Happy New Year! In 2025 we welcomed back practical sets and the glorious breathtaking work of the many artisans it takes to bring a practical set to life. Huge shout-out to directors Guillermo del Toro and Jon M Chu for the wonderful work they did to bring Frankenstein and Wicked to life. Here’s hoping we see a return to this kind of craftsmanship in 2026! While we wait to see, here are the 2026 films we are the most excited about.
Note: All release dates are subject to change by the studios at any moment.
Wuthering Heights
Reason to Watch: Director Emerald Fennell has quite the track record. Saltburn! The Danish Girl! Combined with this cast, this could be magic.
Release Date: February 13, 2026 only in theaters
The Bride!
Synopsis: A lonely Frankenstein (Bale) travels to 1930s Chicago to ask groundbreaking scientist Dr. Euphronious (five-time Oscar nominee Annette Bening) to create a companion for him. The two revive a murdered young woman and The Bride (Buckley) is born. What ensues is beyond what either of them imagined: Murder! Possession! A wild and radical cultural movement! And outlaw lovers in a wild and combustible romance!
Reason to Watch: Originally slated to be released in 2025, the delay has only piqued our interest further. Besides we hear this film dips a toe into the musical pool with big dance numbers.
Release Date: March 6, 2026 only in theaters
Hoppers
Reason to Watch: This just looks adorable, but knowing Pixar it will be quite touching too.
Release Date: March 6, 2026 only in theaters
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie
Reason To Watch: The first film still has us singing “Peaches” and since this sequel still includes Jack Black, we’re hoping for another banger.
Release Date: April 3, 2026 only in theaters
The Drama
Synopsis: A happily engaged couple get put to the test when an unexpected revelation sends their wedding week off the rails.
Reason To Watch: Zendaya and Robert Pattinson, enough said.
Release Date: April 3, 2026 only in theaters
Michael
Synopsis: Michael is the cinematic portrayal of the life and legacy of one of the most influential artists the world has ever known. The film tells the story of Michael Jackson’s life beyond the music, tracing his journey from the discovery of his extraordinary talent as the lead of the Jackson Five, to the visionary artist whose creative ambition fueled a relentless pursuit to become the biggest entertainer in the world. Highlighting both his life off-stage and some of the most iconic performances from his early solo career, the film gives audiences a front-row seat to Michael Jackson as never before. This is where his story begins.
Reason To Watch: Not only is Jaafar Jackson’s portrayal of his uncle undeniable, let’s give it up for a film that shot in Los Angeles! We’re ready to moonwalk over to the theater now.
Release Date: April 24, 2026 only in theaters
The Devil Wears Prada 2
Synopsis: Almost twenty years after making their iconic turns as Miranda, Andy, Emily and Nigel—Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt and Stanley Tucci return to the fashionable streets of New York City and the sleek offices of Runway Magazine in the eagerly awaited sequel to the 2006 phenomenon that defined a generation. A sequel? For spring? Groundbreaking.
Reason To Watch: The original film is quoted around here more than just about any other film. It’s hard to believe it took 20 years for this sequel to happen! Is it May yet? No? By all means, move as a glacial pace, you know how it thrills us.
Release Date: May 1, 2026 only in theaters
The Mandalorian and Grogu
Synopsis: The evil Empire has fallen but Imperial warlords remain scattered throughout the galaxy. As the fledgling New Republic works to protect everything the Rebellion fought for, they enlist the help of legendary Mandalorian bounty hunter Din Djarin and his young apprentice Grogu.
Reason To Watch: One can never have too much Grogu in their life.
Release Date: May 22, 2026 only in theaters
Supergirl
Synopsis: When an unexpected and ruthless adversary strikes too close to home, Kara Zor-El, aka Supergirl, reluctantly joins forces with an unlikely companion on an epic, interstellar journey of vengeance and justice.
Reason To Watch: James Gunn has resurrected the DC Universe and it’s looking mighty fine. Plus we’ve been eager for Craig Gillespie to direct something on this scale again since his brilliant work on Cruella. We just hope Supergirl brings more Mighty Crabjoys too.
Release Date: June 26, 2026 only in theaters
The Odyssey
Synopsis: Odysseus, king of Ithaca, embarks on a perilous journey to return home after the Trojan War. Christopher Nolan’s next film, The Odyssey, is a mythic action epic shot across the world using brand new IMAX film technology. The film brings Homer’s foundational saga to IMAX film screens for the first time.
Reason To Watch: You know the cinematography is gonna be breathtaking when it’s Christopher Nolan behind the wheel. If that’s not enough reason, try this cast: Matt Damon, Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong’o, Zendaya and Charlize Theron.
Release Date: July 17, 2026 only in theaters
Spider-Man: Brand New Day
Synopsis: Peter Parker tries to focus on college and leave Spider-Man behind. But when a new threat endangers his friends, he must break his promise and suit up again, teaming with an unexpected ally to protect those he loves.
Reason to Watch: Let’s be honest, the Marvel Cinematic Universe could use a healthy dose of some of the phase 3 MCU energy again. A new Spider-Man film could be just what we need.
Release Date: July 31, 2026 only in theaters
Practical Magic 2
Synopsis: A multi generational family of witches, cursed to be loveless for centuries, attempts to break the spell by confronting dark secrets and sacrificing for each other.
Reason to Watch: Wholesome spooky fun with a dash of romance? The Owen sisters are back, and we’re so there!
Release Date: September 18, 2026 only in theaters
Avengers: Doomsday
Synopsis: Little is known of the plot at this point.
Reason to Watch: From the teasers throughout the year, and the cast announcements, it fills like the Marvel Cinematic Universe could be back thanks to the Russo brothers.
Release Date: December 18, 2026 only in theaters