peter Atencio guides the ensemble cast, ensuring seamless integration of animated and live-action elements. The story promises to entertain audiences of all ages with clever humor and imaginative visuals.

The Devil Wears Prada 2

The Devil Wears Prada 2 reunites Anne Hathaway and Meryl Streep, returning to their iconic roles in a tale of fashion, ambition, and rivalry. Emily Blunt, Stanley Tucci, and Kenneth Branagh also reprise their characters, adding depth and continuity. David Frankel returns as director to recapture the sharp wit and style of the original film. The sequel explores both the personal and professional challenges faced by these unforgettable characters.

Disclosure

Disclosure, directed by Steven Spielberg, follows an original sci-fi story about UFOs featuring an A-list ensemble including Emily Blunt, Josh O’Connor, and Colin Firth. The project reunites Spielberg with screenwriter David Koepp, known for his work on Jurassic Park and War of the Worlds. While plot details remain scarce, the film promises tension, mystery, and visual spectacle. Audiences can expect a blend of science fiction intrigue with the signature Spielberg touch.

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Mortal Kombat II

Mortal Kombat II continues the fight for Earth with returning stars Lewis Tan, Jessica McNamee, and Mehcad Brooks, joined by Hiroyuki Sanada, Tadanobu Asano, and Karl Urban. Simon McQuoid directs the high-octane sequel, delivering the martial arts action fans expect. The story expands the universe introduced in the 2021 reboot, blending fantasy, combat, and epic stakes. Audiences can anticipate visually striking fight sequences and character-driven storylines.

Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu

Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu brings the beloved Star Wars franchise back to theaters with Pedro Pascal reprising his role as Din Djarin. Jeremy Allen White joins as Rotta the Hutt, with Sigourney Weaver in an undisclosed role adding mystery. The standalone film reintroduces familiar characters while exploring new adventures in a galaxy far, far away. Director Jon Favreau balances spectacle, character development, and franchise lore for fans old and new.

June​

Masters of the Universe

Masters of the Universe reintroduces He-Man in a live-action adaptation starring Nicholas Galitzine as Prince Adam and Alison Brie as part of the ensemble cast. Camila Mendes, Idris Elba, and Jared Leto join the story, raising the stakes in this battle for Eternia. Director Travis Knight blends epic action sequences with character-driven storytelling. Fans can look forward to a visually ambitious take on a beloved 1980s franchise.

Scary Movie 6

Scary Movie 6 brings back Marlon and Shawn Wayans to deliver absurd and comedic pop culture references alongside horror satire. Dave Sheridan joins the cast, adding additional comedic energy. Michael Tiddes directs the latest entry, ensuring the franchise retains its signature irreverent humor. Audiences can expect laughter, absurd situations, and clever nods to modern horror films.

Toy Story 5

Toy Story 5 reunites Woody, Buzz, and the gang as they face a new challenge when children begin replacing toys with gadgets. Directed by Pixar veteran Andrew Stanton, the film promises to balance nostalgia with fresh storytelling. Tim Allen and Tom Hanks return to voice the beloved characters, maintaining continuity across the beloved series. The story emphasizes friendship, adaptation, and the enduring magic of toys.

Supergirl

Supergirl, directed by Craig Gillespie, follows Kara Zor-El on a galactic adventure with Krypto the Superdog, featuring Milly Alcock in the title role. The film explores her quest to aid a young woman seeking revenge while highlighting her strength and resilience. Matthias Schoenaerts, Eve Ridley, David Krumholtz, and Emily Beecham round out the ensemble cast. Fans can anticipate action, adventure, and interstellar journeys in this DC Universe installment.

July​

Minions 3: Mega Minions

Minions 3: Mega Minions brings back Gru and his mischievous minions for another animated adventure. Steve Carell and Pierre Coffin reprise their roles, maintaining continuity and charm for audiences. The story promises humor, chaos, and the signature antics of the minions. Families can expect a fun and lighthearted addition to the long-running franchise.

Moana

Moana introduces a live-action retelling with Catherine Laga’aia in the title role and Dwayne Johnson reprising Maui. Directed by Thomas Kail, the film combines musical elements with adventure on the high seas. Supporting cast members Rena Owen and John Tui enrich the world of the story. Audiences can look forward to a visually stunning adaptation of the Disney classic.

The Odyssey

The Odyssey, directed by Christopher Nolan, adapts Homer’s epic tale with Matt Damon portraying Odysseus. The star-studded ensemble includes Zendaya, Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, and Robert Pattinson, blending classical storytelling with contemporary cinematic spectacle. Nolan crafts a narrative of heroism, adventure, and mythic stakes. The film promises both emotional depth and epic scale for viewers.

Spider-Man: Brand New Day

Spider-Man: Brand New Day sees Tom Holland return as Peter Parker in a fresh adventure penned by Erik Sommers and Chris McKenna. Destin Daniel Cretton directs, delivering action, humor, and heart. While details of supporting characters remain uncertain, the film is expected to tie into larger MCU narratives. Audiences can anticipate thrilling sequences and familiar superhero charm.

August​

Flowervale Street

Flowervale Street, directed by David Robert Mitchell, offers a sci-fi mystery with Anne Hathaway and Ewan McGregor navigating a complex and suspenseful narrative. Christian Convery and Maisy Stella support the story, which combines intrigue, suspense, and speculative elements. The film was delayed from 2025 but promises an absorbing cinematic experience. Audiences can expect twists and revelations woven throughout the storyline.

PAW Patrol: The Dino Movie

PAW Patrol: The Dino Movie reunites McKenna Grace as Skye alongside Jennifer Hudson and Fortune Feimster in a family-friendly adventure. Cal Brunker directs this animated installment, blending action, humor, and moral lessons for young viewers. The pups face a new challenge that tests teamwork and courage. Fans of the franchise will enjoy another colorful and imaginative outing.

Thread: An Insidious Tale

Thread: An Insidious Tale continues Blumhouse’s horror franchise with Mandy Moore and Kumail Nanjiani confronting supernatural threats. Director Jeremy Slater delivers tension, suspense, and chilling visuals, maintaining the series’ reputation. The film expands the mythology of the Insidious universe, combining psychological and supernatural horror. Audiences can anticipate scares, surprises, and a darkly compelling narrative.

September​

Clayface

Clayface, directed by James Watkins, brings the infamous Batman villain to life in a live-action horror-thriller. Tom Rhys Harries, Naomi Ackie, and Max Minghella star, adding depth to this dark adaptation. The story promises a mix of suspense, terror, and tragic undertones. Fans of DC and superhero thrillers alike are likely to be captivated by the film’s tone and direction.

october​

The Legend of Aang: The Last Airbender

The Legend of Aang: The Last Airbender returns with Lauren Montgomery directing a new animated film featuring Eric Nam as Aang alongside Dave Bautista, Dante Basco, and others. The story revisits beloved characters and expands the universe for a new generation. The animation retains the visual style fans cherish while adding new plotlines and challenges. This film marks the start of a planned trilogy exploring the Avatar world.

Street Fighter

Street Fighter, directed by Kitao Sakurai, adapts the iconic video game into a live-action format. Plot details remain limited, but the franchise promises high-stakes action, martial arts, and character-driven conflict. Fans are eager to see the reinterpretation of classic fighters. The film aims to balance nostalgia with cinematic spectacle.

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November​

The Cat in the Hat is reimagined as a 3D animated musical with Bill Hader, Quinta Brunson, and Bowen Yang leading the voice cast. Directors Erica Rivinoja and Alessandro Carloni guide this adaptation, capturing the whimsy of Dr. Seuss’ world. The story follows the chaotic and playful antics fans remember from the classic book. Viewers can expect humor, music, and colorful animation.

The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping

The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping explores Haymitch Abernathy’s journey as a young victor before Katniss’ time. Directed by Francis Lawrence, the film stars Mckenna Grace, Jesse Plemons, and Ralph Fiennes. It explores the brutal realities of the Games and the personal challenges faced by Haymitch. Fans of the franchise will see history unfold while gaining new context for the series.

December​

Violent Night 2

Violent Night 2 brings back David Harbour as Mr. Claus in another action-packed installment. Director Tommy Wirkola promises new characters and heightened stakes following the success of the first film. The sequel blends action, humor, and holiday chaos in signature style. Audiences can anticipate an entertaining and irreverent finale to the year.

Jumanji 3

Jumanji 3 continues the video game saga with Dwayne Johnson, Kevin Hart, Jack Black, and Karen Gillan reprising their roles. Jake Kasdan returns as director, ensuring continuity with the franchise’s tone and style. The story introduces new challenges and adventures within the game world. Families can look forward to humor, heart, and thrilling escapades.

Avengers: Doomsday

Avengers: Doomsday reunites Earth’s Mightiest Heroes with directors Anthony and Joe Russo at the helm. Pedro Pascal, Joseph Quinn, Vanessa Kirby, and Robert Downey Jr. star, promising epic action and high stakes. The narrative builds toward the broader MCU saga while introducing new conflicts and threats. Fans can expect drama, spectacle, and a culmination of multiple storylines.

Dune: Messiah

Dune: Messiah follows Paul Atreides as Padishah Emperor, exploring the consequences of his rule and the evolving political landscape. Directed by Denis Villeneuve, Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, Anya Taylor-Joy, and Florence Pugh are expected to return. The story moves twelve years beyond the previous installment, blending intrigue, strategy, and personal struggle. Audiences will witness the continuation of one of science fiction’s most ambitious sagas.

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Key Takeaways

• 2026 is poised to deliver an extraordinary mix of films across genres, from blockbuster franchises to original stories.
• Audiences can anticipate action, comedy, horror, sci-fi, and animated adventures with some of the biggest names in cinema.
• Each month introduces new projects that promise to engage, surprise, and entertain viewers.
• The lineup demonstrates a strong balance between spectacle, storytelling, and character-driven narratives.

Which of these 2026 releases are you most excited to see in theaters? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below. The variety ensures every viewer will find something captivating throughout the year. Don’t miss your chance to discuss these upcoming cinematic events with fellow movie fans.