Most Anticipated Releases of 2026
As 2026 approaches, movie enthusiasts are gearing up for an explosive year at the box office. From blockbuster superhero epics and long-awaited sequels to fresh adaptations of classic tales and sci-fi adventures, the lineup promises something for every taste.
The Odyssey - July 17, 2026:
Directed by Christopher Nolan, this epic adaptation of Homer's ancient Greek poem follows the legendary hero Odysseus on his perilous journey home after the Trojan War, facing mythical creatures, gods, and personal trials. Starring Matt Damon, Anne Hathaway, Tom Holland, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson, and Charlize Theron, the film promises Nolan's signature blend of grand-scale visuals, intricate narratives, and philosophical depth, shot extensively in IMAX for an immersive experience. It's anticipated as a groundbreaking take on mythology, potentially redefining epic cinema for modern audiences.
Avengers: Doomsday - December 18, 2026:
Marvel Studios' next team-up sees the Avengers facing off against Doctor Doom, played by Robert Downey Jr., in a shocking return to the MCU. Directed by the Russo brothers, the film unites heroes from across the universe in a high-stakes battle that could reshape the multiverse. With cameos from X-Men characters and massive action sequences, it's poised to be one of the biggest events in superhero history, drawing fans eager for the next phase of Marvel's saga.
Spider-Man: Brand New Day - July 31, 2026:
Tom Holland reprises his role as Peter Parker in this fresh chapter, where the web-slinger navigates life after his identity is erased from the world's memory, leading to new alliances and villains. Directed by Destin Daniel Cretton, the story draws from comic arcs emphasizing Peter's daily struggles and growth at The Daily Bugle. Sadie Sink has also joined the cast in an unknown role in the highly anticipated evolution of the beloved franchise.
Dune Part 3 - December 18, 2026:
Denis Villeneuve concludes his ambitious trilogy with this adaptation of Dune Messiah, where Timothée Chalamet's Paul Atreides grapples with the consequences of his rise to power on Arrakis, facing political intrigue and prophetic visions. Zendaya and the returning cast delve deeper into Frank Herbert's complex universe, with stunning visuals and themes of destiny and empire. Following the massive success of the first two films, this installment is expected to deliver a completion to potentially one of the greatest trilogies of all time.
Mario Galaxy - April 3, 2026:
This animated sequel to The Super Mario Bros. Movie takes Mario and friends on a cosmic adventure inspired by the Super Mario Galaxy games, exploring space-themed worlds filled with gravity-defying platforming and new power-ups. Voiced by Chris Pratt as Mario, Anya Taylor-Joy as Peach, and others, the film promises family-friendly fun with vibrant animation from Illumination. It's set to captivate gamers and newcomers alike with its storytelling and nods to Nintendo classics.
The Mandalorian and Grogu - May 22, 2026:
Bringing the beloved Disney+ series to the big screen, this Star Wars spin-off follows bounty hunter Din Djarin (Pedro Pascal) and his adorable companion Grogu on a galaxy-spanning quest against new threats in the post-Empire era. Directed by Jon Favreau, it features action, cameos from familiar characters, and Sigourney Weaver in a mysterious role. Fans are thrilled for the cinematic expansion of the Mandalorian lore, complete with Baby Yoda charm.
The Chronicles of Narnia - November 26, 2026:
Greta Gerwig helms this Netflix reboot, likely adapting The Magician's Nephew as an origin story for the magical world of Narnia, exploring creation, adventure, and moral tales. Starring Emma Mackey, with rumors of Meryl Streep and others, the film blends fantasy with Gerwig's signature emotional depth. It's anticipated as a fresh, inclusive take on C.S. Lewis's classics, appealing to both nostalgic fans and new generations.
Supergirl - June 26, 2026:
Part of James Gunn's revamped DC Universe, this film stars Milly Alcock as Kara Zor-El, Superman's cousin, on a cosmic journey of self-discovery and heroism inspired by the Woman of Tomorrow comics. As a key entry in the new DC slate, it's expected to soar as the second installment in the universe following her warm reception in this year’s Superman.
Toy Story 5 - June 19, 2026:
Pixar's iconic toys return as Woody (Tom Hanks), Buzz (Tim Allen), and the gang confront modern challenges like technology and new playthings in a changing world. Directed by Andrew Stanton, the sequel explores themes of relevance and friendship with heartfelt humor. After years of anticipation, it's set up well to succeed at the box office with its appeal to all ages.
Shrek 5 - December 2026:
Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, and Cameron Diaz reprise their roles in this long-awaited sequel, where Shrek faces new fairy-tale antics and family dynamics in Far Far Away. With fresh animation that was slightly controversial upon its first look reveal, it aims to recapture the charm of the originals.
Untitled Steven Spielberg UFO Movie - June 12, 2026:
Steven Spielberg directs this mysterious sci-fi thriller centered on UFO encounters. Starring Emily Blunt, Colman Domingo, and others, it draws from Spielberg's legacy in extraterrestrial tales like E.T. and Close Encounters. With its event-film status, it's poised to captivate audiences with groundbreaking effects and emotional depth.
Michael - April 24, 2026:
This biopic chronicles the life of Michael Jackson, from his Jackson 5 days to global superstardom, portrayed by his nephew Jaafar Jackson. Directed by Antoine Fuqua, with Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson, it explores the King of Pop's triumphs, controversies, and musical genius. Music fans are eager for authentic performances and iconic recreations.
28 Years Later: The Bone Temple - January 16, 2026:
The sequel to 28 Years Later continues the zombie apocalypse saga, directed by Nia DaCosta, with Cillian Murphy returning amid new horrors and survivors. Featuring Jack O'Connell and others, it ramps up the intensity with fresh twists on the rage virus.
Project Hail Mary - March 20, 2026:
Based on Andy Weir's novel, Ryan Gosling stars as a lone astronaut awakening on a spaceship with amnesia, tasked with saving Earth from a cosmic threat through science and alien contact. Directed by Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, with Sandra Hüller, it's a mix of hard sci-fi, humor, and heart.
Scream 7 - February 27, 2026:
Ghostface returns in this slasher sequel, with Neve Campbell back as Sidney Prescott alongside Courteney Cox, facing a new wave of meta-horror and kills. Directed by Kevin Williamson, it honors the franchise's roots while introducing fresh scares. Fans are hoping for the best since Melissa Barrera and Jenna Ortega from the previous two films are not returning.
The Devil Wears Prada 2 - May 1, 2026:
Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt, and Stanley Tucci reunite in this sequel, where Miranda Priestly navigates the evolving fashion world. Directed by David Frankel, it hopes to live up to the Miranda-level standards of the iconic original.
The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping - November 20, 2026:
This prequel focuses on the 50th Hunger Games and Haymitch Abernathy's story, set 24 years before the original series. Directed by Francis Lawrence, it dives into Panem's dark history with themes of propaganda and rebellion. Based on Suzanne Collins' latest novel, which expands the dystopian universe.
Wuthering Heights - February 13, 2026:
Emerald Fennell's gothic romance adaptation stars Margot Robbie as Catherine and Jacob Elordi as Heathcliff in a passionate, tumultuous tale of love, revenge, and class on the Yorkshire moors. With psychological depth and erotic undertones, it's a bold reimagining of Emily Brontë's classic. Expect atmospheric visuals and intense performances on Valentine's weekend.
