2026 IMAX Release Schedule
As we approach 2026, the IMAX landscape is shaping up to be one of the most packed and competitive in recent years. With advancements in filming technology, including more movies shot natively with IMAX cameras, audiences can expect immersive experiences across genres. However, the schedule isn't without its challenges. Limited IMAX screens worldwide mean that release date overlaps can force studios to make tough decisions, potentially leading to date shifts to maximize premium format availability.
Here's a comprehensive list of confirmed movies slated for IMAX releases in 2026:
Mercy (January 23, 2026): A sci-fi thriller directed by Timur Bekmambetov, starring Chris Pratt and Rebecca Ferguson in a story about a detective accused of a violent crime in a near-future world.
The Bride! (March 6, 2026): Maggie Gyllenhaal's romantic fantasy with elements of a musical, featuring Jessie Buckley, Christian Bale, and Penélope Cruz. It's described as a reimagining of the Frankenstein myth.
Project Hail Mary (March 20, 2026): Based on Andy Weir's novel, this space adventure directed by Phil Lord and Christopher Miller stars Ryan Gosling as an astronaut on a solo mission to save Earth.
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie (April 3, 2026): The sequel to the hit animated film, with returning voice cast including Chris Pratt as Mario, exploring new galactic adventures in the Mushroom Kingdom.
Michael (April 24, 2026): Antoine Fuqua's biopic on Michael Jackson, starring Jaafar Jackson in the lead role, chronicling the King of Pop's life and career.
Mortal Kombat 2 (May 8, 2026): The sequel to the 2021 reboot, continuing the martial arts fantasy tournament with returning cast and new fighters.
The Mandalorian & Grogu (May 22, 2026): Jon Favreau directs this Star Wars spin-off, bringing the Disney+ series to the big screen with Pedro Pascal and the adorable Grogu facing new galactic threats. Partial IMAX release expected.
Toy Story 5 (June 19, 2026): Pixar's beloved franchise returns, with Woody, Buzz, and the gang embarking on fresh adventures in a world where toys come alive.
Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow (June 26, 2026): Milly Alcock stars as Kara Zor-El in this DC adaptation directed by Craig Gillespie, focusing on a darker, more cosmic take on the character. Partial IMAX enhancement confirmed.
Minions 3 (July 1, 2026): The Despicable Me spin-off continues with more chaotic antics from the yellow henchmen, directed by Pierre Coffin.
Live-Action Moana (July 10, 2026): Dwayne Johnson reprises his role as Maui in this remake of the animated hit, with Auliʻi Cravalho involved in production.
The Odyssey (July 17, 2026): Christopher Nolan's epic adaptation of Homer's ancient tale, shot entirely in IMAX 70mm film. Starring Matt Damon as Odysseus, it's already generating buzz with advance ticket sales.
Flowervale Street (August 2026, tentative): A sci-fi thriller starring Anne Hathaway and Ewan McGregor, directed by David Robert Mitchell, with potential IMAX enhancements.
Resident Evil (September 18, 2026): A reboot or sequel in the zombie horror franchise, potentially optimized for IMAX.
Untitled Alejandro G. Iñárritu/Tom Cruise Project (October 2, 2026, tentative): A mysterious collaboration between the acclaimed director and star, rumored to involve innovative storytelling suitable for IMAX.
Street Fighter (October 16, 2026): Adaptation of the classic video game, with high-action sequences suited for large-format viewing.
The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping (November 20, 2026): A prequel set during the 50th Hunger Games, expanding Suzanne Collins' dystopian universe.
The Chronicles of Narnia: The Magician's Nephew (November 26, 2026): Netflix's adaptation of C.S. Lewis' origin story, with a limited theatrical IMAX run before streaming.
Avengers: Doomsday (December 18, 2026): The Russo brothers direct this Marvel team-up, with Robert Downey Jr. as Doctor Doom. Fully enhanced for IMAX digital screens.
Dune: Part Three (December 18, 2026): Denis Villeneuve concludes his trilogy with Timothée Chalamet returning as Paul Atreides. Shot with IMAX cameras and set for IMAX 70mm in select theaters.
This lineup promises a diverse array of experiences, from family-friendly animations to mind-bending spectacles. However, not all major releases are making the cut for IMAX, and some scheduling conflicts are already sparking speculation.
One notable absence is Spider-Man: Brand New Day, the fourth Tom Holland-led entry in the MCU, set for July 31, 2026. Despite its blockbuster potential, it was omitted from IMAX's recent investor presentation slate. The reason appears tied to its proximity to Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey, which hits theaters just two weeks earlier on July 17. Nolan's film, being the first feature shot entirely in IMAX 70mm, is poised for an extended premium run, likely monopolizing screens during that peak summer window. Studios often prioritize films with native IMAX filming for exclusive periods, leaving little room for overlap. As a result, Spider-Man: Brand New Day may opt for standard formats or limited IMAX showings, potentially impacting its box office draw in premium venues.
On the other end of the year, a direct clash looms in December with Dune: Part Three and Avengers: Doomsday both eyeing the December 18 slot. Dune 3, filmed extensively with IMAX cameras and confirmed for 70mm prints in select theaters, represents a continuation of Villeneuve's visually stunning saga. Meanwhile, Avengers: Doomsday was recently delayed from its original May date, landing squarely on the same day. With IMAX screens being a finite resource—especially during the lucrative holiday season—this overlap could dilute attendance for both. Industry insiders suggest Dune 3 is the more likely candidate to shift, perhaps to early 2027 or a nearby date, to avoid splitting the IMAX audience and ensure each film gets a dedicated run. Villeneuve's emphasis on the format, as seen in prior Dune entries, makes a move probable to preserve the optimal viewing experience.
Overall, 2026's IMAX schedule highlights the growing importance of the format for tentpole films, but it also underscores the logistical hurdles in a crowded market. Fans should keep an eye on updates, as release dates and IMAX allocations could evolve in the coming months. Whether you're chasing interstellar journeys or superhero showdowns, next year is set to deliver unforgettable big-screen moments.