Film enthusiasts, buckle up. While last year delivered its share of memorable movie moments, the 2026 film releases lineup is shaping up to be truly unmissable. Studios are placing their bets on bold book-to-screen adaptations and blockbuster sequels to bring audience’s back to theatera. And it might just work.
From Dune’s epic final installment to the highly anticipated Hunger Games prequel Sunrise On The Reaping, and A24’s new buzzy drama starring Zendaya and Robert Pattinson, 2026 promises must-see movies across every genre. Here are the 12 most exciting films set to hit the big screen next year:
Wuthering Heights – February 13
Emerald Fennell’s steamy adaptation of this classic is already dividing critics and English literature enthusiasts alike. Early teasers hint at intense romance, striking visuals, and an epic Charli XCX soundtrack. One thing’s for sure, this won’t be your typical period drama.
Good Luck Have Fun Don’t Die – February 13
Gore Verbinski, the mind behind Pirates of the Caribbean, is back after 10 years with a wild AI-apocalypse thriller starring Sam Rockwell. It’s part dark comedy, part time-loop fever dream.
Project Hail Mary – March 20
Based on Andy Weer’s bestselling sci-fi novel, this space survival story stars Ryan Gosling and Sandra Hüller. Inventive, and full of surprises, it’s a must-watch for fans of The Martian.
The Drama – April 3
A24’s new drama starring Robert Pattinson and Zendaya already made headlines earlier this year after the studio planted a fake engagement story in The Boston Globe. Written and directed by Kristoffer Borgli, all we know so far is the feature follows an engaged couple whose wedding week takes a dark turn…
The Devil Wears Prada 2 – May 1
Nearly two decades after the original became a pop-culture classic — “Florals? For Spring? Groundbreaking.” — The Devil Wears Prada 2 reunites Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt, and Stanley Tucci in a long-awaited sequel.
Toy Story 5 – June 19
Technology is the new villain in Toy Story’s fifth installment. Woody, Buzz Lightyear and the rest of the gang will find themselves threatened by Lilypad, a frog-like tablet that quickly becomes 8-year-old Bonnie’s favorite new toy.
The Odyssey – July 17
Christopher Nolan brings Homer’s epic to the big screen with an all-star cast including Tom Holland, Zendaya, Matt Damon, and Anne Hathaway. Shot entirely on 70 mm IMAX with massive practical sets, it’s shaping up to be one of the most spectacular 2026 film releases.
Spiderman: Brand New Day – July 31
Tom Holland is back as Spiderman in the first installment of a new trilogy of movies directed by Daniel Cretton. After Dr. Strange’s spell at the end of Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021), the world has forgotten that Peter is Spider-Man and he is now focused on protecting New York City from street-level crime. Mark Ruffalo’s is back as Bruce Banner and Sadie Sink joins in a highly anticipated, undisclosed role.
Sense and Sensibility – September 11
From the producers of Hamnet and Song Song Blue, Jane Austen’s first published novel is getting a new adaptation by Georgia Oakley, starring Daisy Edgar-Jones and Esmé Creed-Miles as Elinor and Marianne.
Sunrise On The Reaping – November 20
The Hunger Games prequel about young Haymitch is already creating massive buzz. Darker, deadlier, and introducing a new generation of tributes alongside some familiar faces, it’s the story fans of the book have been begging for.
Dune Part 3 – December 18
Denis Villeneuve concludes his epic sci-fi trilogy with what promises to be a grand, cinematic finale. Robert Pattinson is joining the cast in an undisclosed role and after the success of Dune Part 2, expectations are sky-high.
Avengers Doomsday – December 18
Directed by Joe and Anthony Russo, the duo behind Avengers: Infinity War and Endgame, the story follows surviving Avengers, Wakandans, the Fantastic Four, and the original X-Men, as they confront Doctor Doom in a multiversal conflict.